A COASTAL COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION PUBLICATION MAY/JUNE 2012 VOL. 19 NO. 3 $9.00 www.TheMeetingMagazines.com
THE EXECUTIVE SOURCE FOR PLANNING MEETINGS & INCENTIVES Testing theWaters More Planners Are Onboard With Cruise Incentives Page 20 A rendering of Norwegian Cruise Line’s Breakaway ship, which launches in April 2013. Photo courtesy Cruise of Norwegian Line
Golf Resorts Page 12 Executive Retreats Page 26 New Mexico Page 30 ISSN 1095-9726...... USPS 012-991
A COASTAL COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION PUBLICATION
A PARTNERSHIP THE EXECUTIVE SOURCE FOR PLANNING MEETINGS & INCENTIVES MAY/JUNE 2012 Vol. 19 No. 3 BASED ON RATES, DATES AND SPACE Resort Canyon Ventana Photo courtesy of Loews FEATURES WILL ONLY LEAVE YOU WITH 12 Golf Incentives on the Rebound Page 12 Still a Top Motivator and RESERVATIONS. Relationship-Builder By Harvey Chipkin Incentive program attendees from Securian Financial Group enjoy an excursion on Prickly Pear Island, Antigua, 20 Testing the Waters during a round-trip More Planners Are Onboard cruise out of St. Thomas. With Cruise Incentives By George Seli Page 20 Photo by Mark Loyack, Orlando, FL/courtesy of Securian Financial Group
SERVICE THAT’S SETTING NEW STANDARDS. DEPARTMENTS IT’S WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU DISCOVER THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN 26 Executive Retreats ‘Spark Creative Thinking and 4 PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE A GOOD MEETING AND THE GREATER MEETING. LEARN MORE AT Create a Learning Environment’ By Mike Bassett MEETGAYLORD.COM 6 INDUSTRY NEWS Meeting space at The Inn at 6 VALUE LINE 1.877.677.9352 Palmetto Bluff in South Carolina’s Page 26 low country overlooks the May River. Bluff Photo courtesy of Inn at Palmetto 8 EVENTS 10 Air Travel Pointers to Improve the Trip By Michelle DeClerck, CMP DESTINATION 34 CORPORATE LADDER 30 New Mexico 34 READER SERVICES WELCOME TO THE GREATER MEETING. A Unique Mix of Art, Beauty and Culture for Memorable Meetings By Derek Reveron
Page 30 A Native American dance troupe performs during a program in Santa Fe. Photo by InSight Foto Inc./courtesy of Passport DMC Inc./courtesy of Passport InSight Foto Photo by
Insurance & Financial Meetings Management is published bi-monthly by Coastal Communications Corporation, 2700 N. Military Trail, Ste. 120, Boca Raton, FL 33431-6394; 561-989-0600. Single copies $9.00 U.S.A.; back copies $10. Yearly subscription price is $60.00 in the U.S.A.; $125.00 elsewhere. Distributed without charge to qualified personnel. Periodicals Postage Paid at Boca Raton, FL, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to Insurance & Financial Meetings Management, 2700 N. Military Trail, Ste. 120, Boca Raton, FL 33431-6394. Nothing contained in this publication shall constitute an endorsement by Coastal Communications Corporation (Insurance & Financial Meetings Management), and the publication disclaims any liability with respect to the use of reliance on any such information. The information contained in this publication is no way to be construed as a recommendation by I&FMM of any industry standard, or as a recommendation of any kind to be adopted by or binding upon any corporate/incentive travel planner or agent. Reproduction of any portion of this publication by any means is strictly forbidden. Editorial contributions must be accompanied by return postage and will be handled with reasonable care. However, the publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited ® ® ® ® photographs or manuscripts. Subscriber: Send subscription inquiries and address changes to: Circulation Dept., Insurance & Financial Meetings Management, 2700 N. Military Trail, Ste. 120, Boca Gaylord National Gaylord Opryland Gaylord Palms Gaylord Texan Raton, FL 33431-6394. Give old and new addresses including zip codes. Enclose address label from most recent issue and allow five weeks for change to become effective. Printed in U.S.A. © 2012 National Harbor, MD (D.C. Area) Nashville, TN (Music City) Kissimmee, FL (Orlando Area) Grapevine, TX (Dallas / Ft. Worth Area) www.themeetingmagazines.com
INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT MAY/JUNE 2012 3 Publisher’s THE SMART MEETING CHOICE. Message A COASTAL COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION PUBLICATION
WEBSITE www.themeetingmagazines.com M Resort has proven to be the most exciting meetings Travel Rewards Are Top Motivators PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Harvey Grotsky destination to maximize Studies from the Incentive Research Foundation (IRF) demonstrate time [email protected] and again that travel rewards are not only top motivators but that “incentive your dollars. travel programs have a strong impact on not only individual motivation, CREATIVE DIRECTOR Mitch D. Miller retention and performance, but also on organizational culture and busi- [email protected] ness results.” MANAGING EDITORS Planners seeking the latest in travel rewards need look no further than Susan W. Fell the incredible amenities and features now found on cruise ships (see cover [email protected] story on page 20). Unlike ships from 25 years Susan S. Gregg ago with one buffet and one show, ships nowa- [email protected] days feature every imaginable activity. Thrills await on Norwegian Cruise Line’s Breakaway CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Mike Bassett ship (which graces our cover this issue), set- John Buchanan Karen Brost ting sail for the first time in 2013. The ship’s Harvey Chipkin top deck features an aqua park with five wa- Stella Johnson Derek Reveron ter slides, including twin free-fall slides, and a George Seli sports complex with the largest ropes course at sea, a nine-hole miniature golf course, rock- PRESIDENT & CEO “Of all the world-renowned resorts that our membership Harvey Grotsky climbing wall and more. The ship also features have visited, none compare to yours.” adults-only outdoor enclaves, such as Spice VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS – Lynette Owens, Executive Director FSMA/AFMP H2O with video screen, hot tubs and waterfall. David A. Middlebrook [email protected] At night, Spice H2O transforms into a hot spot where groups can dance lan your next meeting or special event at the four star resort that under the stars or chill out at the lounge. ADVERTISING SALES OFFICES 2700 N. Military Trail, Suite 120 has everything you want all under one roof. M Resort is a boutique Boca Raton, FL 33431-6394 P Gary Sain Remembered 561-989-0600 Fax: 561-989-9509 retreat just 10 minutes from McCarran International Airport on the The industry lost a consummate professional and visionary on May 4, NORTHEAST famous Las Vegas Strip. when Gary Sain, the 61-year-old president and CEO of Visit Orlando died 561-989-0600, ext. 114 · Fax: 561-989-9509 [email protected] suddenly and unexpectedly of a massive heart attack, stunning the greater Impeccable service is combined with thoughtfully designed facilities Orlando community as well as his meetings, tourism and hospitality friends FLORIDA/CARIBBEAN that offer breathtaking views from the conference center. M Resort and associates all over the globe. On May 12, hundreds came together at 561-989-0600, ext. 114 · Fax: 561-989-9509 his funeral to honor Gary Sain and praise him for his creativity, his pas- [email protected] currently features more than 60,000 square feet of open and dynamic sion and his efforts in making Orlando the first U.S. destination to reach SOUTHWEST conference space in addition to the new M Pavilion, offering 25,000 50 million visitors. 561-989-0600, ext. 114 · Fax: 561-989-9509 At the funeral, Visit Orlando Chairman Paul Tang said, “This is really a sad [email protected] square feet of innovative and flexible space for your expo or special day for Orlando but also is a celebration of life, for the legacy that Gary has SOUTHEAST event. All of M Resort’s meeting venues have been created for created for us.” Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs said, “His visionary lead- 561-989-0600, ext. 114 · Fax: 561-989-9509 [email protected] optimum customization, technology and connectivity to meet ership in marketing our community made Orlando and Orange County the best place in the world to visit. His passing has left a huge hole in our hearts.” MIDWEST your needs. Truly, Gary’s death has left a huge hole in our hearts and in our industry. 561-989-0600, ext. 114 · Fax: 561-989-9509 [email protected] But, fortunately, his legacy and his magnificent contribution to tourism and Meeting and event attendees will also enjoy our uniquely-designed Orlando will live on. WEST guest rooms, suites, seven signature restaurants, world-class spa, plus all Marshall Rubin 818-888-2407 · Fax: 818-888-4907 [email protected] the excitement that a true entertainment complex and meeting destination has to offer. HAWAII 561-989-0600, ext. 114 · Fax: 561-989-9509 [email protected] Harvey Grotsky RESORT • SPA • CASINO Speak with one of our Sales Professionals NOW LAS VEGAS to customize your M Resort meeting. 1•866•551•1540
4 MAY/JUNE 2012 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT Meeting Industry Value Line News Sustainable Atlanta Marriott Perimeter Center Rolls Out New Meeting Space Meeting Standards ATLANTA, GA — The 341-room multifunctional social spaces in- daily buffet breakfast and breakfast Atlanta Marriott Perimeter Center cluding personalized work stations. menu. All redesigned and refined Package Available recently revealed 3,600 sf of ad- Lunch, dinner and libations are avail- guest rooms and suites feature wired ALEXANDRIA, VA — The first green ditional meeting space, redesigned able at the day to night bar, and the and wireless Internet access, plug-in meetings and events standards, guest rooms and suites, a new great new Twisted Oak Restaurant, located technology, 37-inch HDTVs and more. introduced by the Convention Industry room, new restaurant, a revitalized adjacent to the great room, serves a www.atlantamarriottperimeter.com Council Accepted Practices Exchange concierge lounge and an enhanced (APEX) and The American Society for new exterior. An additional 3,600 Testing and Materials International sf of meeting space was added to (ASTM) in February 2012, are now the lobby level, providing the hotel online and available for purchase as with a total of 18,400 sf of versatile a complete compilation. The APEX/ function space. Two new meeting ASTM standards are broken down into rooms were designed with floor-to- The Sea Pines Resort, Hilton Head Island, SC. nine individual “sector” standards, ceiling windows to welcome natural Planners who confirm group meetings between September 1, 2012 and covering all facets of event planning light. The great room is the bustling LOCATION February 28, 2013 receive: five percent credit to group master account (up and management. Previously avail- epicenter of the hotel and a hot spot to a $5,000 rebate); 15 percent off banquet menu pricing; one five-night able for sale separately at a cost of for networking. The venue features return stay in a resort villa; 20 percent allowable attrition on guest rooms and $40–$46, meeting planners and sup- banquet revenue; 20 percent off in-house AV; 10 percent off outlet food and pliers now have the option to take ad- retail; 10 percent off spa pricing; 1/25 comp room; two complimentary after- vantage of cost savings and buy eight Marriott’s QuickGroup noon foursomes at the top-rated Harbour Town Golf Links (only valid during of the nine standards in a bundle for LOCATION meeting dates); and much more. 800-732-7463, www.seapines.com $149. The ninth and final standard, Adds Online Booking accommodations, will be added to BETHESDA, MD — Marriott’s Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf tary meeting space; opening-night the compilation in the coming months QuickGroup allows planners to book Resort & Spa, Destin, FL. The VIP reception; 10 percent of the block after it receives final approval from 10–25 rooms or meeting space for Meeting Planner Package includes upgraded to Club Level; 10 percent ASTM. The standards include audio- up to 50 attendees with just a few LOCATION 1/50 comp room; complimentary off contracted spa services (Sunday visual; communication and marketing clicks online at the QuickGroup site transportation to Silver Sands outlet to Thursday); 10 percent off catered materials, destinations, exhibits, food (www.marriott.com/quickgroup). In center; luxury airport transportation food and beverage. 800-455-2427, and beverage, meeting venue, onsite addition, planners can chose audio- for up to five VIPs. Plus, planners www.charlestonplacemeetings.com office, transportation and accom- visual services, add food and bever- can choose one of the following: modations. For more details, go to age catering options, and request a beach bonfire event; Hilton Signature Sawgrass Marriott, Ponte www.conventionindustry.org. complimentary custom Web page to Welcome Gift delivered to room; Vedra Beach, FL. The All in It to promote their event. Planners will be $500 credit to teambuilding program; Win group all-inclusive package presented with a simple, standard $500 credit to a Kids Krew evening includes: meeting space; room Miramonte Resort & Spa online contract that can be secured program; one-hour wine-tasting; one- rates; self-parking; public dining with a credit card — no negotia- Parker and Vann Thomson Plaza. Photo by Robin Hill. day Internet Café Package; $500 for breakfast, lunch and dinner; to Renovate Guest Rooms tions required. Once the reservation gift certificate to the Sea Turtle option to upgrade to private din- INDIAN WELLS, CA — Miramonte is made, the customer is sent an Conservancy in the group’s name. ing for $100 per person per night; Resort & Spa will begin refurbishing all instant email confirmation. Planners Greater Miami has revised, refreshed, and restored nearly every part of its user Offer valid for new meetings contract- option to add local attendees for guest rooms this summer. Highlights also can earn up to 50,000 Marriott experience. With locations from the beach to the mainland, Miami’s got new hotels, amazing restaurants and a great cultural vibe for your attendees to enjoy. It all adds up ed now to June 28, 2012 and held $100 per person per day (includes of the décor include a deep chocolate rewards points and credit toward to Miami’s record-breaking attendance for meetings, small and large. After all, Miami now through December 27, 2012. F&B, parking and meeting space); carpet, mahogany-toned case goods Elite status. Customers can compare has every amenity your attendees are looking for — in all of our locations. 850-267-9600, www.sandestinbeach commissionable 70 percent of pack- and cream wall coverings. The newly group room rates at participating The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau meetings hilton.com/meeting-meeting-package. age rate. August 1–September 16, refurbished rooms will be unveiled this JW Marriott, Renaissance Hotels, team can help manage your event. To learn more, call November 16–30 and December fall. Miramonte Resort & Spa is one Marriott Hotels & Resorts, Courtyard 800.933.8448 x3071 or visit MiamiMeetings.com Charleston Place Hotel, 16–25, $199 single occupancy; of more than 30 independent, upscale by Marriott, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Charleston, SC. Groups that hold September 17–30, November 1–15 hotels, resorts and conference centers Marriott, SpringHill Suites by Marriott, meetings in the month of July 2012 and December 1–15, $275 single managed by Destination Hotels & Residence Inn by Marriott and Towne- © Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau – The Official Destination are offered rates starting at $150 occupancy. 904-285-7777 ext. Resorts. www.destinationhotels.com, Place Suites by Marriott across North Marketing Organization for Greater Miami and the Beaches. per room per night, plus: complimen- 6640, www.sawgrassmarriott.com www.miramonteresort.com America. www.marriottmeetings.com
6 MAY/JUNE 2012 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT MAY/JUNE 2012 7 Events Calendar SnapShots
June 19–21, 2012 The Americas Meetings & Events Exhibition Industry Mourns Loss of Baltimore Convention Center Baltimore, MD Visit Orlando’s Gary Sain Contact: 203-840-5975 ORLANDO, FL — Visit Orlando’s President and CEO Gary Sain died sud- www.aibtm.com denly from a heart attack at the age of 61 on Friday, May 4. During Sain’s tenure, Orlando was the first U.S. destination to break the 50-million- JUNE 20–22, 2012 visitor milestone. Orlando Mayor FICP EDUCATION FORUM Buddy Dyer has said that Sain Charleston Place Hotel Charleston, SC “helped put Orlando on the map Contact: 312-245-1023 as the No. 1 tourism destination in the world.” www.ficpnet.com 1 Visit Orlando’s president since 2007, Mr. Sain was the organiza- july 28–31, 2012 MPI 2012 World tion’s creative force behind cam- Education Congress paigns such as “Orlando Makes 2 America’s Center Me Smile” and “Orlando: Where Convention Complex Creative Minds Meet.” St. Louis, MO Paul Tang, the chairman of Visit Contact: 972-702-3051 Orlando’s board of directors, said www.mpiweb.org Visit Orlando will launch a na- tionwide search for a new leader. August 12–14, 2012 “We have not set any timelines,” FICP northeast Region said Tang, the vice president and summer Meeting managing director of the Hyatt Re- Stowe Mountain Lodge gency Grand Cypress. Day-to-day Stowe, VT operations will be overseen by Visit Orlando’s COO/CFO Larry Henrichs, 3 4 Contact: 312-245-1023 functioning as interim CEO. www.ficpnet.com Mr. Sain came to the bureau from Ypartnership, where he was executive vice president and chief marketing officer. Previously, he held executive po- October 9–11, 2012 sitions at Premier Cruise Line, Hyatt Hotels and Ritz-Carlton, among other IMEX America companies. He was active in numerous organizations including the U.S. Sands Expo at the Travel Association, Brand USA, Visit Florida and the Central Florida Hotel Venetian/Palazzo and Lodging Association. Las Vegas, NV Contact: +44 1273 227311 www.imexamerica.com Hyatt French Quarter Opens in New Orleans november 11–14, 2012 NEW ORLEANS, LA — Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced that Hyatt French
FICP Annual Conference Visit Newport Beach Inc. 6. Office, Tourist Macau Government and 5. 4. Chuck Fazio, 3. Company, Disney Walt 2. Association, Cruise Lines International 1. Photo credits: Quarter opened May 15 in New Orleans. The third Hyatt hotel in the New Or- 5 6 JW Marriott Los Angeles leans market during the last year, the property is located in the French Quarter Los Angeles, CA 1 Cruise Lines International Association’s President and CEO Christine Duffy (center, red t-shirt) and cruise3sixty conference delegates Contact: 312-245-1023 and just steps from world-renowned restaurants and the city’s attractions. The demonstrate support for U.S. Travel Association’s “Vote Travel–Get America Moving” Bus Tour Campaign April 29 in Greater Fort www.ficpnet.com $18 million renovation includes upgrades to the hotel’s 254 guest rooms as Lauderdale, FL. 2 George Aguel (left), senior vice president for the Walt Disney Company, and Harvey Grotsky, publisher, Insurance & well as the hotel exterior, lobby, landscaping, and pool and deck area décor. Financial Meetings Management, attend a Disney reception during the ASAE Springtime Expo in Washington, DC, May 2–4. Aguel received the 2012 Professional Achievement Award at the 2012 PCMA Education Foundation Dinner May 2 at the Washington Hilton. 3 A networking Newly designed food and beverage outlets include a market called Powdered NOVEMBER 17–20, 2013 luncheon at the Association of Corporate Travel Executives’ Global Education Conference in San Francisco April 22–24. 4 The Macau FICP Annual Conference Sugar and the lounge Batch, which features high-quality bourbons, fresh ac- Government Tourist Office (MGTO) hosted a black-tie gala dinner in early May for more than 100 guests at the Waldorf=Astoria in New Sheraton Boston Hotel companiments and flask service. The property offers more than 10,660 sf of York City honoring the 50th anniversary of the New York Chapter for the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA). 5 During the same week, function space, located on the hotel’s first floor. Restaurants include the popu- the MGTO also hosted an exclusive luncheon for the trade and travel community at the Modern Restaurant at the Museum of Modern Art Boston, MA in Manhattan to promote the destination. 6 Lori Hoy (left), national account manager with Visit Newport Beach Inc., surprises Liz Planz, a Contact: 312-245-1023 lar Red Fish Grill, owned and operated by Ralph Brennan Restaurant Group, meeting planner for financial services firm Raymond James Financial Inc., with the news that she won the “Live The Dream” sweepstakes www.ficpnet.com and a Hard Rock Café, which will open in 2013. www.frenchquarter.hyatt.com and a luxury vacation to Newport Beach, CA. The sweepstakes was part of a campaign to encourage group bookings to the destination.
8 MAY/JUNE 2012 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT MAY/JUNE 2012 9 Air Travel By Michelle DeClerck, CMP Pointers to Improve the Trip
n the good old days, there used to be air travel chase (yes, a fee!) and for airport check-in that travelers have already checked in for the flight. ers to pull out their driver’s license to verify their experts. They knew all the ins and outs of air the ticketing gate agent may use at their discre- The key is to arrive early, which may provide your name, it’s not surprising when they say, “Oh, I Itravel, from the most cost-effective routings tion for families with small kids, special needs attendee with more choices. However, if a pas- didn’t know that name was on my license.” to the most direct routings. Today, one feels passengers and/or as they see fit. senger checks in less than 30 minutes prior to If the producer makes an error and doesn’t lucky to just arrive at the correct airport. The reason only 70 percent of the seat in- flight time, their preassigned seat can be given provide the exact name, the passenger will not ventory is allocated for advance assignment is to someone else, and they may have to wait for be allowed to board. For example, if the passen- Help — This Is Confusing! because the airlines sell/confirm anywhere from the next flight. ger’s name on his driver’s license reads Theodore You have an event to arrange, and you don’t 110 percent to 130 percent of the seats. Yes, A. Jones, yet the passenger inadvertently tells have time to deal with this! Is there anyone out they purposely oversell every flight to reach their Group Seat Blocks there who can help you cut through the incred- goal of 100 percent occupancy at all times. The For groups that contract to fly together on ibly frustrating process of air travel as we know airlines have a formula that they use to deter- the same flight, once most airlines receive the it today? If you’re like us, you try a few ticketing mine how much they will overbook any given deposit, seats are blocked for the group as a The airlines typically only agencies until you finally find one that can pro- flight, which depends on many variables like the whole. When name lists are submitted later on vide favors and offer advantages for your group. city pair, flight time, equipment, etc. They over- to secure ticketing, seats are randomly assigned preassign 70 percent of What are they? If we told you today — they’d sell because they know that usually (key word to each traveler in the group. However, at the change by tomorrow. Fortunately, we’ve found here) a certain percentage of travelers will either time of name list submission, some airlines may the seats to the general a reputable mega agency that stays abreast of all cancel at the last minute or not show up. By allow the agency or group manager to include changes for the benefit of our clients. overselling each flight, they make it impossible seat preferences for each traveler, to allow for to allow everyone with a confirmed reservation the possibility of honoring neighbor and aisle/ public on a flight. What Do You Mean I to confirm a seat in advance. window preferences, which would need to be Don’t Have a Seat? When your producer doesn’t have a preas- accommodated within the seat block previously our meeting planner to ticket him as Allen Jones, Your producer booked their airline reserva- signed seat, they won’t be able to complete held. When under contract, its unlikely group because he always uses his middle name Allen. tions and purchased a ticket and now, the day their online check-in process from home. This travelers would be bumped. On the other hand, The TSA also requires that travelers provide before the event, they call you in a panic and say, is probably when they first become aware of we all know air travel is completely unpredictable. their date of birth and gender, which must be “I don’t have a seat assignment, what’s going on it and when you get the call. This certainly is entered into their traveler record in the airline here?” (That’s if they say it nicely!) another frustrating moment (and it happened More Reminders reservation system at the time of reservation/ You call us, and we find out they were tick- to one of our traveling staff here at CEM re- The TSA has certain requirements that all ticket purchase. I&FMM eted properly, and there is nothing that could cently). So what do we do? Check online with travelers must comply with. It’s always a good have been done differently in the travel reserva- the airline or with your ticketing specialist 24 reminder to advise your producers that before Michelle DeClerck, CMP, is founder of Conference tion process to get that seat assigned for them. hours or less prior to departure to see if any they book their travel arrangements (or an as- Event Management (CEM) and Financial Speak- Frustration reigns. To minimize your producer’s seats have opened up for preassignment. If no sistant books them) that we must have the trav- ers Bureau — an award-winning, woman-owned frustration, it’s important to understand that this luck, then we recommend that your attendee eler’s “official” name, meaning it needs to read business that provides event, conference, incen- is a common practice — despite how illegal it go to the airport early on the day of travel (and on their airline ticket EXACTLY as it appears on tive travel and meeting experiences and reward seems. The airlines typically only preassign 70 using their best manners), ask the agent to as- their passport or driver’s license (use the same strategies, individual Travel MyWay travel bookings percent of the seats to the general public on a sign their seats for that flight and any connect- form of identification that they will use to check and financial speaker bookings for financial and flight, and the rest of the seats are held out for ing flights as needed. This usually works unless in for their flight). insurance organizations. She can be reached at elite level airline frequent flier members, for pur- more than the estimated number of confirmed As simple as that sounds, when we ask travel- [email protected]. www.mycem.com
10 MAY/JUNE 2012 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT MAY/JUNE 2012 11 “I spend a lot of time visiting courses and resorts. ...I check out how long the transfer is Incentives from the rooms to the course, on and you want that to be 20 minutes or less.” the R. Shelton Moynahan, President Golf Rebound Moynahan Travel & Events, New Braunfels, TX By Harvey Chipkin
Travel & Events. “You used to have agents. They set up foursomes so executives ranging down to vice presi- that the hosts are in each foursome dent — now the groups are smaller and get that interface that’s so crucial although the total revenue might be to relationships.” the same, because they’re going to a Ken Pickle — who now oper- nicer property with fewer people. ates Pickle Meetings Management in “People are also doing a lot of char- Edmonds, WA, specializing in corpo- ity events,” said Moynahan. “They will rate incentives — was a meeting plan- invite their suppliers and customers ner for Safeco Insurance for many and choose a charity.” years, and until last year, planned an Rick Rosen, president of Plymouth, annual golf incentive involving 300 MN-based TriStar Incentive Group Inc., participants with anywhere from 80 says, “For one insurance company cli- to 100 golfers on a given day. ent, golf has been a very heavy part of “We usually had 300 insurance the program, and that held up through agents, the top producers who are the recession. I recently brought 40 not Safeco employees, with one re- agents to Loews Ventana in Arizona, gional employee. It was always about and the nice part was that Loews has relationship-building.” 36 holes right on-property, which al- Typically, Safeco did not do tour- lowed us to play three days on the naments because of the wide range of property, and one off-property. They skill but would play games like “ball like to play as many courses as they closest to the hole.” can, though one exception in four And Pickle says that the company rounds is okay. once had a CEO who was not a big “At the Loews, the duplicated course golfer, but instead would go to a sig- was the fourth day, and many of them nature hole and man the beverage had left already anyway. Loews knows cart, “serving the agents who came how to cater to golf groups. There are through and getting to chat with ev- so many small details — like mov- eryone,” says Pickle. “Basically, it was ing clubs from one place to another. the company’s opportunity to com- The Mountain Course, one When you go off-property you need municate with independent agents, to of three championship to get those clubs back to the original train them on new products. If you courses at The Broadmoor course or to the resort. spent an afternoon with an agent you in Colorado Springs.
Photo courtesy of The Broadmoor Photo courtesy of “For certain groups,” says Rosen, would know them a lot better. That Still a Top Motivator & Relationship-Builder or golf at meetings, PAR has and a bag of clubs — however, golf at The good news is that insurance “Companies are more selective on “golf is a top motivator. We all know would facilitate your doing business come to mean Prior (to or) Af- meetings has evolved to meet changes and financial companies are starting the groups that go to these events,” that in the insurance and financial with them throughout the next year.” Fter Recession. The game of golf in budgets, time and the lingering per- to reward their agents again — and said R. Shelton Moynahan, president of industries the host company gets a According to an executive at the may not have changed — still 18 holes ceptions of meetings themselves. that means golf. New Braunfels, TX-based Moynahan great opportunity to mix with their Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, groups
12 MAY/JUNE 2012 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT MAY/JUNE 2012 13 incorporating golf into their programs “Our group was able to learn about recession. If you had golf in the name a desert-style target course. Designed and 10,000 sf of newly renovated in- is definitely rebounding, albeit gradu- the culture of the local tribes, and a of your property, he says, it was even by Tom Lehman, the Sonoran fea- door spaces that invite the outdoors ally. It’s not a full rebound to the number of these actually worked worse. Now that it seem to be okay tures native desert vegetation, dra- in with natural light and views of the amount of golf included in a program at the resort. And, besides golf, we to hold a meeting, that has trickled matic elevation changes, two lakes golf course and mountains. There also from 2006–2008. However, he notes, could do horseback riding, river float- down to golf. and 69 strategically placed bunkers. is nearly 20,000 sf of terraces and gar- golf is rebounding for group program ing and more.” The executive says he now has Golfweek recently named Omni dens for outdoor events. inclusion at a more rapid pace than Moynahan handles many golf groups surprised at how big their golf Tucson National Resort one of the spa, as the benefits of networking, groups and specializes in corporate registrations were. It was necessary to best courses in Arizona. Night Golf in Miami teambuilding and exercise for the groups of between 10 and 25 meet- book more tee times than anticipated. The 650-acre resort offers 128 Turnberry Isle Miami boasts two re- attendees has a more defined value ing participants — 20 and 50 total in- Located just steps from the front guest rooms, a Forbes Four Star-rated designed, 18-hole Raymond Floyd when it comes to golf. cluding spouses. Many are incentives. lobby, Loews Ventana Canyon of- resort spa, a new infinity-edge pool championship golf courses, the Resorts are aiming to be more com- Since he deals mainly with privately Loews Ventana Canyon Resort in Tucson. fers two Tom Fazio-designed cham- petitive in their approaches to golf — held companies, they have been more sure they get a course that’s appro- pionship, 18-hole golf courses, both and more flexible. If a group wants to resistant to the issues involving the priately challenging but also scenic. recently rated among the top 10 in do only nine holes, the resort simply perception of meetings in recent years. I spend a lot of time visiting courses Arizona and tops in Tucson. has to make it available. Moynahan tends not to run tour- and resorts. I also try to play when I Both courses are designed around naments but instead plans “fun” can. I check out how long the trans- the Santa Catalina Mountains’ natu- Golf First or Resort First? events. “Sometimes if we have two fer is from the rooms to the course, ral features, weaving through the Sometimes golf is primary — but companies involved, we’ll pair a per- and you want that to be 20 minutes desert cacti and scenic canyons of often a resort is chosen because of its son from the host company with a or less.” the Sonoran Desert landscape. The location and other attractions. customer. Golf is the best teambuild- Following is a look at some top 6,902-yard Mountain Course boasts As Pickle notes, Safeco had one ing and networking activity there is. golf resorts and how they see trends the most photographed hole west event at Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort You can team up people from differ- involving meetings. & Spa in Santa Ana Pueblo, NM, be- ent sections of the company to give cause “the hotel was new and had them an opportunity to get to know Teeing Off in Tucson good function space and was a rea- each other. It’s good whether they Golf seems to be making a bit of a sonable distance from Albuquerque talk about work or not. comeback, according to an executive but close enough to Santa Fe that we “The first thing is to understand at Loews Ventana Canyon in Tucson, could access Sante Fe for afternoon budget restraints,” says Moynahan. AZ, who notes that golf had become tours and/or dine-around. “Then I qualify the golfers to make almost taboo after the AIG affair and
Omni Tucson National Resort Alternatives to 18 Holes of the Mississippi, No. 3, a 107-yard While budgets and time may now limit the traditional, par 3 that plays across a plunging afternoon 18-hole tournament, there are many alterna- ravine to a granite-encased green. tives. Here is a look at some: And the 6,836-yard Canyon Course •• Make golf a free-time option. Groups negotiate a winds through the inspiring beauty special golf rate for the attendees and assist with of Esperero Canyon and incorporates tee time arrangements, but individuals are on their the massive rock formation known as The only holes in your event are own for golf, shopping, hot air expeditions or desert Whaleback Rock. The par-5 18th hole the ones on our golf courses. jeep tours, etc. A large percentage of group attend- showcases a partial island green and ees tend to choose golf. a steep, cascading waterfall. Over 40,000 square feet of meeting space plus •• Make golf interactive. Offer golf clinics, putting Southern Arizona’s scenic Santa 36 championship holes make planning the perfect event a gimme. contests, swing analysis and sand wedge contests for Catalina Mountains form the backdrop groups. It’s important to make it easy for planners to Photo courtesy of Innisbrook Resort Photo courtesy of Innisbrook for another inspiring Tucson golf re- make arrangements by having pre-packaged program- Level the playing field for novice golfers by offering golf clin- sort the Omni Tucson National Resort, ming available with pricing by person or time period. ics and/or individual instruction by a PGA golf professional. •• Book a pro. With an abundance of golf profession- which offers two distinctly different and challenging golf experiences. als living in golf resort areas, they are available to people in the spirit of things. Or the serving staff GOLF BEACH CLUB SPA CONFERENCE CENTER attend events. Groups are wowed by a visit from a might dress up as caddies. The more well-known Catalina well known golf professional for receptions, break- •• Hold teambuilding contests — driving, putting, hit- Course, with its traditional parkland 855 777 6594 • turnberryislemiami.com fasts, etc. ting from a bunker — all in a team atmosphere, and layout, eight lakes and 80 bunkers, •• Hold a golf-themed event during a meeting break perhaps with instruction. has hosted more than 30 PGA Tour where a golf cart pulls up filled with Rice Krispie •• Demonstrate equipment. Bring in equipment represen- events. The Sonoran Course offers a golf balls or golf bags made out of fruit. It gets tatives to demonstrate clubs or other equipment. — HC uniquely Southwestern experience as
14 MAY/JUNE 2012 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT MAY/JUNE 2012 15 Soffer and the Miller courses, with an industry we have had to reinvent impressive water features, con- ourselves. We are not going back to toured fairways and subtropical foli- half-day meetings with golf the other THE SHOTMAKER age. Turnberry’s Golf Director Bob half day. Coman notes that 60 percent of all “What we are seeing is the meet- A purpose-driven Broadmoor ing goes to 3 or 4 in the afternoon meeting experience ready to when the avid golfer can sneak in customize for your group. nine holes. It’s up to us to be flexible and create the experience that is right for the customer.” The Innisbrook Resort is situated on 900 wooded acres of rolling hills in the St. Petersburg/Clearwater area on Florida’s Gulf Coast, and is located just THE VENUE: The Donald Ross 25 minutes from Tampa International Room at The Broadmoor Golf Turnberry Isle Miami Airport. The resort features four cours- Club; an elegant space for resort guests playing golf come from es of championship golf designed by meeting, gathering and/or dining, with magnifi cent golf groups. “We’ve certainly built up that Larry Packard, and the Innisbrook course views constantly calling business,” he says. The Miller Course Golf Academy. Innisbrook recently you to come out and play. is more forgiving, he explains, while went through a $25 million renova- the Soffer Course is longer and puts tion, including the addition of the a premium on shot-making. “It’s one new luxury Indaba Spa. of the more difficult courses you will The resort hosts the PGA Tour find in South Florida.” Coman says Transitions Championship at its that the quality of each course is the THE MENU: Superb appetizers, same, even though each has a differ- salads and sandwiches at ent degree of difficulty. the Golf Club Dining Room, topped off by do-it-yourself The major architectural feature S’mores at the exterior fi re pit. of the Soffer Course is a 64-foot wa- terfall on the south side of the 18th green. Coman and his crew capitalize on the location by scheduling “neon golf” for groups. Participants in this nighttime event use neon golf balls THE AGENDA: Golf on the and hit into the island green, which East Course. Golf on the West is encircled with neon glow sticks. Innisbrook Resort near Tampa. Course. Golf on the Mountain Turnberry Isle’s Magnolia Courtyard Course. Sleep. Eat. Drink. Repeat as needed. — a 4,800-sf space with decorative famed Copperhead Course; and the columns and a covered loggia area LPGA-supported Legends Tour Open PERFECT FOR: Groups — overlooks the green, giving groups Championship, held annually at the looking to build or strengthen teams, an attractive venue to schedule cock- equally challenging Island Course. challenge leaders or simply tail parties while incorporating a lit- Innisbrook is part of Grand Golf reward executives with an opportunity to experience tle bit of night golf. “It’s something Resorts of Florida — three resorts world-class golf at the site that’s a little out of the ordinary,” that cross the state with Reunion just of the 2011 U.S. Women’s says Coman. outside Orlando, Innisbrook near Open Championship. Tampa and Hammock Beach Resort Call 800.633.7711 today… Tampa’s Four-Course Deal on Florida’s west coast. and let’s tee off your next An executive at Innisbrook Resort successful event. near Tampa said that up until 2007, Colorado Mountain High meetings tended to run 3½ days fol- The scenic splendor of Rocky lowed by an afternoon of golf or spa. Mountain country is on full display as Then with the downturn, golf was players navigate three championship eliminated from many programs. It courses at the incomparable, five- IF YOU’VE BEEN HERE, YOU KNOW.® is now returning but, says the execu- star Broadmoor resort in Colorado tive, “we see it coming back, but as Springs. According to the historic BROADMOOR.COM
INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS35264-A4 MANAGEMENT BM_3Shotmaker_2.125x10_ifmm_may_FNL.indd MAY/JUNE 20124/9/12 310:4817 AM that takes only an hour to play. “If you spent an afternoon with an agent you would know them Doing Good in the High-Desert Twin Warriors Golf Club at Hyatt Meet in the boardroom. a lot better. That would facilitate Regency Tamaya Resort & Spa in your doing business with them Santa Ana Pueblo, NM, offers a na- Connect on the fairway. throughout the next year.” tionally ranked, Gary Panks-designed course at the state’s first high-desert, Ken Pickle, CPCU, CMP true destination resort club. Routed in Pickle Meetings Management, Edmonds, WA and around 20 ancient cultural sites of previous habitation and activity, this spectacular New Mexico course — property’s golf manager, the resort, Hill Country Four-Holer ranked No. 49 by Golf Digest for best which hosted the LPGA’s 2011 U.S. Beautifully integrated into the sur- public courses and host facility for Women’s Open, has made improve- rounding Texas Hill Country, two the 42nd PGA Professional National ments to all three of its courses. The championship courses at The Westin Championship in 2009 and 2003 — West Course is in the final phase of La Cantera Hill Country Resort in San has beautiful grassy knolls and ridges a $1.7 million renovation including Antonio offer 36 holes — The Palmer dotted with juniper and pinon pine. Course and The Resort Course. Both According to resort executives, feature all the amenities golfers ex- pect, including driving range, pro shop and preferred tee times for re- sort guests. It’s a short and easy walk from the main resort grounds to the adja- cent Resort Course, while the Palmer Course is a bit farther out. The resort provides complimentary shuttle service The Broadmoor’s Mountain Course to both courses and stores golf clubs until guests are ready to use them. new tees, bunkers, greens, mound- Pre-recession, according to La The Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort & Spa in Santa Ana Pueblo, NM. ing and cart-path relocation. There Cantera executives, golf tournaments are new tees and bunkers on the East would be sizable, with up to 72 play- corporate meeting business is start- Course. And concrete paths are being ers. That has now evolved to a di- ing to come back — though smaller installed on the Mountain Course. minished use of golf with groups now in size. However, golf rounds for Designed by master golf course starting to return but with fewer play- the Twin Warriors course was up in architect Donald Ross, the origi- ers. And, as other resort spokepersons 2011. There were many more chari- nal Broadmoor Golf Club’s 18-hole said, golfers begin play late in the af- table events as well. Tying into a course opened with the hotel in 1918. ternoon and complete only nine holes. charity, says one executive, keeps In 1948, Robert Trent Jones Sr. was everybody happy. hired to design an additional nine- Groups are doing shorter, late-af- hole course. Jones’ new nine-hole ternoon competitions with fun prizes course joined with nine of Ross’ origi- and a small reception. For a nine-hole nal holes, opening in 1952 as the new tournament, everybody will hop on Omni understands East Course. The first nine holes of carts to save time. the original Ross 18 became known Golf is the only sport, said one golf as the “Back Nine.” In 1964, Robert director, where you let people into Trent Jones Sr. was asked to come your little comfort zone. “You’re sit- Looking for an unforgettable venue to host your next event? Think Tucson. After a $30 million back and design nine new holes in ting in a golf cart, and you have com- renovation, this full-service resort will dazzle attendees with state-of-the-art conference space, addition to redesigning nine holes of The Westin La Cantera Hill Country plete strangers sitting next to you,” he stunning outdoor venues and an award-winning golf course, once home to a number of PGA events. the original course, forming the West Resort in San Antonio. says. “But you do it because you have Course. In 2006, the Mountain Course, something in common. If you came Call today to learn about exclusive offers at this one-of-a-kind golf resort. originally designed by Arnold Palmer, At La Cantera, the resort is aiming into my office, I would be comfort- 520-297-2271 • omniunderstands.com/tucson was renovated and reconfigured by to make it easier to play in every way. able with you coming to my side of Nicklaus Design. A four-hole course was established the desk.” I&FMM @OmniMeetings
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18 MAY/JUNE 2012 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT
OMFM-1094 IFMMAdTucson_8.125x10.875_F.indd 1 4/9/12 3:20 PM many ships these days offer nothing cluding families and guests, “Our CEO said short of an upscale hotel experience. boarded the “leviathan of it was one of “I compare Royal Caribbean’s Allure luxury,” as it has been called and Oasis of the Seas to the new in the press. Five times larg- the healthiest mega-hotels in Las Vegas, or perhaps er than the Titanic, Oasis things we’ve ever the Gaylord hotels, with a very open, accommodates more than done for our top atrium kind of a feel and lots of res- 6,000 passengers and fea- performers. We’ve taurants and shops under one roof,” tures a theme-park layout
Photo courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line Wallack says. “A high-end Celebrity comprising seven districts, been bitten by the product you would compare to a including its own Central cruising bug.” Grand Hyatt or a JW Marriott, and Park. “This trip was really all about Koleen Roach the boutique cruise products to Ritz- the ship,” says Gale. Director, Meetings and Carlton or St. Regis.” Conference Management And a cruise usually ends up be- Compelling Itinerary Securian Financial Group ing less expensive than a counterpart Majestic ships such as Oasis of the St. Paul, MN event at a hotel due to the all-inclu- Seas can certainly be the “selling point” sive pricing, which avoids surprise for potential incentive qualifiers, but a cruise in March on a private charter surcharges and fees. Cruise lines even the other side to cruising — the itin- with Seabourn. The eight-day, seven- have more generous cancellation poli- erary — can be equally compelling. night program was a round trip out cies than hotels, often allowing groups Some reps have yet to experience of St. Thomas, BVI, for the company’s to cancel penalty-free from nine group travel to a series of destinations Chairman’s Club. months to a year or more in advance. that have a more adventurous quality. The marketing initiative was par- “Their market is such that they know “You can saturate a market as a plan- ticularly impactful given that it would they’re going to be able to fill the ship ner, and so you’re always looking for be Securian’s first travel reward of with transient guests,” notes Eldon that new and interesting opportunity,” that kind. “The initial brochure de- Gale, director, Nationwide Meeting & says Koleen Roach, director, meetings tailed many of the ship’s features and A rendering of the three-story aqua park Event Management Group. “Beyond and conference management with talked about what they could expect on Norwegian Cruise Line’s Breakaway that, when you do cancel you’re typi- Securian Financial Group. “I’ve been from a Seabourn experience,” Roach ship, which launches in April 2013. cally paying a cost per head to cancel” proposing cruises for years, but the relates. “It hyped up the islands we as opposed to paying for room nights, timing has never been right. There were going to be stopping on, gave the best cruising experiences when which is more costly. has always been an option to go to a brief history of each, and then the they were in their 40s, 25 years ago, Of course, the time of rampant Australia or New Zealand, or to South mailers that we sent out every other Testing and so they didn’t want to take their cancellations is now behind the in- Africa or South America.” month thereafter featured a particular top producers on cruises,” Wallack centive industry, and many com- But after years of “continent hop- island: St. Thomas, St. Barts, Antigua, explains. But the new CEOs who panies have been looking for great ping,” the timing was finally right for Nevis and so on. The final piece they the are in their 40s today “have been on post-recession “comeback” programs. technologically advanced big ships, That’s another reason for the rising Waters so they’re more open to incentives at tide of cruise incentives. Companies sea. The industry has grown by leaps “had to produce something incredible More Planners Are Onboard and bounds, and what was not avail- for their incentives,” Wallack says. As able a dozen years ago exists today: a result, “we had our best year ever With Cruise Incentives onboard wireless Internet, dedicated in 2011, and I would say now we’re conference facilities, and multiple completely back on track” in terms of By George Seli dining and entertainment options. corporate cruise business. s a company stages incentive The “friendly seas” have been wel- Years ago you went on a ship and it Wallack’s trend analysis is con- programs over the years, what coming incentive groups for a long had one restaurant, a lido buffet and a firmed by Gale’s experience: “We did Aresults is a population of sales time, but there are reasons for the main show.” Wallack also cites avail- a cruise in 2005 on Royal Caribbean. reps who are not just consistently mo- novelty factor cruising has acquired able PDAs enabling communication In 2009 we were scheduled to do an- tivated and productive, but also well- among many firms, according to among attendees, digital maps for on- other one, but along with everybody traveled. One kind of travel reward, Wallack, president of Buy the Sea, a board wayfinding and even 3D mov- else in the industry, we canceled all of however, remains a frontier that many cruise brokerage based in Plantation, ies as examples of features that some our incentives,” he relates. “And then insurance and financial companies are FL. One is less resistance to the idea modern ships offer. we came back in 2011 with a pro-
only recently exploring. It’s not an ex- of cruising from upper management, gram on Oasis of the Seas, the ‘latest Group FL/courtesy of Securian Financial Orlando, Loyack, Mark Photo by otic destination, but rather a way of as the baby-boomer CEOs begin to re- The Ritz of the Seas and greatest’ from Royal Caribbean.” Securian Financial Group used a cruise ship, the Seabourn Spirit, for the first time for getting there: cruising. tire. Some of these CEOs “didn’t have As to the quality of the facilities, About 1,200 incentive qualifiers, in- an incentive program in March. Participants are pictured here on St. John’s, Antigua.
20 MAY/JUNE 2012 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT MAY/JUNE 2012 21 received was a map of all the islands demographic and “often favors local- orful tablecloths, and you can create which product is right for you,” says says. Although incentive participants “The theme of the and the route the ship was going to ized food with a familiar American- a jazz nightclub free of charge,” she Wallack. “Each has something that sets generally have a higher onboard take. Everybody couldn’t wait to go style presentation when traveling explains. “So there are things you can it apart. For Royal Caribbean it’s their spend than tourists, the percentage of conference was Find Your to Jost Van Dyke and see the Soggy abroad,” says Zint. “So the cruise is an do on a ship that on land would cost variety of onboard dining, venue and corporate business that big Place, and the idea Dollar Bar.” ideal solution delivering a consistent you hundreds of dollars per person.” entertainment options. Celebrity’s real cruise lines do is very small, was that, with all A total of 135 participants eventu- and reputable five-star food-and-wine Norwegian Cruise Line, for ex- signature items are their food, service perhaps less than 10 percent. the opportunities ally boarded the small, luxury ship experience throughout the voyage.” ample, offers a variety of customized and beautiful ships, but their enter- So they understandably do Seabourn Spirit, with 104 double-oc- During the day, participants of options for corporate groups, either tainment isn’t as elaborate or exten- not invest a great deal in on- on the ship to cupancy cabins. “One of the things PartnersFinancial’s most recent char- complimentary or for a reasonable sive as that of Royal Caribbean.” board meeting space. That do anything you my guests really loved about their ter on Silversea Cruises through add-on fee. These include: private The average age of attendees said, some ships do offer want, what do first cruising experience was being Singapore, Vietnam and Hong Kong cocktail parties, award ceremonies should also be taken into account. very suitable venues. together in one environment where could explore the indigenous dining and receptions; a private art auction “On Carnival and Royal Caribbean “Many Royal Caribbean you want your they didn’t have to pack up and move of Southeast Asia, or return to the ship. with champagne; sport tournaments; brands, you’ll find a lot families and ships offer 400-seat flex- experience to be?” just to go to a new destination. Every About 350 attendees, including spous- personalized door plaques; company younger people, especially on the ible conference centers that Eldon Gale single morning we woke up on a new es and staff, boarded the ship. logos on menus and daily activity pro- shorter cruises. On Celebrity and work extremely well for corporate cli- Director, Meeting and island,” Roach says. The staff of the ship itself becomes grams; and group photos. A group ser- Holland America, you’ll typically find ents,” Wallack notes. And Norwegian Event Management Group Like a hotel, the ship provides a a very reliable extension of a plan- vices coordinator handles all of these a slightly older, more sophisticated Cruise Line offers the Diamond Head Nationwide “home base” for attendees, while the ner’s staff since “there’s no turnover events and services. crowd,” she adds. That’s not to say Auditorium on its Pride of America Columbus, OH destination experience is, of course, or handoff,” Wallack notes. Unlike middle-aged attendees would not en- ship. The multi-level, circular facility much more varied. hotel employees, “the staff is living Choose a Cruise joy the surf simulators, rock climbing features multiple audio-visual screens. cocktails in the show lounge followed on the ship 24/7, and they’re dedi- That Fits the Group walls and skating rinks to be found on “Such spaces provide nice alterna- by dinner in the dining room.” Consistent Quality cated to arranging activities, in case Looking at group service options a Royal Caribbean ship, if they’re the tives to the traditional hotel space,” One of Wallack’s cruise clients, That translates to “consistency of you want to do a trivia contest, song is just part of “comparison shopping” active sort. Wallack says. “Flexibility is the key. for example, was going to stage their the food product” throughout the pro- contest and so on, perhaps with only among cruise lines. A planner must All ships can accommodate meetings awards gala at an offshore venue but gram, observes Todd Zint, CMP, CMM, a nominal charge for the coordinator.” also consider ship features, itinerary, Meeting and Event Space and events, but it may not be exactly ended up successfully “translating” it head of meetings and event strategy at Memorable special events are cost-ef- onboard entertainment and more, in Yet another factor is dedicated what a client is used to on land. You into an onboard event, thereby sav- NFP in Austin, TX. PartnersFinancial, fective as well. “On some of the ships light of the program’s budget, goals meeting space, which is an area need to get out of the mindset of the ing thousands of dollars in venue owned by NFP, holds an annual incen- you can do dinner under the stars. and group demographics. “The cruise where “cruise ships definitely fall traditional award gala dinner and per- rental, décor and transportation costs, tive trip with mainly a baby-boomer They can put a band on deck, use col- lines are all good, it’s just a question of short” compared to hotels, Wallack haps look at an awards ceremony with Wallack relates. “We did a cocktail
Norwegian Cruise Line. layout, the addition of a par- back to ocean-liner travel of the 22 ships, save searches and pro- The highest performers may tial deck, the expansion of two 1930s, while the lobby is in the files, request a proposal, and ac- be lucky enough to qualify other decks within the forward Art Nouveau style. Venues for cess a library of information and for the Haven by Norwegian section of the ship and the groups include the 1,340-seat resources. As of February, Royal on select ships. Accessible addition of 182 cabins. The Walt Disney Theatre and 399- Caribbean’s newly refurbished only by special key card, the ship will be renamed Carnival seat Buena Vista Theatre. Splendour of the Seas now fea- complex includes deluxe Sunshine following the 49- Regent Seven Seas Cruises. tures iPads in every stateroom. suites, a private courtyard day dry dock, which will take In March, Regent began accept- All Vision-class ships will offer
and other VIP amenities. Photo courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line place from February to April ing reservations for cruises from Caribbean Photo courtesy of Royal iPads following scheduled revi- Norwegian Cruise Line’s A rendering of the exclusive Haven by Norwegian. 2013. Following the dry dock, April 2013 to December 2013. Royal Caribbean’s Splendour of the Seas. talization over the next two years. next ship, Norwegian Breakaway, will debut in April Carnival Sunshine will embark on a schedule of nine- Its Summer Collection features more than 50 itineraries Viking River Cruises. Viking River Cruises has com- 2013, sailing year-round from New York City. The and 12-day Mediterranean voyages from Barcelona and in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe and Alaska, as missioned six more Viking Longships for delivery in 2013. 4,000-passenger Breakaway will feature a three-story Venice from April to October 2013, and then launch well as fall cruises to New England and Canada and an The six vessels will be joining Viking Freya, Viking Idun, sports and water park that includes free-fall slides, two year-round, seven-day Caribbean departures from New Amazon River itinerary. This summer, Regent kicks off its Viking Njord and Viking Odin, which were christened in twister slides and “The Plank,” which extends 8 feet Orleans beginning November 2013. 20th anniversary season with the debut of Sette Mari at March, and Viking Embla and Viking Aegir, which will be over the side of the ship. Participants in safety har- Disney Cruise Line. The Disney Fantasy, the fourth La Veranda, a new gourmet restaurant featuring distinctive delivered later this year. Viking Longships each feature two nesses “walk the plank.” A sister ship, the 4,000-pas- ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet and sister ship Italian wines and al fresco dining. Explorer Suites, which at 445 sf will be the largest river senger Norwegian Getaway, launches in 2014 with a to the Disney Dream, launched on March 31, offer- Royal Caribbean International. Royal Caribbean cruise suites in Europe; seven two-room Veranda Suites; home port in Miami. ing seven-night Caribbean itineraries. The Disney International has launched the latest version of its on- 39 Veranda Staterooms; 22 French Balcony Staterooms; Carnival Cruise Lines. Carnival Destiny will undergo Fantasy features a sophisticated adults-only entertain- line portal dedicated to corporate meetings, incentives a new all-weather indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace, with a $155 million makeover next year that will incorporate ment district called Europa, two new Broadway-style and charters at sea: www.RoyalCaribbeanIncentives.com. retractable floor-to-ceiling glass doors; and sustainability all of the line’s“Fun Ship 2.0” dining, bar and entertain- shows, and AquaLab, a brand new water play area. The Meeting planners can use the website to create their own upgrades, such as solar panels and an onboard organic ment features. The refit also will include a reconfigured ship’s 1,250 staterooms have a décor that harkens accounts, search for availability across Royal Caribbean’s herb garden. — GS CRUISE NEWS CRUISE
22 MAY/JUNE 2012 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT MAY/JUNE 2012 23 “The cruise is an own musical entertainment for the that run the length of the Boardwalk, ° ideal solution Seabourn cruise, including and we had 14-foot banners strung a dueling pianos show, jazz between them, welcoming our at- delivering a 360 OCEAN under the stars on the upper tendees onboard. We also played up consistent and deck, and a tribute of popu- the Boardwalk theme with corn dog reputable five- lar songs through the de- stands and so on,” says Gale. star food-and- cades starting in the 1940s. VIEWS. “Having our first experience CSR Opportunities wine experience be a private charter, it’s hard Since attendees are likely to en- throughout to wrap your head around counter unfamiliar ports and towns, the voyage.” the idea of simply buying a planner may elect to bring a port ALL AROUND cabins,” she says. lecturer or historian onboard, as Todd Zint There are, however, a couple of PartnersFinancial did on its cruise of Head of Meetings and Event Strategy aspects to chartering that a planner Southeast Asia. The group also found NFP should bear in mind. First, “you’re an opportunity to engage in a CSR Austin, TX SUCCESS. going to pay for every bed on that initiative. “PartnersFinancial embraces party, awards in the theater, and then ship whether you use it or not. So CSR opportunities during its Annual brought them out on deck and did you really need to know what your Convention trip in lieu of pillow gifts. Let Norwegian take your corporate event or incentive to a place it’s never been: dinner under the stars. It was ‘James attendance numbers are going to be, The attendees find it incredibly re- • Sail away to beautiful destinations aboard an award-winning fl eet Bond’ casual as opposed to cocktail so that you’re not buying a ship that warding to interact with those directly • A variety of mouthwatering dining options – from gourmet to grab-and-go gowns and heels. They loved it and holds 450 people and you only have impacted. As we docked into the port were very happy they didn’t spend all 200,” Wallack advises. Second, a char- of Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, • Flexible, adaptable state-of-the art meeting spaces – from breakout that extra money.” ter contract is written in stone. “You we were greeted by representatives rooms to high-tech auditoriums Los Angeles-based Crystal Cruises’ can’t get out of it, and there’s no attri- including children from the Saigon • Unique accommodations like luxurious Villas with private butlers, Serenity is just one example of a ship tion. Typically the charter company is Children’s Charity. spacious Balcony Staterooms and chic Studios that offers a variety of sizable venues also going to ask you to sign an irre- “The children then came aboard for • Entertainment that’s never been seen at sea before like Blue Man Group for galas and banquets, including: vocable letter of credit. You’re putting a traditional Vietnamese dance dem- • Experience it all with the freedom and choices only Freestyle Cruising® o ers the Hollywood Theatre, equipped up collateral to secure that ship, and onstration and receive the donation,” with the latest projection technology you own it.” Zint recounts. Founded in 1992, the And the best part? It’s the most motivating experience on land or sea. and accommodating 205 guests; the charity helps to give the most disad- Next time, make your event or incentive a perfect success with Norwegian. Galaxy Lounge, accommodating 530; Find Your Own Oasis vantaged Vietnamese children a quality the Crystal Dining Room, seating 530; Gale related that he is definitely education, and PartnersFinancial pro- Go to events.ncl.com or call us at 1.866.NCLMEET to fi nd out more. and the Starlite and Stardust Clubs, considering “owning” a vessel for fu- vided $31,732 (which the Vietnamese each accommodating 290 for dancing ture cruise incentives, but the 2011 government matched) toward a new after dinner. program simply demanded the Oasis kindergarten that will benefit 150 chil- of the Seas’ size and number of ven- dren when it opens this fall. The Charter Experience ues. “The theme of the conference was Many groups choose to trade the Find Your Place, and the idea was that, Sold on Cruising beaucoup facilities and entertainment with all the opportunities on the ship Securian’s “inaugural” cruise was options of the larger ships for the ex- to do anything you want, what do you memorable for the sheer camaraderie clusivity and greater customization of want your experience to be?” Gale ex- that developed over eight days at sea a charter experience. A “middle road” plains. “Surprisingly, with 6,000 pas- on a private vessel. “Many attendees would be to buy all the suites on a big sengers on the Oasis, it didn’t ever feel thought an eight-day, seven-night pro- ship, which would give the group an crowded,” since they are spread out gram is a long time to be away from “elite” feeling and access to all the big across vast “neighborhoods,” such as work and family, but in the end they ship amenities, Wallack suggests. Of the Royal Promenade shopping and were so thankful for the time they course, the group is still subject to the dining district; The Boardwalk, which got to spend with each other and the ship’s schedule. has a full-size carousel; and the Aqua friendships that were reinforced or de- “The beauty of a private charter is Theater in the back of the ship, which veloped. Some of them said, ‘I prob- that you can really customize your is completely open-air and features ably would have never talked to so- ports of call, and you have a lot of synchronized swimming and other and-so on a shorter program,’ ” Roach flexibility with times that you’re in and aquatic entertainment. explains. “Our CEO said it was one of out of the ports,” says Roach. “You “We did our opening reception in the healthiest things we’ve ever done CRUISE can also customize the entertainment the Boardwalk/Aqua Theater space,” for our top performers. We’ve been LIKE A and activities.” Roach sourced her says Gale. “They have lampposts bitten by the cruising bug.” I&FMM NORWEGIAN
™ 24 MAY/JUNE 2012 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT ©2012 NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE LTD. SHIPS’ REGISTRY: BAHAMAS AND UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
076257.01_NOCRLI_MICE_CIT_FP_ad_MECH Date: 2/17/12 ROUND #: MECH Job Title: MICE Full Page Ad Publication Name: C&IT Trim: 8.125” x 10.875” Bleed: 8.375” x 11.125” Live: 7.125” x 9.875” Color: CMYK the Chesapeake Bay, just a few miles together his investment group — cer- done,” he adds, “then it can’t be very south of the company’s home office, tified financial planners, chartered important business.” so it certainly has location working financial analysts, attorneys and top The historic Gasparilla Inn & Club Executive for it, says Powell. “We’ll use it once managers — of about 25 to 30 people. built in 1913, located on Gasparilla or twice a year for employee events, “For a small group like that, it’s just Island on the Gulf Coast of Florida client events and staff meetings. It’s a a great space — charming and inti- between Fort Myers and Tampa, pro- small venue in terms of space, but it mate,” says Powell. “And it is a very vides an environment that both stim- is a very unique and beautiful spot.” client-oriented experience.” ulates and relaxes meeting attendees. Retreats The inn is a boutique hotel con- As for how meeting at the Hope The Inn has 63 guest rooms, as well
Photo courtesy of Ocean Reef Club sisting of six rooms and 10 cottages. and Glory facilitates getting business as suites in the main inn. Another 74 “We are small,” says owner Dudley done, “people are certainly happy rooms are located among the 17 pri- Patterson. “But with smaller properties and pleased with the environment,” vate villas and cottages near the inn. you can get the whole place and our Powell says. “The rooms are charm- The historic Gasparilla Inn & Club, total attention, as well as dedicated ingly shabby-chic, very 19th century, built in 1913, can accommodate meeting space with all the bells and the gardens are beau- meetings up to 300 attendees, but and whistles.” tiful and relaxing. So also has a number of intimate rooms The meeting house at “I find it to that can handle smaller events such the Hope and Glory is be much better as board meetings. Activities at the a renovated space with to be a large fish inn range from golf, tennis and spa vaulted ceilings, wire- in a small pond, to boating and deep-sea fishing in an less technology and area known as the “Tarpon Fishing an adjacent kitchen. rather than a small Capital of the World.” “It’s an excellent space fish in a large pond, Ellen Tibbs, event management ‘Spark Creative Thinking and for a small, elite gath- just in terms of specialist at American Financial ering,” says Powell. Group in Cincinnati, booked her The inn has its own getting things company’s annual strategic planning Create a Learning Environment’ vineyard, which is locat- accomplished.” meeting at the Gasparilla Inn & Club ed just a short walk from Bruce Withrow last November for four days and three Founder Meetings at the Ocean Reef Club, Key Largo, FL, are private, discreet and secure — a desirable feature for executive retreats. the inn. The “Dog and Oyster” nights. Tibbs says she learned about Meeting Facilitators International Security staff monitors the premises 24/7, and the U.S. Secret Service says it is one of the most secure communities in the country. vineyard consists of about six acres of the club from one of her company’s Toronto, Ontario Vinifera and French-American hybrid senior officers who had participated By Mike Bassett vines, as well as four three-bedroom once you get into the conference in another program there and thought etting the right people to- of time on important discussions, so recreational amenities is extensive cottages, a pool and a kayak dock. room you just want to get your work it would suit her company’s needs. gether in the right location it has to avoid any kind of distrac- and includes 36 holes of golf, boat- The inn also has its own cruise done so you can get out and relax. Those needs include warm weather, G— that’s the meeting plan- tion that’s going to interfere with the ing, fishing, tennis and a variety of vessel — an oyster boat called the “It makes for a very collegial at- “since we always have the meeting ner’s ultimate goal. For small meet- meeting’s flow. water sports. “Faded Glory” that can be used to mosphere where people know they in November, and we’re from the ings, such as an executive retreat, “I definitely have a bias towards Teambuilding opportunities abound ferry guests out into Chesapeake Bay are going to be well treated, can get Midwest,” Tibbs says. it’s a critical combination, which if smaller places — like country inns at the venue and include the Ocean — as well as a restaurant and spa, and some work done and have a little In addition, Tibbs was looking achieved, can create an environment or boutique hotels,” he adds, “That’s Reef Cooking School, with classes fea- is located next to the small town of fun, too.” for a smaller facility with plenty of that helps attendees recharge their where a group can really make it their turing culinary greats such as chefs Irvington, which has its own share of amenities ranging from meeting and depleted batteries. own or find a niche or place within it.” John Besh and Frank Brunacci, and dining and upscale shopping options. Can’t Be Too Relaxed conference capabilities to dining and “I think that quite often the worst celebrated cookbook authors Patricia “So while we’re small,” says Patterson, Withrow believes that when it recreation options. While her group environment (for a small group) try- Surrounded by Water Wells and Joyce Goldsten as well as “we’ve made ourselves different from comes to small meetings, there is no of about 50 executives has been to ing to get some serious business What venue could provide a bet- Ocean Reef Club’s own master chefs. the typical inn and hotel, and we still such thing as getting too relaxed. smaller hotels and inns as well as done is the big hotel with a gazillion ter retreat than one surrounded on have a lot to offer.” “I know some people think that if larger resorts, she says that her group things going on,” says Bruce Withrow, three sides by water? One that offers Meeting on the Chesapeake Chesapeake Trust is a regional they’re meeting in a room with a pan- had found better success with smaller the founder of Meeting Facilitators exclusivity and privacy as well? The If Gregory Powell, managing di- institution, so when it holds events oramic window overlooking this gor- properties for this type of group and International. “I find it to be much Ocean Reef Club, a private, member- rector of the Chesapeake Investment attendees usually come from within geous lake, that it is going to be too meeting format. better to be a large fish in a small owned oceanfront community set on Group and president of the Chesapeake a 100-mile radius of the inn. Powell distracting,” he says. “I don’t think “We do like the smaller boutique pond, rather than a small fish in a 2,500 acres in Key Largo, FL, fits the Trust Company in Kilmarnock, VA, has used the inn for smaller staff re- that’s the case at all. You should be hotels or inns,” Tibbs says. “We’re a large pond, just in terms of getting bill. The Ocean Reef Club includes wants to hold a meeting in an atmo- treats and meetings as well as day- able to focus on what you need to family-owned business, and we’re things accomplished.” a 144-room inn as well as town- sphere conducive for business, he long customer events of between focus on, and then have the time to very proud of that. Gasparilla Inn & The point of these retreats, houses and private residences along heads for the Hope and Glory Inn in 100 and 150 people. get outdoors and relax. Club has more of a family feel to it, Withrow says, is that a group is try- with more than 30,000 sf of flexible Irvington, VA. The last time Powell used the inn “If just the environment can dis- which is good for our group because ing to get very focused for a period meeting space. The property’s list of The Hope and Glory is located on for a smaller event it was to bring tract you from getting your business that’s the kind of message that I think
26 MAY/JUNE 2012 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT MAY/JUNE 2012 27 another small, exclusive property that to buy out the whole property. In that UNIQUELY specializes in hosting board meet- sense, the down economy helped the ings, executive retreats and small cli- Inn at Palmetto Bluff, the executive ent events. The Inn at Palmetto Bluff says, as companies that used to book is located in Bluffton, in the middle incentives in the Caribbean or Mexico of the South Carolina low country began looking at upscale, Southern between Savannah and Hilton Head. stateside properties instead so their The inn, an Auberge Resorts property, incentive business really picked up. sits in the middle of 20,000 acres of One of the most distinctive meet- low-country forest and swamp, about ing/function spots in the facility is the a 45-minute drive from Savannah. Canoe Club, located near the ruins Photo courtesy of Tulalip Resort Casino Tulalip Photo courtesy of Once visitors hit the entrance to of a 72-room mansion that burned Tulalip Resort Casino near Seattle, WA, provides state-of-the-art meeting rooms the property, they must drive several down more than a century ago. for executive retreats as well as built-in miles through that forest and swamp The club is a 10,000-sf bar and entertainment and casino gaming. to get to the inn — an experience restaurant (combined with a canoe that a resort executive says can pro- storage facility) overlooking the May our company is trying to send to our foundly impact the inn’s guests. River. The interior of the building in- senior officers — we’re family.” Ann Newell, project manager for cludes an arched ceiling that resem- I T N E R E F DIF In this case, the attendees had Maritz in Detroit, agrees with that bles an upside-down canoe. Newell’s planned group events, but also plenty assessment. Newell, who in March group had its opening-night recep- of opportunities for networking and brought a small group of attorneys tion there and “it was just a beauti- blocks of time for flexible schedul- from the banking industry to the ful room, with this great ceiling and ing, She ended up booking half of her property, says that as soon as her car windows and a veranda overlooking group in the main inn and the other turned into the driveway towards the the water as the sun went down.” half in the cottages. And although the inn, “you got this incredible feeling. A favorite low-country pastime cottages have private sleeping rooms, It’s really inexplicable, but once you is the oyster roast, and the inn has some of them share bathrooms. start seeing that forest and swamp, an outdoor facility about a 10-min- “There was some discussion about your brain does really turn to mush, ute trolley ride away that includes a that,” Tibbs says. “But we did like and you just want to relax.” riverside brick fireplace and oyster the idea of splitting up into groups The inn, which opened about sev- pit. “It’s a great place to kick back according to company departments, en years ago, is adjacent to a small and get down with oysters,” says like actuarial or financial. So they residential village called Wilson’s the executive. did get more of a nice casual bond- Landing, which has a “Southern Proximity to the water means ing experience during unscheduled Norman Rockwell” feel to it, says plenty of boating opportunities, in- times that really lent itself to group the executive. cluding kayaking, canoeing and discussion because they were shar- The Inn at Palmetto Bluff’s room deep-sea fishing (the May River runs ing space.” product consists of 50 cottages, all out into the Atlantic Ocean). The The four-day event centered on of which sit along the May River or property sits next to a salt-water em- meetings and meals, although there an interior lagoon. They are all more bayment, which means that guests was time for relaxation, which includ- than 1,000 sf in size, have fireplaces can frequently see dolphins swim- ed golf at the Pete Dye-designed, par- and screened-in porches overlooking ming nearby, which “is pretty magi- 72 golf course nestled along Charlotte the water. cal” says the executive. Harbor and some deep-sea fishing. For bigger groups, the inn also has A few members of Newell’s group “I think everyone was pleased,” access to 38 two- and three-bedroom also took the opportunity to play Tibbs says. “It was well-received, al- homes, so it can host groups up to the Jack Nicklaus-designed course though we did get some feedback and more than 100 persons, although at the May River Golf Club, which about sharing bathrooms! But for the they also focus on smaller programs. is rated No. 22 on Golf Digest’s list Where Else Can You meet in spaces so inviting most part, everyone was very relaxed, Each room comes with compli- of “America’s 100 Greatest Public you won’t want to adjourn.. Only at Tulalip. which is what you want in order to mentary bicycles, which is really all Golf Courses.” spark creative thinking and create a that’s needed for guests to navigate It was the perfect environment for a AAA Four Diamond | Condé Nast Top Rated Resort learning environment.” around the inn and adjacent village. group of professionals “who are doing For those non-cyclists, golf-carts are three times more work than normal 20,000 Acres of available for rent. and are completely stressed out,” says Swamp and Forest The average group size is 25 to 30, Newell. “You could just see the stress About 500 miles to the north sits although it’s not unusual for groups coming out of their pores.” I&FMM Sales & Catering: (888) 272-1111 | www.tulalipresort.com | 10200 Quil Ceda Blvd. | Tulalip, WA 98271 | I-5. Exit 200 between Seattle & Vancouver BC
28 MAY/JUNE 2012 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT A securities firm experienced an Native American dancers after dinner. hotels; a complimentary welcome re- that Spanish vibe, that old-world look. authentic Native American powwow At another dinner, we had maria- ception with beer, wine, local foods, It’s the kind of property that’s unique including drumming to the heartbeat of the Earth and a Friendship Dance. chi and marimba bands alternating,” Native American dancers and Native to Santa Fe. For us, it was a difficult adds Helmken. American flute player; and refund of place to get to because it’s an hour New Mexico’s ancestral Pueblo people. New Mexico’s unique mix of offer- site visit expenses up to $1,000 after from the (Albuquerque International They also enjoyed lunch at a vineyard ings also makes it popular for corporate booking a qualified meeting. Airport). Our group said that the hotel and dinner at the Encantado Resort teambuilding activities, says Helmken. “We are targeting meetings of and Santa Fe was a great place for a featuring traditional New Mexican “One group worked on painting a gi- around 500 or larger be- vacation or romantic getaway, but not foods. During the final night banquet, ant canvas and then cut it cause a meeting of that size for a quick two-day meeting because also featuring local fare, the group en- into sections, and every- would mean use of at least of the transportation time involved to joyed a guitarist strumming melodies one gets their own piece influenced by New Mexican culture. as a reminder of the group “We did hands-on cooking classes at During after-dinner cocktails, guests activity. There’s a lot of watched stars in cloudless skies with teambuilding that can work Santa Fe School of Cooking, toured the help of a professional star gazer into the hiking as well. We galleries on Canyon Road. We brought and a telescope. “It was the group’s break groups into teams and in expert speakers to explain more first time in Santa Fe. They were most- do scavenger hunts through about New Mexico culture.” ly young adults. They thought it was the woods with GPS devices. a great place to visit for more adven- We also do it in downtown Arlene Schiffer, President tures, and they are contemplating re- Santa Fe and Albuquerque, which are Passport DMC Inc., Santa Fe, NM turning,” says Helmken. big draws because they have so many historic places,” says Helmken. two to three hotels in the downtown and from the airport,” said the meeting
New Mexico DMC Inc./courtesy of Passport InSight Foto Photo by New Mexico’s Draw area,” says Madden. “And those hotels planner for the insurance company. A financial firm’s five-day incen- Santa Fe not chosen for the meetings would re- Still, small group business has in- tive for 70 salespeople in Santa Fe Located 7,000 feet above sea level, ceive the overflow of leisure travelers creased recently, says Madden. “We A Unique Mix of Art, Beauty and illustrates the uncommon variety of the state capital of Santa Fe has long and smaller groups so that, at the end were lucky enough to not get hit hard activities that attract business groups, been a popular destination for small of the day, everybody’s happy.” by the downward spiral of the econ- Culture for Memorable Meetings says Arlene Schiffer, president of and mid-size groups. For several years, Many small groups, particularly omy, and things are picking up now,” hen financial and insurance Event Planning Solutions, a full-service Passport DMC Inc. in Santa Fe. “We Santa Fe has appeared on many lists from the Midwest, visit New Mexico to she adds. Wmeeting planners seek a truly Albuquerque-based DMC specializing did hands-on cooking classes at Santa of the top U.S. cities for travelers and hold brief meetings. A meeting plan- unique destination, one of the places in incentive, conference and leisure Fe School of Cooking, toured galleries vacationers. In 2011, readers of Condé ner for an insurance firm (that wishes Hotels and Meeting Space they turn to is New Mexico. Corpo- groups. Attendees were housed in 65 on Canyon Road. We also visited the Nast Traveler magazine voted Santa Fe to remain anonymous) recently held a Santa Fe has ample meeting and rate meeting and incen- casitas and casita suites Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and took a as the third most popular travel city in two-day sales meeting in Santa Fe for hotel space for the small and medi- By Derek Reveron tive groups choose New with wood-burning kiva pottery class with artist Heidi Loewen the U.S. Santa Fe certainly lives up to 40 attendees. The meeting was held at um-size groups it seeks to attract. The Mexico because it lives up to its of- fireplaces, and enjoyed only-in-New at her studio. We did golf at the Black its slogan, “The City Different,” says the Inn and Spa at Loretto, which has four-year-old Santa Fe Convention ficial state nickname — the Land of Mexico activities. The main lodge of Mesa Golf Club and Towa Golf Club. Christine Madden, director of sales for 134 guest rooms and more than 12,000 Center (SFCC) features 40,000 sf of to- Enchantment, which promises color the Encantado Resort & Spa includes We also offered options for mountain the Santa Fe Convention & Visitors sf of meeting space. “The hotel had tal event space, an 18,000-sf ballroom and art, music and dance, beautiful Terra restaurant and lounge, 5,000 sf biking, fly fishing and white-water Bureau (SFCVB). “Santa Fe is popular landscapes, and a unique mixture of meeting space, a large courtyard rafting. We brought in expert speakers among corporate groups because it’s of cultures. Mexicans, Spaniards and with outdoor fireplaces, a full-service to explain more about New Mexico authentic, and people want something Europeans have added to the mix as spa and movement studio, and pool. culture,” says Schiffer. The group also that’s real. There’s a mystique about have the Pueblo, Apache, Navajo and Many of the incentive group’s ac- did a dine-around at restaurants that us. We may technically be a second- other Native Americans. tivities were connected to Santa Fe’s feature traditional New Mexico foods. tier city, but it’s on a lot of people’s The people, their heritage, their thriving art scene, which has an inter- In Santa Fe, an incentive group bucket lists,” adds Madden. arts and the natural beauty prompted national reputation and is one of the of 50 attendees from a financial ser- In an effort to attract even more an investment firm to bring an incen- nation’s top art markets in size and vices company took full advantage meetings and provide value, the tive group of about 75 sales consul- sales. Attendees toured some of the of New Mexico’s Native American SFCVB and its hotel partners recently tants and their partners to Santa Fe city’s more than 240 art galleries, lo- and Hispanic cultures, according to introduced “Experience Santa Fe On for three days last summer. The group cated mostly in the Canyon Road area. Helmken. “The group held a dinner Us.” The special promotion invites stayed at the Encantado Resort & Spa, They attended glassblowing sessions on the grounds of a local art gallery. groups that book at least 500 rooms located at the foothills of the Sangre with local artists and dinner at the The theme for that night was ‘art and per night for three or more nights to de Cristo Mountains in the upscale home of an art dealer. soul.’ We set up tables and a big tent receive the following benefits: com- Santa Fe suburb of Tesuque, says During a trip to Bandelier National on a big grassy area. We had a flut- plimentary meeting space at the Santa Albuquerque-based DMC High Desert Event Planning Coryn Kiefer Helmken, vice president Monument, the group toured pueblos, ist play during cocktails, displayed Fe Convention Center; complimentary Solutions arranged a reception for attendees among the and creative director of High Desert rock paintings and rock engravings of Native American art and brought in transportation between the center and sculptures at one of Santa Fe’s thriving art galleries. Photo courtesyPlanning Solutions of High Desert Event
30 MAY/JUNE 2012 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT MAY/JUNE 2012 31 and four meeting rooms. More than lection of more than 15,000 historical Meeting Space and Hotels air balloons surge skyward as part of more than 30,000 sf of meeting space city’s oldest historic properties. The 1,500 guest rooms are located near the items. Indoors, the building can host There also is a growing supply the Albuquerque International Balloon and a 9,000-sf ballroom. estate offers more than 3,000 sf of SFCC. Located just north of Santa Fe, up to 300 people. Outdoor spaces ac- of new and renovated hotels. The Fiesta, the world’s top ballooning event. Most recently, Philip San Filippo indoor meeting space and 10 guest the 395-room Buffalo Thunder Resort commodate 500 guests. Albuquerque area offers more than The Santa Fe Farmers Market is one of was named as the new executive di- rooms. Constructed in 1926, the 422- & Casino features 66,000 sf of meet- Groups can experience authentic 16,000 hotel rooms with more than the largest in the nation. The 50-year- rector of the Las Cruces Convention & seat Rio Grande Theatre is available ing space. Owned and operated by New Mexican culture within short 900 within walking distance of the old market includes a 9,000-sf facility Visitors Bureau. He brings more than for group rentals. the Pueblo of the Pojoaque, Buffalo drives of Santa Fe. Tesuque ACC. Albuquerque’s largest downtown suitable for receptions and meetings 20 years of experience in the hospital- Thunder showcases pueblo architec- Pueblo has been continu- hotel, the Hyatt Regency for groups up to 600 people. Old Town ity and tourism industry to his new po- Final Thoughts ture and décor, including three giant ously occupied since the Albuquerque, is located is among Albuquerque’s most historic sition. The city offers more than 2,200 From golf and gaming to centuries- near the ACC and offers areas, featuring distinctive New Mexico hotel rooms with more than 98,000 sf old cultures and skiing, New Mexico 395 rooms and more than architecture and ambience. The district of meeting space. Properties include has a rare combination of activities “It was the group’s first time in Santa 30,000 sf of newly renovat- features more than 150 galleries, shops, the Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces with for planners and attendees. The Land Fe. They were mostly young adults. ed meeting space. cafes and restaurants. 203 rooms and 10,000 sf of meeting of Enchantment, which celebrates its They thought it was a great place Located six miles from the space. The Days Inn & Suites Mesilla statehood centennial this year, offers Albuquerque International Las Cruces Valley Conference Center features 158 a mix of hotels combining the best to visit for more adventures, and Sunport, the Crowne Plaza Located between the Rio Grande rooms and 8,000 sf of meeting space. of intimate old-world style and mod- they are contemplating returning,” Albuquerque reopened in River and the Mesilla Valley, Las The 114-room Ramada Palms de Las ern properties. From Santa Fe and Coryn Kiefer Helmken, Vice President and Creative Director September 2011 after a $14 Cruces is becoming an increasingly Cruces has 7,000 sf of meeting space. Albuquerque to Taos and Las Cruces, High Desert Event Planning Solutions, Albuquerque, NM million renovation and a brand-name popular destination. No wonder — New Mexico infuses meetings with an change from a Hilton property. The the city averages 350 days of sunshine Venues and Activities authentic and unique blend of Native bronze sculptures and more than 200 1200s. About 800 people live in the 261-room hotel offers 26,000 sf of a year and offers a variety of historical The New Mexico Farm & Ranch American, Spanish, Mexican and pieces of art. There is a Las Vegas-style pueblo, which is spread over 17,000 meeting space, including an 8,000-sf and cultural attractions. Additionally, Museum in Las Cruces showcases ag- Western cultures as well as awe-in- casino with 1,200 slot machines and a acres that include the Camel Rock conference center. the meeting infrastructure is growing. ricultural methods historically used in spiring landscapes of mountains, can- 10-table poker room, as well as an in- Casino and the Tesuque Pueblo Located between Santa Fe and The Las Cruces Convention Center the state. Several indoor spaces are yons, plains and forests. Planners and door pool and a large whirlpool. Fine Flea Market. Pueblo artists sell pot- Albuquerque, at the base of the Sandia (LCCC), which opened in December available for group events. Built in attendees will surely be enchanted by New Mexico-style cuisine is available tery, sculpture and paintings at the Mountains, is the Hyatt Regency 2010, boasts a 15,000-sf exhibition hall, 1848, Alameda House is one of the New Mexico. I&FMM at the Red Sage Restaurant, Turquoise flea market’s more than 1,200 vendor Tamaya Resort & Spa. The property Trail Bar Grill and Mica Restaurant. booths. Guides offer tours of another features 350 pueblo-style guest rooms. The DoubleTree by Hilton Santa historical site, the Taos Pueblo, is an More than 70,000 sf of indoor and out- Fe is undergoing a renovation of its ancient Pueblo adobe community, door meeting space is available, along 130 guest rooms, lobby and 4,000 sf which has been inhabited nonstop for with the 12,000-sf Tamaya Ballroom. of meeting space. more than 1,000 years. More than 8,000 sf of outdoor function space sits along the Rio Grande River. Unique Santa Fe Albuquerque Southeast of Albuquerque, the Inn of Santa Fe has a number of museums Albuquerque is New Mexico’s the Mountain Gods Resort & Casino is that can accommodate groups. These largest city and one of the nation’s owned and operated by the Mescalero include the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, most affordable for travelers. The city Apache Tribe. Located near the moun- which showcases more than 3,000 ranks No. 9 on Hotwire.com’s top 10 tain resort community of Ruidoso, the American works of art and can host Travel Value Index cities for travel- Inn of the Mountain Gods offers 273 receptions for up to 150 people in ers. The rankings evaluated prices on luxury rooms and suites, and 40,000 the foyer, galleries and courtyard. The hotels, rental cars, airfares and enter- sf of event and meeting space, includ- Museum of Indian Arts and Culture tainment. Albuquerque also offers ing 15 meeting rooms. There’s also a has more than 75,000 exhibits and ac- convenient access by air. The city’s 38,000-sf Las Vegas-style casino and commodates groups of up to 800 peo- airport, Albuquerque International an 18-hole championship golf course. ple for receptions and black-tie galas. Sunport, is located less than a 30-min- Entertainers have included coun- Venues include the 100-seat O’Keeffe ute drive from any meeting destina- try music star Ray Price, Mescalero Theater and a sculpture garden that ac- tion in the area, including the mul- Warrior Challenge Cage Fights, and commodates 15 people. The Museum tipurpose Albuquerque Convention Grammy-nominated Kellie Pickler, of International Folk Art, which in- Center (ACC), located downtown. who appeared on the “American Idol” cludes more than 130,000 items from The ACC, which completed a multi- television program. more than 100 countries, boasts a million-dollar renovation three years 165-seat auditorium for groups. Built ago, provides more than 167,000 sf of Only in Albuquerque in 1610, the Palace of the Governors exhibit space and 27 meeting rooms. Groups visiting Albuquerque will is the nation’s oldest continuously oc- There also is a 31,000-sf ballroom and not go wanting for truly unique activi- SantaFe.org/Experience cupied structure and features a col- a 2,500-seat auditorium. ties. Every October, more than 500 hot-
32 MAY/JUNE 2012 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT MAY/JUNE 2012 33 Corporate Ladder
STEINBACH CHEEKS PREZA GARCIA BRONISZ
Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort and Kona, HI. Preza, a native of Hawaii, FL, has named Saun Lightbourne, Spa, Beaver Creek, CO, has named was senior director of sales for the CHSP, CMP, as executive director of James Steinbach as director of Big Island Visitors Bureau on the sales and marketing. He was area group sales, responsible for the Island of Hawaii. director of sales and marketing for Northeast market, as well as interna- Menin Hotel Group in Miami Beach. tional corporate and association mar- Juan J. Garcia was named area di- kets. Steinbach was vice president of rector of sales and marketing for Silversea Cruises has named Cecilia conference sales for the Vail Valley Hiltons of Washington, DC, represent- S. Blevins as corporate and incentive Partnership. Rowland Cheeks was ing Capital Hilton and Washington sales director. She formerly served in named as senior sales manager for Hilton. He was director of sales and incentive sales at Windstar Cruises the mid-Atlantic, Southeast, Texas marketing for Hilton Orlando. and Norwegian Cruise Line. corporate and association markets. Cheeks was senior sales manager Kasia Bronisz was named director of The Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf at Cheyenne Mountain Resort in sales and marketing for the Mandarin Resort & Spa, Destin, FL, has named Colorado Springs. Oriental, Atlanta in Atlanta, GA. She Micah Carter as regional sales man- was director of sales and marketing ager responsible for Kentucky and Angelina Preza was named direc- for Mandarin Oriental, Prague. Tennessee. He previously worked for tor of sales and marketing for the R.L. Campbell Management, based in Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa, Mayfair Hotel & Spa, Coconut Grove, Jacksonville, FL. I&FMM
Reader Services / Ad Index PAGE ADVERTISER PHONE NO. WEB SITE CONTACT E-MAIL 16, 17 The Broadmoor 800-633-7711 www.broadmoor.com John Rovie [email protected] COV II Gaylord Hotels 877-677-9352 www.meetgaylord.com Group Sales [email protected] 7 Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau 800-933-8448 www.miamimeetings.com Ileana Castillo [email protected] 5 M Resort Spa and Casino 866-551-1540 www.themresort.com Drew Varga [email protected] 25 Norwegian Cruise Line 866-NCL-MEET www.events.ncl.com Brandon Townsley [email protected] 19 Omni Tucson National Resort 520-877-2351 www.omnitucsonnational.com Dan Dickhart [email protected] COV IV Preferred Hotel Group 951-898-5885 www.phgmeetings.com Jean Schulte [email protected] 33 Santa Fe Convention & Visitors Bureau 505-955-6210 www.santafe.org Chris Madden [email protected] 29 Tulalip Resort Casino 360-716-6500 www.tulalipresort.com Troy Longwith [email protected] 15 Turnberry Isle Miami 800-661-8101 www.turnberryislemiami.com Benny Baez [email protected] COV III Universal Orlando Resort 888-322-5531 www.uomeetingsandevents.com Group Sales [email protected] www.themeetingmagazines.com
34 MAY/JUNE 2012 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT Las Brisas Ixtapa, Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, Mexico Entertain 10 to 1500 guests with distinct themed events, including the Mexican Feria Del Pueble theme party
Seaport Boston, Boston, Massachusetts Featuring Boston’s largest convention hall — Commonwealth Hall at 118,000 sq. ft.
Trump International Hotel & Tower® Chicago Chicago, Illinois 20,000 sq. ft. of high-rise meeting space with lake, river, and skyline views
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Willows Lodge, Woodinville, Washington Meeting space includes five acres of gorgeous outdoor gardens and the Adventura ropes course
Jupiter Beach Resort & Spa, Jupiter, Florida 12,000 sq. ft. of beachfront meeting space set in the heart of Palm Beach, Florida
French Lick Springs Hotel, French Lick, Indiana 109,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, including the French Lick Casino © 2012 Preferred Hotel Group