in this edition - mice media...

January 2015

In:FocusJamaica

In:Venue Berlin city cuBein:centiVe 2014 site crystal award Best in class - europe: the winning program

in:caseriVercruise: a 3-country Floating roadshow

in:country thailand

in:search american express meetings & eVents 2015 gloBal meetings Forecast

in:techgeoFencing

in:social a Very special maiden Flight

IN THIS EDITION

the digital magazine For the international mice industry

2 - MICE Media Marketing - mice:destination

puBlishers noteDear Reader!

Its a great pleasure to welcome you to our launch edition of mice:destination. With the publication of this issue, an exciting planning, preparation and testing period ends and we are very happy to deliver this first edition to you!

We aim to cover all areas of the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events market - from destination to country specific information; MICE related articles as well as the technical and structural side of our market segment. Developments - such as Green or Innovative, will find their way into our coverage as well as Corporate Social Responsibility projects. Naturally also industry news and the trade shows will have our attention.

In this edition, our destination In:Focus is on Jamaica. We are very pleased to bring an extraordinary Showcase to you: In:case - A floating Roadshow - or should it be called a Rivershow? In:Venue is covering the much-talked about CityCube Berlin in Germany. Not to forget - the subject of our technology corner In:tech is geofencing. And dont worry - we wont scare you away with tech-talk!

Did you attend the SITE Leadership Conference in Rotterdam in November? If you did, you heard about the Crystal Award Winning Program in Sicily, Italy. In:centiVe brings you a report on the program.

Do you remember the terrible earthquake in Haiti 2012 and the cholera outbreak in its wake? We have been touched by the very special maiden flight of JetBlues Airbus A321 from the Hamburg Airbus wharf to Port-au-Prince, Haiti. A plane loaded with much needed supplies and medication for almost 6.000 children, with books and laptops to support local schools and orphanages in and near Port-au-Prince. In:social brings the full story to you.

Your feedback about mice:destination is very much appreciated - do you like the edition? Do you wish to share an experience with our readers? Please dont hesitate to contact us!

We hope you will enjoy mice:destination. We are looking forward to bring March 2015 edition to you.

Sincerely Yours

Martina Warter General Manager & Publisher MICE Media Marketing

mice:destination

Content

In:sight Industry News 3

In:Show Industry Trade Shows 6

In:Focus Jamaica Meet with Rasta, White Sand and Blue Mountain 7

In:Venue CityCube Berlin - A Most Flexible Venue Born 2014 13

In:Case A 3-Country River Cruise Roadshow of The Leading Hotels of the World 15

In:Centive Introducing the SITE CRYSTAL AWARD Winning YPO International Chapter Program 2013 in Sicily 17

In: Country Thailand 19

In:Social JetBlue and a Very Special Maiden Flight to Port-au-Prince, Haiti 22

In:Tech Geofencing in the MICE industry trend or dead end? 24

In:Search AMERICAN EXPRESS MEETINGS & EVENTS: 2015 Global Meetings & Events Forecast 25

In:VIP VIP Contact Information 28

In:sight

asia paciFic$50 Million Mega Incentive Confirmed For Sydney, Australia Sydney will shine brightly in 2016 with direct selling company, Nu Skin, confirming the Harbour City for an incentive worth up to A$50 million to the New South Wales (NSW) economy. The host destination for the 2016 Nu Skin Greater China Success Trip was announced recently at the Nu Skin Academy event in Macau. Business Events Sydney (BESydney) CEO Lyn Lewis-Smith was in attendance for the reveal.

This is one of the largest incentive wins in BESydneys 44-year history and one of the largest incentives to ever hit Australias shores -- a clear indication of Sydneys appeal.

Its a milestone in the making, said Ms Lewis-Smith. Sydney shines as a strategically-important destination for Asian corporates looking to reward, motivate and inspire their top sales people. The city is a firm favourite for Asian companies, and this win is testament to this.

The incentive will see Nu Skins qualifying sales people travel to Sydney for an exceptional five-day program in April 2016. Delegates are expected to travel from China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau. www.businesseventssydney.com.au

34th ASEAN Tourism Forum Kicks Off In Nay Pyi Taw, MyanmarThe 34th edition of ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) took place at Myanmar International Convention Centre (MICC) 1 in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar with the 41st Meeting of the ASEAN National Tourism Organisations (NTOs). Some 300 delegates including tourism ministers and NTO officials were flying in for the event which is being held in Myanmar for the first time. During the event some 2,000 delegates from over 50 countries gathered in Nay Pyi Taw for ATF 2015.

H.E. U Htay Aung, Union Minister of the Myanmar Ministry of Hotels and Tourism, said, We would like to extend a warm welcome to all ATF 2015 delegates, sellers, buyers, media and trade visitors to Myanmar. I hope the meetings, discussions and conversations we will have over the next few days will be fruitful, and that at the same time, you will have the opportunity to experience for yourself Myanmars rich culture and biodiversity, as well as our peoples charm and hospitality.

From 22 to 26 January, the ASEAN tourism ministers and NTOs, together with their counterparts from countries such as China,

India, Japan, Korea (Republic of Korea) and Russia convened in a series of meetings to discuss issues concerning tourism in the region, as part of the official ATF 2015 programme.

Themed ASEAN -- Tourism Towards Peace, Prosperity and Partnership, ATF 2015 was officially opened on 26 January at an opening ceremony. At the opening ceremony, Myanmar was formally presented the award for Best in Travel -- AEC Country 2014 by Lonely Planet Traveller. Also parts of the programme are the presentation of the ASEANTA (ASEAN Tourism Association) Awards for Excellence and cultural performances. Key activities of the ATF 2015 Official Programme include:

ASEAN Tourism Ministers Press Conference (26 Jan) ASEAN Tourism Conference (27 Jan) Media briefings by each of the 10 ASEAN member

countries NTO (27 to 29 Jan) TRAVEX, the travel mart showcasing products and services

by ASEAN sellers (28 and 29 Jan)

www.atf-2015.com/atf2015programme.html

Singapore Lures More Incentive Travellers; Renewed interest In Singapore

In 2015, Singapore will welcome a strong line-up of large-scale incentive travel groups, pointing to Singapores strong appeal as an incentive travel destination. The

incentive groups include five flagship events that will attract over 30,000 business attendees:

Oriflame Diamond Conference 2015 USANA Asia & Pacific Convention 2015 BestWorld Convention 2015 Forever Living Global Rally 2015 Jeunesse Global Expo Unite Annual World Conference

The impetus to establish global business incentive groups in Singapore rests on several factors including Singapores diverse and exciting range of leisure offerings that allow organisations to curate compelling itineraries.

Voted the top travel destination in Lonely Planets Best in Travel list for 2015, the possibilities for the incentive programmes


Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

www.businesseventssydney.com.auwww.atf-2015.com/atf2015programme.html

In:news

are endless. Beyond memorable leisure offerings, the world-class MICE infrastructure and integrated resorts in Singapore pose as attractive venues to integrate business events with entertainment activities, making them the perfect backdrops to organise unique incentive travel experiences.

Three out of the five flagship conferences will be hosted at Marina Bay Sands, one of the largest MICE facilities in Singapore (capacities: Sands Expo and Convention Centre up to 11,000 delegates, hotel 2,561 rooms). Singapore Expo and Suntec Singapore are additional examples of highly versatile venues that are able to serve the needs of events ranging from large-scale conventions to small, intimate meetings. www.stb.gov.sg

europe, middle east & aFricaGermany, Stuttgart Region: New Meeting Guide presents architectural location highlights The Stuttgart Region an ideal destination for

congresses and meetings The Stuttgart Convention Bureaus new Meeting Guide 2015/2016 has been published. The brochure introduces some 220 unique locations, congress centres and conference hotels in the Stuttgart Region and assists event organisers with detailed facts and information in their search for the right venue.

New venues include Das K Kultur- und Kongresszentrum (Culture and Congress Centre) in Kornwestheim, classical yet modern in style, with a highly flexible concept, the ECONVENT by Ecoinn, located in a historical building that has been modernised in accordance with the latest sustainability criteria and offers an exclusive ambience in the heart of medieval Esslingen, and theres the new Hospitalhof, the Protestant Churchs educational complex in the centre of Stuttgart, which provides a unique setting between medieval monastery walls and state-of-the-art architecture. The Kursaal (Spa Hall) in Bad Cannstatt has been thoroughly refurbished and now presents, behind its classical faade, an attractive venue equipped with the latest technology.

All of the conference venues presented in the Meeting Guide can also be found in our congress data bank under www.congress-stuttgart.de, enabling a direct, online search in accordance with individual requirements.

The Meeting Guide for the Congress Region of Stuttgart is obtainable from: Stuttgart Convention Bureau / Stuttgart-Marketing GmbH, Rotebhlplatz 25, D 70178 Stuttgart [email protected], - www.congress-stuttgart.de

Ireland: The Convention Centre Dublin Secures 120 Events In 6 MonthsThe Convention Centre Dublin (The CCD) has secured 120 events in the last six months 2014, including 25 international conferences, booked for 2015 to 2018. These 25 conferences range in size from 500 to 2,000 delegates and are forecast to generate over 30 million for the local economy and include the first ever Dublin International Game Music Festival in April 2015; Digital Solutions Cooperative largest event for HP Graphic Arts users in EMEA in June 2015; the 68th ESOMAR Congress the worlds largest market research event in September 2015 and LinuxCon Europe, CloudOpen Europe and Embedded Linux Conference Europe hosted by the Linux Foundatein in October 2015.

We have had an unprecedented run of confirmations over the last six months and continue to see huge interest in what The CCD has to offer as a European conference venue, said Nick Waight, CEO of The CCD. Since opening in 2010, we have built a solid reputation for exceptional events, delivered in an iconic, flexible venue, in the highly attractive and accessible city of Dublin. We are particularly delighted that this success is being actively endorsed by our clients, with 36% of these recent events wins comprising repeat clients, returning to host annual events at The CCD.

The CCD recently celebrated its 1,000 event, in four years of operation, with the European Society for Paediatric Endocrinology (ESPE). Since opening in September 2010, the centre has hosted over 1,000,000 delegate days and won a total of 26 industry awards, including Best Overseas Conference Centre at the UK M&IT Awards 2012, 2013 and 2014 and runner up for Worlds Best Convention Centre at the AIPC Apex Award 2012. www.theccd.ie


www.stb.gov.sgwww.congress-stuttgart.dewww.congress-stuttgart.decongress-stuttgart.dewww.congress-stuttgart.dewww.theccd.ie

In:news

north americaLas Vegas Breaks Tourism Record With More Than 40 Million Visitors

Las Vegas reached a historic milestone, exceeding 40 million visitors for the first time. The tourism industry in Southern Nevada continues to expand, achieving ten consecutive months of visitor volume increases, with many of those months being the best on record.

The Entertainment Capital of the World has surpassed its record for annual visitation, drawing more than 40 million people even before the Holiday Season 2014 and with December statistics not published yet, estimations assume almost 41 million visitors for 2014. The increase in direct international air service in 2014 from Canada and Mexico to Las Vegas proved to be instrumental to visitation growth. The previous record was set in 2012 with more than 39,727,000 tourists.

Tourism plays a vital role in the economy of Southern Nevada and the Las Vegas Valley generating more than $45 billion annually and supporting 376,000 local jobs.

www.lvcva.com www.VisitLasVegas.com

latin america & the cariBBeanChile To Host The 2015 Adventure Travel World SummitChile has won the bid to host the Adventure Travel World Summit (ATWS) in 2015. The adventure tourism industrys foremost annual gathering will take place from October 5 to 8 in the town of Puerto Varas, in the Lakes Region of Chile.

The Adventure Travel Trade Association announced the location at the start of TravelMart Latin America. A long-time member

and partner of the ATTA, Chile is committed to adventure travel as a path toward sustainable tourism in the country.

www.adventuretravel.biz

BestCities Welcomes First South American Partner- Bogot, ColombiaBestCities Global Alliance continues its expansion into new and emerging markets with the announcement that Bogot, Colombias capital, will become their first South American partner.

Although a young bureau, the Greater Bogot Convention Bureau (GBCB) already shows many of the qualities that BestCities look for in a partner, and as a meetings destination the city rates very highly against all alliance criteria including attractiveness, accessibility, front line service, pre and post touring options, infrastructure quality, future investment and value.

In order to apply for membership into the Alliance, a city must already be recognized as a Destination Marketing Organization with bureau functionalities, or be one that is officially recognized as a future bureau, Greater Bogot Convention Bureau impressed us greatly with their enthusiasm and readiness to take on Preliminary Membership so soon after their expression of interest. They have also demonstrated a strong commitment and a willingness to embrace the BestCities Quality Management System in order to further improve their internal processes, said Ms Karen Bolinger, BestCities Board Chair.

GBCB enjoys the full support of their city, regional and federal governments to pursue more business for the city as well as a strong leadership in different sectors keen to work with them in attracting more association meetings. Internally, the bureau is staffed by a young, motivated and bilingual team, passionate about their city and focused on delivering a high level of customer service and creating memorable experiences for their clients. www.bogotacb.com


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Click here to subscribe to our distribution list.

www.lvcva.comwww.VisitLasVegas.comwww.adventuretravel.bizwww.bogotacb.comhttp://micemm.com/index.php/mice-destination

In:show

imex-gmic green awards 2015Outstanding environmental and social initiatives can gain well deserved acclaim now that applications are open for the prestigious IMEX-GMIC Green Awards 2015. Jointly run by the Green Meetings Industry Council (GMIC)

and IMEX, these awards have been developed to recognise organisations within the meetings and incentive travel industry that are making an effort to minimise their environmental and social impacts.

The awards span four categories covering key aspects of the green meetings sector: Green Meeting Award (small), Green Meeting Award (large), Green Supplier and Commitment to the Community.

The Commitment to the Community Award honours those who have demonstrated innovative efforts to benefit a charitable initiative. Environmental awareness among meeting organisers is recognised by the Green Meeting Award, taking into account sustainability issues and green venues. Finally, the Green Supplier Award recognises a meeting supplier that has made innovative efforts to reduce the environmental impact of their operations.

Nominations for the IMEX-GMIC Green Awards are judged by a panel of international industry experts including Amy Spatrisano, Past Principal at MeetGreen, Hugo Kimber, CEO of The Carbon Consultancy and co founder of Sustainability Intelligence and Janiece J. Sneegas, Director of General Assembly and Conference Services for the Unitarian Universalist Association.

The awards will be presented to the winners at the celebrated IMEX Gala Dinner (20 May) during IMEX in Frankfurt, taking place 19 21 May 2015.

The deadline to apply for the IMEX-GMIC Green Awards is 1 March 2015. See www.imex-frankfurt.com/about-us/imex-awards-programme/green-awards for further details and to view case studies of previous winners.

xix mitm euromed, calpe, spainRegistration Open for Hosted BuyersRegistration has been opened for hosted buyers in the 19th edition of MITM Euromed, Meetings and Incentive Travel Market, that will take place in the city of Calpe, in Spain, from May 6th to 8th this year, with the sponsorship of Calpes City Hall and the AR Diamante Beach Hotel, Spa & Convention Centre****, venue of the event.

MITM Euromed remains committed to the quality, professionalism and excellent organization. Therefore, last editions evaluation made by the hosted buyers was rated as good in a 33% and excellent in a 64%.

MITM Euromed will be held in the magnificent AR Diamante Beach Hotel, Spa & Convention Centre****, awarded in 2014 with the prestigious Cond Nast Johansens Award as the best Hotel for Events and Conferences in Europe. Located a short distance from Calpes Levante Beach, the hotel offers all the infraestructures to make the best convention or event with a professional and personalized service to detail.

Find additional information on www.mitmeuromed.com.

south aFrica: wtm aFrica 2015 expands to Become a three-day eVentWTM Africa launched in spring 2014 as a two-day event in Cape Town and immediately established itself as the leading B2B tourism event in Africa. The inaugural event saw almost 4,000 industry professionals negotiate deals worth $314 million / 278,5 million.

Following the success of WTM Africa 2014 -- and in response to demand among exhibitors and visitors -- the event has been expanded by a full day in to a three-day event. Furthermore, WTM Africa 2015 exhibition floor space will be 50% bigger due to increased interest from both private and public sector companies around the world looking to take part.

The second WTM Africa takes place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), from April 15-17 2015 and is one of three events that make up Africa Travel Week, with IBTM Africa and ILTM Africa taking place on 13 - 15 April.

www.wtmafrica.com

continues on page 16


www.imex-frankfurt.com/about-us/imex-awards-programme/greenwww.imex-frankfurt.com/about-us/imex-awards-programme/greenwww.mitmeuromed.comwww.wtmafrica.com

In:Focus

Jamaica meet with rasta, white sand and Blue mountainAttractive MICE destination with unlimited options


In:Focus

Sleepy fishing villages; rock and reggae; Blue Mountains peak as high as some peaks in the Austrian Alps or White Mountain Peak in California. Jamaica has a kaleidoscope of impressions to show to any visitor.

The Caribbeans most colorful island and the 3rd largest - offers everything a planner dreams of to create long-lasting memories and experiences. Whether your event is conference oriented with a highly active side-program designed to support networking or team building, or you aim to create an extraordinary incentive program Jamaica offers perfect scenery plus the required supporting structure. The island continues to be an attractive destination for the meetings and incentives market.

Why meet in Jamaica?Getting to JamaicaJamaica is served from North America by every major legacy carrier from 10 major hubs as well as some low-cost airlines, with over 15 flights per day.

European connections connect mainly through UK or North American hubs with some low-cost / charter airlines offering direct (non-stop) connections from additional departure airports.

South and Central America passengers are connecting through Panama, Santiago de Chile or through North American hubs.

Something for EveryoneThis vibrant and stunning destination has over 161 attractions, more than any other Caribbean destination. Groups can unwind on the islands world-class golf courses, bamboo raft on the Martha Brae, explore the terrain on horseback, discover grandiose great houses, go snorkeling and surfing, swim with the dolphins, enjoy a pulsating nightlife and value-added duty-free shopping experience and more.

Top-notch AccommodationsJamaica boasts first-rate hotel resorts which offer guests a wide-range of accommodations to suit their needs, as well as access to a variety of recreational choices.

Captivating CultureFrom the passionate sounds of Reggae to the islands delectable cuisine, Jamaica offers guests an unforgettable experience.

Montego Bay Convention CentreJamaicas Montego Bay Convention Centre, opened in 2011, stands as the largest convention facility in the English speaking Caribbean. Offering advanced technological support for meeting planners, the facilitys meeting spaces are equipped with state-of-the-art surround sound, projectors, track lighting and numerous essentials to foster productive meeting environments.

Meeting space Exhibition space:

55,000+ sq. ft. divisible into two halls, accommodating 6,000 persons theatre style

Banquet Hall: 18,000+ sq. ft. divisible into three sections; total capacity 1,600 persons

Meeting Rooms: 10,000+ sq. ft. divisible into eight break-out rooms; accommodating up to 600 persons

Montego Bay Convention Centre Launches Virtual Tour The Montego Bay Convention Centre has entered the virtual world with the launch of their online 360 tour enabling meeting planners, exhibitors and attendees to experience a personal tour of their facilities from the comfort of their offices or homes. The Convention Centres tour enhances the online experience of planners by giving them an insight into the layout, convenience, capacity and beauty of the facility. Planners can click on the following link to take the tour http://virtualtour.mobaycentre.com

50mls

100km

international airport

Portland Point

Ocho Rios

Spanish Town

CockpitCountry

CARIBBEAN SEAJAMAICA

Blue MountainPeak 2256m

Montego Bay

Port Antonio

Falmouth

Negril

Mandeville

PortlandBright

Port RoyalGreat Pedro Bluff

Discovery Bay

Bluefields

Lovers Leap

KINGSTON

Image Copyright: MICE Media Marketing 2015

http://virtualtour.mobaycentre.com

In:FocusSpotlight on the Islands Meetings and Events VenuesMeeting planners on the hunt to identify venues for post-meeting social gatherings will find that Jamaica offers an extensive collection of prime locations for groups of all sizes:

Historic Sites Jamaica has many historic sites that have stood the test of time and tell tales of its vivid past. From notable great houses to colonial mansions, the island offers a variety of intriguing locations for a memorable event. Kingstons Devon House and Montego Bays Rose Hall Great House and Bellefield Great House & Gardens are among the many celebrated sites.

White-Sand BeachesGroups can have a gathering on some of Jamaicas spectacular white-sand beaches. Nothing beats sinking your toes in the sand and enjoying the rhythms of reggae, with a magnificent sunset as a backdrop. Iconic sites include Seven Mile Beach, Negril; Frenchmans Cove, Port Antonio; Doctors Cave Beach, Montego Bay; South Coast; and James Bond Beach, Ocho Rios.

Tropical Gardens and ParksThe destination has an impressive collection of tropical gardens and parks adorned with rare and beautiful species of flora and fauna, walking trails

and cascading waterfalls with meandering streams perfect for planners who take delight in natures captivating beauty. Top stunning gardens picks include Shaw Park Gardens and Coyaba River Garden in Ocho Rios, while Kingstons Hope Botanical Gardens is the largest public green space in the citys metropolitan region.

Recommendations for MICE Teambuilding, Golfing and VIP DeparturesTeam-Building ActivitiesTeam building is serious fun with Chukka Caribbean Adventure Tours, providing engaging interactive activities that help your group learn to work together by playing together. The spirit of cooperation, competition and support promotes lessons in group dynamics and builds strength within a group. Explore the options of Trojan Horse polo, giant lawn puzzles, obstacle courses, scavenger hunts and more with Chukkas Adventure Team Building for Groups program. Book group tours two weeks

to a month ahead (blackout dates apply). Explore at http://www.chukkacaribbean.com; then contact [email protected] or 876-579-7119.

What better way to ignite the spirit of camaraderie than a group marine excursion at Dolphin Cove. Your group will have memorable encounters as they swim with the dolphins and interact with sharks, stingrays, exotic birds and reptiles. Personalized tours will, for instance, challenge your group and create synergy as they conquer the majestic yet tricky Dunns River Falls. Special discounts are offered to groups with a minimum of 20 participants, and for every ten persons, one person is free. Explore at www.dolphincovejamaica.com

Paintball Jamaica: Paintball, laser tag and target shooting are available at the new Paintball Jamaica facilities, just a few minutes outside of Montego Bay. This is one example of Jamaicas diverse activity choices for team building and ice-breaking exercises. Attendees can play capture the flag, last man standing or create their own game to enjoy their 90 minutes of play time. For more information, visit http://paintballjamaica.com

Treasure Beach on Jamaicas South Coast is now ready to welcome incentive groups of all sizes with an interest in team building and leadership at the General Colin Powell Challenge Course. The facility, the first of its kind in Jamaica, was designed to build resilience and leadership skills in young people and adults alike. TPhase One of the project which includes five low rope elements and one high rope 45 ft. climbing wall, was opened by former U.S. Ambassador to Jamaica Pamela Bridgewater November 2013. The facility was constructed through a partnership with General Colin Powell, the United

Nations Childrens Fund (UNICEF), BREDS/The Treasure Beach Foundation, Ohrstrom Foundation and the Jamaica Public Service Company, with support from the Engineering Regiment of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF). For more information on the General Colin Powell Challenge Course go to www.treasurebeach.tumblr.com


In:Focus

http://www.chukkacaribbean.comhttp://www.chukkacaribbean.commailto:[email protected]:tknott@chukkacaribbean.comwww.dolphincovejamaica.comwww.dolphincovejamaica.comhttp://paintballjamaica.comhttp://paintballjamaica.comwww.treasurebeach.tumblr.com

In:Focus

Golfing for Groups

Jamaica features 12 world-class golf courses for meeting and incentive groups to utilize during leisure time or as part of a group itinerary. The islands courses include a breathtaking mix of lush green hills and views of the crystal blue Caribbean Sea.

For many golf enthusiasts, Jamaica is the island of choice due to its pristine selection of courses, ideal year-around climate, accessibility, as well as, its range of accommodation choices. Heres a sampling of greens for golfers to tee-off on this season in Montego Bay.

Cinnamon Hill The ocean and mountain vistas at the Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spas 6,617-yard, Par-71 course are breathtaking, and trade winds keep the action cool. This course first opened in the 1970s as the Three Palms Ocean Course and was redesigned by Von Hagge, Smelek and Baril. The seductive layout features an open, windswept front nine that gives way to a tight, bunker-laden backside bordered by dense foliage. Players at Cinnamon Hill enjoy stunning scenery that includes the ruins of an 18th-century sugar mill, aqueducts and inlaid stone walls, plus a waterfall at the 15th hole that was featured in the James Bond film, Live and Let Die.

Half MoonThe 7,119-yard, Par-72 golf course, located within the exclusive 400-acre Half Moon resort complex, is reminiscent of a true British-links style course, with trade winds and water hazards adding to the challenge of navigating undulating greens sculpted from the foothills of the islands western coastline. In order to maintain the integrity of the original Robert Trent Jones Sr. design, his protg and longtime partner - Roger Rulewich - was commissioned to enhance the course, adding a few more challenges with repositioned bunkers, elevation changes,

reshaped fairways and an increase in the length of the course from the championship tees elevation changes and enhance the bunkers to challenge even the best players.

White WitchOcean and mountain views are spectacularly dramatic from The Ritz-Carlton Golf & Spa Resorts White Witch Golf Course, which stretches across 200 lush acres of the historic 4,000-acre Rose Hall Plantation. This 6,800-yard, par-71 course was designed by Robert von Hagge and Rick Baril, and ranked among the Top 10 New Golf Courses of 2000 by Golf Magazine. It is also one of only 10 international courses to have earned the prestigious Gold Tee Award from Meetings & Conventions. White Witch has been selected as the number one Golf Resort in Caribbean, number one Golf Course Design in the Caribbean and as having the number one Golf Staff in North America, Caribbean and Mexico by Conde Nast Traveler.

TryallTryall Club & Golf Resort, the former choice for the Johnnie Walker World Tour Professional event, have quietly built the fastest set of putting greens south of Augusta. The course is probably still the toughest test on the island, but cleverly you dont notice until you add your scores at the 19th Hole.

Ironshore Golf and Country ClubBuilt in the early 1970s by Canadian Robert Moot, Ironshores 18-hole course is noted for its challenging layout with a number of intriguing blind holes. This par-72 course offers large, well-bunkered greens, tree-lined fairways, and numerous doglegs.

And moreJamaicas other resort areas also boast renowned courses, such as Constant Spring and Caymanas in Kingston and Negril Hills in Negril. In fact, Jamaica can lay claim to the oldest course in the western hemisphere. The Duke of Manchester opened Mandeville Golf Club in 1865 - before many of Scotlands classics - and they are still playing the original layout, although in different order.

VIP Departures at the AirportsClub Mobay and Club KingstonTravelers can enjoy a world-class lounge experience at Jamaicas first-ever airport lounges, Club Mobay and Club Kingston at Jamaicas two major international airports in Kingston and Montego Bay, respectively. For US$30, travelers will receive five star treatments starting with a VIP escort to the front of both the security and customs lines, and directly into the lounge. For US$15, children 12 years and under can access the lounges and


In:Focus

In:Focuschildren 2 years and under will be admitted free of cost.

The Club Mobay and Club Kingston lounges will include:

Complimentary beverages and snacks, featuring fresh fruit and pastries

A state of the art business center Pickney Place, a one-of-a kind childrens play room (Club Mobay) Private conference room meeting facilities available for booking Complimentary Concierge Duty Free Shopping Luxurious mini spa treatments and shower facilities

(additional charge) Fast Track Access through the airport Free WiFi

Travelers with club memberships from Priority Pass and Airport Angel will be able to access both lounges. For more information, visit VIP Groups.

HOTELSOCHO RIOSJewel Paradise Cove Beach Resort & Spa:

Recently opened, this 225-room, adults-only oceanfront retreat in Runaway Bay is centered on an all-inclusive health, spa and fitness theme. This is the third Jewel property to be opened in Jamaica, bringing the total number of rooms under the Jewel brand to 741. Their conference facilities can accommodate groups ranging from 25 up to 150, perfect for meetings, banquets, private receptions and more. Visit www.jewelresorts.com/resorts/paradisecove/groups for more information.

Melia Jamaica

The 226-room Braco Village Hotel & Spa in Trelawny is now undergoing a comprehensive renovation and will reopen as the upscale all-inclusive Melia Jamaica in fall 2015. It will be the chains first property in Jamaica. Melia Hotels International adds to the growing list of Spanish hotel operators on island.

MONTEGO BAY Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa

Originally an 18th century sugar plantation, the 489-room resort is set on the beautiful 400-acre historic Rose Hall Plantation. The all-inclusive, oceanfront resort boasts a private white-sand beach; the championship Cinnamon Hill Golf Course; a 13,500 sq. ft. water complex, Sugar Mill Falls Water Park; an array of recreation and fitness activities; the full-service Soothe Spa; six lighted tennis courts; a distinguishing variety of dining and entertainment options; and unique outdoor venues.

Features of Meeting Facilities:

14,000 sq. ft./1.300 sqm of indoor function space highlighted by bold dramatic dcor, floating ceilings, mahogany doors, and are fitted with amenities such as wireless or wired Internet accessibility, and audiovisual equipment and support. Expert support managers and award-winning catering round out the advanced meeting experience.

The 7,800 sq. ft./725 sqm Main Ballroom accommodates groups of up to 800 guests and offers a pre-function foyer for up to 200 guests (reception). It may be divided into.

5,500 sq. ft / 511 sqm Rose Hall Ballroom accommodating 350 guests banquet-style and 2,300 sq. ft. Hanover Room capable to hold banquets of 180 people.

Spacious breakout meeting rooms and a 16-seat boardroom are perfect for privacy and concurrent meetings, and accommodate up to 80 guests in theater-style and 100 guests for receptions.

30,000+ square feet of distinctive outdoor venues, including ancient aqueducts and a beautiful private beach ideal for open-air events and receptions. www.rosehallresort.com/Weddings-Group-Events

Half Moon, A RockResort

Half Moon, A RockResort is a 400-acre luxury resort located on Jamaicas North Coast. The 57-year-old resort features two miles of private, white-sand beach with 197 spacious rooms and suites. Additionally, the AAA Four-Diamond resort offers 31expansive four-, five-, six- and seven-bedroom villas all with private pools and personal staff of butler, cook and housekeeper. Providing its guests with a wide variety of amenities and activities includes the multi-award winning Fern Tree, A RockResorts Spa, a Robert Trent Jones Sr.-designed 18-hole golf course, Half Moon Golf Academy, Spinning studio, 13 lit tennis courts, equestrian centre, fitness centre, 54 swimming pools, a teen activity centre, the colorful Anancy Childrens Village, water sports, dolphin lagoon, shopping village,


In:Focus

www.jewelresorts.com/resorts/paradisecove/groupswww.jewelresorts.com/resorts/paradisecove/groupswww.rosehallresort.com/Weddings

In:Focus

including 24-hour medical centre and more. All of Half Moons 51 swimming pools offer Wi-Fi Internet access.

Features of Meeting Facilities: The resort has more than 27,000 sq. ft./2508 sqm of indoor meeting space: 12,000 sq. ft. / 1115 sqm ballroom, 4,600 sq. ft. / 427 sqm conference center, 15 function, meeting and breakout rooms totaling over 10,000 sq. ft / 929 sqm.

50,000 sq ft / 4645 sqm of breathtaking outdoor space, including seven venues for groups to host their meetings and events. Venues include: Royal Pavilion, Croquet Lawn, Sunrise Beach/Beach Barbecue, Oleander Terrace & Beach, Sugar Mill Lawn & Terrace, 19th Hole Bar & Practice Green, Half Moon Shopping Village.

Half Moon has a Video Conferencing System (VCS), which is remotely controlled and includes a camera that can pan, tilt, zoom and be pre-set to over 100 different positions. Displayed on a 50 high- definition plasma monitor, the VCS can show video clips, audio clips and data image with a high-powered audio system. A tabletop conference phone allows video calls to be dialed directly. The conference phone has a built-in microphone that lets users speak naturally up to 20 feet away and still be heard clearly.

The propertys business center offers computers with internet access and printers for guests to use. Copying, faxing and printing services are also available. http://halfmoon.rockresorts.com

Hyatt Ziva Rose HallFormerly the Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort & Spa, this new all-inclusive 620-room owned and managed by Playa Hotels & Resorts, is currently undergoing renovations and recently opened. Located on a 1,500 feet private coastline and beach in Montego Bay, the resort is complete with a full-service spa, a variety of water sports, recreational activities, more than 25, 000 sq. ft. / 2,323 sqm of meeting and reception spaces.

Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall will be conveniently located just 10 minutes from the Sangster International Airport. For information please email the Director of Sales, Mureen James at [email protected].

Riu Palace JamaicaLocated next to the Riu Montego Bay, this newly built all-inclusive, adults-only 238-room hotel opened last December. Riu Palace Jamaica, which is Rius most luxurious hotel in Jamaica, featuring 5 restaurants, a private beach and other amenities, is the islands fifth hotel and the first in offering the

chains exclusive Adults Only service. The resort also offers one conference room with a total of 2,013 sq. f.t/ 280 sqm of meeting and event space. For more information, please visit www.riu.com/en/Paises/jamaica/montego-bay/hotel-riu-palace-jamaica

The Oasis at SunsetRetreat, Incentives, Private functions, Weddings

Formerly the Beach wing, this 124-room hotel was opened in December as a separate hotel and adjoins the Sunset Beach Resort Spa & Waterpark towers. Guests will enjoy the extra pampering, a dedicated concierge, a private beach with an au natural section tucked out of the way, as well as access to all of the facilities, activities, entertainment, and restaurants at Sunset Beach all-inclusive resort. Groups will have access to the indoor and outdoor meeting facilities of the neighboring Sunset Beach Resort Spa & Waterpark, which can accommodate 20 to 60 persons. To learn more, visit www.theoasisjamaica.com

Secrets St. JamesNestled on a private peninsula, located 20 minutes from the Sangster International Airport (MBJ), the stunning Secrets St. James in Montego Bay has as much to offer meeting groups as it does the discerning traveler.

The propertys convention center offers four flexible meeting rooms, five breakout rooms, audio-visual equipment, wireless internet access and an on-site internet cafe.

The 8,058 sq. ft./ 749 sqm. St. James Ballroom accommodates up to 895 guests with theater seating and up to 670 for banquet seating and may be divided into 5 individual rooms catering each for up to 220 pax in theater style or 84 in classroom style.

5 additional Meeting rooms of 273 - 296 sq. ft. / 25 - 27 sqm for up to 10 persons (banquet) or 12 persons (classroom) are also available.

Following a day of meetings, groups can relax at the propertys world-class spa, break a sweat at the fitness center, unwind with a round of golf, or enjoy the some of the nearby attractions. Visit www.MeetatSecrets.com or call 1-866-GOSECRETS.

Make Your Meeting A Gem in Paradise Looking for an interesting Jamaican location to send your incentive group? Planning an off-site meeting or retreat for your management team? Organizing a family reunion, wedding or anniversary celebration? Jewel Resorts, with a total of 741 rooms can deliver an upscale all-inclusive experience which will ensure your next event is exceptional and memorable. Whether it is a luxury adults-only experience at Jewel Dunns River and Jewel Paradise Cove or an upscale family experience at Jewel


In:Focus

http://halfmoon.rockresorts.commailto:[email protected]/en/Paises/jamaica/montego-bay/hotel-riu-palace-jamaicawww.theoasisjamaica.comwww.MeetatSecrets.com

In:FocusRunaway Bay.

Meeting Facilities of the properties are in theater style for a maximum of 150 persons at Jewel Paradise Cove , 300 persons at Dunns River Resort and 250 persons at Runaway Bay resort.

Choose from group packages ranging from basic 10 carat to its premier 24 carat. Visit www.jewelresorts.com and contact the groups department. Promotional packages are available.

Royalton White SandsA luxury all-inclusive five-star resort in the Montego Bay area that opened in November 2013. The resort, formerly Breezes Trelawny, offers 352 guestrooms and is being positioned as an all-in connectivity resort, which offers free in-room calls to North America and free WiFi. The resort has banquet facilities to host events, private dinners, and functions. For more information or to obtain a quote, visit www.royaltonwhitesandsresort.com

Leisure Activities to WOW We dont believe life should be all work and no play, so learn about our more than 150 plus fascinating attractions in Jamaica. There is an enormous range of options to make discretionary time fun, informative, and truly memorable.

For free time ,guests can choose from an exciting range of activities that run the gamut from tours of our historic Great Houses, recalling an era when Jamaicas sugar plantations flourished, to zip lining high above the rainforest. Here are just a few ideas to explore:

Jamaica Swamp Safari Village This wild life sanctuary is located in Falmouth, Trelawny and reopened in December 2011. It sits on approximately 50 acres of the Salt Marsh wetlands and is home to over 30 of the endangered American Crocodile,

the also endangered Jamaican Boa Constrictor (Yellow Snake), and the once thought extinct Jamaican Coney (distantly related to guinea pigs). There is also a walk-thru aviary to view several indigenous birds and the village also home to other species including owls and iguanas. The famous crocodile-jumping scene in the James Bond film Live & Let Die was shot on location here in 1972. Explore at www.jamaicaswampsafari.com

Rose Hall Great House www.jamaica-tour.com/rose-hall-great-house.htm.

Dolphin Cove Marine Attractions in Ocho Rios and Negril for swimming with dolphins and interaction with stingrays, exotic birds and reptiles: www.dolphincovejamaica.com.

Mystic Mountain RainForest for its Sky Explorer Chairlift, Bobsled Ride, and Zip Line Adventure: www.rainforestadventure.com/welcome_mystic_mountain_ocho_rios_bobsled_jamaica

Appleton Estate Rum Tour appletonrumtour.com.

Jamaica Tourist Board Groups and ConventionsThe Jamaica Tourist Board Groups and Conventions team is committed to helping you with all aspects of your meeting, convention or incentive program.

The profound knowledge of JTB will assist you to find the elements best suited to your program, be it property, conference & meeting space, banqueting, entertainment or ground and air transportation and will also organize a site inspection. Take advantage of the host of services designed to ensure every stage of the planning process and all aspects of the visit go well.

www.visitjamaica.com or find contact details for JTB offices worldwide at: www.jtbonline.org/Pages/ContactUs.aspx

In:Focus


www.jewelresorts.comwww.royaltonwhitesandsresort.comwww.jamaicaswampsafari.comwww.jamaica-tour.com/rose-hall-great-house.htmwww.dolphincovejamaica.comwww.rainforestadventure.com/welcome_mystic_mountain_ocho_rios_bobsled_jamaica/www.rainforestadventure.com/welcome_mystic_mountain_ocho_rios_bobsled_jamaica/appletonrumtour.comwww.visitjamaica.comhttp://www.jtbonline.org/Pages/ContactUs.aspx

In:Venue

citycuBe Berlin

a most FlexiBle Venue Born 2014


Germanys capital city, Berlin, has developed into one of the hottest meeting destinations worldwide for many reasons and certainly MICE buyers are one of them room capacities are enormous, there are so many venues that it is literally impossible to count them, and Berlin is a lively city that never sleeps.

But there are other facts about Berlin that are likely less known. The UNESCO City of Design belongs to the short list of cities with 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is the only city in the world with 3 active opera houses. Berlin has about 180 museums, including the worlds largest museum, and in fact has more museums than it has rainy days!

But is has also a new reason to choose Berlin as your next conference destination: CityCube Berlin.

CityCube Berlin has been planned in order to extend Berlins offerings to the conference and event market, and to bridge phases of the ICCs discussed reconstruction. Located at the place of the previous Deutschlandhalle CityCube had a very tight construction phase from the groundbreaking in May 2012

to the opening ceremony in on May 5, 2014.

LocationCityCube Berlin, a Messe Berlin venue, is constructed adjacent to the southern entrance of Berlin ExpoCenter City. Located in the Westend , about 2 km from the Olympic stadium and about 4 km from Zoo Berlin we all remember cute Knut is linked to the Berlin local public transportation network and connected by highway to the Berlin airports: Airport Berlin Tegel (7.3 km / 4.5 miles); Airport Berlin Schnefeld ( 25.6 km / 15.9 miles).

City Cube Berlin

Airport Berlin Tempelhof

Airport Berlin Schnefeld

Berlin, Germany

Image Copyright: MICE Media Marketing 2015

In:VenueCityCube Berlin - The VenueCityCube Berlin can cater for events with up to 11,000 delegates. The two highly flexible main halls on level 1 and 2 measure 6.015 sqm / 64,745 sq ft. Level 1 is dividable into a maximum of 8 conference halls with depending on the configuration - theater capacities from 400 to 3.271 delegates. The column-free hall on Level 2 with its clearance height of 12 m / 39 feet is designed to be used for fairs, events, catering or plenaries for up to 5,000 delegates.

CityCubes Level 3 hosts 8 additional conference rooms, with flexible partitioning, that can be divided into a maximum of 15 conference rooms accommodating between 50 and 300 delegates. In addition to these facilities, 30 offices, suites and meeting rooms are available throughout the building.

Due to the directly neighboring location to Halls 2 and 7 and the close proximity of Hall 4 of Messe Berlins Berlin ExpoCenter City, additional conference facilities are available within less than 200 m / 656 feet, further extending available capacities for events.

Messe Berlin, the environment and Corporate Social ResponsibilityMesse Berlin does not only have responsibity for 3 Berlin locations CityCube Berlin, Berlin ExpoCenter City and Berlin ExpoCenter Airport, but is also the organizer of well-known international trade shows such as ITB Berlin, ITB Asia or the International Green Week Berlin.

Through both sides of business, a recurrent theme is corporate responsibility, whether in protecting nature and conserving natural resources or acting socially responsible.

Environment through energy management and targeted investments, CO emissions have been reduced by 27%, fuel consummation by 23% since 2005 and 30+% of the required electricity is produced by eco-friendly combined heat and power systems with 40% of heat being produced by carbon-neutral wood pellets. The Halls lighting units are being replaced by T5 fluorescent lamps and external lighting is optimized through presence detectors and use of LEDs. Also by choosing service providers meeting high standards; brochures, flyers and forms are provided mainly electronically rather than on paper and FSC paper is used for all notepaper and copy paper.

Waste management focusses on avoiding waste in the first place and to maximum recycling.

Messe Berlins trade show ITB Berlin is organized and staged based on modern sustainability criteria and committed to social responsibility in tourism - supporting relief projects including Welthungerhilfe and GTZ in Kenya, Peru, India and other countries. Throughout the year, the trade show offers visitors and exhibitors opportunities to improve their carbon footprint by offsetting through Atmosfair - www.atmosfair.de/en/home.

Concentrated efforts at different trade shows and events of Messe Berlin, i.e. at the International Green Week Berlin and the Fruit Logistica, help prevent food waste, conserve resources and benefit needy people by donating leftover food to the Berliner Tafel. www.citycube-berlin.de/en


www.atmosfair.de/en/homewww.citycube-berlin.de/en

In:case

Nothing is more impressive than a privately chartered ship.

Whether you desire a limited number of cabins/suites for an incentive on a small cruise yacht, or a full-ship charter on a larger vessel for a unique customised special event, you will need a partner who understands your high demands and desires for your exclusive event at sea or river. Your partner will help by choosing the perfect ship, designing exactly the right itinerary and producing your unique cruise concept.

Creating the perfect events on the small world aboard a vessel requires mixing the right blend of leisure, pleasure and activity. Events on board are beyond the normal, the extraordinary underlines the uniqueness of the framework creating long-lasting memories.

We spoke to Ulrike Kappeler, founder & managing director of myseavent, a Hamburg (Germany) based Event Agency specializing in events on anything that sails be it on the sea or on a river, for more than 20 years. In cooperation with Patty Witzigmann, creative director at myseavent and their team, they have created a very unique Roadshow.

The client Leading Hotels of the World is the largest luxury hotel collection, with more than 430 of the worlds greatest properties in over 80 countries.

The organizing team created a whole world of Leading Hotels of the World on board the river cruise ship, spotlighting the

individuality of the properties being presented.

Case StudyThe concept was created aboard the most luxurious river cruise ship, the famous River Cloud sailing on the Rhine River. All suites of the ship were converted into suites of various hotel members of The Leading Hotels of the World. Additionally, amenities and suite decorations were brought from the different hotels. Special delicacies and drinks from the participating hotels were served and local music was played.

Hoteliers provided photos of their best views which were printed on large linen and put in front of the ship cabin windows. Clients entering the different ships cabins had the impression of entering a suite of a Leading Hotel, even to having the same view out of the window as they would have in the particular hotel. Eating the same delicacies, and a special drink served in the hotel itself, listening to the same music and in some suites even smelling the same fragrance, delivered to the visitors an authentic experience.

Patty Witzigmann, Creative Director at myseavent introduced the history of The Leading Hotels of the World, in the persona of a well-travelled Lady from the 1920s, the time when the hotel cooperation was founded.


a 3-country riVer cruise roadshow oF the leading hotels oF the worldIn the travel industry, cruises are a major trend with river cruises being an ideal opportunity for an extraordinary event setting, particularly in-land!

Image Copyright: myseaventThe River Clouds deck prepared for the Roadshow.

Image Copyright: myseaventThe River cloud anchored in Koblenz, Germany at the famous

Deutsches Eck - German Corner where the Moselle joins the Rhine.

In:case


The river ship stopped in Cologne, Mainz, Mannheim, Strasbourg and Basel. In all these cities Leading Hotels invited their best clients: Travel Trade guests arrived for an afternoon tea session and in the evening the Leaders Club Members enjoyed a seated dinner.

The ships suites were used for exhibition as described above and standard cabins housed the hotel staff. This very unique Roadshow and outstanding experience has been much lauded by both, clients and exhibitors. Clients gained first-hand experience of the participating properties and exhibitors who only had to create their unique set-up once, avoiding all the usual travelling, daily packing and unpacking, carrying and transportation of the various roadshow materials. Simply embarking in Cologne and disembarking 5 days later in Basel, having had a sales opportunity during 10 events in 5 cities with various clients.

Due to the great success of this Roadshow, The Leading Hotels of the World is planning another River Cruise Roadshow in 2015.

Image Copyright: Sea Cloud Cruises

The Sea Cloud II, famous sister ship of the River Cloud II is also used by myseavent for events.

www.myseavent.com

ite & mice hong Kong 2015 Survey found Occupy Central few Negative Impacts on Travel

In an online survey conducted earlier this month on travel enthusiasts in Hong Kong, 81.7% of the respondents said Occupy Central has not affected their travel plan in last Christmas, and 89% said no effect on their travel plan in 2015 which can possibly include both keeping and increasing the spending.

The survey found few canceled trips as a result! Of the 18.3% respondents whose holiday in last Christmas has been negatively affected by Occupy Central, only 1.5% canceled their trips, 5.8% changed or postponed holiday, and another 11% just spent less.

Using in-house database, the survey is conducted by TKS which organizes ITE & MICE, Hong Kongs annual international travel expo. Past public visitors of ITE & MICE were invited to take part in the survey. A total of 1586 replies were received, and 35% of the respondents reported having outbound holiday in last Christmas.

Lasting for 4 days, the last ITE & MICE drew 12308 regional buyers and trade visitors in two trade days, and 75300 public visitors in two public days; and 650 exhibitors (85% from abroad) from 47 countries and regions from all over the World.

Onsite survey in ITE & MICE 2014 found 59% of the public visitors traveled 2 to 4 times while another 16% traveled 5 times or more in the past twelve months. They are indeed travel

enthusiasts, and are likely opinion leaders and/or trend-setters among friends and family members on traveling!

Theme travels and traveling in FIT are becoming more popular, particularly among the affluent and seasoned travelers. They constitute a large part of our public visitors. We also want to find out more about their preferences through this survey, said KS Tong, Managing Director of TKS.

When asked to pick interested travel themes, nearly 78% of respondents chose two or more and only 1.5% chose nothing. The top five popular themes are found to be Wildlife Tour at 40.7%, Driving Tour at 40%, Travel Photography at 35%, Sport Tourism at 34.5% and Cruise at 32.3%.

ITE & MICE 2015, which co-locates the 29th ITE and the 10th ITE MICE, will be held from June 11 to 14, 2015 at Halls 1A to 1E of the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition centre. It is supported by China National Tourism Administration, Hong Kong Tourism Board, the Travel Industry Council of Hong Kong, Macau Government Tourist Office, travel trade & MICE associations in the region. For more details, please visit www.itehk.com or contact the Organizer, TKS by phone: (852) 31550600 or send email to [email protected] for inquiry.

www.myseavent.comwww.itehk.commailto:[email protected]

In:centiVe

Young Presidents Organization (YPO), a network that connects chief executives and peers around the world, enlisted PR Incentives Italy DMC for its International Chapter 2013 program in Sicily. The goal was to create powerful networking opportunities and social and cultural moments to inspire attendees to become better leaders in their business, community and beyond.

The ProgramThe YPO Internationals day-by-day program activities were designed with specific goals in mind to unify the diverse members, promote mutual trust, belonging, relationships and friendship, and a strong sense of group identity. Along the way, the group learned about Sicilys rich culture, traditions and history.

YPO members and their spouses, 84 people, came together in Sicily to spend 5 days exploring the islands culture, colours and traditions. Each day had goals and objectives outlined by the organizer, achieved by experiences and events from one side of the island to the other.

DAY One: Arrival afternoon begins inside the Ancient Greek Theatre in Taormina, then welcome dinner on the panoramic terrace of the Hotel overlooking the Bay and the smoking volcano Etna, discovering Sicily through Fashion.

DAY Two: A day to discover the wonderful nature of the Etna slopes. Early up and out for the beautiful canyon between high walls of lava - for a river trekking morning walk.

Then, scramble eggs on the river bank and start towards the Volcano - up to 2000 meters in 1 hour an amazing trek on the lava fields. Open air rustic buffet lunch and wine tasting in a prestigious local wine cellar: a tribute to the senses among perfumes, food and extraordinary wines. The Nature of Sicily.

Dinner tonight, with coppola hats and beautiful hand embroidered shawls, in the beautiful Villa where Francis Ford Coppola shot several scenes of the Godfather trilogy! Sicily as a Movie Set.

DAY Three: Another busy day, with helicopter shuttles from Greek Sicily to the Arab Sicily on the Western side. Landing in a picturesque medieval village in the National Park where the Mayor extends the keys of the village and a welcome to an extraordinary experience discovering the quality of the local region, visiting the artistic highlights and the gourmet tradition with a wonderful lunch served in an imperial style table set in the main road, while the waiters sang opera.


introducing the site crystal award winning ypo international chapter program 2013 in sicily2014 CRYSTAL AWARD for Exceptional Motivational Travel Program Best in Class: Europe Winner: PR Incentives Italy DMC

international airportImage Copyright: MICE Media Marketing 2015

ITALY, Sicily

Naples

Taranto

SicilyMEDITERRANEAN SEA

Bari

Catania

Cagliari

Vesuvius 1289m

TYRRHENIAN SEA

Palermo

Sardinia

Etna 3326m

Reggio di Calabria

Brindisi

ROME

Pompeii

200mls

400km

Sicily, home of the tallest active volcano in Europe, Mt. Etna, has long been a meeting point between East and West, Africa and Europe. For thousands of years Sicily frequently changed hands from the Greeks to Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, Spain and the Holy Roman Empire. They left a rich and unique multi-cultural society of arts, music, architecture and cuisine.

In:centiVe

After lunch, exploring by vintage cars to the routes of the Targa Florio with refreshment stops along the way to Palermo soaking in the Sicilian colours.

Dinner each day had a different theme. Tonight is a typical Sicilian feast, traditional food and folk dancing in the authentic tuna fishing place of the fish market. Sicily through the Senses. Then another surprise in the darkness: the exclusive visit to the Catacombs.

DAY FOUR: Intense last day of discovering Sicilian culture, including religion, politics, military establishment and noble families. After breakfast, Holy Mass in the Palatine Chapel, Hall of Sicilian Parliament, followed by a private choral concert. A meeting & program by a former Italian government official and economist. A formal lunch in Military style then travel to homage the Patron Saint of Palermo in a cave 1500 meters above sea level. Final private shopping of the 3 Sicilian specialities of the island: Fashion, Jewellery and Artistic Ceramic designers.

Gala Banquet in the capital of the Reign of the Two Sicily, a night in a noble Palace hosted by the family among old treasures, ancient traditions and mystery. All ladies in handmade black embroidery masks in a very elegant final night welcomed by the white guardian angel.

The ResultPR Incentives Italy DMC showed creativity, innovation and attention to detail with a trip that transformed guests from individuals to team players who support each other to overcome challenges.

As a result, SITE (Society of Incentive Travel Excellence) during Leadership Conference in Brussels recently, awarded PR Incentives Italy DMC a 2014 CRYSTAL AWARD for Exceptional Motivational Travel Program Best In Class Europe.

Receiving the Crystal Award, Owner and General Manager Patrizia Rapisarda said PR Incentives DMC in Italy was created to meet the particularly challenging demands of clients seeking a unique event experience, measured in every detail to exceed expectations. The YPO Program was carefully structured each day to fulfill objectives of YPO organizers.

PR Incentives DMC Italy has been delivering incentive programs to groups and international corporations for 25 years. Rapisarda invests the passion and pride she feels for her country into programs from Rome to Sardinia, from Sicily to Tuscany, and many iconic locations in between. www.pr-incentives.it


mice:destinationMartina WarterPublisher & Editorial Director [email protected]

Advertising Sales

Barbara Shapiro, The Americas, UAE [email protected], + 1 304 599 0511

Dina Chan, Asia-Pacific [email protected] +852 6083 3511

Ashley Smith, EMEA [email protected] +33 977 215 355

MICE Media Marketing 24 rue du dragon, 57450 Farebersviller, France +33 970 444 556

www.pr-incentives.itmailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]

In:country

Thailand, officially the Kingdom of Thailand is a fascinating and historic kingdom, with Buddhist temples, exotic wildlife, luxurious islands and a unique culture.

The ever-smiling Thai people are known to be gentle, extremely polite and hard working. They are very proud of their country, cultural heritage and the fact that Thailand has never been ruled by any Western power. Respect to all these facts should guide any visitors behavior and will be appreciated.

Buddhism is predominant in Thailand, but in some regions in the south many people are Muslim. Social customs are based in these religions, and treating religious matters respectfully is a basic rule.

Thai social and business customs appear very complex to visitors. We have prepared a short, comprehensive outline of the most important rules for you

The key to successfully conducting business is to never make your business contact lose face. That may sound easy, but there are some unexpected traps to avoid. In the Thai culture, making someone lose face is a serious error and repairing the damage is difficult for both parties. We have grouped the dos and

donts by different situations for your guidance.

The absolute NOT TO DOsNo negative comments about king and country.

No expression or negative statements about any member of the royal family at all. Images of the members of the royal families should be treated respectfully.

No form disrespect of any images or statues of Buddha or towards monks. This includes pointing the soles of your feet in the direction of, and touching or defacing statues or images of a Buddha. Women may never touch a monk.

Never show disrespect towards or touch a persons head, it is sacred in Thai Buddhism. This includes passing items over a persons head or stepping over a persons pillow. Both are regarded to be offensive.

Feet are considered dirty in Thai Buddhism, so never point with your feet or direct the soles of your feet to a person/persons, in particular not to members or images of the royal family, to a Buddha or towards monks. Never bring your feet close to a head or objects associated with it, such as pillows etc. Dont use your feet to move something around.

Dont cross your legs in front of monks or elderly people.

Never point towards anything with your hand or even worse with one finger.

Never pass anything on with your left hand.

Remove your shoes before entering a Thai home. In schools or offices, see if there are shoes in front of the door and if so, follow this lead.

Never step on a threshold, this is considered to bring bad luck to the house, always step over it.

The general Etiquette

Courtesy, respect and politeness are the most important guidelines to build relationships. Keep your voice soft and smile warmly. Thai intend to recognize waving hands while one is speaking as a form of anger, it is best to avoid it.

It is considered impolite to put your arm around the back of a chair in which someone is seated or to put your hands in your pockets when talking with somebody.


thailand What to do when meeting somebody? How do you conduct business introductions? When and how do you hand over business cards? How to dress? And how do you greet and address the opposite sex? Or monks?

In:countryAvoid public display of emotions and make sure to never show anger or any other negative emotion neither verbally nor non-verbally. Also dont criticize or respond negatively; it is seen as an insult. All these will make the other lose face.

Avoid negative responses by replacing them with non-negative expressions to express them indirectly. In negotiations, searching for compromises or alternative suggestions is understood to be a refuse of a proposal.

The many aspects and levels of life in Thai society have a strong hierarchy. Age, social position, wealth are among other facts required to identify a persons place in hierarchy. Be prepared that many Thai will ask questions that in western society might be considered inappropriate, - your age, marital status, wealth, job, etc. Best is to answer kindly without affront allowing the Thai to identify the different levels of

etiquette and politeness they will apply.

Some Thai are very conservative regarding the opposite sex. To avoid possible embarrassment it is recommended to avoid any physical contact including shaking hands until a close(r) relationship is established.

The family hierarchy is very important and the well-being of the group is more important than individuality and independence. This also applies to friendship. It is very common that wealthier friends or family members settle the bill for drinks and/or dinner.

An extended arm with palms downwards with fluttering fingers up and down is used to beckon a person.

Meet and GreetThe Wai is the traditional form of greeting between Thai people. To wai, ( pronounced why) a person places the palm of his or her hands together, with their fingers extended at chest level close to their body and bows slightly. The higher the hands are placed, the more respect is shown. Subordinates might raise their fingers as high as their nose. However, the tips of their fingers should never be above eye level

There are strict rules concerning who and how to wai. Generally, the younger or junior person (in regard to the social hierarchy)

initiates the wai. The lower the head is bowed, the more respect is shown. As foreigners are usually not expected to know of wai etiquette, they will be excused mistakes. If a Wai is offered by your business partners, it needs to be returned as anything else would be insulting. If no Wai is offered, men simply shake hands with the men and nod politely to the women. Please keep in mind that traditional Thai believe that a woman can lose face if touched by a man in public. Foreign women shake hands with women and nod politely towards men.

A Wai is never offered or returned to children, waiters, clerks, servants, street vendors etc. - simply smile and nod in response. A Wai towards a subordinate is carried out with a small nod of the head, the higher the other person is, the deeper you nod. Monks are greeted with a Wai, but they dont return it

The sequence of both greeting and introduction always starts at the lowest rank and then works up through hierarchy. Usually you will be introduced first to a secretary and after that to her boss, followed by their superior manager(s). When introducing someone to an important Thai, introduce your partner first before introducing the Thai person.

In Thailand, family names are quite often extremely difficult to pronounce, even for the Thai people. They are only used in the last 50 years. Normally the combination of Mr. / Ms. and the first name is used, and this does not implicate familiarity. The use of Khun with the first name is an expression of honor. Khun is a general title that may be used for all persons.

Polite Thai people will often say Where are you going, rather than hello. Your polite response is simply Just down the street or similar.

Business cultureThe general attitude in Thailand is positive; however decisions take time as they frequently pass through many hierarchy levels. Networks are important, powerful connections are highly respected.

Working hours are rather later in the evening than early morning and in the Thai culture, family precedes business.

Business dress tends to be conservative, dark or neutral colored light weight suits for senior executives, womens dresses or skirts should be at least knee-long or longer with shoulders always be covered. Keep in mind: some situations require removing your shoes! Therefore socks should be in excellent condition and smart shoes are recommended.

Business cards should be prepared in English and Thai language, Degrees in particular from prestigious institutions or universities


In:countryare prestigious and bring status. Thai list them on their cards. Hand out and receive cards with your right hand, take the time to read a received card and compliment politely about it.

Meeting appointments should be made well in advance. It is recommended to confirm meeting details the day ahead of the meeting. Timely arrival is an expression of respect. The agenda and attendees of a meeting should be communicated in advance allowing Thai participants to prepare and be familiar with the groups hierarchy. It is recommended to hand out prepared written material to avoid misunderstandings or confusion.

Creating relationships is important and may take several meetings, in particular if youre the seller. After a relationship is established, business is conducted; anything else is considered impolite. Usually, negotiations take time and slow information flow through different hierarchy levels may lead to unexpected delays. Dont show impatience.

If you wish to respond negatively, a subtle response is to be given. Frank and direct expressions are considered harsh and impolite. Future negotiations will certainly be negatively affected.

Formal Events or SituationsTo Thai people, the appearance is highly important. Smart dressing reflecting the social station is recommended. In the evening this usually implicates dark business suits or formal traditional Thai shirts. Self-introductions are rare and should be avoided in semi-formal or formal occasions.

Social hierarchy is as always very important and is often reflected in seating. Waiting to be seated is highly recommended.

Gifts are not common in the Thai culture. If you wish to give a gift, please ensure nice wrapping in positive colors, such as the auspicious gold or yellow. Green, Black or blue are associated with funerals and to be avoided. A gift will not be opened upon reception but be put aside. It will usually not be opened in front of the giver in order to avoid any eventually embarrassing display of emotion. A wedding or ordination gift is traditionally money that is placed in the envelope used for the invitation.

When giving or receiving a gift, it is important to pass it with your right hand.

Dining and EntertainingWestern Hotels generally serve Western and continental food. For continental food fork and tablespoons are used: the fork is used to push food on the spoon held in the right hand.

Chopsticks are not common in Thailand. Many Thai dishes are seasoned with herbs, lemon grass or coriander, they may be hot and/or spicy, but this depends mostly on the regional preferences. Many dishes are not heavily spiced. Equally most dishes are very healthy and lean; however some dishes originating from the highland regions may be quite heavy and greasy. The variation of regional specialties is vast.

Water is frequently placed on the table and Thai people drink it frequently disregarding if it is boiled or not. Visitors should only drink boiled or bottled water opened at the table Montezumas revenge is not really limited to Mexico! Always peel fruits before eating and avoid salads and all kinds of fruits that are not washed in purified water.

Rice is served with almost every meal including breakfast. Usually food is transferred into your rice bowl, where it may be mixed. To signalize that you have finished eating, leave a little rest on your plate and place spoon and fork slightly angular pointing top-left towards 11 oclock.

Never call out for a waiter or snap your fingers, but raise your arm, palm down and wave quietly. In a restaurant, the host settles the bill, never offer to share or split the bill.

Particular information for women Usually in Thailand, men run the businesses, but more and more women are gaining executive positions. Regardless, you will need to stick to the general etiquette and accept certain restrictions:

Women are never allowed to enter the bot an area inside a wat (temple). Equally, women may not touch a monk, sit next to or higher than a monk or even hand him anything directly. If making a donation, place it in this begging bowl.

When planning to visit a mosque, wear long trousers or long skirts, a long sleeved, non-transparent blouse closed around the neck and fully covering the dcollet and wear a headscarf. Pay respect to areas restricted for women.

In the view of traditional Thai a woman may lose face if being touched by a man in public.


In:social

Port-au-Prince, Haiti, became JetBlues 82nd BlueCity in December 2013. Before launch it was decided the airline would carry out a humanitarian delivery flight in partnership with the Airbus Corporate Foundation to bring aid to the country, including life-saving anti-cholera medication, blankets and clothing for nearly 6,000 children, hundreds of pair of shoes, thousands of books to help improve literacy, laptops, toiletries and more. Additionally, the JetBlue contingent also made

the first dig for a modernized fresh water well in what will become a new village for Haitians still displaced following the 2010 earthquake. Haiti remains the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere and continues to be deeply affected by the earthquake. The cholera outbreak following the earthquake is the worst epidemic of this disease in recent times, having caused more than 9,000 deaths and with 700,000 residents currently sick.

JetBlue and a Very special maiden Flight to port-au-prince, haitiInspiring Humanity - Crewmembers Deliver Much-Needed Supplies and Medication, Provide Local Schools and Orphanages With More Than 2,000 Books and Laptops


In:social

JetBlue provided several tons of resources to local schools and orphanages in and near Port-au-Prince. The group visited and delivered supplies to charities that have previously been supported by crewmembers, including Ecole Herve Romain, a school in Port-au-Princes red zone run by charity organization Edeyo Foundation; Children of Hope, a childrens home in Saintard, north of Port-au-Prince and Grace International, one of Haitis largest non-profit organizations that runs numerous schools, displacement camps, girls and boys orphanages, a widows home and hospital. The airline provided donations, including more than 2,000 books, toiletries and laptops, which were handed out by a team of 15 front-line crewmembers. The crewmembers also broke ground on a new well for fresh drinking water for Grace International in Carrefour. This area is currently under development, building an entire new village that will house tens of thousands of people still displaced from the earthquake.

I volunteered at Grace International and visited its Lambi Village refugee camp several times on service missions. JetBlue heard of my experiences and decided to partner with the agency to provide relief to residents still impacted by the earthquake. It was so heartwarming to see our crewmembers break ground on the site where a water well will be built. This well will provide fresh water not only to the future residents of the village, but also the local community impacting thousands of Haitians, said LaToya Ingram, manager of talent management, JetBlue Airways.

Allison Miguel, general manager of JetBlues Savannah/Hilton Head operation, has also volunteered extensively in Haiti. Children of Hope is very near and dear to my heart. I helped set up our operation in Haiti prior to launch and spent every free minute I had with these children. I look forward to being a part of their lives for as long as possible. Im so proud to work for a company that is providing much needed resources to Haitian children and supports causes that are important to me and fellow crewmembers.

As education is a core pillar of JetBlues corporate social responsibility platform, JetBlue also donated 2,000 books in English and Haitian Creole to local schools and childrens homes. Additionally, JetBlue inflight crewmember Victoria Lauture shared a collection of books written by her mother, author Mireille B. Lauture Ph.D, featuring stories passed down from her 93-year-old grandmother who is known for her descriptive storytelling. These five books, written in Haitian Creole and English on the same page, were donated by Mirelle and will help

encourage literacy in Haiti. Victoria and Mireille joined the team to deliver these bi-lingual books to local children. JetBlue also donated laptops with one year of internet service generously provided by Digicel.

With a new Airbus A321 aircraft scheduled for delivery on April 17, JetBlue took this opportunity to use the plane to support the ongoing commitment of crewmembers to help in Haitis revitalization efforts. JetBlue partnered with the Airbus Corporate Foundation, Wings of Help (Luftfahrt ohne Grenzen) and KPMG to fill this aircraft with several tons of supplies specially earmarked for International Medical Corp for this relief effort. Wings of Help sourced life-saving anti-cholera medication, blankets, bed sheets, shoes, t-shirts and childrens toys. The plane was then routed to fly from the Airbus factory in Hamburg, Germany, to Port-au-Prince, Haiti before heading to the JetBlue Hangar in Orlando, Fla. For more about Wings of Help/Luftfahrt ohne Grenzen, please visit www.luftfahrtohnegrenzen.eu/en.

This is a live example of corporate citizenship in action, truly neighbors helping neighbors, said Icema Gibbs, director of corporate social responsibility, JetBlue Airways. For this relief effort, we utilized the airlines two most important assets -- our people and our aircraft. We rallied together with Wings of Help and other business partners to donate supplies and materials and our crewmembers gave their personal time to provide service directly to one of our communities that is most in need of resources.

JetBlue will continue to support Haiti and rebuilding efforts by providing a donation of $10,000 to relief organizations, including Grace International and Edeyo Foundation. The airline encourages customers who want to help to visit www.Edeyo.org or www.GraceIntl.org to join us in donating to these worthy causes.

JetBlue believes it has a corporate responsibility to providing excellent service both on the air and on the ground. As a responsible corporate citizen, JetBlue works with a variety of nonprofit partners to make a difference in the communities it serves. This commitment to inspire humanity is how the airline conducts business every day. JetBlue works hand-in-hand with local, national and global organizations, connecting communities within its areas of commitment: youth and education; community and the environment.


www.luftfahrtohnegrenzen.eu/enwww.luftfahrtohnegrenzen.eu/enwww.Edeyo.orgwww.Edeyo.orgwww.GraceIntl.org

In:tech

geoFencing in the mice industry trend or dead end?Geofencing is a technology with a wide scope of application. Many of them are not relevant to the MICE industry, but some might make your life significantly easier!


Geofencing and its area of usageGeofences are created with RFID (radio-frequency electromagnetic fields) or GPS software in order to define a certain geographical area ranging from an entire country or continent, through a shopping center, a store, a convention center, a hotel or a venue. For large areas, like cities or countries usually a GPS system is used while RFID is usually used to define small areas.

Geofencing can be used in various ways and there are many solutions based on it. In Fleet management it may track the location of an equipped vehicle and might even take a vehicle out of service if it leaves a certain area. In our daily life, we see this in some supermarkets when shopping carts are taken out of the premises and become locked.

In Marketing, geofencing can also be used to send messages to subscribed clients when these enter a particular radius around

a store, for example to market the current promotions. And we all know the sound of a store alarm system triggered by the small stickers integrated in a wide variety of products. And even our pets use the same technology in their implanted chip for identification or to open particular dog or cat doors with wireless keys attached to their collars.

Geofencing in the MICE industryTo be used in the MICE industry specific functionalities need to be implemented at the event location. In addition, the participants need a particular device to identify them at the event location. It requires technology and equipment on both ends. The attendees component is, with many systems, their smartphone for which the Event systems usually provide a customizable app; in addition or alternatively, chip cards may be used for the attendee.

At the event location readers are required in order to capture the required data. Once implemented a variety of tasks may be supported by the system. Samples are the

venue access control (like used for ski lifts), registration of sessions or breakout session attendance (automatic registration of continuing education attendance), or for requesting presentation handouts.

More complex tasks include the management of individual conference agendas and breakout sessions, exchange of contact data, initiation of social media interaction on platforms such as Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn or virtual meetings between event attendees of different geographic locations.

Data Storage and data protection?However, at the same time, interactions are tracked and the organizer may provide various statistics. But of course, statistics are based on the collected information of every single attendee, stored in a database and available to anybody having access to the system. A big question remains: how much access to personal data are delegates willing to give to an event organizer?

Certainly one step on the long way of finding the silver bullet of geofencing is creating transparency related to the collection, the use and the security of collected data.

Your Experiences with geofencingWe at MICE Media Marketing - are very interested to learn about your experiences with geofencing! When did you use it, to which extent did you use it and what was your delegate feedback about the system.

Would you use it again?

In:search

Back in Business isnt that a wonderful Forecast Of course, this is a global view and there are slight regional differences. And while this is good news in general the but in the forecast is the local economy. In countries with a very small or negative growth of the economy, unfortunately the forecast is not Back in Business yet.

Implications of this global development are visible in particularly high demanded destinations in which we may see a turn in the market rates will adapt to the high demands and we might even see a turn to a supplier market in certain destinations.

The regions in a sentence.In North America last years estimation of a 1.5% growth in meetings continues for 2015.

Europeans expect in general a minor increase in most meeting types, compared to last years zero growth prediction. Variations are pointed out later in the article.

In Central and South America expectations remain similar to the 2014 forecast. In this region a remarkable shift in program types is expected.

Asia Pacific industry professionals are positive in their predictions with the highest expected increase in meetings overall. The expectations of a slowdown for 2014 are reversed for 2015.

Different aspectsHigh mid-tier hotel demand competition to leisure-travelers reservations difficulties to secure sufficient space in mid-tier properties, in particular in high-demand cities (e.g. Chicago, Paris)

2015 group sizes are predicted to remain very similar compared to 2014 but group rates are predicted to increase on a global level, from up to 4.6% in North America down to an increase of 1.1% in Europe.

The average length predicted among the different meeting types is 2.2 days with an average of 2.6 days for Conferences or Tradeshows and 3.2 days for Incentives and Special Events. Advisory Board Meetings are predicted to last 1.7 days and Internal Team Meetings 1.8 days. The average length of meetings in APAC is approximately 10% shorter than in the rest of the world.

Overall spending is expected to grow slightly in the Americas, but for Europe and APAC the forecast expects a slight decline however the effect is expected to be smaller t

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