Expo 2015 & Italy Mice Guide

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MICE GUIDE

All the Italian destinations in the EXPO year

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INTRODUCTION

I

t is not only an exhibition about progress and technology. Expo Milano 2015 will be a new model of World Fair. The event that Italy will host from May 1 to October 31 next year will be a global event, gathering together more than 130 Countries, International Organisations, NGOs, companies, the entire scientific community and citizens from all over the world around a theme that embodies one of the greatest challenges of our time: “Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life”.

For six months, thousands of shows, concerts, educational workshops and performances will transform the exhibition site into a stage of unmissable experiences. We are expecting 20 million visitors, of which 6-8 million from abroad. Ambitious goals that we will achieve by proposing a high level of educational and gastronomic entertainment.

With the help of institutional networks and embassies, we are attracting the largest possible number of compatriots who live outside our country and we are working closely with the world’s leading Tour Operators in order to make Expo Milano 2015 the “Queen” of all venues for tourist itineraries in the peninsula in 2015.

Thanks to relational and professional networks – at national and international level – that we have created, Expo Milano 2015 presents itself as a unique exchange platform for those who find themselves in our country or in Milan for work. For this reason, as can be seen in this guide, Expo Milano 2015 is an opportunity for growth for the so-called Mice world. Fairs, congresses, meetings and conferences can and should complement the schedule of cultural events that will animate the exhibition site. The aim is to create a stand-alone programme that can grow in synergy with the event and its promotion.

Piero Galli, General Manager of the “Event & Entertainment” Division of Expo 2015 S.p.A.

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PRESENTATION

“E

xpo 2015 & Italy Mice Guide” aims to illustrate the Mice potential of Expo Milano 2015 to meetings and events planners from around the world and to guide them in choosing their Italian destinations and suppliers during the World Exposition in Italy (May 1 to October 31).

It has been created in collaboration with Expo Milano 2015 by the publisher Ediman – who has been the leader in Italian Mice publishing for more than 40 years – and is distributed in 26 countries, in a joint distribution with the Italian National Tourist Board and with the industry’s leading European trade fair, Ibtm Events.

A useful tool for organizing your company and association events in Italy, “Expo 2015 & Italy Mice Guide” is also published under the patronage of Federcongressi&events (the Italian federation of associations of the meetings & incentives industry) and with the endorsement of important international Mice associations such as Mpi and Site.

Expo 2015, an exceptional opportunity Kevin G. Kirby Chairman of the Board 2014/2015 Meeting Professionals International (Mpi)

Benvenuti!

As you commence your research on Italy’s amazing destinations to host meetings & events of any size, remember the Italian word… “tramite” or “connection”.

This guide will serve as an effective “connection” pre, during or post Universal Expo 2015 in Milan, Italy. The showcase runs from May through October 2015 highlighting Italy’s unique role as a Mice destination. While assessing your options, Mpi Italia Chapter members are available to support your professional needs with keen insight into a variety of destinations with strategic connections and networking opportunities.

Safe travels or “ viaggi sicuri”!

The Expo 2015 theme, “Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life” represents a universal value, connecting all human beings, cultures and industries. Italy, a country with a great cultural, historical and fine arts heritage, is the perfect setting to enhance the global relevance of such an event.

It is with deep respect and interest that Site, Society for Incentive Travel Excellence, supports Expo 2015 as an exceptional opportunity to put a global focus on eco-sustainability.

Rhonda Brewer Site President 2015

Italy is one of the world’s most appealing incentive travel destinations with an amazing reputation worldwide because of its rich history, incredible monuments, great cuisine, and distinctive atmosphere that make travel programs truly memorable. In 2014, two events held in Italian destinations were honored with the prestigious Site Crystal Award recognizing exceptional motivational travel experiences.

With precious support from the Site International Board of Directors and Site Italy Chapter, we consider Expo & Italy Mice Guide a valuable tool for international agencies, providing an amazing showcase for Italian Mice supply.

Annamaria Ruffini Site International Board Member

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EXPO 2015

TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction Presentation

5 7

Expo 2015 A long-term business opportunity for the Mice global industry The Universal Expositions in the history Discover the Expo 2015 site Faq about tickets for Expo Milano 2015 Click to find out more

14 22 28 36 40

Milan area

41

Milan, the City of Expo 2015 42 Expo Milano 2015: a guide to events in the city 50 Chrysalis Events - Where ideas are born 56 MZ international Group - The key to a better Italy 57 Adi Hotels - Meeting in the city 59 Starwood Hotels - The Milan experience by Starwood 60 Officine del Volo – Business takes off 62 Residenza Vignale - A step back in time 63 Palazzo Giureconsulti and Palazzo Turati - Two buildings for Expo 2015 64 Lo Zerbo – Conventionally luxurious 66

Italy, a Mice destination

69

Expo “Not just Milan” 2015 +39 events - Communication Italian style 21Eventi - In the Motor Valley with 21eventi Bellini Tour - Password: tailor-made I’Meetaly - A voyage of discovery Movantia - Connecting brands and people Much More Partners - Much more than a partner Target Motivation - An all-round service for the Mice industry Fidenza Village - A surprising shopping destination Atahotels: Made in Italy experience

70 74 76 78 80 82 84 86 88 91

Lombardy

95

Unforeseen beauty 96 Vigevano - An unexpected surprise 110 Palace Hotel and Hotel Barchetta Excelsior - Facing Lake Como 115 L’Albereta Relais - A temple of taste 118 Lefay Resort & Spa - Low-impact luxury 120 Villa Necchi alla Portalupa - In nature at a stone’s throw from Milan 123

Piedmont

127

A land of delicacies Centro Congressi Unione Industriale di Torino - Why Turin?

Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile - Creativity on display La Venaria Reale - Royal Italy

128 138 140 142

Valle d’Aosta Tiny, natural jewel

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TABLE OF CONTENTS Veneto

147

Wonderful traditions Venice Region Convention Bureau Network - All of Veneto is here Marca Treviso - The “Garden” of surprises Thai Si - An original touch of Thailand Best Western Premier BHR Treviso Hotel - Measuring up to Expo Hotel Veronesi La Torre - Let yourself be amazed Aqualux Hotel - The sublime spa experience Peggy Guggenheim Collection - Events among masterpieces San Servolo - Around the waters

148 154 156 158 160 162 164 166 168

Friuli Venezia Giulia Exceptional melting pot

169

Trentino Alto Adige Impressive nature Riva del Garda Congressi - Where excellence is at home

170 172

Liguria

175

The sea of Milan Hotel Cenobio dei Dogi - A buen retiro on the Italian Riviera Hotel Vis à Vis - Room with a view Porto Antico di Genova - Porto Antico, unique performance

176 180 183 185

Emilia Romagna

187

The art of the good life Push Start - Discovering Italian excellence at top speed Holiday Inn Rimini Imperiale - A whole world to explore Admiral Park Hotel - The view from above

188 196 199 200

Marche Gems to be discovered

Tuscany

202

205

A brand called Tuscany 206 Cosmopolitan Hotels - Strength through unity 214 Fonteverde Collection Group - Wellness to business 217 FH Hotels Group - Customize your stay 218 Toflorence Hotels - Toflorence to live 220 Boccanegra Ristorante - The warm welcome of the dining table 223 Hard Rock Cafe Florence - Music and events 225 Abbazia di Spineto - Places near to perfection 226

Umbria The green heart of Italy Hotel Giò Perugia Centro Congressi - Jazz and why-no-t?

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229 231

Lazio

233

Lazio caput mundi Regional Tourism Agency - Lazio, the quintessential Mice region Roma Capitale - Rome, the Capital City Gvst Event Management - With Italy in our hearts Barceló Hotels - Rome according to Barceló Palenca Luxury Hotels - Congresses in Rome

234 244 248 250 252 254

Roscioli Hotels - An exclusive tradition 256 Kolbe Hotel - Where the quality is worthy of an Oscar 258 Parco dei Principi Grand Hotel & Spa – Rome à la carte 260 Radisson Blu Es. Hotel - In seventh heaven 262 Sheraton Roma Hotel & Conference Center - A journey to the future 264 The Church Palace - Timeless prestige 266 Antico Casale La Carovana - Roman holiday 268 Auditorium Parco della Musica - Not just music 270 Casina Valadier - The great beauty 273 Casino dell’Aurora Pallavicini - Perfect meetings 275 Cinecittà Studios - Just like in a film 277

Stampe non periodiche - DC/DCI/622/99/B - Milano - In caso di mancato recapito inviare all’ufficio di cmp Roserio Milano per la restituzione al mittente che si impegna a corrispondere i diritti postali.

EXPO 2015

000 Copertina Expo.indd 1

Abruzzo and Molise Growing regions

Campania

281

The sun lives here Cds Hotels - More for the Mice industry San Domenico Hotels Group - In pursuit of the past Una Hotel Regina - A city resort with a business vocation Iberotel Apulia - A culture of wellness Hotel Monte Sarago - Modernity with a view Corte Bracco dei Germani - Charme and business

303 304 308 311 315 317 320 322

Calabria Spicy and untouched

324

Basilicata A fairy-tail region Hilton Garden Inn Matera - Pleasant discoveries

Sicily

325 327

329

The land of legends 330 Confindustria Sicilia - Discover the tastes of Sicily during Expo 2015 333 Ghs Hotels - Exclusive solutions for meetings 335 Etnafiere - The goal is big events 337

Sardinia Exotic glamour Maremania - Go anywhere Dmc Sardinia - Serving the Mice industry Chia Laguna Resort - Plenty of novelties for Expo 2015 Hotel Catalunya - Business or leisure? Both!

Convento San Giuseppe - The sound of silence Pullman Timi Ama Sardegna - Making tracks in the sand Forte Village Resort - The Mediterranean for large groups

“Expo 2015 and Italy Mice Guide” is a non-periodical publication published by

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Sparkling and welcoming 284 Comune di Sorrento - A five-star destination 291 Salerno Incontra - A historical venue with a cutting-edge outlook 296 Tower Hotel Stabiae Sorrento Coast - Landing on modern shores 299 Lloyd’s Baia Hotel - Trendy days 301

Apulia

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339 340 344 346 348 350 351 352 354

in collaboration with

Publisher: Ediman Srl Via Ripamonti 89 20141 Milan – Italy Phone number: +39 02 57311511 Fax number: +39 02 55231486 Web site: www.ediman.it e-mail: info@ediman.it Managing editor: Marco Biamonti Head editor: Marco Garavaglia Editorial coordinator: Simona P.K. Daviddi Technical coordinator: Jessica A. Presa Art director & Graphics: Massimo Bernardi Graphic design: Silvia Ferri – www.madeweb.it Photo credits: Shutterstock – www.shutterstock.it Expo Milano 2015 Contributors: Alessandra Boiardi, Piera Carlomagno, Teresa Chiodo, Ofelia Figus, Matteo Rocca, Andrea Paternostro, Sabrina Piacenza Photolithograph & Prints: Prontostampa Srl, Zingonia (BG) This guide was sent for printing on December 12, 2014

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SWISS CORNER EXCELLENCE IN THE HEART OF MILAN Multifunctional exhibition area with lounge bistrot open 7 days a week, 18 hours per day, from 07.30 a.m. until 02.00 a.m. High quality brands can take advantage of cutting-edge means of communication with strong visual results: 7 double-sided shop windows facing Piazza Cavour and a eye-catching perimetral wall made up of 9 light boxes 3m X 3m each, for a total of 143 m² of customizable vertical display. A wide 10 m² videowall warms up the event area while elegant design furniture defines the inner space of the bistrot and the luminous dehors facing the square. Ideal for conferences, exhibitions, product launches, temporary stores, corporate events and showcooking.

Piazza Cavour, Milan Open every day from 7:30 AM to 2:00 AM For information and events: www.swisscornermilano.it swisscorner@ccsi.it + 39 0276320360 Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/swisscornermilano

SPAZIO EVENTI ELEGANCE AND FLEXIBILITY Located at the third floor of the Centro Svizzero, it consists of a great hall with a rational and refined design, named Sala Meili, characterized by cherry wood interiors, state of the art technical equipment, completely customizable settings and large windows overlooking the beautiful gardens of Porta Venezia. The welcoming foyer leads to the four modular rooms which allow for the flexible and effective management of any event, while enjoying the support of the best catering services.

An elegant and more intimate space is available at the fourth floor in the Sala Terrazza, where a charming natural light filters through the cupola ceiling and a private terrace offers a privileged view on the gardens of Via Palestro.

Swiss Chamber of Commerce in Italy Via Palestro 2, Milan For information: www.ccsi.it spazioeventi@ccsi.it +39 02 76320330/79

EXPO 2015

Expo 2015

A long-term business opportunity for the Mice global industry Major global events have always been an added value for the meeting industry. Here are just a few of the reasons that make Expo 2015 an added value for the events sector, and that have a positive impact on the locations, contents and visibility After seven years of waiting, working, projects and worksites, Italy is looking more and more like one of its many works of art. And the veil is about to be lifted, so it can show off its new face to an audience quivering with anticipation. As if it were a canvas of Leonardo or a marble of Michelangelo. The Italy of Expo 2015 can’t wait for the opening day. Its hub and headquarters will be in Milan, but the whole country will be actively involved.

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EXPO 2015

BUZZWORD: NETWORKING

A Universal Exposition is an amazingly wide-ranging, complex event which is both the container and the generator of contents and value for numerous clusters of visitors, businesses and institutions. We’ll look at this topic in more detail elsewhere in this special publication. For now, let’s focus on this “work of art” that’s about to be unveiled to the world: the front row of the diversified public that will take part is undoubtedly made up of professionals from the areas of event management, business tourism and business communication. Expo 2015 is something that directly affects them: in fact, it’s a worldwide event that aims to move millions of people from hundreds of countries, bringing them together for the biggest exhibition of technical and cultural know-how on the subject of food and environmental sustainability. The integrating events, meetings, conventions and communication initiatives of every type will be the main tools for structuring and shaping Expo 2015.

But what’s the real added value that a “big event” of this type can actually create for businesses? What are the immediate advantages that strategic communication can obtain thanks to a Universal Exposition lasting six months? And what are the positive medium- and long-term effects for international Mice? Apart from the most obvious considerations, events of this size aim to drive forward the international economy, encouraging large-scale networking and creating the ideal conditions for sharing best practices at world level. All this triggers a virtuous process which, if it’s well-managed, can lead to excellent results. And there’s no shortage of examples.

DISCOVER A BRAND NEW DESTINATION

The philosophy of the Universal Exposition is closer to that of the Olympics than that of a major international fair: it’s an event of global importance, that stimulates and attracts notable investments in civil infrastructure and leaves behind a greatly enhanced resource base of services, know-how, international positioning and urban development. This heritage therefore remains for the host city – in the case of Expo 2015 that’s Milan – and can generate a shared value for numerous stakeholders, including of course the international Mice operators. The textbook case that’s often mentioned is that of Barcelona: the great event of the 1992 Olympics was an unrepeatable opportunity that the city took full advantage of, taking a real leap into the 21st century and completely overhauling its appearance and road network, along with the entire city ecosystem. Today, Barcelona is amongst the leaders in the world

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EXPO 2015

ranking of the most popular destinations for conventions and international events, not to mention leisure tourism of course, and this shows that the big events really can “turbocharge” the economy of a city, greatly transforming its reputation and image; and this means tangible opportunities for businesses and their need for strategic communication. The international Mice that now sees Barcelona as a highly appealing destination is still reaping the benefits of a process begun over 20 years ago. It’s hard to accurately quantify in money terms the added value that a successfully renewed location is able to generate, because we’re talking about a social legacy that concerns several production areas. Once it’s up and running though, the positive cycle is clear to everyone.

Let’s take a step backwards: for the Universal Exposition of 1889 in Paris, Gustave Eiffel created his magnificent tower. Since then, the Eiffel Tower has been visited by at least 250 million people and, above all, it’s become part of the collective consciousness and the mindset of the entire world population. Nobody can imagine Paris now without its symbol; the city skyline is a global icon, reproduced on just about every type of gadget as an immediately recognisable element of the Paris “brand” the world over. Who can say what the Eiffel Tower is “worth”? And yet the global positioning of the French capital owes a lot to it, as does the tourism industry and the events and communication sector.

IN MILAN, THE FUTURE IS NOW

For Milan therefore, Expo 2015 represents precisely this: the chance to make a quality leap and complete the long-awaited transformation into a smart city, investing in its image and infrastructure to attract and satisfy a worldwide target public. The dimensions of the Universal Exposition are well-known: for six months, delegations from over 140 countries will be present, with the number of visitors estimated at tens of millions. It will be the biggest event ever organised for such a varied public (countries, institutions, businesses and individual citizens) on topics of universal interest such as alimentation, food production, and the innovation of practices to guarantee the biological and energy sustainability of the earth. The aims of the event are as ambitious as its logistics, which is why Milan is undergoing a magnificent restyling in terms of mobility, town planning, and public and private building. Apart from the site that will actually accommodate the Universal Exposition pavilions (an area of over one million square metres just on the outskirts of the city), the renewal has also touched on other strategic parts of the city such as the former Fiera, Navigli and Isola-Porta Nuova. Thanks to the Expo 2015, worksites have been set up for two new underground lines, technological solutions for contactless payment via smartphone are being tested, and there has been a real boom in the car-sharing sector: innovations that have quickly transformed both public and private mobility and have revolutionised the Milan skyline, giving it a recognisable form that it didn’t have before and that brings it on a par with all the most modern European cities. The requalification of the old Fiera area also led to the extension – in 2011 – of the new Mi-Co convention centre that can now hold up to 18,000 people in approximately 70 fully-furnished state-

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EXPO 2015

of-the-art conference halls. All this completes and enhances the city’s international positioning (already very strong in certain segments such as fashion and design) and boosts its tourist appeal, providing new stimuli and new facilities for business-related tourism, promotion and congress mobility. The new areas have the precise aim of strengthening Milan (and, as a result, the rest of the country too) in the ranking of ideal business destinations.

SMART CITY, SMART MEETING

Even though they’re not directly linked to the Expo 2015, all these projects have been developed to a greater or lesser degree on that same fertile ground which convinced Milan to put itself forward as a candidate to host the prime worldwide event of 2015.

That, in turn, has become the milestone to be reached – the deadline for completing the city’s renewal. The Milan of 2015 presents itself to the global Mice market as a shiny new, modern location with the air of innovation and international sparkle that accompanies one of these fantastic “once in a lifetime” events; the Milan of the coming years, with the completion of many other projects with a long-term deadline, will be a destination that can rely on its Expo 2015 experience to quickly

Milan’s new face The magnificent height of the Isozaki tower already stands out at the centre of CityLife – a business and residential neighbourhood that’s rising up in place of the old fair pavilions of the Fiera area. It will shortly be followed by other two skyscrapers designed by archistars Daniel Libeskind and Zaha Hadid.

In the heart of Milan on the other hand, in the Isola area, the town planning project known as “City of Fashion” is under way, defined by the unmistakable profiles of the new UniCredit Tower (the highest in Italy), the Torre Diamante (Diamond Tower), and the two bright green skyscrapers of the Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest), with something like 1,000 trees adorning their outer surface. In the same area, the building complex of Palazzo Lombardia and the Garibaldi Towers have also taken shape.

The city skyline has been completely renewed in the space of just a few years, thanks to a series of projects carried forward

simultaneously and with the common aim of modernising the city infrastructure and creating new, high tech areas.

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EXPO 2015

and efficiently provide the best welcome, hospitality, fun and information for millions of visitors. The example of Barcelona is handy for understanding the importance of keeping the change alive over time and making it permanent, right from the first day after the Expo 2015 ends. Of course, this will depend on the level of success of the event: what’s at stake is the city’s future, its image and global reputation, and to reach this shared success the entire Italian meeting industry is working as one. The proof is in the setting up, last June, of the Convention Bureau Italia; an event longawaited by this sector. Over the years, Italy has had many excellent local convention bureaus linked to its most successful congress destinations (Rimini, Florence, Genoa and Turin, to name just a few), but it has never been able to establish a single national coordinating body to converse with international meeting planners and event managers. The upcoming Expo 2015 was, however, too important a test bench not to concentrate every possible energy and resource on the promotion of an area which, in just a few months’ time, will be holding centre stage for the whole world.

THE WHOLE WORLD IN ONE COUNTRY

But what are the real immediate advantages that Mice can reap from the Expo 2015, choosing Milan and Italy as the backdrop for events, conferences, incentives or conventions? A starting key is the significant variety in the target audience. In normal conditions, the choice of a particular destination is based on the aim to let participants experience the content and amenities of that specific place. Alternatively, it may be conditioned by the decision to present the brand and products to a specific market. The question changes considerably in the case of a worldwide event though: one single event in a single place can reach a global audience. During the Expo 2015, all eyes will be focused on Italy, and this is an opportunity not only for the businesses directly involved in the event itself as partners, sponsors or suppliers, but for all those who want to make their products and services visible to a worldwide body of consumers, in the form of millions of visitors. And that means the ring of stakeholders of Expo 2015 is substantially widened.

There’s a wonderful story by Jorge Luis Borges, “The Aleph”, in which the main character witnesses the simultaneous appearance, in one single place, of “all the places on the earth, seen from every angle”. Well, the principle is the same. The pavilions (in other words, the structures within which all the guest countries and their representative businesses will be displaying their messages) will also host debates, meetings, conferences and thinktanks that will give rise to countless networking opportunities at various levels. In a context where many different operators are searching for business opportunities and are interested in sharing their skills and know-how, it’s easier to put forward new ideas, and to find and meet potential investors and new customers. This holds true first and foremost for those businesses in the sectors most closely linked with the key themes

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EXPO 2015

of the Expo 2015, like food, energy, ecology and the smart city; but it’s also true that they can all take advantage of a global communication platform to work on their own positioning and on brand awareness. Generally speaking, the Expo 2015 will be a unique opportunity for launching new products and establishing a name everywhere, in both b2c and b2b. To paraphrase Archimedes of Syracuse, with a single resting point and a single thrust, it’s possible to raise the whole world, maximising the opportunities for contact.

A TAILOR-MADE MICE RANGE It’s clear that we’re approaching a great opportunity for the whole meeting industry: communication and event managers, meeting designers and professional conference organisers, destination management companies, hotel chains and long-established hotels, service suppliers and assemblers, trainers and team builders… all the Italian players are at work to satisfy the demand from millions of potential incoming clients. In order to maximise the contact opportunities, they’ll have to work in a more active manner, leaving behind the logic based on a reaction to demand resulting from a proposal: this is precisely the Expo 2015 challenge. Nobody is expecting clients to come knocking on their door, and the ability to step forward with original ideas will be the best way to highlight the many excellent skills found in the field of congress tourism, marketing and communication, especially in a country like Italy whose economic fabric is made up of a multitude of tailored small and medium businesses.

Proactivity and originality will be essential, which is why the international buyers and prospects will come face to face with items often tailor-made and modelled to suit their own specific needs. Italy in 2015 could be the right choice for this reason too. As you can see by taking a look at this Mice Guide, the aim is to fully accentuate the entire country, promoting locations and qualified operators in every region of Italy and creating the best conditions for encouraging business tourism via a wealth of one-off programmes and congress projects. Expo 2015 is also a general test of Italian professionalism, and it’s an unrepeatable chance to go beyond certain old prejudices and the possible threats to the country’s overall credibility and image. The Italian meeting industry is therefore ready to give it all, opening up with faith and enthusiasm to international partners and potential sources of new business. A great event always brings new vitality to the service sector, generating a buzz and driving towards innovation to raise the standards and maximise the results, at the same time guaranteeing the best return on investments for all those involved.

EXPO 2015

THE ITALIAN WAY OF LIFE IS ON SHOW

Last but not least, the main theme of the Expo 2015 is in itself a powerful driver behind the choices of congress operators. Food & beverage is a fundamental part of every event: the quality, refinement and exclusiveness of participants’ experience are in part dependent on the ability to pamper their palates. Nobody organises an event with the idea of serving just sandwiches and normal table wine, with everyday service standards; the aim is always to offer something unique and characteristic, something that’s not runof-the-mill, something extraordinary. Elegance at the table is something that meets the wishes and expectations of the participants at any convention, and it’s undoubtedly one of the plus factors of a location. Comfortable accommodation, the chance to relax, the gratification of interests and cultural or sensorial curiosity – these are the keys to a successful event. And the proof lies in the success of the show-cooking format, both on Tv and at personal level, with its significant knock-on effects in relation to team-building and light-hearted activities to draw in, encourage and reward participants.

Thanks to the quality of its food & beverage and the countless specialities that can be enjoyed in every corner of the nation, from the Alps to the Islands, Italy is famous all over the world and is the number one choice for gourmand tourism. Restaurants everywhere know and use Italian products, and the food sector is without doubt one of the drivers – and certainly the most representative – of the national economy. The Expo 2015 themes were no random choice and, by proposing its financial capital as the hub of the event, Italy wisely chose to link the project with one of its strong points.

This will help attract the maximum attention worthy of an Expo 2015 programme filled with first class content, experiences and products.

The Expo 2015 is therefore an opportunity to further accentuate the outstanding products of the whole country. During 2015, Italy will – like never before – be a sort of huge gastronomic showcase displaying the best of the best – wines, cheeses, delicacies from land and sea, culinary delights and typical elements of the Italian way of life: a lifestyle that, along with the country’s endless examples of artistic, historic and natural beauty, has always been one of the first things that convinces millions of visitors to choose Italy every year as the destination of their travels, whether for pleasure or for business.

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Brand new 4 star hotel (opening July 2015) with 5 star ambience and service, located in a wonderful park close to the city centre of Rome. 274 rooms and suites. Innovative show cooking buffet restaurant, with 10 different food areas. Congress Centre with 19 meeting rooms (main room max capacity 600 seats). Garden and swimming pool. 3.000 sq.m. SPA. Shuttle minibus service to/from the city centre. Free high speed Wi-Fi access. Free minibar soft drinks. Private garage and parking area. 30 min far from Rome airport and 15 min from St. Peter’s square.

info@hotel-aroma.com www.hotel-aroma.com

www.ldcitalianhotels.com

Relais Sant’Uffizio Wellness & SPA Asti / Piedmont. A 300 years ancient monastery renewed into a luxury relais, surrounded by his own 8 hectares Barbera vineyards, in the Unesco Heritage hills of Langhe and Monferrato. 53 beautiful country and luxury rooms and suites.

3 meeting rooms (main room max capacity 300 seats). Gourmet restaurant. Wine tasting and truffle hunt. Garden, swimming pool, SPA and tennis court. Free Wi-Fi access. Private parking.

1h’20 min far from Milan City Centre and 1h far from Turin.

info@relaissantuffizio.com www.relaissantuffizio.com

EXPO 2015

The Universal Expositions in the history From major international fairs to milestones in the worldwide debate on human and universal issues, for a century and a half the Expos have been associated with innovation and the evolution of society But what exactly is a Universal Exposition? How is it structured, how does it work, and what’s its purpose?

Taking a quick look at the history of these exhibitions, we can see what led the international community to encourage and foster these immense initiatives over time.

They began in the mid 19th century, and gradually evolved with the changing economic, technological, social and cultural climate. The world has altered dramatically in the meantime, yet the Universal Expositions are still with us; their format has changed, but there’s clearly an endless underlying need that still drives hundreds of countries, international bodies, businesses and associations of every type to create these global opportunities for meeting, exchanging and socialising.

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HOW DOES IT WORK?

Right from the first Expo, held in the Crystal Palace in London in 1851, the Universal Exposition has been the ideal stage for the most ambitious goals reached by man over time. It’s a chance to share innovation, technological progress and major discoveries, architectural projects or artistic movements, but also to create places that become true symbols of the culture and story of that age.

The Expo began as a noncommercial event, aimed at creating a sort of sounding board for international dialogue between citizens, countries and institutions on topical issues of universal interest. From the very beginning, it was the prime occasion for displaying human creativity and talent via the presentation of the best that each country could offer the world in that particular historical moment, in a kind of magnificent fair of the knowhow and intelligence of every nation.

Universal or International?

The Bie has defined two types of Exposition that differ in terms of frequency, duration, organisation and themes. Milano 2015 is a Universal Exposition, as were Shanghai 2010, Aichi 2005 and Hanover 2000, and the future Dubai 2020; between one Universal Exposition and the next, there is an International Exposition (Zaragoza 2008, Yeosu 2012 and Astana 2017).

International Expositions 1 Time: between Universal Expositions 2 Duration: up to 3 months 3 The organisers build all the pavilions and then rent them to the participants 4 The site has a maximum area of 25 hectares 5 The theme is specific

Universal Expositions 1 Time: every 5 years 2 Duration: up to 6 months 3 Participants build their own pavilions 4 The site area has no size limits 5 The theme is general

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THE ROLE OF THE FIRST EXPOSITIONS

The Expo story begins in London. The first world Exposition was designed to meet the growing demand for increased diplomatic and economic contact between western countries, at a time when the initial stages of industrial development were progressing hand-in-hand with the strengthening of the European liberal democracies. The need to stimulate free commercial exchange convinced Prince Albert (Prince Consort of Queen Victoria) to actively promote a major world fair, to be held in London in 1851.

At that time, the city was spearheading the trend to modernisation, and was the leading force in the first economic boom of the 19th century. The organising committee chose Hyde Park as the most suitable site for the exhibition, and an international competition was launched to design the pavilion. More than 250 projects were presented and the winning design, by Joseph Paxton, would subsequently become known as the Crystal Palace. Based on the model of a greenhouse, it became a point of reference for international architecture, with extraordinary dimensions that astonished all the visitors (over 500 metres long, and more than 100 metres wide). It was the perfect symbol of British modernity for a long time, until it was destroyed by fire in 1936.

The most popular section of the Universal Exposition was the one given over to mechanics, with countries, engineers and inventors presenting all the latest locomotion systems, steamoperated machines and industrial components. Around six million people visited the exhibition; an incredible figure, considering the type of transport available at the time. It was the first, amazing showcase of the industrial and economic revolution that was changing the face of the western world. The proceeds were used by the British government to finance non-profit educational institutions, museums and advanced training institutes.

The role of the Bie The Expositions are managed by the Bureau International des Expositions – Bie, an international governing body established in 1928 by the Paris Convention. Thanks to the Bie (which has the important task of defining the objectives for the Expos and of overseeing the selection procedure, calendar and organisation of the event), quality and international rights are guaranteed. The Bie is made up of 168

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member countries, each represented by at least one delegate. Any country can become a member of the Bie by acknowledging the 1928 Convention and its subsequent protocols, thereby making its own fundamental contribution to future Expos.

EXPO 2015

In 1855, Napoleon III decided he could do even better, and Paris played host to a huge exhibition dedicated to agriculture, industry and craftsmanship. It was an important diplomatic event, offering Queen Victoria the opportunity to visit France and greatly improving relations between the two countries at the height of the colonial age.

For the first time, the general public came face to face with inventions that were to radically transform daily life, like the “Singer” sewing machine, the lawnmower and the six-chambered revolver.

London and Paris took it in turns to host the event in future years, with just a few exceptions – Vienna 1873 and Philadelphia 1876, for the centenary of the American Declaration of Independence; on that occasion, France made a gift to the United States, in the form of the Statue of Liberty. A few years later, in 1889, the French capital celebrated the centenary of the Revolution by opening the spectacular Eiffel Tower.

During this initial phase, the role of the Expo was both commemorative and diplomatic: a sort of birthday party, where one country decided to invite the rest of the world to celebrate all the technical, historical and cultural achievements.

THE FIRST TIME IN MILAN

In 1906, coinciding with the opening of the Simplon railway tunnel, Milan organised a huge International Exposition, with more than four million visitors taking part over the six months. Over 200 pavilions were set up in the area behind Sforzesco Castle (what is now Sempione Park). The theme that year was transport: interest in the advances made in the field of land and sea transport was riding high.

Electric trams, aircraft and large aerostatic balloons were on show, together

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with the latest railway technologies that guaranteed the first direct line between Milan and Paris. The exhibition site displayed the best of Italian Art Nouveau, and there was a tangible atmosphere of optimism and faith in the progress of science and technology that was to kindle the writings of the Futurists in the coming years. But, more than anything else, it was a significant international début for the city. People were beginning to understand that the Expo could help boost the image of a place, and that was the spirit that led various world metropolises to put themselves forward as candidates in the next few decades.

The case of Chicago 1933 is typical: it helped bring more than 35 million visitors to the city and cleaned up its international image (traditionally associated with crime, smuggling and bootlegging in the years of prohibition). This was the height of the Great Depression, but the Expo was a success, encouraging the organisers to repeat it the following year.

A GROWING SUCCESS

It’s hard to list all the Expositions of the 20th century, or even just name the main ones. It should be remembered though, that the number of visitors grew constantly, keeping pace with the evolution of the worldwide tourism industry, and the focus gradually shifted from a mere celebration of technical and technological progress (as was the case of the first Expos) to a cultural exchange based on various topics of shared interest like town planning, ecosystems or education. In particular from the 1970s on, the concept of “country branding” took hold, with individual cities and countries aiming to present themselves first and foremost, strengthening their image in the eyes of the general public.

From 1962 to 1986, the Expo locations – both Universal and International (see the “Universal or International?” box) – alternated between North America (Usa and Canada) and Japan, underlining the shift away from Europe with regards to the role of leader in the world economy and technological innovation.

For Expo’s return to Europe, the choice fell on Spain (Seville 1992, Zaragoza 2008), Portugal (Lisbon 1998), Germany (Hanover 2000) and Italy (Genoa 1992, and now Milan 2015). In the meantime, the 21st century has seen the arrival of China (Shanghai 2010), that hosted the 2008 Olympics, and in 2020 it will be the turn of Dubai. This rotation of host countries generally reflects the trends in global politics and the evolution of the positioning (economic, tourist and cultural) of the various parts of the world.

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THE ROLE OF THE HOST COUNTRY The setting up of the Bie in 1928 helped create a protocol and guidelines for managing a universal Expo, based on many of the elements we have looked at (see the “The role of the Bie” box). Organised by the country that wins the candidature competition, the Exposition takes place on a purposely designated exhibition site and offers the participating countries (invited via diplomatic channels) the chance to meet and share their ideas. The host country has the opportunity not only to show the world the best of its technological innovation, national production and cultural tradition, but also to boost its international relations in a whole range of fields.

Every Expo leaves behind a vast material legacy for the city that hosted it: many of the one-off monuments and buildings created specifically for the event can become a real calling card for the city – think of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Atomium in Brussels, or the Space Needle in Seattle.

But that’s not all: the Expo is a chance to change the face of the city, improving the quality of life of its inhabitants, improving the services and infrastructure and reinforcing its grip on the global tourism market.

The Expositions of Shanghai, Lisbon, Brisbane, Spokane and many other cities have left a legacy of modern neighbourhoods, new infrastructure, parks and museums.

Music as Art in the search for Excellence ...

RECENT YEARS AND INTO THE FUTURE Today, the Expo is still undoubtedly a showcase of the most important new ideas, but its attention has gradually turned towards a study and understanding of the great issues of humanity. Think of those held in Lisbon, Zaragoza, Yeosu and Shanghai, where the focus was respectively on water, the oceans and the quality of life in the big cities. And for Expo Milano 2015, the theme of Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life will look at the problem of feeding human beings whilst at the same time respecting the earth they lives on. In Astana (Kazakhstan) in 2017, the subject will again be energy, while for Dubai 2020 the topic will be “Connecting Minds, Creating the Future”. You could say that we’ve moved on from countries’ birthday parties to their graduation parties, with each nation bringing along the best of its theory, practice and production.

During the 21st century, interest in the Expo and in its ability to stimulate participation has increased: from 19 million visitors at Hanover 2000 to more than 70 million at Shanghai 2010 – a figure that has to be seen in terms of Chinese demography of course, but which anyway gives an idea of the extensive spread of the Exposition topics.

In a world that’s permanently interconnected and increasingly seen as “one”, the role of the Expo seems to be that of offering a chance for direct, “face-to-face” meeting and exchange, although its messages circle the world thanks to the web and social media, gradually reaching billions of people. From an exhibition of the products of industrialism to a reflection on their consequences and the need to maintain a balance between development and resources: Expo Milano 2015, and those that come after it, will perhaps be the first and most authentic fairs of awareness and worldwide sharing.

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EXPO 2015

Discover the Expo 2015 site Cutting edge pavilions, pioneering infrastructure and a new layout for the display areas: these are the primary characteristics of the upcoming Universal Exposition A visit to a Universal Exposition means a journey of discovery of the entire planet, personally interacting with spaces, environments and structures purposely created for this aim by each of the countries and organisations taking part. That’s why Expo 2015 will be above all (though not only) a place, a well-defined area, a magnificent theme park made possible by the efforts of all the peoples and organisations of this world. Following the best practices of the various Expositions held in recent years, and adding a fair number of innovations, a rational yet thrilling route has been laid out, able to take the visitor on a journey in time and space and put him into contact with every corner of the earth – the sounds, colours and, more than anything else, the most traditional tastes.

A MODERN PLACE ... WITH AN ANCIENT FORM

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The stage of Expo 2015 is a wonderful exhibition site created specially for the occasion in a large area to the north-west of the city, next to the new Fiera Milano: its geographical position (more or less the same distance from the airports of Linate, Malpensa and Orio al Serio) ensures easy access to both air travel and all the main public transport systems. The site can easily be reached at local, national and international level.

The Expo 2015 area covers about one million square metres. The project was created by internationally renowned architects , and inspired by the traditional layout of a Roman city. In many modern cities the cross shape is still evident in the urban fabric, inherited from the castrum – the Roman camp with its orthogonal layout and two wide, perpendicular streets called Cardo and Decumano.

This simple, natural form is easy to grasp and helps the visitor find his bearings amid the experiences, stories, events and exhibitions that are the starting point for enjoying the tastes of the earth’s culinary traditions, in what is a real tour of the world.

EXPO 2015

THE CENTRAL DECUMANO AND THE CLUSTERS

The main street, the Decumano, crosses the whole site from east to west. One and a half kilometres long, it symbolically joins the place where food is eaten (the city) with the place where it’s produced (the countryside). On both sides of the Decumano stand the national pavilions of the guest countries: many of them will have their own self-built structure, while the others will be grouped together in Clusters. The Clusters are one of the new ideas at Expo Milano 2015: for the first time, countries aren’t grouped in collective pavilions according to their geographical area but on the basis of shared themes and foods. In this way, the theme “Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life” is applied in its broadest sense, giving a tangible form to the spirit of sharing, dialogue and interaction. The Clusters have communal areas that develop the food supply chain via practical zones (market, exhibition, events, tasting sessions). Each country present in a Cluster has its own display area, where it can show its own interpretation of the theme of Expo 2015.

THE CARDO AND ITALY

The Decumano will intersect with the 350-metre long Cardo, that runs from north to south and houses the showcase area of the host country, Italy. In Palazzo Italia, the country’s culture, culinary traditions and typical products will highlight the very best of its food and cultural habits. In the point where the two roads meet, the big central square of the Expo 2015 - Piazza Italia - will symbolise Italy’s meeting with the rest of the world. At the four ends of the Cardo and Decumano stand four of the most important structures of Expo Milano 2015: the Lake Arena, the Open Air Theatre, the Mediterranean Hill and the Expo Centre - fundamental points of reference for helping visitors find their way around the site, but also acting as venues for the biggest Expo 2015 events. In addition, they’ll remain as a priceless legacy for the events industry in coming years.

How to get there The Expo site lies at the crossroads of the A8-A9 ComoVarese-Milan and the A4 Turin-Milan-Venice motorways. It’s served by Line 1 of the Milan underground, the Milan Passante railway, local and regional trains, and high-speed trains.

It’s also less than one hour from the three main airports of northern Italy (Linate, Malpensa and Orio al Serio). Visitors can enjoy the many areas of environmental interest nearby, including Parco delle Groane, the Vanzago Wwf sanctuary,

Parco Agricolo Sud Milano, Parco delle Cave, Parco Aldo Aniasi (previously Parco di Trenno), not to mention numerous historical residences and places. And the magnificent worldrenowned lakes Maggiore, Como, Lugano and Varese are within easy reach too.

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THE LAKE ARENA, THE OPEN AIR THEATRE AND THE MEDITERRANEAN HILL

With its 90-metre diameter, the Lake Arena is the biggest open space for visitors. It will host plays of water and fireworks, concerts and shows on floating platforms, artistic performances and temporary events. It’s a water basin surrounded by tiers of seats for about 3,000 spectators, in turn surrounded by an open area of roughly 28,000 square metres that can accommodate up to 20,000 people.

On the south side of the site, the Open Air Theatre is one of the four cardinal points at the ends of the Cardo and Decumano.

It’s a large area designed for open-air events, and can seat about 11,000 people on the steps and lawn for concerts, plays and official ceremonies.

The structure protecting the stage is fitted with solar panels; this means the energy needs of the various shows can be met from renewable sources.

The Mediterranean Hill lies at the eastern end of the site. It’s 12 metres high and reproduces some of the most typical vegetation and cultivation of the Mediterranean ecosystem. It’s also the best point for a breathtaking view of the whole site. Designed to be enjoyed by everyone, it has a system of ramps that lead the visitor to the very top.

Ph © Expo Milano 2015

THE PAVILIONS

One characteristic of the Universal Expositions is the presence of self-built structures entirely designed and built by each participating country, company, or other institutional body. When registering for Expo Milano 2015, each country chose whether to create its own display area for the plots of various sizes (from 500 to 5000 square metres) that face onto the main street, the Decumano, also known as World Avenue.

This layout guarantees the same degree of visibility for everybody, and is one of the prime innovations of this Expo Milano 2015. The design of the pavilions is itself a huge

A journey through the flavours of the world, in eight Clusters To help visitors really live the “Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life” theme, Expo Milano 2015 has set itself the aim of putting them right at the heart of the event. This is the idea underlying the Cluster participation model, representing an extraordinary added value for the development of the theme. There are eight

Clusters, five of them dedicated to specific production chains (Rice, Cocoa, Coffee, Spices, Fruits and Legumes, Cereals and Tubers) and three focusing on cultural and geographic areas (Bio-Mediterraneum, Islands, Sea and Food, Arid Zones). This enriches the Exposition range even further, adding themed programmes and a focus on specific products.

Ph © Expo Milano 2015

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display of creativity, forming one of the added values of the Universal Exposition: the architecture of each pavilion represents the way in which each country has chosen to interpret the overall theme, and is the framework for the events, contents and experiences that the various guest countries will offer the visitors.

This characteristic is what makes the visual impact of every Expo 2015 pavilion unique: the theme of food and agricultural resources, in particular, has drummed up a significant amount of creativity and produced a fantastic explosion of original shapes and natural colours. The Latvian pavilion takes its inspiration from the shape of an oak while the Lithuanian one echoes a set of scales; Thailand has chosen to reproduce the shape of the traditional peasant’s hat; the Polish structure brings to mind apple crates; and the United States has evoked the typical barn of the north American countryside but with a futuristic interpretation. In short, each pavilion is, in itself, an image of the traditions and customs of the whole world.

Ph © Expo Milano 2015

ITALY ON DISPLAY IN THE ITALIAN PAVILION In keeping with the Expo tradition, the host country has its own characteristic area for showing off its products of excellence. The Italian Pavilion will provide the backdrop for the national culture and traditions linked to food and diet, distinguished by the top quality of the raw ingredients and end products. Italy is present both in the

EXPO 2015

Ph © Expo Milano 2015

Sustainable architecture The skyline of the self-built pavilions forms a striking and unusual profile, yet one that’s sustainable at the same time: all the Expo 2015 participants have undertaken to respect a series of design rules such as the use of recyclable materials with a low environmental impact, the construction of temporary structures that are easily disassembled, the utmost attention

to energy consumption, and great consideration of the greenery and landscape. Another fundamental design constraint – which has, however, offered a notable creative cue for the worldwide designers involved in producing the pavilions – was that half the assigned plot had to be left as open space. So get ready to be astounded by a whole series of aerial geometries, bright environments and futuristic layouts from all over the world.

display areas along the Cardo and in Palazzo Italia - the showcase building of the Italian state and government – which is the institutional meeting place between the host country and the guest countries. The position of the display areas given over to the European Institutions, opposite Palazzo Italia and closely linked with the Cardo system, symbolically highlights the close ties between Italy and Europe.

Palazzo Italia is the symbolic heart of the site, and is destined to remain behind as a permanent structure (the pole of the city’s technological innovation) once the Expo 2015 has ended. Developed on the basis of a tree/forest concept, it aims to be the starting point of an ideal emotional journey through the world of nutrition. The various display areas along the Cardo echo the layout of a typical Italian village, representing the variety and wealth of Italy and its numerous identities: to the north, the Italian areas and regions; to the south, the “Made in Italy” supply chains with a large display of the best national production in the spheres of food and sustainability.

NOT ONLY COUNTRIES, BUT COMPANIES TOO

Ph © Expo Milano 2015

In the Corporate Area, companies will have a dedicated zone where their brand can receive the maximum visibility: they can use pavilions purposely built by Expo Milano 2015 or build, fit out and manage their own corporate pavilion as an autonomously designed structure that accentuates one of the aspects of the Expo theme. This means they can create display areas with a striking impact and containing zones of various types according to the sector and the particular features of the individual company. In both cases, the design focuses on minimising the environmental impact of the structure and integrating the buildings with renewable energy

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systems. One example is the Coca-Cola pavilion: a 12-metre high parallelepiped with an overall surface area of 1000 square metres, with the glass and wooden walls recreating the famous Coca-Cola logo and the silhouette of the classic glass CocaCola bottle that will be celebrating its 100th birthday in 2015.

Another corporate pavilion is that of China Corporate United, created by a group of Chinese companies: Kip International School (an independent, non-profit making organisation), New Holland Agriculture (one of the world leaders in agricultural mechanisation) and Vanke (a Chinese property sector giant).

Internationalism, the wide variety of sectors and know-how, and an open-minded approach to innovation – these are the unmistakable traits of Expo 2015.

Ph © Expo Milano 2015

THE PAVILION OF THE NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANISATIONS AND THE THEMED AREAS

Cascina Triulza is an old rural construction within the borders of the Exposition site.

It’s one of the many picturesque rural buildings that scatter the countryside around Milan, linking the modern city with its agricultural roots. It’s been chosen as the pavilion dedicated to NGOs and the “third sector”, but will also house numerous initiatives arranged by companies, public institutions and international organisations in collaboration with the NGOs. There’ll also be an area offering catering services and refreshments for all the Expo 2015 visitors, and a wealth of other facilities such as the display area, an events zone with 200-seater auditorium, a courtyard of 1,700 square metres, a market for small-scale producers, and a business centre.

A wide selection of themed areas are also planned, with information, services and edutainment activities for both adults and kids: from Pavilion Zero that tells the story of man’s presence on the Earth via his relationship with food, to the Arts & Food area; from the Children’s Park for the youngest visitors, to the Future Food District with its possible scenarios for the wide-scale application of new technologies in each step of the food chain.

A bird’s eye view of the work The Expo 2015 worksite has now entered its final phase. The work hasn’t finished yet, but everyone is focusing on meeting the goal and getting everything ready in time for the opening ceremony and the cutting of the ribbon at the end of April. For local residents and all those interested in seeing

the day-by-day progress and finishing touches to the various pavilions, or wanting a sneak preview of the Expo 2015 site, the official event website (www.expo2015.org) offers the chance to follow the “Belvedere in Città” project set up in collaboration with Telecom Italia; every week, there’s a new video filmed above the worksite with the aid of a drone.

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Discover all the Participants As defined by the rules of the BIE (Bureau International des Expositions), Participants in the Universal Exposition are identified as Official or Non-Official: Official Participants are all Countries (145) and International Organizations (3) who accept the invitation sent by the Government of the Country hosting the Exposition. Non-Official Participants may be a group of representatives, institutional and otherwise, whose participation is authorized directly by the Organizer of every single Exposition.

COUNTRIES • Afghanistan (World of Spices Cluster) • Albania (Bio-Mediterraneum Cluster) • Algeria (Bio-Mediterraneum Cluster) • Angola • Argentina • Armenia • Austria • Azerbaijan • Bahrain • Bangladesh (Rice Cluster) • Barbados (Islands, Sea and Food Cluster) • Belarus • Belize (Islands, Sea and Food Cluster) • Belgium • Benin (Fruits and Legumes Cluster) • Bolivia (Cereals and Tubers Cluster) • Bosnia and Herzegovina • Brazil • Brunei Darussalam (World of Spices Cluster) • Bulgaria • Burundi (Coffee Cluster) • Cambodia (Rice Cluster) • Caribbean Community (Islands, Sea and Food) • Cameroon (Cocoa Cluster) • Cape Verde (Islands, Sea and Food Cluster) • Central African Republic • Chile • China • Colombia • Comoros (Islands, Sea and Food Cluster) • Congo (Cereals and Tubers Cluster) • Costa Rica (Coffee Cluster) • Côte D’Ivoire • Croatia • Cuba (Cocoa Cluster) • Czech Republic • Democratic Republic of the Congo (Fruits and Legumes Cluster) • Djibouti (Agriculture and Nutrition in the Arid Zones) • Dominica (Islands, Sea and Food Cluster) • Dominican Republic • Ecuador • Egypt (Bio-Mediterraneum Cluster) • El Salvador (Coffee Cluster) • Equatorial Guinea (Fruits and Legumes) • Eritrea (Agriculture and Nutrition in the Arid Zones) • Estonia • Ethiopia (Coffee Cluster) • France • Gabon (Cocoa Cluster) • Gambia (Fruits and Legumes Cluster) • Georgia • Germany • Ghana (Cocoa Cluster) • Greece (Bio-Mediterraneum Cluster) • Grenada (Islands, Sea and Food Cluster) • Guatemala (Coffee Cluster) • Guinea (Fruits and Legumes Cluster) • Guinea Bissau (Islands, Sea and Food Cluster) • Guyana (Islands, Sea and Food Cluster) • Haiti (Cereals and Tubers Cluster)

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• Holy See • Honduras • Hungary • India • Indonesia • Iraq • Ireland • Islamic Republic of Iran • Israel • Italy • Japan • Jordan • Kazakhstan • Kenya (Coffee Cluster) • Kuwait • Kyrgyzstan (Fruits and Legumes Cluster) • Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Rice Cluster) • Latvia • Lebanon (Bio-Mediterraneum Cluster) • Liberia • Libya (Bio-Mediterraneum Cluster) • Lithuania • Madagascar (Islands, Sea and Food Cluster) • Malaysia • Maldives (Islands, Sea and Food Cluster) • Mali • Malta (Bio-Mediterraneum Cluster) • Mauritania (Agriculture and Nutrition in the Arid Zones) • Mali (Agriculture and Nutrition in the Arid Zones) • Mexico • Micronesia • Monaco • Mongolia • Montenegro (Bio-Mediterraneum Cluster) • Morocco • Mozambique (Cereals and Tubers Cluster) • Myanmar (Rice Cluster) • Nepal • Netherlands • Niger • Nigeria • Oman • Pakistan • Palau • Palestine (Agriculture and Nutrition in the Arid Zones) • Panama • Paraguay • Peru • Poland • Qatar • Republic of Korea • Republic of Moldova • Romania • Russian Federation • Rwanda (Coffee Cluster) • Saint Lucia (Islands, Sea and Food Cluster) • Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (Islands, Sea and Food Cluster) • San Marino (Bio-Mediterraneum Cluster) • Sao Tome and Principe (Cocoa Cluster) • Saudi Arabia • Senegal (Agriculture and Nutrition in the

Arid Zones) • Serbia (Bio-Mediterraneum Cluster) • Seychelles • Sierra Leone (Rice Cluster) • Slovakia • Slovenia • Somalia (Agriculture and Nutrition in the Arid Zones) • Sovereign Order of Malta • Spain • Sri Lanka • Sudan • Suriname (Islands, Sea and Food Cluster) • Switzerland • Syrian Arab Republic • Tajikistan • Thailand • Togo (Cereals and Tubers Cluster) • Tunisia (Bio-Mediterraneum Cluster) • Turkey • Turkmenistan • Uganda (Coffee Cluster) • Ukraine • United Arab Emirates • United Kingdom • United Republic of Tanzania (World of Spices Cluster) • United States of America • Uruguay • Uzbekistan (Fruits and Legumes Cluster) • Vanuatu (World of Spices Cluster) • Venezuela • Viet Nam • Yemen (Coffee Cluster) • Zambia (Fruits and Legumes Cluster) • Zimbabwe (Cereals and Tubers Cluster) INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS • Cern • European Union • The United Nations CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATIONS • ActionAid • Alliance2015 • Caritas • Don Bosco Network (DBN) • Fairtrade International • Fondazione Triulza • Inter Press Service • Lions Clubs International • Oxfam • PlaNet Finance • Save the Children • Wwf • Waa-Amia/Conaf CORPORATE • China Corporate United Pavilion • Coca Cola • JooMoo • KIP International School • New Holland Agriculture • Vanke

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EXPO 2015

FAQ about tickets for Expo Milano 2015 Alessandro Mancini is the Ticketing & Tourism Director for Expo 2015. He has the task of deciding the prices and sales options for all the tickets, including those set aside for Mice clientèle. This interview contains all the necessary information for the Mice community Expo 2015 is scheduled to open on 1st May 2015, but the meeting planners and professional conference organisers who want to purchase tickets for their company events in advance can already do so now. There are, in fact, purchase options and types of ticket for every possible need, with particular consideration for Mice clientele.

Here, Alessandro Mancini – Ticketing & Tourism Director for Expo 2015 – answers the questions most frequently asked about tickets and groups.

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Mr. Mancini, where can the tickets for Expo Milano 2015 be bought?

«First of all, via the website. Go to https://tickets. expo2015.org and register on the MyExpo section. Up to 15 tickets can be directly purchased by credit card.

For groups of more than 15 people, tickets will be available on favourable terms from January 2015.

Contact the Expo Milano 2015 Call Center or, at a later date, go to the Exposition Site cash desk.

If you’re in Milan, you can go to the Expo Gate in Piazzale Cairoli, opposite Sforzesco Castle (open every day from 10am to 8pm), and soon the Expo 2015 ticket office will be up and running at the Expo site itself».

How much does a ticket cost?

«For all those who buy an Expo 2015 ticket before 30th April 2015, there’s a discount of 20%. The cost of an adult pre-opening ticket with an open date is €32. The price of a closed date ticket, on the other hand, depends on the date chosen».

What do you mean by an “open date ticket”?

«An open date ticket gives access from 2nd May to 31st October 2015 (there’s a different price list for the opening day, 1st May 2015, with a limited number of entrances).

Once you’ve bought your ticket, we strongly recommend you go straight to the MyExpo section to choose and confirm a date (please note: once you’ve confirmed the date, you won’t be able to change it).

The website lets you select one of the available dates (at least one day before your visit) and see what events are scheduled for that day.

With open date tickets (not converted into fixed date), you can choose when to come, depending on availability».

Alessandro Mancini, Ticketing & Tourism Director for Expo 2015

What do you mean by a “fixed date ticket”?

«This type of ticket indicates a specific date, that can be selected directly from the calendar».

Can I buy tickets for the opening day (1st May 2015)?

«Tickets for the opening day will be made available later on. They might be subject to a different price list and limited quantities though».

With a 1-day ticket, how long can I stay at Expo 2015?

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«The whole day, from opening time (10am) to closing time (8pm)».

Are there any tickets valid for more than 1 day?

«Yes, there are 2-day tickets (please note: this type of ticket is valid for 2 consecutive days)».

Are there evening tickets?

«Yes, but they will only go on sale during the 6 months of Expo Milano 2015, not before.

Entrance to Expo by Night is planned from 6.30pm onwards».

Expo 2015 will welcome some 20 million people, of which over 6 million international visitors. When do you expect the most visitors, and how many will visit each day?

«We estimate an average of 150,000 people each day. There’ll be “peak” days though, with up to 250,000 visitors: at weekends and during public holidays, when people have more time to spend on their visit than on a normal working day, and also when special events – such as concerts or performances by international artists – are held».

Does the price of the ticket include all the attractions and events taking place inside Expo 2015?

«The standard entrance ticket gives access to all the pavilions and the numerous events of the day’s (or evening’s) programme, apart from the “Allavita!” show of the Cirque du Soleil, to be held in the Expo Milano 2015 Open Air Theatre every day from Wednesday to Sunday, from 6th May to 23rd August.

The ticket price also includes entrance to the Milan Triennale - Arts & Foods (www. triennale.it), from 10th April 2015 on».

Is it cheaper to buy tickets now, rather than waiting until the Expo Milano 2015 opens?

«Yes. You can save up to 20%, depending on the ticket category. More specifically, 20% on a fixed date adult ticket».

Are there any special purchase packages for companies?

«Of course, but they’re not sold directly by Expo 2015; they’re handled by authorised resellers (each one dealing with his/her own reference market)».

Will it be possible to organise corporate events at the Expo 2015 site?

«Yes. There’ll be areas made available for events. Anyone who’s interested can send an e-mail to: 6monthevents@expo2015.org».

Is there a direct line for anyone wanting more ticket information?

«If you need more information about tickets, you can write to: support-tickets@expo2015.org».

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EXPO 2015

Click to find out more Here, summarised in a table, is the list of all the sites providing real-time updates on Expo Milano 2015, with detailed information on the schedule of events, on ticketing for the event, the ways in which businesses and individuals can collaborate with Expo 2015, and everything else that corporate meeting planners might need to know.

www.expo2015.org/it/eventi

News, opportunities and event search engine on the Expo Milano 2015 official site

www.expo2015.org/it/cos-e/expo-gate

Calendar of events at Expo Gate, the structure in front of Castello Sforzesco which is home to an info and ticket point, and is open every day from 10am to 8pm.

www.expocantiere.expo2015.org

For updates on the works being carried out at the exhibition site

www.expoincitta.com

The business portal for proposing events and locations during the six months of Expo 2015: the show schedule supported by the Commune and the Chamber of Commerce, trialled in May 2014 with 130 events. The FAQs include answers on the characteristics of the events (or schedules) which can be put forward for Expo in Città

www.exploratourism.it

Destination Management Organization for the Lombardy Region

www.wonderfulexpo2015.info

Dedicated promotional portal with hotel booking system

www.wonderfulmilan.info

Products Directory Club: Lombardy Experience

Extra Milano

www.extra.milano.it

Multilingual app and news for foreign visitors

Fuori Expo Milano

www.fuoriexpomilano.it

Project founded by Lattanzio Communication and Incentive Power & Events

The scientific committee

www.comitatoscientifico-expo2015.org

The portal for projects on food and nutrition, sponsored by the network of universities working in collaboration with Expo 2015

World Expo Commissioner Club (WECC)

www.expocommissionersclub.com

Network of partner countries

Il Padiglione Società Civile (The Pavilion Civil Society)

www.fondazionetriulza.org

Organising events within Expo 2015

The official websites

The Expo 2015 site

Expo in Città (Expo 2015 in the city)

Explore

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Milan area

The city of Expo 2015 Events in the city The Milan area offer

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EXPO 2015

Milan, the City of Expo 2015 Transportation, infrastructure, public spaces, computer networks: these are the characteristics of a modern and winning metropolis. Milan is presenting itself with a renewed and efficient image for Expo 2015, alongside the thousands of wonders that the centuries have left to the city “What Milan is thinking today, Italy will think tomorrow.� With these words Gaetano Salvemini, historian and anti-fascist politician, described, at the beginning of the twentieth century, what is now an international metropolis. A city projected forward, into the future. A melting pot of cultures, ethnicities and languages but also a place that tends to anticipate trends and phenomena in many areas and businesses. A city that changes more often than it would seem. An industrious and intellectual city, filled with a secret and hidden charm. It is certainly not showy, but the stories, places and characters that have made up its history are very deep. To many it may seem hectic, chaotic and cold but within it you can uncover a strong, courageous and very generous city.

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EXPO 2015

HISTORICAL MILAN

We do not know how much truth there is in the legend that claims that the name Mediolanum derives from “medio-lanum”, a term that refers to the fur of the halfwoollen boar - an animal that was said to live in the area where the city was built. If this legend were true, then the Gauls would have founded Milan after encountering this “strange” animal, who appeared as an oracle to their captain, Belloveso. Instead, historians attribute the foundation of Milan to the Celts, in 590 BC, in a flat area, or “in the middle” (Latin: medius) “of the plain” (lanum). What is certain is that Milan was conquered by the Romans and the 16 Corinthian columns of San Lorenzo, testify to their reign. They were built with materials from ancient Roman buildings and created in medieval times. In 313, Constantine’s Edict radically changed the religious life of the Roman Empire, effectively freeing Christian’s to worship, but it was with Bishop Ambrose and Emperor Theodosius that Milan became the nerve centre of the Western Church. The Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio was consecrated in 386. It is the second most important religious building in the city after the Cathedral and was built on the area where the Christian martyrs were buried. The Church was radically rebuilt around 1100 and is a perfect example of the Lombard Romanesque style: a large, tall gabled façade, a four-sided portico and two bell towers give it a unique look. In about the fourth century, Sant’Eustorgio was built. Its history is closely linked to the relics of the Magi, still kept in the church today. The basilica houses the Portinari Chapel (1462), which is a successful symbol of the Lombard Renaissance with its splendid terracotta frame and the colours of its dome.

Milan city, formed following the disintegration of the Carolingian realm, slowly grew up around feudal farms but was wiped out by Federico Barbarossa who razed the city to the ground in 1162. In this period, the Palazzo della Ragione, on Piazza Mercanti, was built. It was greatly expanded in 1733 under the reign of Maria Theresa of Austria.

Gian Galeazzo Visconti (descendant of the family whose emblem, the snake, became the symbol of Milan) turned the city into a Duchy and it is under his dynasty that the construction of the Duomo began. It is the town’s main church and is dedicated to Saint Mary Nascent. The Gothic cathedral, built entirely in Candoglia marble, saw an infinite trail of projects and craftsmen who each took their turn at constructing it and the main façade was only completed in 1813 by Napoleon, although in fact it can be said that Duomo of Milan is still not finished. To keep its 145 spires and 3,559 statues clean and tidy, it requires constant restoration and when one intervention ends it is time to start another.

From 1450 the Sforza Family commanded Milan and, under the leadership of Francesco, the city had a period of prosperity and prestige, confirmed by the great impetus given to the construction of the Sforzesco Castle, which was completed in 1499. Francesco Sforza was also able to bring the likes of Leonardo da Vinci and Bramante to the city.

Leonardo fixed the Navigli and painted The Last Supper (1482) in the refectory of Santa Maria delle Grazie.

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After the Spanish rule in 1600, Milan passed to the Austrians (formally in 1714). With the reign of Maria Theresa of Austria and Joseph II, there were numerous institutions that reaffirmed the fundamental role of the city from a cultural point of view. From 177677, the Teatro alla Scala was built, one of the most famous theatres in the world. Designed by Giuseppe Piermarini, it saw the debut of the young Giuseppe Verdi in 1839 and that of Giacomo Puccini in 1889. In 1898, Arturo Toscanini was appointed artistic director. Every year on December 7, the day dedicated to St. Ambrose, the patron of the city, La Scala’s season is inaugurated with an evening, the famous Opening Night that combines culture, politics and social life.

During the reign of Maria Theresa of Austria the Accademia di Brera was founded. It still coexists today, but not without problems, with the Pinacoteca in Palazzo Brera, in

The Glamorous Milan Creativity, style and a culture of good food come together in Milan during Expo 2015. Fashion, design and taste have always been excellent products of Milan, recognised worldwide thanks to the seasonal events that take place in the metropolis.

In particular, the Fashion Week and the Home Furnishing Fair, are events of great appeal, moments that attract the attention of the entire city, in addition to a rich and varied audience from every corner of the planet. The whole town is the setting for inaugurations, parades, cocktail parties, artistic and cultural events, with a higher concentration in the so-called “fashion quadrilateral� (Via Montenapoleone, Via Manzoni, Via della Spiga, Corso Venezia) with the boutiques of the most important brands. Urban areas such as Zona Tortona or Brera, dedicated to textile design have also been developed.

Even food, over the years, has carved out an important place in the Lombard capital, becoming the protagonist

through exhibitions and trade fairs, but also thanks to the quality of the widespread gastronomic offer of both native and international food. There are many places throughout the city where you can enjoy the excellent local cuisine, maybe at the beginning of an evening in the Milanese movida of the Navigli.

An address to add to your diary?

Without a doubt, Eataly on Piazza XXV Aprile. Born where the Teatro Smeraldo once stood (for many years protagonist of the cultural scene in Milan), today it is a place where you can appreciate the infinite goodness and variety of resources that the generous Italian territory offers.

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EXPO 2015

the middle of one of the most important districts of the city.

With the victory of the Second War of Independence (1859), Milan was finally ceded to the French, who in turn handed it over to the Kingdom of Sardinia, to then become part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1861.

The work that is most symbolic of this period is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the parlour of Milan. It is a covered walkway (32 metres tall) with a large octagonal central space (called the Ottagono) where the walkways cross, connecting two of the main monuments of the city: the Duomo and the Teatro alla Scala.

MODERN MILAN

In the second half of the nineteenth century, Milan kept up with the great cities of Europe. It was constantly changing. New factories were established and strategic industrial sectors were developed and with these the social dynamics. From this period onwards, the life of the city is recounted in the Corriere della Sera, the Milanese newspaper that went to press for the first time in 1876.

Milan also has its own “Central Park”, the Simplon Park. It was created in the late nineteenth century on the grounds of the old parade ground near the Sforzesco Castle and covers a total area of 386,000 square metres. Today, it is one of the green lungs of the city but, right from the beginning, its history interweaves with the artistic and cultural centre of Milan. In fact, the park hosted the Universal Exhibition of 1906, dedicated to the theme of transport, with which Milan and Italy celebrated the Simplon Tunnel, opened the previous year. Of the pavilions built especially for the occasion, only the Civic Aquarium remains, an excellent example of Milanese liberty style. The “new Piazza d’Armi”, in the meanwhile, was moved a couple of kilometres away. In 1923, it became the site of the new exhibitions that led to the construction of the Fiera Campionaria (now Fieramilanocity).

The Fascist period left the city with a series of notable monuments that have radically

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EXPO 2015

changed the face of urban area. The most important is undoubtedly the Central Station, designed by Ulisse Stacchini and inaugurated in 1931. With an imposing form, to symbolise the prestige and power of fascism, it was one of the most modern stations in Europe and even today, after a recent restyling, it proposes itself as a contemporary infrastructure at international level. The “Giuseppe Meazza” stadium, better known today as San Siro, was inaugurated in 1926. Even now it is the only stadium in the city and it hosts the matches of the two Milanese football teams, Inter and AC Milan.

The Courthouse, on the other hand, is the work of Marcello Piacentini.

It was built between 1932 and 1940, while the home of the Triennale di Milano, the Palazzo dell’Arte, was built on the edge of the Simplon Park and was designed by Giovanni Muzio. It is a positive and dynamic cultural institution that has become a location of choice at European level for exhibitions and shows dedicated to the field of art, architecture, fashion, and, more generally, traditions and society. In 1936, the project for the Palazzo dell’Arengario was begun (finished only in 1956). It was placed to the left of the Duomo and together they were to complete the renovation of the square. In 2010, the Palazzo became the site of the Museum of the Twentieth Century.

THE MILAN OF THE ECONOMIC BOOM The 50s and 60s are the years of the Italian economic boom: increasing industrialisation and urbanisation brought about an expansion of the hinterland of Milan due to the widespread internal immigration, especially from the south of Italy. These were the years of the big factories and towns that surrounded Milan, but they were also the years when some of the places that would later become the city’s symbols and protagonists of the life of its inhabitants were built. In 1954, the PAC – Pavilion of Contemporary Art was built upon the ashes of the stables of Villa Reale, destroyed by bombings. In 1960, after four years of work, the Pirelli Skyscraper, called the Pirellone by the Milanese, was inaugurated. It was designed by Giò Ponti. 127 metres high, it was the tallest building in the European Union for several years and for decades it held the offices of the Lombardy Regional Administration.

In that same period, the Velasca Tower of the Bbpr

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EXPO 2015

Studio was built. This building is iconic of the vertical development of Milan with its unique skyline. But the city did not develop only above ground. In 1964, in fact, Milan had its first subway (Line 1 known as “the red line”): from Sesto Marelli to Piazzale Lotto, 11 kilometres and 21 stations. It was an important and strategic infrastructure for internal links. The green line (M2) and the yellow line (M3) were added later and now the blue (M4) and purple (M5) lines are also under construction.

THE PROSPEROUS MILAN

After the dark period in the seventies, the so-called years of lead, the city found a positive energy, enthusiasm and a will to have fun, to spend and to live “big”. In the 80s, the “prosperous Milan” became a symbol of widespread wellbeing, of a state of general euphoria, of the fashionable city, which became in effect the economic and financial capital of Italy. The Yuppies (young upwardly-mobile professionals in search of success and money) and the Paninari (young people obsessed with designer fashion) were the protagonists of those years. They were the years of the discos, clubs, aperitifs but also of the parties that went on late into the night, of a Milan that saw its international dimension grow and it became an economic and creative location of choice at European level. They were also the years of the great events, from large concerts, Bob Marley and Bruce Springsteen to name but a few, and the highly anticipated Football World Cup in 1990.

The San Siro Stadium was renovated and expanded for the occasion. There was also the new area built in Assago, a few kilometres from the city centre, where the new indoor arena, the Mediolanum Forum could accommodate 13,000 spectators for all types of events: sporting events, concerts, conferences and meetings of a religious nature, together with the Centro Direzionale Milanofiori. The new millennium saw the large-scale redevelopment of industrial areas converted to new purposes. Two of the most popular historic districts of Milan, Bicocca and Bovisa, were converted into the new university centres for the State University and the Polytechnic of Milan respectively. While, on the large area of the Alfa Romeo workshops, to the north of the city, the new Portello exhibition halls were built to considerably increase the total area of Fieramilanocity.

Heavy industry was thus transformed to leave space for new functions and businesses from tourism to culture, from education to commerce.

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THE MILAN OF EXPO 2015

Milan presents itself at Expo 2015 with synergies between the products of the territory but also with an all new, updated and very dynamic image of itself. Numerous interventions, even on a large scale, are radically transforming the urban fabric and new neighbourhoods are becoming poles for projecting Milan into the globalisation of tourism and business.

Since 2005, the city has built a new exhibition centre, the Rho-Pero, next to the Expo 2015 area. A modern and functional facility, designed by Massimiliano Fuksas, that covers a one kilometre long promenade that annually hosts international events such as the Salone del Mobile (home furnishing fair) or the Bit (International Tourism Exchange). The construction of the new exhibition area brought about the decommissioning of the pavilions of the former Fiera Campionaria, with the creation of the City Life district, in which the Arata Isozaki and Daniel Libenskind skyscrapers are rapidly rising, along side residences and public parks, confirming the dedication of the city to vertical development.

Also in this area, thanks to the recovery of part of the Portello Alfa Romeo workshops, the MiCo, the largest conference centre in Europe, has been built. It can accommodate up to 18,000 people in over 70 conference rooms, with a very large plenary hall (4,000 seats).

But it is with the Porta Nuova-Varesine-Isola neighbourhood that Milan is creating a clean break with a past filled with deadlocks and a lack of strategic choices that had lasted too long. In this area, one of the biggest construction yards in Europe, the new headquarters of the Lombardy Regional Administration, was built in 2010. Today, in the rest of the area, you can find the Unicredit tower, the Vertical Forest (awarded best building in the world in 2014), offices, hotels, residential towers, commercial, exhibition and public spaces (soon there will also be the new park), which have given the city an animated and populated venue at any time of day.

Expo 2015 is an important opportunity for Milan to showcase the potential of a city with a strong vocation for business, but also to raise awareness of its traditions and local products, in addition to its territory in which you can find both extremely contemporary districts but also rural areas characterised by farmhouses that remind us of the origins of this metropolis that is continually evolving.

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EXPO 2015

Expo Milano 2015: a guide to events in the city What is Milan doing to prepare its “Fuori Expo”, in other words, the schedule of events and cultural and artistic initiatives that will animate the whole city from May to October 2015?

At the end of 2014, the Expoincittà project, which you can read more about on the internet (en.expoincitta.com), was launched. It is the basis for coordinating the more than 7,000 initiatives that are being organised in Milan during the six months of Expo 2015: exhibitions, concerts, fairs and temporary exhibitions as well as many other events (the 7,000 events mentioned were from the first round of selections that ended in October 2014, and it will grow as more events join up). Coordinated by the City of Milan and the Chamber of Commerce, Expoincittà – through the portal Expoincitta. com – gathers together the proposals of the event organisers, companies, associations and individuals, whether they are single initiatives or entire schedules, such as literary, theatrical or cinematic shows.

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EXPO 2015

In the following pages, we will present only the most interesting initiatives. However, the entire calendar of events, which is constantly updated, can be found on the website, en.expoincitta.com.

EXPOINCITTA.COM: WHAT’S THERE?

The most important sections of the website expoincitta.com are “Submit a Location”, the public catalogue of locations available during Expo 2015, and “Submit an Event”, which is the calendar of recognised public initiatives in the area. In the portal, you can limit your search (using the sidebar on the right) to the events taking place during the six months of Expo 2015. There are 10 categories of events: Art, Città mondo, Creativity&style, Feed the planet (for events closer to the official theme of Expo 2015), Kids, Leonardo, Media, Performance, Science and Well-being.

KEEP UP TO DATE

Updates on Expo Milano 2015 are also, and above all, available on mobile devices, tablets and smartphones, which are becoming increasingly important for communicating with the public. The official app is essential and is available both in the AppStore (iPhone, iPad) and in the Play Store (Android) and can also be accessed from the following link: www.expo2015.org/en/the-new-expo-milano-2015-app-at-your-fingertips.

Furthermore, to remain constantly updated about the initiatives organised by the Expoincittà working team and its website, you can follow the hashtag #expottimisti on twitter, which is used by business opportunities advisers for Expo Milano 2015, including the head of digital public relations, Giacomo Biraghi, and the communications manager of Expo in Città, Alvise De Sanctis (Twitter accounts: @secolourbano for the former and @AlviseDeSanctis for the latter). #expottimisti is also a digital guide, which was translated into English at the end of 2014, and can be consulted at: www.expottimisti.it

ARTS & EXHIBITIONS

The major exhibitions will be one of the mainstays of what will be happening in Milan outside of the Expo 2015 pavilions. Some of the biggest proposals, which will characterise the semester dedicated to the event, already began in 2014: among these are the permanent exhibitions like the “Galleria di Leonardo” at the Museum of Science and Technology (www. museoscienza.org/english),

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which also has an interactive workshop that you can visit along with the exhibition “Il Mondo di Leonardo”. This exhibition will run until October 31, 2015, in the Sala del Re at the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele in Milan, just behind Piazza Della Scala (www.leonardo3.net/index_eng. htm).

Another major exhibition dedicated to the most famous Italian genius in the world is “Leonardo 1452-1519”. The exhibition is scheduled to be shown at the Royal Palace of Milan (www. comune.milano.it/palazzoreale) from April 15 to July 19, 2015, and will also be a way of celebrating the two long periods (for a total of 22 years) that the Tuscan artist, intellectual and maestro spent in Milan, leaving his eternal mark on the cultural history of the city, including the Last Supper of the Refectory of Santa Maria delle Grazie, one of the most famous paintings in the world.

“Il Principe dei sogni. Giuseppe negli arazzi medicei di Pontormo e Bronzino”, (“The Prince of Dreams. Joseph in the Medici tapestries of Pontormo and Bronzino”) will also be held in the Royal Palace of Milan.

It is an exhibition that – from the beginning of Expo Milano 2015 – will gather together, for the first time in 150 years, the 20 tapestries commissioned by Cosimo I de’ Medici for the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence in the 16th century.

From May 2015, the Museo del Novecento, next to Piazza Duomo (www. museodelnovecento.org), will dedicate an exhibition to the Italian masterpieces, featuring paintings, sculptures and installations from five different Italian cities.

During the six months from May to October, La Triennale of Milan, a centre of design excellence (www.latriennale.org/eng), will host a large pavilion including an ideal extension to Expo 2015 (www.expo2015.org): the area entitled Art&Food, curated by the critic Germano Celant is aimed at studying the relationship between art and food from 1851 (the year of the first World Exposition) to today, with a strong focus on the contemporary, from impressionism to the avant-garde and the new avant-garde in mass culture.

Last but not least, the Aif (Italian Photo & Digital Imaging Association) has added the 2015 edition of the Photofestival (www.photofestival.it) to Expo in Città’s calender. It includes 130 photographic exhibitions in Milan: from art galleries to historic buildings, from museums to institutional and cultural centres. The events will address the role of food in our history, tradition and identity, in line with the key theme of Expo 2015.

THEATRES

The Teatro alla Scala, the very symbol of Milan and the international temple of opera, will be continuously open for six months for the first time in its history, especially for Expo 2015. Over 140 shows have been scheduled such as operas, ballets, concerts and exhibitions, as well as events for children.

This cultural institution has already published an online brochure (www.teatroallascala.org/en/expo.html) well in advance, which explains its objectives and programme of events to accompany Expo 2015, starting with the grand

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première of Puccini’s Turandot that is scheduled for May 1 – the opening day of the Exhibition Site – conducted by Riccardo Chailly and directed by Nikolaus Lehnoff.

Moreover, on May 2, the Berliner Philarmoniker will perform during the International Orchestra Festival organised for Expo 2015.

Also on May 2, in honour of the event, the Theatre of Milan (www.teatrodimilano. it/theatre-of-milan.html) has organised a dance and opera gala called Welcome Expo, with ballets and arias taken from the masterpieces of Giuseppe Verdi, whose compositional genius helped make Milan and La Scala world famous.

“E…state al Chiostro Nina Vinchi” is the event proposed from May 11 to October 31 2015 by the Piccolo Teatro Grassi, a dislocated branch (Cordusio) of the famous Piccolo Teatro of Milan (www.piccoloteatro.org): a schedule of events for adults and children that includes jazz by Enrico Intra and the Civic Music School, the puppets of the Carlo Colla & Sons company, the masks of the “commedia dell’arte” and an outdoor cinema.

In the six months of Expo Milano 2015, in three of the Piccolo’s locations, there will be – among others – Carmen, directed by Mario Martone (May 5-17), Strehler’s Harlequin (May 6-24), The Jealous Women by Luca Ronconi (May 26-June 14 and October 22-November 15), the Milan Flamenco Festival, Tramedautore, Festival MIX, and many other events, such as the Odyssey by Robert Wilson.

Finally, the Teatro Menotti (teatromenotti.org) will again present its pop opera production of Don Quixote with English subtitles, from 5 to 14 June, 2015.

SPORTS

The internationality of Expo is confirmed also by the sports events scheduled. The most relevant one is, with no doubt, the return in Milan of the final stage race of the Giro d’Italia – one of the most important bicycle race in the world – which will end up in Piazza Duomo on May 31, 2015.

CONCERTS

On May 1, 2015, the prestigious orchestra laVerdi, on the same day as the opening of the Expo 2015, will inaugurate the symphonic season, in the Auditorium of Milan, with Mahler’s Symphony No. 7 conducted by John Axelrod (laverdi.org).

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From 22 to 24 May, 2015, the new edition of Piano City Milano will be held. The last edition of this music festival attracted 300 free concerts to the city for a total of over 60 thousand participants (www.pianocity.it).

You can also listen to live music in the fascinating Bagatti Valsecchi house-museum, from 4 to 25 June (www.bagattivalsecchi.org).

ITALIAN ENTERTAINMENT

Italian Entertainment’s formula (www.italianentertainment. it) includes various kinds of cultural events and performances designed for foreigners. Among the exponents of the jazz scene, there are fashion show models, actors, comedians and presenters who can animate an evening for a nonItalian audience. These include, for example, the comic street band Mabò, the quartet Euphoria, the joint performance of a harpist and acrobatic dancers and many other master entertainers.

Not to miss is the event which will take place on the evening of October 25, when the Mediolanum Forum in Assago will host the Mtv Europe Music Awards, the most important European prize for pop music.

THE DUOMO FOR EXPO 2015

During Expo Milano 2015, the Cathedral of Milan will host an intensive art and music programme to let the world know about the “Veneranda Fabbrica del Duomo di Milano” (www.duomomilano.it/en). This is the institution that, from 1387, deals with the construction, maintenance and administration of one of the most visited monuments in Italy: the Cathedral of Milan.

During Expo 2015, the main events will be the tours of the Candoglia quarries, the contemporary art installation by Tony Cragg, the Madonnina exhibition, explorations of the basement of the Cathedral and the hundreds of relics preserved there, Verdi’s harmonies and the staging of a big boat in the famous Piazza. During Expo 2015 there will also be new opening hours: the evocative Terrazze del Duomo (Terraces of the Cathedral) will be open every day from 6 am to 11 pm with a new flow and entrance management system. All the lighting of the monument will also be redesigned.

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n enchanting open space on three levels in A the top twenty of the most beautiful venues in the world A fascinating place with live performances, live music and Dj-set Imperial room, restaurant for exclusive dinners, cigar room Shicha bar Exclusive spaces for restaurant service, lounge & after dinner, corporate dinners, conventions, photo shoots, fashion shows, private parties, gala dinners

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n magnetico Open Space su tre U livelli classificato tra i primi 20 locali più belli al mondo Suggestiva location con spettacoli, musica dal vivo e Dj Sala imperiale, ristorante per cena in esclusiva, cigar room Shicha bar Spazi esclusivi per : Restaurant, lounge & after dinner, cene aziendali, conventions, servizi fotografici, sfilate, feste private e serate di gala

MILAN AREA

MILAN – www.chrysalis.it

agencies

Where ideas are born The Chrysalis group proposes itself as a strategic partner for corporate communication and stands out as being modern and up-to-date The world of communication is changing and, for this reason, the Chrysalis group, with over 25 years of experience, is a true workshop of ideas and of professionals who offer a new business model at the service of customers.

The group proposes itself as the ideal partner to whom you can entrust your corporate image and the organisation of your events.

CHRYSALIS EVENTS CONTACTS Via Serio, 6 20139 Milan Contact details: ph +39 02 58430422 Fax +39 02 58431240 Contact Person: Lorena Ferrari (in the picture), Ceo & Business Manager Mob: + 39 348 6049899 l.ferrari@chryalisweb.it

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They follow a philosophy that focuses on care and attention to detail, which has allowed Chrysalis to be acknowledged as always moving with the times, a synonym for consistency and reliability.

Service quality and professional ethics are the pillars on which Chrysalis bases its identity, built up step by step thanks to the entrepreneurial courage and the continuous creativity development that characterises the group and allows a closely knit team to transform an idea into a unique “being”.

In this way, Chrysalis creates spectacular events, tailored to each individual situation, using the most innovative technology.

However small or large the company may be, the goal remains the same: to create unforgettable memories for the clients.

In particular Chrysalis deals with B2B for large and small events (planning, organisation, event management, corporate communication); local promotional B2C marketing (store activations, guerilla marketing, temporary shops, roadshows, etc.); video production and post-production; design and implementation of a coordinated image; design and development of scenic solutions; enhancement of corporate presentations; social media marketing; location and logistics; development of web and mobile applications.

MILAN AREA

MILAN – www.mzcongressi.com

agencies

The key to a better Italy Mz International Group: a holding of specialist companies able to tackle any challenge of the Mice industry. Impressive are its figures: 34 permanent members of staff and an average turnover of 8.1 million euros The figures speak for themselves: executive offices of 500 square metres in Milan; 34 permanent members of staff and two outsourcers; two IT consultants; an average turnover of 8.1 million euros; 14 medical/scientific associations based at the executive offices; a provider accredited with the Ministry of Health (accreditation no. 966) for professionnal development training in the medical field; Iso 9001:2008 quality management certification; more than 700 events organised between 1987 and 2013.

This is the impressive status of the Mz International Group, a holding of several service companies active in all branches of the meeting industry, a practically unique profile in Italy, where events agencies are usually only specialised in one segment.

Mz Congressi in particular, the company of the holding that organises medical training and congresses of professional associations, has been organising congresses for 10 to 10,000 participants, in Italy and abroad, since 1987, steadily increasing its turnover and recognition. In 2015 Mz Congressi will be ready for the epoch-making event, Expo, with two new services.

It will be organising some events on the link between health and nutrition in conjunction with leading international research centres. And it will launch its

MZ INTERNATIONAL GROUP CONTACTS Via Carlo Farini, 81 20159 Milan Contact details: Ph. +39 02 66802323 Fax +39 02 6686699 info@mzcongressi.com

“experience visit”, drawing on its considerable database of scientists and experts in a whole host of subjects. Foreign visitors will be able to see the Expo site and then go on an exclusive tour of the nearby rice fields in the Vercelli area, led by a rice grower, or take a trip to the wine growing area of Franciacorta with a famous wine expert, or to the countryside of the Lodi area with an outstanding agronomist. So the land, where our food is grown and produced, will directly show the implications of the topics debated at Expo.

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EXTRO HOTELS EXTRAORDINARY EXPERIENCES

CHARMING & TRADITION

ELEGANC E & MODERNITY

ATMOS ATMOSFERA PHEREE& COMFORT COMFORT

GRAND VISCONTI PALACE ****S Viale Isonzo, 14 - 20135 Milano Tel.: +39 02 540341 info@grandviscontipalace.com UPTOWN PALACE ****S Via Santa Sofia, 10 - 20122 Milano Tel.: +39 02 305131 info@uptownpalace.com BEST WESTERN HOTEL MOZART **** Piazza Gerusalemme, 6 - 20154 Milano Tel.: +39 02 33104215 info@hotelmozartmilan.com WWW.EXTROHOTELS.COM

hotel chains

MILAN AREA

MILAN – www.adihotels.com

Meeting in the city ★★★★S

ADI DORIA GRAND HOTEL

★★★★

The urban context of Milan provides the stage for the hospitality of Adi Hotels: free time and business for exclusive moments

ADI HOTEL POLIZIANO FIERA

Maximum number of meeting rooms: 4 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 120 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 98 Sleeping rooms: 124 Nearest Airport: Linate (5 Km) Brand affiliations: Adi Hotels Address: Viale A. Doria, 22 20124 Milan Contact details: Ph +39 02/67411411 Fax +39 02/6696669 www.doriagrandhotel.it Email: info.doriagrandhotel@adihotels.com Contact person: Giacomo Bertolio – Sales & Marketing – g.bertolio@adihotels.com

Maximum number of meeting rooms: 3 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 80 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 60 Sleeping rooms: 100 Nearest Airport: Linate (7 k Brand affiliations: Adi Hotels Address: Via A. Poliziano, 11 20154 Milan Contact details: Ph +39 02/3191911 Fax +39 02/3191931 www.hotelpolizianofiera.it Email: info.hotelpolizianofiera@adihotels.com Contact person: Giacomo Bertolio – Sales & Marketing – g.bertolio@adihotels.com

The location of choice for Milan hospitality since 1993, and in recent years the star of the meeting industry too, with a sizzling, modern range that perfectly satisfies the latest business travel requests.

Adi (standing for “Alberghi Dove Incontrarsi”, or “Hotels To Meet In”) has a tradition of success that continues today with two top class hotels, both strategically located in the heart of Milan. The Doria Grand Hotel, a four-star Plus in the Art Nouveau style, is handy for Central Station and the new Porta Nuova district metro, while the four-star Hotel Poliziano Fiera is near Corso Sempione, very close to the prestigious new MiCo Milan Convention Centre and Fieramilanocity.

To meet business demand, the Doria Grand Hotel offers a congress area consisting of a large foyer plus four multipurpose rooms fitted out with state-of-the-art equipment and able to accommodate a total of 270 people. In particular, the beautiful and naturally lit Archi Room can seat up to 120 people; it’s the perfect setting for meetings, press conferences and banquets. Hotel Poliziano Fiera also provides interesting solutions, with a single module that can be split into three separate meeting rooms for 20-80 people, all with bright natural light and completely sound-proofed. Adi Hotels has established partnerships with the leading players of the Mice market, congress experts, destination managers, professional conference organisers, meeting planners, tour operators and agencies strictly linked to the exhibitions world. For Expo 2015, Adi Hotels has special offers for bedrooms, meeting rooms and food and beverage services; it can also supply entrance tickets for the event itself. Congress organisers can also count on Adi’s support for arranging associated activities, cultural initiatives and tickets for the main museums.

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hotel chains

MILAN AREA

www.starwoodhotels.com

The Milan experience

by Starwood A new glamorous hotel, services conceived for the most discerning Mice client and programmes to discover the splendours of Italy. The four Milanese hotels of the brand are ready for Expo (and lots more) 2015 will be an exciting year for Starwood Milano, which has planned special events for each of its hotels, in view of the great Expo being held. The real novelty this year is the new, luxury destination – the Excelsior Hotel Gallia, designed to perfectly reflect the most original Milanese style, glamour and sophistication, with unique atmospheres such as the bar and panoramic rooftop restaurant. The hotel has 235 elegant rooms and 51 themed suites, a 1,000 square-metre wellness centre, indoor pool, fitness centre and virtual golf simulator, and for company events has 12 meeting rooms with a total floor surface of 1,000 square metres, including two ballrooms, six rooms, a business centre and a 700 square-metre foyer.

Between history and glamour – Starwood’s other hotels – the Sheraton Diana Majestic, the Sheraton Milan Malpensa Airport Hotel & Conference Centre and The Westin Palace, Milan – will certainly gain an outstanding reputation for the more discerning Mice segment, in the year when Expo and many other events will be held.

The historic Sheraton Diana Majestic, situated in the heart of the city, has been an exclusive venue for the last 100 years for guests from the world of fashion and design, seeking a cordial and bespoke service in a unique and glamorous location. In 2015, to mark the

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Salone del Mobile Home Furnishing Show and Expo, the hotel will renovate its hclub>diana in partnership with Baxter, to create a new on-trend atmosphere in one of the city’s hot spots for an aperitif – definitely “the place to be” in Milan.

SHERATON MILAN MALPENSA

Piazza della Repubblica, 20 – 20124 Milan Contact detail: Ph +39 02 6336 1 Fax: +39 02 6336 6337 Email: palacemilan@westin.com www.westinpalacemilan.com

Viale Piave, 42 – 20129 Milan Contact detail: Ph +39 02 20581 Fax: +39 02 20582058 Web: www.sheratondianamajestic.com email: dianamajestic@sheraton.com

Aeroporto Malpensa 2000, Terminal 1 21010 Ferno (Va) Contact detail: Ph +39 02 23351 Email: milanmalpensa@sheraton.com www.sheratonmilanmalpensa.com

EXCELSIOR HOTEL GALLIA Piazza Duca d’Aosta, 9 – 20124 Milan Contact detail: Ph. +39 02 67851 E-mail: sales.milan@starwoodhotels.com www.excelsiorhotelgallia.com

If visitors are looking for a strategic location, then the Sheraton Milan Malpensa Airport Hotel & Conference Centre is the only hotel with direct access to Terminal 1 of Malpensa Airport and is just 30 minutes away from the

centre of Milan. It is one of Italy’s largest congress centres (with a floor surface of more than 2,000 square metres) and has large modular rooms and a naturally lit display area. The multi-functional, plenary 1,000 square-metre hall can be divided into eight, soundproofed rooms with ceilings up to six metres, along with another 22 rooms from 16 to 285 square metres, to accommodate up to 350 participants.

A modern, yet elegant five-star establishment, The Westin Palace, Milan is a luxury venue in Milan which has recently been renovated. Boasting 227 rooms and suites in a new style effortlessly blending the classic with the contemporary, the hotel’s design is inspired by the Fifties, the decade which saw Italian manufacturing take off and the first radical renovation of the Westin Palace. The 14 modular rooms are ideal for any type of event, from small meetings to large shows, and all areas have latest-generation technologies and high speed wi-fi.

Tailor-made programmes – The Westin Palace, Milan along with the other Westin Hotels & Resorts located in Rome, Florence and Venice, have two new unique and tailor-made programmes for Westin guests. The Personal Food Shopper programme will take guests on tours to discover the most authentic and sophisticated culinary specialities at local markets, historical shops and acclaimed bistros. The Secret Gardens programme will enable guests to explore hidden gems of the most fascinating private residences, palazzos, museums and religious institutes, which are not very well known or open to the public. The programme offers special, private access to gardens, cloisters and small private and public parks.

The services of all Starwood hotels in Milan can be consulted using the Virtual Planner, an interactive site with 3D display of each part of the hotel, to plan events with an easy, technologically-advanced approach.

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hotel chains

★★★★★L ★★★★S

SHERATON DIANA MAJESTIC

★★★★★

THE WESTIN PALACE, MILAN

★★★★

MILAN AREA

MILAN AREA

MILAN – www.officinedelvolo.it

convention centres

Business takes off A location which has been active for more than ten years between past and present, between memory and the modern day, between production and business, a former factory strategically set in Milan It is one of the most sought-after venues in the city, originating from a brilliant idea of Nicola Gisonda and the subsequent restoration of a part of the former Caproni aeronautical workshops: today Officine del Volo is a leader in Milan for a wide variety of events and shows. An iconic space, which has kept the fascination of its early 20th century Milanese industrial architecture and been turned over time into a vibrant, continually evolving venue. A new life and not just a simple project to restore OFFICINE DEL VOLO MILAN Maximum number of meeting rooms: 3 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 400 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 500 Agreements with hotels Nearest Airport: Linate airport (4 km) Address: via Mecenate 76/5 20138 Milan Contact details: ph +39 02 58018669 fax: +39 02 58029229 Email: officinedelvolo@officinedelvolo.it Contact person: Gabriella Galli, Sales and Events Manager

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a building; a journey from a historical factory to a modern, flexible venue. The site has three rooms, the Monoplano room, the Biplano room and the Eliche room, each with their own architectural features and original materials, but fitted out with modern equipment and latest-generation technologies.

The result is a sophisticated mix of past and present, where the world of creativity and the meeting industry have a found natural space for expression, recognising its added value and appreciating it as a contemporary business project, that is also a memory keeper.

«We have always focused on services, thanks to versatile, modular rooms which can host events without any overlap of areas and functions», explains Nicola Gisonda, architect, businessman and the life and soul of Officine del Volo. «The system of dividing spaces means we can host events for just a few people to many more. We deal with every aspect, from design to artistic direction and organisation, guaranteeing the highest level of customisation for any event; alternatively, clients can hire the location.»

The company also has clear ideas in view of Expo: «We are working in several directions, in particular with specialist portals, international agencies, consulates and international chambers of commerce», says Nicola Gisonda. «We want to create ad-hoc combinations for timeframes from a week to the entire duration of the event».

MILAN AREA

MILAN – www.residenzavignale.com

venues

A step back in time A historical residence, combining the fascination of yesteryear with the welcoming ambience of an exclusive private home, in the heart of the most authentic part of Milan A special address, a place which is witness to the memory of the oldest part of Milan; in the very heart of the city, in the Magenta area, a residential district which history and architecture have made unique, criss-crossed by small streets, where majestic buildings stand. The Residenza Vignale is an elegant “hotel particulier” built in the early 20th century to the design of an Austrian architect, and comprising two structures – the main building facing the road and the more private building overlooking the garden. Furnished with exclusive antiques, but also featuring modern facilities and the latest technologies, the house is a unique location. The four reception rooms and spacious hall, dominated by an imposing staircase, have different colour schemes and furnishings for the utmost customisation for any kind of event. In particular, the two largest rooms can host events for 60 and 50 people respectively, while the other two rooms are ideal for smaller meetings. Exclusive spaces that are perfect for prestigious meetings, small-scale conferences, receptions, and standup or sit down buffets for up to 150 people. Eventually the 215 square-metre area can be used for exhibitions or displays. A delightful flowering courtyard, directly accessed from the ground floor, can be used in good

weather for an even more attractive setting. During the six months of Expo, the location is ideal to show visitors from all over the world a prestigious part of Milan’s history. The Residenza Vignale welcomes guests to its fascinating interiors which are always in keeping with the times.

RESIDENZA VIGNALE MILAN Maximum number of meeting rooms: 2 (sala Oro and sala Rossa) Main meeting room capacity (persons): 60/70 (sala Oro) – 100 (sala Rossa) Main meeting room area (sq mt): 56 Nearest Airport: Milan Malpensa (50 km) Milan Linate (10 km) Address: Via Enrico Toti, 2 – 20123 Milan Contact details: Ph +39 02 48006225 Fax +39 02 48195533 Email: info@residenzavignale.com Contact person: Maria Luisa Origoni (manager) or Laura (cooperator)

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MILAN AREA

MILAN – www.palazzoturati.it – www.palazzogiureconsulti.it

convention centres

Two buildings for Expo 2015 Palazzo Giureconsulti and Palazzo Turati, in the centre of Milan, are being offered as exclusive locations for international meetings between major economic and entrepreneurial operators and for prestigious networking events At the heart of the city, Palazzo Giureconsulti and Palazzo Turati are the two historical buildings being offered by Milan’s Chamber of Commerce to businesses to hold their own events.

Representing the perfect marriage between tradition and modernity, the two buildings are ideal locations for meetings between international business operators and entrepreneurs from Milan and the surrounding Lombardy region.

The two buildings already host more than a thousand events every year, from dinners, conferences and conventions to exhibitions, training courses, meetings and workshops, fashion shows and temporary shops. And now, at the beginning of Expo Milano 2015, the Chamber of Commerce conference venues are preparing to welcome new guests from all over the world, organising unique events and providing quality services which are always at one step ahead of requirements. In addition, given that Expo 2015 will be taking place during the summer, outdoor spaces will be particularly appreciated by the guests: the Sala Terrazzo at the Giureconsulti, with spectacular views over the cathedral, ideal for cocktails and dinners, and the medieval loggia and the Sala dei Notari, both of which are on Via Mercanti.

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PALAZZO GIURECONSULTI Maximum number of meeting rooms: 11 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 120 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 180 Nearest Airport: Linate Airport, Milan Address: Via Mercanti, 2 20121 Milan Contact details: Ph +39 02 8515 5873 Fax +39 02 85155857 Email: infogiureconsulti@mi.camcom.it Contact person: Silvana Calcaterra

PALAZZO TURATI Maximum number of meeting rooms: 5 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 140 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 230 Nearest Airport: Linate Airport, Milan Address: Via Meravigli, 9/b 20123 Milan Contact details: Ph +39 02 85155873 Fax +39 02 85155857 Email: infogiureconsulti@mi.camcom.it Contact person: Silvana Calcaterra

Events with a view of the Duomo cathedral – Palazzo Giureconsulti is

located in Via dei Mercanti, on the corner of Piazza Duomo. Inaugurated in 1654, this historical building has been home to various institutions over the centuries, until it was bought in 1911 by the Chamber of Commerce, and made into its headquarters.

Today, the Palazzo has evolved into a modern venue for events, which combined the historical prestige of Milan with the renovated style of the rooms. The spaces are adaptable and multifunctional, and are equipped with the latest technology and wi-fi.

The building extends over an area of 4,000 square metres across four floors, with newly-equipped rooms and various exhibition spaces. The most elegant of these rooms is the Sala Parlamentino, which still features all

of its original furnishings, with hardwood benches arranged in a semicircle and an 18th century fresco. Meanwhile, for an evening with evocative views of the Piazza del Duomo, the Sala Terrazzo is a good choice – this multifunctional space creates a beautiful impact for gala dinners, with an extraordinary view over the historical and commercial centre of the city. The most capacious space is the Sala Colonne, with 120 seats. This room can be connected directly with the Sala Esposizioni, and both of them together, can contain more than two hundred people.

Next to Sala Colonne there is an elegant Loggia which is a versatile space directly on Piazza dei Mercanti. The Camera dei Notari is a particularly interesting space, and acts as an ideal ‘shop window’ opening into the pedestrian street for companies which want to display their products; ideally for temporary shops and more.

Refined elegance – Palazzo Turati has been the central

institutional headquarters of the Chamber of Commerce since 1953. Designed by architects Ponti and Bordoli in 1880, today it can be used to host a range of conferences and exhibitions.

The largest room within the Palazzo is the Sala Conferenze, which can contain up to 140 people, and thanks to the audiovideo connection, guests can be virtually present at the event from the comfortable adjacent Sala Consiglio, with its unique amphitheatre form. Both spaces offer confortaible rooms, ideal for welcome coffees, cocktails and buffets.

Both rooms are equipped with: video projectors, digital recording capabilities, Pc, wireless system for all spaces, simultaneous translation system.

Employees are on hand to offer technological solutions and a range of alternative logistics, and to illustrate the conference facilities available, as well as assisting in the selection of potential suppliers for the event.

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convention centres

MILAN AREA

MILAN AREA

BESATE (MI) – www.lozerbo.com

venues

Conventionally luxurious Lo Zerbo is the union between design and practicality; the ideal venue for meetings, incentive and team-building activities, gala dinners and congresses, just 35 minutes from Milan The centuries-old Zerbo Wood is part of the stunning natural sanctuary of the Ticino Regional park, its individual parts creating a varied context: the villa designed by architect Piero Portaluppi, the historical church built in the early 18th century, and a house dating back to the 1900s.

Despite completely changing the original use of what was a typical holiday residence, it still maintains a strong link with the local area and its history. Lo Zerbo is about two kilometres from Besate, a small town in the province of Milan. The city can easily be reached by car, or thanks to a limousine service that’s available upon request. And it’s the ideal solution for Expo 2015 too, giving the chance to experience a great event without renouncing an interlude far from the chaos of the city, immersed in the greenery where untainted nature and the harmony of the architecture blend perfectly.

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LO ZERBO Maximum number of meeting rooms: 3 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 50 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 75 Sleeping rooms: 4 Nearest Airport: Linate, Milan (40 km) Address: Località lo Zerbo, Besate Contact details: ph +39 340 8684668 Email: info@lozerbo.com Contact person: Luca Pasetti (owner) email luca.pasetti@gmail.com

venues

MILAN AREA

A place for every event – The villa is perfectly preserved, and its airy profile and striking symmetries fit into the natural setting with ease. Inside there’s a large living room, a historic library and a welcoming dining room. The rooms all look onto an internal rose garden surrounded by the ancient walls.

The size and flexibility of its rooms make the villa the ideal location for special events. The church is the architectural jewel of the whole place, with its octagonal floor plan and strict geometries. Access is via three very elegant, arched doorways. The church interior boasts a magnificent fresco.

The construction dates back to the early 18th century, when some of the inhabitants of Besate decided to build it as a form of thanks for having avoided a terrible plague epidemic.

It houses a marvellous painting of the Madonna with Child, originally called “Beata Vergine” but then renamed “La Madonna dello Zerbo”, providing the name for both the

church and the place itself. Lo Zerbo is a location that’s perfect for every type of event – conventions, meetings and team-building activities – with specific areas that can be modulated to suit the individual request. The architecture and size of the villa, not to mention the variety of settings it offers, make it highly interesting for photographic shoots and as a set for adverts, films and Tv series.

The services are provided by expert professionals of the events sector.

“Turnkey” events are tailor-made to meet the client’s specific needs.

Fuori Expo – Expo Milano 2015 will

be an exceptional event attracting considerable attention, and will help us rediscover the roots, beauty, culture and history of Italy.

Why not savour a stay at Lo Zerbo as the starting point on a path revealing the traits of Italian identity? Lunches, gala dinners and entertainment activities of every type can be arranged for a “Fuori Expo” in a magnificent setting far from the confusion of the city, nestled in the peacefulness of nature. In the fine greenery of the park, where the centuries-old wood opens out in some points to offer glimpses of an Italian-style garden, tensile structures can be set up to house even large-scale events in a context of tranquillity, stillness and calmness.

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oni Gattcirn eativity

means

tive trips, n e c in , ts n e v e e h T road shows d n a s n o ti n e v n o c oments, m l ia c e sp re a e we organiz experiences. le b a tt e rg fo n u d n fun adventures a than that. re o m o ls a re a But they e chances u iq n u re a y e th , Most of all r company to grow both you ! and your business

FIND OUT WHY MANY COMPANIES TRAVEL WITH US. FOLLOW US:

LECCO

PIAZZA MAZZINI GALLERIA ROMA, 5 TEL. +39 0341 292711

gattinoni.it MILANO

VIA STATUTO, 2

TEL. +39 02 39884211

TORINO

VIA BERTOLA, 23

TEL. +39 011 5627581

ROMA

VIA F. CIVININI, 83//A

TEL. +39 06 8088306

Italy, a Mice destination

Expo “not just Milan� 2015 The national offer

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EXPO 2015

Expo “not just Milan” 2015 Expo 2015 will be based in Milan, but the whole of Italy will be involved in supporting the event, with a whole host of events from the top of the boot to the toe, expressly designed to entertain visitors from all over the world Tradition, creativity and the spirit of innovation are the dominant themes of a show which will natural become a window display to the world, showcasing the delights of Milan and Lombardy, but also of our nation as a whole. Expo Milano 2015 will be an event celebrating the “Italian system”, and not only that of the region which will be physically hosting the event. In order to achieve this, regions, organizations and associations have been working to develop a rich programme of activities and events which vary widely in nature, involving areas which are far aware, both literally and metaphorically, from the Milanese metropolis. The real challenge will be succeeding in attracting and “drawing out” visitors to the Expo 2015 site; the number and nature of the visitors expected represents enormous potential, and this must be exploited, introducing our guests to every corner of this great country.

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EXPO 2015

TOURING LOMBARDY

Brescia - Staying in the Lombardy region, all of the provinces have come together to design a structured programme of events. Brescia, for example, has created a range of tourist packages with SistemaBrescia for Expo 2015 (http://expo.bs.it/en) for FuoriExpo (a catalyst for all of the events within the walls of a historical building) that include cultural and gastronomic routes, but also the opportunity for companies to visit the show itself.

Bergamo - On the same wavelength, the initiatives in Bergamo (http://expo.bergamo.it/en), seek to enhance the rich cultural heritage of the area, whilst highlighting the solid industrial tradition which relies on a dense network of export-oriented companies, supported by excellent centres for innovation in which science and technology are assisted by sound transport infrastructure. Two key events will precede the exhibition: the Ietm Spring Meeting - the meeting platform for professionals in the arts and entertainment industry, with an eye towards the future and innovation (in Bergamo from 23rd to 26th April 2015) and the major exhibition dedicated to the Renaissance artist Palma il Vecchio.

Como - Its geographical proximity to Milan favours SistemaComo2015 (www.sistemacomo2015.it/en) initiatives, and a direct Como-Expo link to ferry visitors quickly and easily across the event. The Canto della Terra (Song of the Earth) is the framework within which the region proposes initiatives related to art, film, theatre, music and sport for the duration of Expo 2015.

Varese - Similarly to Como, the proximity of the province to Expo Milano 2015 has seen Varese (http://varesexpo.it/eng become involved in the event, in particular through its “twinning� with Germany, whose representative will stay in the province.

Mantua - Gastronomic and artistic culture will be the stars of the show in the Mantua province (http://mantovaexpo2015.org/?lang=eng), with a range of initiatives including the creation of the first ever multi-media museum dedicated to porkbased products. Mantua is certainly the city which best represents this tradition of excellence in the Po Valley, characterized by its economic significance, product quality, traditions and links with this unique and predominantly agricultural area.

In many cases, tours and sightseeing trips take in wider contexts as well as the big cities, with a view to immersing visitors fully in the rich and varied delights offered by our country. This is the case, for example, on the Slow Train Tour, the journey through Valtellina and Valposchiavo, which incorporates food and wine, culture and nature (http://expo2015.so.it/en).

Sondrio - An experience which will seduce all five senses, filling hearts and minds - to be enjoyed at a leisurely pace, for maximum appreciation. Ensconced in a luxurious vintage train, entranced by the spectacular views glimpsed through the windows, pampered by the skilled chefs in the kitchen and fascinated by the flavours and aromas of these two alpine valleys, travellers will head from Milan to Tirano, in the Sondrio province, before following the Valtellina down on a postal train, on a voyage of discovery of ancient palaces, castles and wine cellars. On the second day in Tirano, guests will take the Bernina Line, heading for Poschiavo before continuing to Sankt Moritz and finally arriving in Chiavenna.

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EXPO 2015

FROM NORTH TO SOUTH, EXPO 2015 IS THE WHOLE OF ITALY

Veneto - Leaving the confines of the Lombardy region, let’s start with the Veneto initiatives (www.expoveneto.it/en), in particular those based in its famed capital: Venice. La Serenissima – the name used to refer to the city since 1200 – provides visitors with a real treat in Aquae Venezia 2015 (www.aquae2015.org/en), an international exhibition sponsored by the company Expo Venice Spa, an offshoot of, (and sponsored by), Expo Milano 2015. Running in parallel with Expo 2015, the Aquae Venezia 2015 will take a three hundred and sixty degree look at the ultimate in natural resources - water - with a cycle of appointments and events which will be hosted inside the new pavilion (ten thousand square meters of exhibition space in total) designed by Michele De Lucchi and built in Marghera. The structured programme of exhibitions, hands-on experiences and conferences also includes a B2B business area, workshops and matchmaking, during which the theme of water will be treated from all angles: from a working perspective, from industry to agriculture, to food, health, wellbeing and leisure time. The show will be a mix between a largely institutional and interactive exhibition section, which will be present over the course of the six months, and a series of temporary events of varying duration, covering commercial, cultural and scientific themes. Aquae 2015 is part of a wider programme of initiatives and events, “Venice To Expo” (http://expo.venezia.it), designed to reinforce the lagoon city as the country’s water capital.

Piedmont - 2015 will also be a special year for Turin (www.turismotorino.org/index.aspx).

Turin will become the European capital of Sport, hosting numerous events of international importance. Major projects will be brought to completion, such as the inauguration of the new Egyptian Museum, the conclusion of the ambitious Polo Reale programme and the birth of the Polo Novecento. Alongside these, the extraordinary exhibition of the Holy Shroud will constitute a religious event of profound significance, and will see the participation of Pope Francesco. On a food front, conversely, the Salone del Gusto in the spring will bring two important global events to the table: the Third World Forum for Local Economic Development and the International Day of the Organic City.

Tuscany - The region of Tuscany will be using Expo 2015 as a the medium of choice to celebrate the area’s art, landscape, food, wine, handicraft, and culture in general, seen from a perspective of both physical and spiritual nourishment, sharing the “good life”, Tuscanstyle (www.expotuscany.it).This ambitious project will unite regional

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EXPO 2015

excellence in the agriculture, industrial agricultural production, product trade and scientific research sectors, through the organization of a veritable voyaging Expo 2015 in Tuscany, with a programme of events which involves the entire territory during the six months of the exhibition.

Apulia and Basilicata, together with Tuscany, were the first Italian regions to have signed up to participate in Expo 2015, and this joint venture, in partnership with the Fiera del Levante, has allowed attention to be drawn to key issues such as agriculture, particularly crucial for this region which has used the excellent tourism and gastronomic opportunities offered by the area to revive its flagging local economy in recent years.

Lazio - We conclude with Lazio and its great capital, Rome, which, through Sistema Lazio Expo (www.lazioexpo2015. it), is supporting a breathtaking programme of events, exhibitions and demonstrations throughout the region, to attract international tourists and reinforce the value of the area in 2015 and beyond. This will be achieved, for example, by introducing the wide range of agricultural businesses to an international community, which will increasing encourage differentiation between Sistema-Lazio and SistemaRoma. The Lazio region will showcase not only products, but a complex and structured system within which beauty, innovation, history,technology, tradition and creativity coexist, through eight thematic routes: “Food and tourism: Rome - a global capital”, will highlight the centrality of Rome in international food policy; “The path of water”, dedicated to water as a cultural, historical and economic resource; “City and Country: interactions” will explore the relationships, both ancient and modern, between urban and agricultural environments; “Grow better: excellence and sustainability“ will aim to reveal the links between history, local produce and innovation; “Genius and innovation” will be entirely devoted to scientific and technological research; “Origins and quality” will introduce the best typical products while “All roads lead to Rome” and “The centre of Fori” will be dedicated to the Roma Capitale projects for the redevelopment of architectural heritage sites. Six months of major events touring Italy, exploring a range of themes, with a host of pathways and discoveries focused on the culture, quality and excellence of our country. From North to South, the entire Italian territory will be an enormous and unique location where specific projects can be organised according to interest or business area, from visits to tours, from conferences to meetings, as well as gala dinners and other, more general events and happenings. Visitors to Expo 2015 will be able to get to grips with Italy both from within and from outside the exhibition area. And there are sure to be many foreign guests who discover “the great beauty” of Italy thanks to Expo 2015, and thanks to the next pages of this, our definitive “Expo 2015 and Italy Mice Guide”.

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NATIONAL AGENCIES

www.theitaliandmc.com

Communication Italian style

+39 EVENTS CONTACTS

Expertise, quality and a commitment to perfection, plus a wealth of opportunities specifically dedicated to clients choosing Milan and Expo A young and dynamic Dmc, established in 2010 and rapidly increasing its staff, the number of events managed each year and presence in Italy, with offices in Milan, Rome and Venice and a passion for working with an international clientele. This is the profile of +39events, an agency specialised in solutions for organising meetings, congresses, product launches, incentive travel, team building activities and any other type of communication by events.

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Via Raffaello Sanzio 36 20149 Milan Contact details: Ph +39 02 49518950 (Milan) Fax +39 02 49518964 (Milan) Ph +39 06 95557050 (Rome) info@plus39events.com

The company strives to give its clients a true taste of Italy at first hand, letting them discover all the beauty of its destinations and all the aspects of Italian culture and an Italian way of life. +39events’ payoff “focused on emotion, committed to perfection” perfectly expresses the ideal of top quality during all stages of

Ph © www.jjacobphotography.co.uk

Ph © www.jjacobphotography.co.uk

NATIONAL AGENCIES

events organisation throughout Italy, thanks to expert, multilingual staff with specific expertise in different destinations. +39events has organised hundreds of events in all four segments of the Mice industry, from corporate meetings and conferences to product launches, gala dinners in prestigious locations, incentive and team building activities with a focus on sport, as well as scouting historical and exclusive or unconventional venues for all types of events.

For Expo 2015, +39events has developed special themed programmes, which can be customised and made to measure, all centred on Expo in Milan and the

many social and recreational opportunities the city offers to international visitors and everyone who wants to organise events in Italy during the six months of Expo. The Milan Expo, dedicated to nutrition, flavours and related traditions, is a vast international showcase for exchanging know-how about food and food and agricultural resources in the world, that will bring together millions of visitors from all around the globe.

A fresh take on Milan – From our welcome service to transfers,

from walks around the historical centre of Milan to a tour of the city on an authentic, characteristic vintage tram, from bike rides or sightseeing on the back of a Vespa through the streets of the characteristic Navigli area to numerous food and wine tastings in select venues featuring exclusive terraces, famous restaurants and must-visit bars and cafés: +39events’ services enable visitors to really enjoy their time in Milan, and experience the many events related to Expo.

Modular packages of one, two or three days are available for clients to customise and select a range of activities from a shopping tour of Milan’s fashion district – one of Europe’s most famous and well-known – to museum visits, plus an unforgettable day trip to the stunning Borromean Islands and other fantastic venues on Lake Maggiore, just an hour by car from Milan, for a cocktail on board a boat or a lakeside gala dinner. In keeping with Expo’s themes, the company has also planned cookery lessons in English for all levels, held by professional chefs, for participants to learn how to make genuine Italian dishes or brush up their skills.

A perfect knowledge of locations, venues and services and the best partners available on the market are an important asset for a Dmc. +39events is a reliable, competent company that can offer an excellent return on investments in all circumstances, creating quality, unforgettable events with a truly Italian style.

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NATIONAL AGENCIES

FORMIGINE (MO) – www.21eventi.it

In the Motor Valley with 21eventi In the land of Ferrari, Lamborghini and Maserati, the meeting industry can experience the thrill and unique sensation of driving a supercar

21EVENTI CONTACTS via Stradella, 18m 41043 Formigine (Mo) Contact detail: ph +39 059 5750429 Email: info@21eventi.it

Motor-racing is a great tradition in Italy: cars and speed are a cultural heritage shared and loved the world over.

21eventi, that has just celebrated its 10th year in business, has been working in the event industry since 2003, promoting services connected with Modena, the “Motor Valley” and “Land of flavours”. The agency offers its guests an itinerary with the leitmotif “ster bein al mand”, which literally translated from local dialect, means “feeling at home in the world” and is used to refer to someone who knows how to embrace the joys of life, the pleasure of travelling and good company.

21eventi specialises in creating unique and exclusive days focused on motors, fun and relaxation. For small or large groups or for individuals from all over the world – at the race track in Modena in the “Motor Valley”, or at other national or international circuits. Driving a supercar on the track means you can appreciate all the performance of the car in total safety without worrying about road dangers and speed limits.

You can drive real racing cars, like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, and other great names as well. Racing a car with your own personal instructor is a fun and rewarding experience, and you will improve your driving skills too, helping you to feel more confident even on the road during your daily drive.

The philosophy behind 21eventi’s services for the Mice industry is best reflected by Maya Angelou’s quote: People will forget what you said, what you did, but will never forget how you made them feel.

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NATIONAL AGENCIES

LUGANO (CH) – www.bellinitour.com

Password: tailor-made The Swiss agency Bellini Tour is the ideal partner for organising out-of-the-ordinary events and trips during Expo: top quality services and alternative destinations for the most demanding clients Bellini Tour is a Swiss incoming and events’ organisation agency.

It organises incentive travels and group and individual trips mainly for foreign clients who want to visit and discover Italy and Switzerland. The agency aims to meet its client’s more unusual needs, offering top quality services and proposing out-of-theordinary, alternative destinations over more well-known locations.

The agency focuses on client satisfaction particularly in different segments, from food and wine – giving foreign visitors the chance, if they wish, to eat food from their home countries even when they are abroad – to transport, with the best solution for every need (from luxury cars for individuals, to coaches for groups, boats, aircraft and helicopters), as well as language services with guides and interpreters even for small groups – all with a very high standard of service. The agency offers numerous activities, including stunning hot air balloon trips in Switzerland and race track driving.

Besides tourism, the agency organises corporate events, trade fairs and gala events in Italy, Switzerland and other European countries, with a fully comprehensive service that covers

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BELLINI TOUR - SWITZERLAND CONTACTS Via Landriani, 7 Lugano - CH Contact details: Ph +41 791 758 272 (Ch) +39 345 6069235 (It) Email: contact@bellinitour.com Contact person: Valentina Brambilla valentina@bellinitour.com

concept definition together with the client up to on-site development with dedicated staff.

Agency staff are Italian, and speak English fluently. For Expo, Bellini Tour will assist foreign clients who want to attend the exhibition, with the organisation of ad hoc events in original and alternative locations near the Expo site. The agency offers an all-round comprehensive events organisation package, taking care of all the details for the client. The agency can also provide assistance with the organisation of trips and short or longterm stays near the Expo site, for small groups and for Vip or large delegations.

FRIGERIO VIAGGI

your partner for EXPO 2015 200 skilled and professional travel agents, 6 travel agencies of property, 60 travel agencies in full franchising, 100% a complete Network able to provide qualified services Authorised reseller for the exhibition tickets TICKETING Selected accomodations for foreign delegations, ACCOMODATION groups, F.I.T.: hotels, residences, B&B, hostels Transportation services, with a wide range of vehicles TRANSPORTATION TMC for incoming programs, based PACKAGES on the best Italian highlights Logistics, communication strategy, teambuilding programs, EVENTS video and multimedia production

Tel +39.0362.350.694

www.expo.frigerioviaggi.com

expo@frigerioviaggi.com

NATIONAL AGENCIES

BOLOGNA – www.imeetaly.it

A voyage of discovery Milan is not the only destination: all of the proposals for I’Meetaly events are equally appealing, with trips to uncover all of the jewels of the Emilia region and of the rest of Italy, during Expo 2015 Expo 2015 will draw millions of visitors to Milan’s many forms of accommodation. For this reason, and to allow Expo 2015 visitors to discover the various rich and abundant regions of Italy, the agency I’Meetaly has used its thirty years of experience to develop an alternative proposal to the Lombardy capital, which, in terms both of time-scales and attractions, is perfectly suited to corporate customers and more generally, to the whole Mice industry.

The idea is based around a stay in Bologna – which boasts an excellent range of accommodation solutions, from five-star hotels to quaint B&Bs - where visitors can explore the city and its surroundings, with easy access to the Expo 2015 site in an

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hour and 40 minutes.

Furthermore, Bologna is at the crossroads of two of the most famous “valleys” in Italy: Food Valley and Motor Valley - and visitors can enjoy these two delightful Emilian events.

Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, Balsamic Vinegar of Modena, Dop Mortadella from Bologna, the Museum of Icecream, cured meats, I’MEETALY CONTACTS Via Guelfa 54, 0138 Bologna Contact detail: Ph. +39 051 300100 Fax +39 051 309477 Email: info@imeetaly.it Contact person: Mariantonietta Melchiorre m.melchiorre@imeetaly.it

NATIONAL AGENCIES

history and art pervade every town, like the Rocche di Canossa; Busseto, the birthplace of the composer Giuseppe Verdi; the Via Francigena, the famous road connecting France to Rome; and the Charterhouse of Parma, the fame of which is enhanced by the acclaimed novel of the same name by Stendhal.

Flavours and cars – And in addition to Food Valley, Motor

fresh pasta: these are just a few of the delectable products which characterise this region, and which are famous the world over. A visit to Food Valley is the perfect incentive or post-conference trip, taking participants on the hunt for the “flavour” of places, where tradition is deeply rooted and welcomes are warm and inviting.

In addition, I’Meetaly organises private visits to the production sites, with guided tastings, intensive cookery courses and direct experiences of food production across the region: all activities stem from the rigorous selection of producers, accommodation providers and food processing companies, all of which boast in-depth knowledge of the area, along with professionalism and a familiarity with both raw materials and end products, married with the famed Emilian hospitality.

And we must not forget that in this region,

Valley provides a real draw: Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Ducati, the Imola and Misano tracks – these are just a few of the “roaring” proposals on offer in the Emilia Romagna region, epitomising appeal, passion and victory for millions of people all over the world.

I’Meetaly provides those who wish to offer their customers an exclusive post-conference adventure, or to arrange a truly unique incentive trip, with the opportunity to get up close and personal with these experiences.

A private bus, booked for the entire day, accompanies guests to the Museo Enzo Ferrari in Modena in the morning, and in the afternoon, to the Museo Ferrari in Maranello, where an exclusive guide will lead them to discover some of the most loved cars in the world.

For lunch, guests are welcomed into one of Modena’s gourmet restaurants, combining tradition with modernity and superb raw ingredients, in a unique atmosphere: participants can experience and share the ultimate in comfort food.

In addition to being the perfect locations for a guided tour, the Museo Ferrari and the Museo Lamborghini, with their renovated buildings and new exhibitions, offer a magnificent space for hosting events of all types, from conferences to themed dinners, and from team-building to gala events – I’Meetaly can take care of all the details, from the organisation to the management.

From Emilia to Italy – But I’Meetaly , which is primarily based in Bologna, has inherited the expertise of one of Italy’s most important Professional Congress Organisers (Pco), Planning Congressi, allowing them to branch out across all Italian regions in the search for local excellence, hunting out, for example, famous Tuscan wine producers, typical pasta from Campania or even Apulian oil mills.

Indeed, the Dmc provides creation, development and logistics services across the whole of Italy for projects and special events, with a team of skilled professionals with proven experience and a network of specially-selected tried and tested local suppliers. The company takes care of every stage of the organisation and management of congresses, conventions, conferences, corporate events and team building activities (from administrative tasks to location selection, from ticketing to creative services).

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NATIONAL AGENCIES

BOLOGNA – www.movantia.com

Movantia: connecting brands and people With live & digital projects that can create “connections” between brands and their audiences, Movantia presents itself at Expo 2015 as one of the most innovative agencies in the corporate events field It is only a few months now until the event that will put Italy at the centre of the world stage: Expo 2015. The six months of the Expo will bring great visibility to the nations and companies seeking an international showcase, which is able to generate contacts and business. Movantia, listed in the Official Suppliers Catalogue for Expo 2015 for their events services (meetings, conferences, product launches, incentives, conventions and much more), is ready to build “connections between brands and people” at the Universal Exposition as well as beyond the borders of Milan, with exclusive services for businesses and organisations. Movantia is an innovative agency in the field of services for corporate events because they understand the need to integrate digital technologies, the dialogue between the brand and its various audiences, the importance of attention to detail and the use of creativity to generate experience and valuable relationships between brands and their audiences. For

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MOVANTIA CONTACTS Via Ravenna 10 - 40139 Bologna Ceo: Fabio Fabbi - fabio@movantia.com Contact details: Ph +39 051 460603 Fax 051 082 1339 Email: ask@movantia.com

Expo 2015, Movantia will be displaying their organisational excellence as well as offering some fascinating new technology that generates amazing results by engaging people in new forms of dialogue between the real world and the digital domain.

NATIONAL AGENCIES

DISTINCTIVE CHARACTER

«What we are proposing to companies and organizations interested in the Expo 2015 platform» confirms Fabio Fabbi, Ceo of Movantia, «is a contextualized and efficient presence, with innovative services, because we believe that today each event should be developed by eliminating the boundaries between the real world and the digital realm. We believe that the Expo will be successful for the projects built around the needs of our customers and we will do our best to create, develop, organise and manage services across multiple platforms and points of contact, both online and offline». The Expo Milano 2015 will be a unique and extraordinary event specifically from the point of view of participation. Millions of people are expected to visit Italy and the true architectural wonders that are the exhibition halls. Many today think of the Expo as a typical those relationships necessary to ensure that customers can benefit from improved Roi at the Expo Milano 2015.

With ad hoc structured hospitality packages and projects complete with events in the halls, on the exhibition site and also outside of the Expo, Movantia is ready to give their best as of today. “We connect brands and people”: in this spirit Movantia aims to offer companies that compete on the Italian and global market the opportunity to take part in this unique event of universal significance in the best way possible. fair, but it must be emphasised that it is mainly a showcase of innovation and the values of each nation. It is able to surprise and inspire everyone. Visitors will be enthused by the interactive tours, and companies will benefit from a supportive environment for all types of business and marketing. «The weeks that separate us from the start of the Expo Milano 2015 are crucial» continues Fabbi, «because many companies can still take part in an event with incredible potential. Movantia has a strong commitment to finding the best opportunities for brands, both in terms of partnerships and design projects to achieve the best effect.

2015 is the year of the Expo and the companies that take part. We can help them develop competitive advantages».

For smaller groups, delegations and larger audiences, Movantia invents solutions, creating content, developing conversations, producing strategies and activities to enable

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NATIONAL AGENCIES

PISTOIA (Tuscany) – www.muchmorepartners.it

Much more than a partner If you are convinced that behind any successful event there is “much more” than meets the eye, allow us to introduce an incentive house which specialises in tailor-made creativity Twenty years of working experience and a deep understanding of the opportunities available across the whole of Italy combine to offer tailor-made solutions for events, high-impact communications and unforgettable experiences: Much More Partners is much more than a “simple” Dmc or incentive house, and was created with the goal of acting as spokesperson in organising incentive trips, special events and exhibitions for dealers, customers, decision makers and sales forces.

Based in Pistoia, in the heart of Tuscany, and with an office in Milan, the ability of Much More Partners to plan creative, memorable events, and to treat even technical training trips as an opportunity to excite and entertain, sets the company apart.

A recent example of this was seen at the magnificent recent launch event for a new, high-end fragrance, presented last September to around a thousand guests in one of Sardinia’s most appealing locations, and featuring spectacular firework displays and thrilling experiences. MMP managed the entire administrative and organisational process – from registration to the sending of invites – as well as managing travel with assistance at 22 Italian airports, and running the entire course programme.

In preparation for Expo 2015, the agency is offering up its expertise to an international client base, with a rich range of

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MUCH MORE PARTNERS CONTACTS Via della Madonna, 32 51100 - Pistoia Contact details: Ph +39 0573 25701 Fax +39 0573 25702 E-mail: mmp@mmpincentives.it Contact person: Lucia Chiara Tricarico General Manager lucia.tricarico@mmpincentives.it

services, from planning and organising tours in some of the most beautiful hidden corners of Italy, to arranging tastings and cooking classes, providing interpretation services and setting up gala dinners. All of this is supported by highly-qualified, multi-lingual staff. The approach remains the same – to plan tailor-made solutions in order to meet the every need of each customer, and to breathe life into events which go above and beyond the wildest expectations of the guests in attendance.

THE EXPO 2015 EVENT TOOLBOX

by Kuoni Destination Management

THE RIGHT TOOLS FOR YOUR BUSINESS To be part of EXPO 2015 is a great opportunity.

For this reason it is essential to look to the future and to be there, but above all, to design “how”. Our mission is to provide the best skills on the market for those wishing to carry out communication strategies and events within the context of such a highprofile opportunity, getting the most from their investments.

The KUONI EXPO EVENT TOOLBOX arises, therefore, with the intent to provide a plurality of services enclosed in a single container. It is a true “toolbox” designed to build and improve your business through our precision instruments. It is unique in its kind, modulable according to need.

Unlike the traditional undifferentiated offer, with our EXPO EVENT TOOLBOX you can choose individual services, combinations or the whole package depending on the needs for your event.

Rely on the operational excellence in Milan, and get the best out of what the city can offer in terms of hotels, event locations, catering, AV equipment, transfers, suppliers and all professionals working in the field.

KUONI DESTINATION MANAGEMENT Kuoni Destination Management is a multiaward-winning network of wholly owned Destination Management Companies. We create experiences rich in detail, offering vibrant local colour and seamless delivery. As a strategic business unit of the Swiss-based Kuoni Group, Kuoni Destination Management focuses on the Meetings & Incentives, Conferences and Events market. We offer MICE professionals a Europe wide one-stop shop without losing the charm of local destinations.

Kuoni Destination Management Italy is made up of a team of multilingual professionals who are used to dealing with major multinational companies and incentive houses from all over the world. With operational staff throughout Italy, we deliver full logistical support for transfers, gala events, meetings, congresses and conferences, product launches, test drives, sport events and top class, tailor-made incentives all over Italy.

Both our Italian offices in Milan and Rome are today among the leading DMCs in Italy.

OUR EXPERTISE & SERVICES MEETINGS, INCENTIVES & EVENTS Kuoni Destination Management Italy is well known for its attention to detail and its services, which cover Meetings, Incentives and Events. Our hardworking professional teams are dedicated to creating innovative solutions that help achieve our clients’ objectives.

CONGRESS ORGANIZERS (PCO & LOCAL PCO) Benefit from our experience as one of Europe’s leading Professional Conference Organisers (PCOs). Our 20 years of experience have made us synonymous with innovation and efficiency.

SPORTS HANDLING Kuoni Destination Management is your internationally experienced partner with local expertise in sports travel. Our excellent relationship with local authorities, suppliers and hotels ensures ideal conditions and flexibility. Our satisfied clientele includes UEFA and over 30 leading European football clubs and their official travel agents, and we have the experience to handle any sports events anywhere. Kuoni Destination Management is proud to be the designated accommodation agency for UEFA 2016 in France.

OUR CONTACTS IN ITALY KUONI DESTINATION MANAGEMENT - MILAN OFFICE Via Andrea Doria 33, 20124 MILANO Tel. +39.02.89825725 - dmc.mil@it.kuoni.com contact person: Paola Ursino

KUONI DESTINATION MANAGEMENT - ROME OFFICE Viale Castro Pretorio 124, 00185 ROMA Tel. +39.06.49227721 - dmc.rom@it.kuoni.com contact person: Carlotta Mosconi

NATIONAL AGENCIES

MESTRE (VE) – www.targetmotivation.it

An all-round service for the Mice industry An agency with considerable expertise in all key roles of communication by events and with a strong international vocation: Target Motivation, to meet the needs of clients in every segment of the Mice industry Thirty years of experience in organization of events, congresses, conventions, product launches and incentive trips, along with considerable expertise in destination and travel management: these are the hallmarks of Target Motivation, an agency based in Milan, Venice and Rome, with a strong international network, that brings together selected partners and suppliers throughout Europe and in many other countries of the world, from China to the United States, thanks to its Tam Events brand. With a specialist, multilingual staff of 25 people, Target Motivation is the ideal partner for international meeting planners, providing an all-round consultancy service for communication, from organising events to public relations, customer relationship management and graphics for offline and online editorial products.

With fully comprehensive services for the Mice industry, the agency is qualified to operate as DMC, PCO and CME provider, acting as a “one-stop service centre” for all administrative functions, contacts with sponsors and organisers. Long-term experience and strong

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TARGET MOTIVATION CONTACTS Via Circonvallazione, 28 30171 Mestre (Ve) Contact details: Ph +39 041 2392670 Fax: +39 041 2392600 Email: info@targetmotivation.it

relations with suppliers and hotel companies are a precious asset during negotiations, to guarantee an adequate return in terms of quality, for every budget.

Italy becoming the venue for Expo 2015 has undoubtedly been an opportunity: a perfect knowledge of services for events and congresses in Italy – collated and made available through a series of web portals dedicated to Milan, Rome, Venice, Tuscany and Sardinia – has enabled Target Motivation to focus its search for locations and services in some of Italy’s most stunning areas. An approach which is perfectly embodied in the company’s payoff: Simplify & Run.

MEETINGS CONVENTIONS & EVENTS INCENTIVE & CUSTOMIZED TRAVELS WINE & FOOD ITINERARIES

VIA CESARE BATTISTI, 15 - TEL. 0039 011 8128901 - 10123 TORINO - ITALY - WWW.ALMAGESTUM.IT

CONVENTION CENTRES

FIDENZA (PR) – FidenzaVillage.com

A surprising shopping destination The best fashion and homewear brands in a luxury shopping experience, a tailor-made location for events that also offers guests many possibilities to discover the surrounding area: Fidenza Village is the ideal destination for tourists, also during Expo Milano 2015 Luxury brands, exclusive services, elegant hospitality and a strong bond with the surrounding area: these are the distinguishing features of Fidenza Village, an unconventional venue full of surprises for the international meetings and incentives industry. At Fidenza Village – located in the heart of Emilia Romagna and part of the Collection of nine Chic Outlet Shopping Villages in Europe and two in China – the possibility of shopping for the top national and international luxury brands, and that of customising the many services on offer based on the specific requirements of the company are two fantastic elements that guarantee added value to each work meeting and team-building activity. Only an hour by car from Milan, the Village’s strategic location makes it the natural choice for all visitors seeking a luxury shopping experience, including those visiting Expo Milano 2015. Indeed, there are many activities and new events planned during the six months of the Universal Exhibition, linked to the theme “Feeding the planet, energy for life”, which can be found at FidenzaVillage.com.

There are also many services offered by the Village to create a truly unique luxury shopping experience – from a multilingual Personal Shopper service and a worldwide courier service – to the “Hands Free Shopping” service, a new service for groups and companies that allows guests to shop at their leisure without the need to carry their purchases, before having their securely packaged bags delivered to them as they depart the Village.

A new concept location – Fidenza Village is an unconventional, exclusive location in which you can organise events, incentive

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FIDENZA VILLAGE CONTACTS Maximum number of meeting rooms: 3 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 60 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 65 Nearest Airport: Linate Airport, Milan (100 km) Bologna Airport (100 km) Verona Airport (100 km) Address: Autostrada A1 Uscita Fidenza Terme Salsomaggiore (Pr) Contact details: Ph +39 0524 33551 Contact person: Valeria Montoneri, Expo Marketing Manager – Federica Dodi, Tourism Expo coordinator mob +39 334 6880799 – ph +39 0524 33551 email: expo@fidenzavillage.com Francesco Marcellini, Mice Specialist mob +39 338 6210940 email: tourism@fidenzavillage.com

CONVENTION CENTRES

programmes and company meetings with a touch of elegance.

The Village provides Business Tourism groups with a versatile, elegant area – the Chic Lounge – which allows companies to combine half a day of meetings with a unique shopping experience and many fantastic exclusive offers and savings. The area can be laid out to suit the occasion and the different requirements of the guests. It can be customised and reserved for large groups and is particularly suitable for occasions such as special events, gala dinners, fashion shows and cocktail evenings.

Discover the area – Just an hour away from the city of Milan,

the Business Tourism experience in the Fidenza Village provides guests with the opportunity to visit world-famous landmarks including La Scala theatre, the Duomo in Milan and the Arena of Verona. Guests can also visit all Parma, the birthplace of famous orchestra director Arturo Toscanini and home to many pearls of Italy’s cultural heritage, such as the Teatro Regio, a location of choice for opera fans from all over the world.

The very design of Fidenza Village is a tribute to its cultural

background and the area in which it is located: indeed, the architecture of the Village is inspired by the majestic stage set designs of the works of Giuseppe Verdi, one of the most famous representatives of this region.

The Village is also located on the road that connects Expo Milano 2015 to the famous Motor Valley in Emilia Romagna: the Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Ducati and the Imola and Misano race tracks are only some of this area’s many treasures which represent charm, passion and victory for millions of people worldwide.

The area that surrounds Fidenza Village is full of things to see and do and can be easily discovered thanks to the many fully customisable tours on offer. Gastronomically inclined guests can discover the trail of the good food and wine that distinguishes the area, sampling the excellence of its products, including the most famous Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, Balsamic Vinegar from Modena and Parma ham; a tour of its cities of art such as Modena, Ferrara and Ravenna is also available, whilst its sport and wellness facilities – from the golf courses in the spa location of Salsomaggiore – offer companies another possible experience.

Meanwhile, the legendary entertainment of Rimini and Riccione allows companies to fully discover the undisputed queens of seaside activities.

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HOTEL CHAINS

www.atahotels.it

Made in Italy experience Atahotels is an Italian hotel group bearing a brand that is synonymous with Italian excellence, quality and hospitality in the hotel industry In Italy, Atahotels has 21 facilities in 10 locations, seven hotels and five resorts, offering a total of 5,800 rooms. All the Atahotels are set in the most strategic parts of the cities in which they are located, providing both an excellent departure point from which to organise one’s free time activities and ideal locations for groups and business people. In terms of hospitality for the Mice segment, Atahotels offers 155 meeting rooms, which provide the ideal locations for organising company conventions, congresses, conferences, meetings, gala evenings, ceremonies and various other types of events. These include solutions for events that span from board meetings of no more than five participants, to large conventions hosting 1,400 guests, all in areas that offer maximum flexibility and a number of different layouts.

Mice-oriented hotels – All the conference areas are

equipped with state-of-the-art technology and high-speed Internet access from both fixed and wireless networks.

Customers can also count on a sole Mice sales representative for the entire chain, a true personal consultant who will assist them in choosing the hotel that best meets their requirements. Obviously, they can also count on the centralised Mice coordination office for advice and support.

Additionally, there are various specialised partners on whom the hotel chain relies to organise guided tours (4x4, boat, bus, quads), sporting activities (beach soccer, beach volley, canoeing, trekking on horseback, diving, mountain biking, archery, windsurfing, trekking) and also specific team-building activities

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HOTEL CHAINS

(beach challenges, treasure hunts, orienteering, sailing regatas, team games and so on). Some of the team-building activities offered can introduce guests to particularly elegant experiences, such as the wine & food tasting, spa and wellness and sailing activities offered in certain structures such as the Tanka Village in Sardinia and the Atahotel Naxos Beach and Atahotel Capotaormina in Sicily. Instead, the right hotel for those who love winter snow activities is the Golf Hotel Campiglio in Madonna di Campiglio, which, like the Tanka Village, also has a number of large golf courses. Finally, the two five-star hotels Principi di Piemonte in Turin and Petriolo in Tuscany are skilled in hosting prestigious events and providing guests with opportunities to relax both mind and soul in a luxurious, exclusive setting.

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ATAHOTELS CONTACTS Mice Office: Via Gioacchino Murat, 17 20159 Milan Contact detail: Ph +39 02 89526268 / 287 E-mail: events@atahotels.it Contact person: Michele Balzarelli Mice Sales Representative

What’s new – In preparation for the

Expo 2015 event, a new hotel, the Atahotel Bologna, has also opened up. This is a four-star facility which has been newly-built, featuring contemporary architecture and design furnishings. It also offers its clientele a

HOTEL CHAINS

conference centre consisting in three fully modular rooms, which is easy to reach from the city ring-road, airport and from the Fiera di Bologna.

Another important new feature, which will again prove extremely useful in the run-up to the Universal Exhibition, is the agreement that the hotel chain has signed with Btg-Jianguo Hotels & Resorts, allowing eight of the Atahotels to offer ad hoc services to the many Chinese tourists expected to arrive next year: these will not only include providing special cuisine for the guests, but also respecting their customs, habits and traditions, obviously without compromising the Italian profile of the services offered by the group. Furthermore, at no more than a few steps away from the Expo 2015 site, the Atahotel Expo Fiera is another excellent choice, built in line with the most modern architectural criteria close to the new Milan Rho/Pero exhibition area and not far from

Malpensa International Airport. The hotel has 462 rooms and its conference centre boasts a number of conference rooms that can host up to 2,900 people.

Milan according to Atahotels – Coming back to the city, opposite the important Porta Garibaldi station (also served by high speed trains), the Atahotel Executive is a modern four-star hotel with direct access to the metropolitan line and the brand new lilac line, which has just been opened. The conference centre has various areas capable of hosting a total of 900 people, and equipped with wi-fi internet connection and al the technology required by the events sector.

Its elegant interiors, the stylish design of its hall and its 420 spacious rooms ensure business guests a pleasant experience during their stay in the city. Finally, again in Milan, at the southern entrance to the city, the Atahotel Quark is an important location of choice for those seeking to organise large events, thanks to its modern congress centre that boasts 38 meeting rooms, two plenary halls and seven rooms for parties, gala dinners and exhibitions. Last but not least, the Atahotel Quark is particularly easy to reach by car: its large indoor and outdoor areas indeed provide parking spaces for over 1,000 vehicles.

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Lombardy

Sondrio Lecco Varese Como Monza

Bergamo Brescia

MILANLodi Pavia

Cremona Mantova

The destination Ideas for events Team building The regional offer

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – LOMBARDY

Lombardy: unforeseen beauty And not only in Milan. The Lombardy region offers Mice the perfect combination of ingredients for successful events: uniquely alluring artistic destinations along with varied and lush natural attractions, from the lakes and mountains to the verdant plains. All finished with a touch of the region’s famed efficiency

Above Crespi d’Adda, World Heritage Site.

Below Pavia

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While Milan is the catalyst for international business, it is also a city rich in charm and history, much like the rest of Lombardy, which is not only one of the country’s key manufacturing regions, but is also an incredible treasure trove of artistic gems, perfect not only for a post-conference tour departing from Milan, but also as a “stand-alone” destination for organised events. Just a stone’s throw from Milan, there is more than one surprise in store at Monza, with the Iron Crown of the Lombard queen Teodolinda – which, as legend has it, was made with a nail from Jesus’ cross –, the delightful centre with its elaborate cathedral, the Formula One circuit – the scene of one of the most demanding races of the championship, and the perfect location for adrenaline-fuelled team-building activities – and the magnificent Villa Reale, one of the many mansions that are dotted across the countryside. Interested in visiting an extremely original destination, with Unesco heritage status, once again on the Milan’s doorstep? Then take a trip to Crespi d’A dda, a workers’ village built in the late nineteenth century, the architecture and atmosphere of which has remained intact and where the meetings industry can indulge their fantasies, with exciting team building events among its orderly streets. Or even Vigevano, between Milano and Pavia, Leonardo da Vinci’s beautiful “ideal city”, immersed in the largest rice-growing region in Europe, Lomellina. But the other Lombard cities are also veritable treasure chests overflowing with jewels, and are often a little way off the beaten track, and are thus perfect locations for the Mice industry, always on the hunt for something

THE DESTINATION ITALY – LOMBARDY

Above Bergamo.

Below Mantova, protected by Unesco

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new. Bergamo, for example, with its spectacular “Città Alta” (upper city), is one such place, a maze of narrow streets dominated by the Colleoni Chapel and the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. Cremona is another, with its majestic historical centre and one of the most beautiful medieval squares in Italy, with the Torrazzo, the Cathedral, the Baptistry, the Loggia dei Militi and the Town Hall, while along the alleys the artisan spirit of Stradivari still lingers, in the museum dedicated to his work and in the artisan and luthier workshops. And Mantova, too, is not to be missed – a Unesco heritage site, with the nearby fortress of Sabbioneta and a range of architectural and artistic treasures belonging to the Gonzaga family, such as the Palazzo Ducale and the Palazzo Te: a mix of art, history and beautiful architecture which alone is worth a trip, “supported” by a refined culinary tradition to tempt even the most sceptical, with delicacies such as irresistible pumpkin and amaretti biscuits ravioli. And Brescia, too – beautiful and people-friendly, with new and attractive venues such as the Santa Giulia former monastery, protected by Unesco for its importance among the gems of the Longobardic period, and is open to the meetings industry for enchanting gala dinners and private visits. Como and Varese, both on the banks of the splendid lakes of the same name, are working towns with charming ancient centres. Sondrio is the “mountain-dweller”, and secluded queen of the Alps. And finally Pavia – with its ebullient university life, the town is nestled on the banks of the Ticino and surrounded by gentle, peaceful countryside. From these slow rural villages emerge great masterpieces, such as the Certosa delle Grazie, better known as the Certosa di Pavia, a true fourteenth-century religious domain, within which the various buildings are punctuated by silent courtyards.

3.000 SQM FOR YOUR EVENT IN THE CENTER OF MILAN

NEW TOTAL CAPACITY 2.950 3 AREAS

ALCATRAZ

meeting, convention, fashion shows, gala dinner, and more...

Alcatraz Milano is a multi-purpose venue which, given its well organized set up and flexible structure, offers endless creative possibilities for the organization of every kind of event.

AlcatrazMilanoOfficial

AlcatrazMilano

alcatrazmilano

ALCATRAZ MILANO Via Valtellina, 25, 20159 Milano Metro stop “Maciachini”, Line 3 tel. 02.69016352 | fax 02 69016391 | segreteria@alcatrazmilano.it | www.alcatrazmilano.it

THE DESTINATION ITALY – LOMBARDY

ART OR NATURE?

Above lake Como is dotted by small cosy villages.

Below the slopes in Livigno

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Nature, too, is well represented in Lombardy, with a host of unmissable sights: 133 parks and nature reserves, more than six hundred kilometres of navigable waterways – from the Navigli in Milan to the Mincio in Mantova, the Ticino in Pavia and the Adda in Bergamo – and more than six hundred kilometres of shoreline, reflected in the great expanses of water, each of which has its own characteristics and atmosphere. Lake Garda boasts incredible blue-green colours and shores dotted with olive and lemon groves, thanks to a special micro-climate that keeps temperatures in the region mild all year round – perfect for all water sports, from windsurfing to dingy racing. Garda is also home to fashionable resorts with an aristocratic air (Sirmione and Gardone Riviera, to name a couple, but also Salò, with its memories of Mussolini); Lake Como was made famous by the numerous Hollywood greats who have chosen it as their home (above all George Clooney, and his fabulous villa in the tiny town of Laglio), but long before this “colonisation”, the lake boasted pearls such as Bellagio, Cernobbio and Tremezzo, which were frequented by the nobility of half of Europe during the Belle Epoque; Lago Maggiore is a refined and cultural tourist destination, with the beautiful Borromean Islands (in the Piedmont region) scattering the horizon and small villages in colouring the coast (of particular note: Angera, with its beautiful rock reflected in the water).

Lovers of wine and wine tours will not be disappointed by Lombardy either – along the region’s picturesque roads of wine and flavours lie a whole host of excellent wine varieties of international acclaim. Franciacorta (in the Brescia region, where the eponymous sparkling wine is produced using the classical method, and stamped Docg) is just one of these, along with the Oltrepò Pavese (on the border with Emilia Romagna, famous for classic-method sparkling wine but also for its excellent Pinot Noir and Bonarda) and the Valtellina (the latter, in the northern Alpine region, is famous for its full-bodied and robust reds from Nebbiolo grapes, such as Inferno, Grumello and Sassella).

There is no shortage of hills and mountains in Lombardy either: steep slopes are interspersed with gentle valleys and resorts offering year-round glamour, with Madesimo, Livigno and Bormio of particular note. The latter of these is famous for its refined spas, as are Lecco and Ponte di Legno, which in winter are transformed into internationally–renowned ski resorts, surrounded by kilometres of cross-country and downhill skiing routes.

Finally, the Lombardy region also boasts some locations of unique and legendary charm, such Val Camonica, one of the largest valleys of the Central Alps, protected by Unesco due to the presence of numerous rock carvings dating back to the ancient and mysterious Camuni population (about 2,000 engraved rocks, in 180 locations across 24 municipalities: one of the most extensive collections of prehistoric petroglyphs in the world).

Villa Erba and Lake Como

International Glamour An exclusive location with two souls – the ancient villa and the modern multifunctional congress center on one side, a network to promote Lake Como on the other - a destination known worldwide.

The international congress center of Villa Erba rests on the shores of lake Como, is embellished by the surrounding landscapes and sits in the middle of a secular park that covers 100,000 sq.m – an equilibrium between history, elegance and innovation. On one side the ancient villa, built in the eighteen hundreds and who used to belong to the family of famous director Luchino Visconti; full of history and equipped with 5 majestic rooms that are ideal for: meetings, small conferences and celebrative events up to 450 guests. On the other side a modern multifunctional congress center, built as a modern greenhouse by architect Mario Bellini, with a total surface area of 11,000 sq.m, and able to host up to 1500 guest in the center pavilion. The multifunctional spirit and the versatility, the ancient villa, the secular park and the modern congress center, render Villa Erba a unique destination, able to host events of different nature and sometimes even complementary between them. From congresses to exhibitions, from corporate events to celebrations, all is possible at Villa Erba, and all is enriched of charm and rendered unforgettable.

VILLA ERBA AND IT’S TERRITORY The network – of which Villa Erba is promoter together with C.I.A. (Como Hotellerie trade association) – integrates different expertise and services, and represents: exclusive venues for every type of event, hotel accommodation, support services for communication, social and cultural programmes, entertainment and transportation.

Lake Como Events Network represents the best of the MICE offer on Lake Como. A brand created to offer the national and international clientele locations and services available on the territory through the coordination and assistance of a unique interlocutor that, thanks to its proven experience, can guarantee both quality and competence.

An accurate service that allows the client to save time and energy, at lower costs.

Lake Como Events Network is the ideal partner for congresses, conferences, meetings, incentives, team building, and every other type of event on lake Como.

Villa Erba & Lake Como Events Network, Largo Luchino Visconti 4, 22012 Cernobbio (CO), Italy, Tel: +39 031 3491 info@lakecomoevents.com, www.lakecomoevents.com, www.villaerba.it

THE DESTINATION ITALY – LOMBARDY

Ideas for events which are…

BY RAIL > A JOURNEY ABOARD THE UNESCO HERITAGE BERNINA EXPRESS It is the highest train route in Europe, crossing the stretch from Tirano to Saint Moritz (from the Sondrio province into Swiss territory) and reaching an altitude of 2,253 metres, with 7% gradient slopes, and breathtaking, unforgettable views of the most beautiful Alpine peaks. Since 2008, the Bernina Express has been on the list of sites protected by Unesco.

GOURMET > TASTE THE DELICIOUS WINES OF FRANCIACORTA (BRESCIA) AND OLTREPÒ PAVESE (PAVIA) As quality sparkling wines, both Franciacorta and Oltrepò Pavese can boast fine wine production, mainly of classic-method sparkling varieties, but also of Pinot Nero (and a lively Bonarda). Another idea? Combine tastings in the local vineyards with a trip to one of the numerous architectural gems in the area: villas and parks in Franciacorta, medieval castles and Romanesque churches in the Oltrepò region.

MYSTERIOUS > EXCLUSIVE VISIT TO DA VINCI’S CENACOLO (THE LAST SUPPER) It is extremely satisfying just to skip the long queues and admire the imposing wall painting – Leonardo Da Vinci did not like the fresco technique – of the Last Supper, in total peace and quiet. To add a touch of mystery to your visit, just (re)read The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown and scrutinise the painting for all the little details mentioned in the book. The most notable?

Is the disciple to the right of Jesus really John, or is it Mary Magdalene?

ON HORSEBACK > AT THE SAN SIRO HIPPODROME, NOT JUST FOR RACING! An idea for an unusual gala dinner? Try dining in one of the spaces at the San Siro hippodrome in Milan. It’s even better in conjunction with a session of horse racing – choose from a range of different disciplines, from trotting races to galloping and sulky races. Post-conference leisure activities and dinner, brought together in a decidedly unusual setting.

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NEWS 2015:

RELAIS CHERVO SAN VIGILIO

APARTMENTS FOR RENT INDOOR SWIMMINGPOOL

Golf & Sport

Golf

Hotel & Resort

Hotel

Wellness & Spa

Spa

Restaurant Restaurant & Events

Real Estate

enjoy your game

discover the italian lifestyle

take your time

tasting delights

living in paradise

Resort

‘La Dolce Vita’ on Lake Garda The most iconic Golf Destination in Italy

Discover & Check availability offers on the web site.

It is the virtuous combination of antique and modern that makes the Chervò Golf Hotel Restaurant Spa & Resort San Vigilio so unique. Our efficient services and features work in partnership with nature, comfort and enhancement of your body and spirit on your quest for wellness and relaxation. Our resort is in Pozzolengo, just south of Lake Garda, between Sirmione and Desenzano, in the center of the most important cities in northern Italy.

At its heart is the ancient Benedictine abbey of San Vigilio built in 1104. New buildings and historic residences have been constructed around the abbey in a harmonious fusion of line and form, providing facilities for the hotel, restaurant, spa, resort and the 36-holes golf course.

AIRPORT CONNECTION: VERONA 18 KM - BERGAMO 58 KM - MILANO/VENEZIA 120 KM. Transfer from/to airports - On request.

GOLF SPECIAL OFFERS “Invitation to Golf in Lake Garda”

from € 125*

Enjoy time with family and friends in sunny Italy with these golf packages and special offers from Chervò Golf Hotel Spa & Resort San Vigilio. * Rate for day, 1 person in double room and includes: continental buffet breakfast, 1 dinner with half board treatment, unlimited green fees, complete wellness pathway, 10% discount on wellness treatments and 20% discount on spa products, free Wi-fi, free parking place or garage. Minimum Length of stay is 3 nights.

Subscribe to Special Offers Contact + 39 030 91 801

info@chervogolfsanvigilio.it visit www.chervogolfsanvigilio.it Chervò Golf Hotel Spa & Resort San Vigilio

N 1 ITTALLY N. GOLF DESTINATION G A TOP 20 GOLF & HOTEL RESORT R IN N THE WORLD

Loc. San Vigilio, 1 - 25010 Pozzolengo (Bs) Lago di Garda - Italy Tel +39 030 91 801 - Fax +39 030 91 80 999

THE DESTINATION ITALY – LOMBARDY

ON THE WATERWAYS > ALONG THE NAVIGLI, THE PO, AND THE MINCIO, WITHOUT FORGETTING THE ADDA Enjoy an exclusive aperitif or dinner on one of the boats floating gently on the Navigli waterways in Milan, which have once again become navigable after around nine centuries, or hop on a boat for a tour of the city from different perspective. Or why not take a cruise along the Po, through the Pavia, Lodi, Cremona and Mantova provinces, and indulge in a spot of birdwatching, or along the Mincio at night, allowing yourself to be enchanted by Mantova and Sabbioneta? Alternatively, the Adda offers a seductively picturesque route through the small old towns of the Bergamo region.

PREHISTORIC > AMONG THE RUNES OF VAL CAMONICA...

OR THE DINOSAURS OF VAPRIO D’ADDA Pay a visit to the province of Sondrio and stop off at the Val Camonica park to see the rock engravings dating back to the Middle Bronze Age. Take a step back in time and enter a world that we still know relatively little about, with the Camunic alphabet which is thought to have given rise to the Celtic runes. However, if you fancy stepping back into childhood, the Prehistoric Park at Rivolta d’Adda (in the Bergamo province) is the place to go to marvel at the full-scale models of dinosaurs, mammals and primitive man.

THEATRICAL > THE SCALA DURING EXPO 2015 For the first time in history, over the course of the six months during which Expo 2015 will be taking place, the Teatro Alla Scala – the international hub of opera and ballet – will remain open continuously from May 1 to October 31, with a full schedule of more than 150 shows, including operas, ballets, concerts and exhibitions.

The acoustics in the theatre excite, while the prestige of the location cannot fail to impress those watching a show from the chairs or the boxes at the Scala – prebooked seats only – and ensure that the event is extremely memorable. This unforgettable experience can be further enhanced with an exclusive visit to the Theatre museum, or with private cocktails in the foyer.

UP IN THE AIR > GLIDER, PARAGLIDER OR PARACHUTE? Fancy placing your trust in gravity and taking a trip on a glider? Head to Varese.

Floating softly while enjoying the view more your thing? Let yourself go to Lecco, with a paraglider. Is it (almost) freefall and pure adrenaline you’re after? Grab your parachute at the Aeroclub in Varese.

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Milano AS Hotel Cambiago | Cambiago

Monza e Brianza AS Hotel Limbiate Fiera | Limbiate AS Hotel Dei Giovi | Cesano Maderno AS Hotel Monza | Monza

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Business | Meeting & Events Leisure | Milan & Expo 2015

THE DESTINATION ITALY – LOMBARDY

… and team building Lombardy knows how to surprise the Mice industry, by offering a wide range of water sports despite being landlocked, along with compelling mysteries just waiting to be unravelled SNOW AND ICE Heading North, the gentle plains of Lombardy give way to hillier terrain, and as you proceed, great mountains begin to rise up all around, towering impressively overhead. Here, snow is guaranteed, and internationally renowned ski resorts, with leading-edge ski lifts and top-quality infrastructure, are abundant: Chiesa Valmalenco, Livigno, Bormio and Aprica (in the Sondrio region); Foppolo and Castione della Presolana (Bergamo); Ponte di Legno and Tonale (above Brescia, and, along with Passo dello Stelvio on the border with the Trentino region, perfect for lovers of summer and glacier skiing).

But skis aren’t the only way to enjoy the mountains: more unusual activities, which are ideal for a team building, include courses in dog sledding and a race at Tonale, or learning the secrets of driving on ice at the Ice Driving School in Livigno. For more laid-back types, snow-shoeing – perhaps at night – is also seductive.

THERE’S NO SEA IN LOMBARDY, BUT... ...there are as many rivers and lakes as you could wish for, ideal for any type of water sport imaginable – all in the name of team building, of course! An example or two? How about adrenaline-pumped canyoning and rafting in the Lower Valtellina, or canoeing and kayaking along the Brembo and Oglio rivers? More into sailing and water-skiing? Garda, Como and Iseo are perfect, with numerous high-level schools and training courses on the shores of the lakes. Fancy feeling the wind in your hair and experiencing the thrill of windsurfing?

Head to Garda or Como. Clear waters and tropical colours? Garda it is!

Water with restorative powers? The thermal springs!

Where? At Trescore Balneario resort and San Pellegrino Terme (Bergamo); Boario Terme, Sirmione and Vallio Terme (Brescia); Miradolo Terme, Rivanazzano and Salice Terme (Pavia); Bormio (Sondrio) and why not? At Milan thermal springs.

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – LOMBARDY

TEE TIME OR THIRD HALF TIME? Meeting on the green with a golf club in hand is now a classic pastime, and Lombardy has more than sixty Federgolf-affiliated clubs, with practice fields and challenging courses, many of which are happy to “lend” their clubhouse to the Mice industry.

However, if you’re leaning towards a more “engaging” activity – the perfect parable of corporate life – there are many rugby teams willing to provide both pitch and player for corporate training sessions and team building, with a view to teaching concepts such as cooperation and team spirit. A couple of names? The Asr in Milan and the Rovato in the Brescia province.

LIKE AN F1 DRIVER The lure of speed is extremely seductive. The Ferrari brand, associated with the tracks upon which the Prancing Horse has seen many great times, and much more.

The perfect team-building activity: test your skills on the Formula One Grand Prix track at the Monza circuit, driving meteorically fast cars – although perhaps not before having attended a fascinating driving safety or race training course.

Something to write home about!

IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF THE DEVIL...AND THE THREE WISE MEN A treasure hunt to discover the most mysterious nooks and crannies of Milan, tracking down the legends that pervade its thousand-year history...starting with the one linked to the famous devil’s column, in front of the Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio. It is said that the devil entered the church to try to tempt the saint, but was ousted by the latter with a kick so hard that his horns stuck into the column in front of the basilica, before he ran away, leaving behind him an opening leading directly to hell. Whether myth or fact, the two mysterious round holes on the column are clear to see, and occasionally, in the evenings, a faint scent of sulphur drifts past... The distance between demons and saints is short: rumour has it that the coffins of the three Wise Men are kept in the nearby church of Sant’Eustorgio: this, it is claimed, is proved by the fact that the bell tower is not topped by a cross but by an eight point star, to symbolise the guiding star. Finally, we have the ghosts of witches burned in Piazza Vetra, and Bramante’s trompe-l’oeil in the church of Santa Maria near San Satiro, which gives a misleading and incredible depth to the room.

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Nothing compares to

PH: PHOTOPIERRE

PIAZZA DUCALE

www.vigevanoversoexpo2015.com

THE DESTINATION ITALY – LOMBARDY

VIGEVANO (PV) – www.vigevanoversoexpo2015.com - www.iatprolocovigevano.it

institutions

Vigevano: an unexpected surprise Home of the Lords of Milan during the Renaissance period, adorned with the works of Leonardo and Bramante, and surrounded by the beautiful Ticino Park: the “ideal city” is waiting to be discovered

Ph © Li Vigni LR

Like any large site for events of this calibre, Expo 2015 will not be solely focused on Milan: the city will serve as the event headquarters, and will act as a jumping-off point for a range of initiatives throughout the whole of the Lombardy region.

Moreover, for Mice, it will be essential to keep an eye on the opportunities linked to what is shaping up to be an “ExtraExpo”, a wealth of events which will take place in a range of locations which will provide the setting for a range of calendar dates and for the various needs associated with international business tourism.

Less than an hour from Milan, the city of Vigevano has all the characteristics necessary to become the stage for events and initiatives which are linked – directly or indirectly – to Expo 2015: mid-way between Milan and Pavia, Vigevano is easy to get to, and is the epicentre of the Lomellina, an expansive historical and geographic region rich in waterways, woods and farmland, making it one of Lombardy’s green “lungs” as well as one of the most unique food-producing areas in Northern Italy. Here, we are at the heart of the biggest rice-producing

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IAT VIGEVANO CONTACTS Via C. Battisti n°6 27029 Vigevano (Pv) Ph/fax +39 0381690269 Email: iat@comune.vigevano.pv.it

region in Europe: when flooded in the spring, the paddies reflect the sky, and shine golden at harvest time (in autumn), giving the landscape a uniquely picturesque appeal. Vigevano is also known internationally for manufacturing shoes, with a focus on high-quality fashion footwear, and is also a leader in the construction of machines for making shoes, leather goods and accessories.

The tenets around which Expo 2015 will be based – food production

Ph © Li Vigni LR

and sustainability of environmental resources – are represented perfectly here. At the centre of the remarkable Parco del Ticino, recognised by Unesco as one of the most important alluvial areas in the world, Vigevano is a destination steeped in the architectural and cultural heritage of the great Milanese Renaissance lords, as well as being an extremely visitor-friendly city: with few more than 60,000 inhabitants, this Renaissance city offers a sense of peace and tranquillity; the arcades and the streets of the old centre seem frozen in time, flowing towards the bright and impressive Piazza Ducale.

Vigevano really is an unmissable stop on any voyage of discovery around the beautiful Lombardy region.

institutions

Ph © Filiberto Mayda

THE DESTINATION ITALY – LOMBARDY

Flavours and traditions The cuisine of Vigevano reflects the peasant traditions of the area: rice evidently plays a big part, along with a rich assortment of typical Lombard dishes and tasty fish from the Ticino; furthermore, the Oltrepo Pavese region is wellknown as a wine-producing area, with a complete range which includes numerous fine wines as well as more than thirty Doc varieties.

The Ducal gem – The beauty of the place, the lushness of the vegetation and the region’s high rates of productivity rendered Vigevano one of the best-loved destinations of the Lords of Milan, the Visconti and the Sforza families, who made this their home through the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries. During the golden age of the Italian Renaissance, Vigevano reached its heyday, becoming an important centre for trade and manufacturing, further enhanced by the contributions of the great genius Leonardo Da Vinci, who was Ducal engineer at the court of Ludovico il Moro, Lord of Milan, in the last twenty years of the fifteenth century; other symbolic monuments in the city, such as the castle and the tower that stands on Piazza Ducale, bear the signature of another Renaissance great, Bramante. For the Lords of Milan, Vigevano was an important seat and government bastion in the heart of the countryside: this historical dignity is tangible in the splendid Palazzo Ducale, with its great Sala dell’Affresco, and in the Loggia delle

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institutions

THE DESTINATION ITALY – LOMBARDY

Dame, the Falconiera and in the fascinating underground roads via which the members of the Court could enter and leave the castle without being seen. These historical and cultural remains today represent an important asset for the city, and are available for use during events and initiatives of all kinds.

The key locations in the town – In addition to the castle, there are many other splendid historical buildings which can be used to host major events. Included among these is the Palazzo Merula, a former seventeenth-century convent boasting a large

Ticino’s gold

Ph © Josè Lattari

As with many mountain rivers, it is still possible to find tiny particles of gold in the bed of the Ticino – amateur hunters for this precious metal are unlikely to make their fortune, but it’s certainly good fun! This passion is shared by many local amateur associations, and can see hunts take place in the style of the Klondike pioneers, as immortalised by the novels of Jack London.

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courtyard surrounded by a loggia, which is now home to the historical archive of the Municipality, replete with a rich collection of documents, scrolls and sixteenth century books. The historical Teatro Cagnoni, on the other hand, dates back to the 19th century, and has a capacity of 602 seats, including boxes and stalls.

The Battù Congress Centre was created through the transformation of a traditional nineteenth-century farmhouse, and is now a modern and modular functional space, with a conference room, smaller rooms for workshops and meetings, and a large garden with a veranda suitable for hosting any kind of catering set-up. The mill at Mora Bassa is a distinctive authentic water mill, personally commissioned by Ludovico il Moro in 1494: today, it is a permanent museum dedicated to the Leonardo’s machines and inventions, which provides an evocative backdrop for conferences, presentations and gala dinners. The historical Villa Necchi is a mansion immersed in the verdant Parco del Ticino, surrounded by a large private garden, with 21 stylish rooms and a relaxing spa. It provides a prestigious, tranquil location for events, conferences and receptions, with meeting rooms which can accommodate anything

Ph © Josè Lattari Ph © Li Vigni

Ph © Josè Lattari

from 50 to 200 participants. The more recent, but nonetheless historical Villa Ronchi is a magnificent art deco-style building dating back to the 1930s. The large party room – with an eight-metre ceiling – boasts prestigious panelled boiserie interior woodwork in cedar and multicoloured marble, and a large expanse of private parkland ideal for receptions and photo shoots.

The Parco del Ticino – The Ticino river has its source in Switzerland, and along with other great rivers, it feeds Lago Maggiore. It runs along the border between Piedmont and Lombardy, before finally crashing into the Po: it is the second biggest waterway in Italy after the latter in terms of flow rate, and one of the longest too. This great blue torrent is surrounded on either side by two regional parks, which together form one of the largest alluvial areas in Europe, and represent a precious reserve in terms of biodiversity. The Ticino is adored by sporty types due to the fact that it can be followed by boat or by canoe, and is revered by fishermen, as well as being one of the most famous scenic delights of the Lombardy region. More than 120 kilometres of bike trails and 700 kilometres of footpaths meander through the park, offering a range of naturalistic and educational trails: it is the perfect location for any of the sporting or outdoor activities commonly used as team-building exercises, or for the sheer joy of escaping to the country, with something for all ages.

The beauty of this lush green and blue oasis provides the perfect foil to the town. Vigevano’s refined and elegant atmosphere welcomes delegates of Expo 2015, offering them a taste of the abundant richness of the countryside and woods that surround it, and showcasing the modern infrastructure that ensures that the town remains functional without compromising its Renaissance charm: these are the elements that make Vigevano such a jewel, ripe for the discovery – the perfect people-friendly city which is close to the model of the “ideal city” – or in today’s terms, “smart city” – envisaged by Leonardo da Vinci in his drawings from 500 years ago.

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institutions

Ph © D. Bassanini

THE DESTINATION ITALY – LOMBARDY

THE DESTINATION ITALY – LOMBARDY

COMO – www.palacehotel.it – www.hotelbarchetta.it

Facing Lake Como

PALACE HOTEL COMO

★★★★

Near the Alps and facing the lake, Como is a beautiful city of Lombardy, easily reachable from Milan, boasting numerous works of art, churches, gardens and museums. In the heart of Como city centre are located two beautiful hotels: The Palace Hotel and Hotel Barchetta Excelsior.

The Palace Hotel, a member of the Villa d’Este Group, is on the very edge of Como’s lakefront.

It is housed in a historical “Palazzo” dating from 19th century and consists in two prestigious buildings: the Palazzo Plinius (62 newly renovated rooms), a mansion built by architect Federico Frigerio (who also designed the famous Tempio Voltiano), and Pianella Wing (32 historical rooms) one of the oldest in town.

The tranquillity is at home in the rooms on the first and second floors, lake view or historical centre view, bright and comfortable.

The 94 rooms are now divided between 62 new style Classic city centre, Lake View, Executive and Junior Suite and 32 Italian

hotels

The elegant Palace Hotel and the exclusive Hotel Barchetta Excelsior offer Como at its best. Located in the heart of the city centre, they offer refined services and hospitality on the lakefront

Maximum number of meeting rooms: 5 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 230 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 137 Sleeping rooms: 94 Nearest Airport: Malpensa, Milano (60 km) Brand affiliations: Villa d’Este Group Address: Lungo Lario Trieste, 16 22100 Como Contact details: Ph +39 031 23391 Fax: +39 031 303170 Email: info@palacehotel.it Contact person: Loredana Bosetti, Event & Congress Manager

traditional style Classic and Deluxe rooms that seats in the historical Pinella Wing.

All the rooms are purposely equipped to ensure complete relaxation and all the privacy and peace you seek.

The hotel also features five well-equipped conference rooms and elegant restaurants on the dock; the majestic Magna Hall, where every morning a rich lake view buffet breakfast is served, the main

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – LOMBARDY

hotels

★★★★

HOTEL BARCHETTA EXCELSIOR COMO Maximum number of meeting rooms: 2 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 50 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 50 Sleeping rooms: 84 Nearest Airport: Malpensa, Milano (60 Km) Brand affiliations: Villa d’Este Group Address: Piazza Camillo Benso Conte di Cavour, 1 – 22100 Como Contact details: Tel: +39 031 3221 Fax: +39 031 302622 Email: info@hotelbarchetta.it Contact person: Valentina Zorzato, Front Office Manager

restaurant “Antica Darsena”, a private dining room named Plinius and the romantic Ceccato Garden Bar in Liberty style on the lakefront.

An ample parking and a private garage complete the service of this fine city centre Hotel that offers everything one could need, perfect for national and international travellers.

The Palace Hotel is located just a few steps from the main streets which are lined with shop windows and boutiques.

Moreover the wonderful monuments such as the Cathedral, the beautiful churches in Romanesque style, Via Vittorio Emanuele II, Portico Plinio, Cavour Square and the elegant villas, located all around the lake, like the most famous “Villa Olmo”, are the

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magnificence of this antique Roman city, that thanks to its precious textile production, has earned the nickname “the city of the silk”.

Antica Darsena Restaurant with summer terrace, Magna Hall, Plinius Dining room, Garden Bar Ceccato features Mediterranean and lake fish specialties.

Welcome to the Hotel Barchetta Excelsior – The Hotel Barchetta Excelsior, a member of the Villa d’Este Group, has a superb location in the heart of historical city centre of Como, with one of the best views of the lake in town.

Located in the main square facing the romantic lake and a short walk to the old town with its cobbled streets and impressive Renaissance Cathedral, this recently refurbished hotel is a very comfortable base from which to explore the area.

It was built in 1893 and quickly became one of the most important hotels in town, as well as a meeting point of the local aristocrats.

With modern and contemporary public areas, and traditionally decorated rooms, the Barchetta is a comfortable and very welcoming hotel.

There are 84 rooms, 80 of which are twin or double bedded, three junior suites and one suite. The majority of the rooms face the lake and feature: air conditioning, satellite Tv, direct line telephone, mini bar, safe, hypoallergenic pillows, wi-fi Internet connection, bathtub & shower, complimentary amenities, hairdryer.

The American Bar & Lounge is the perfect starting point whether at lunch, dinner or for an afternoon tea or cocktail, whilst the panoramic first-floor restaurant serves breakfast and private banquets accompanied by an extensive wine list.

A smart hotel, with excellent service and an unmatched lakeside location makes the Barchetta Excelsior ideal for a stay in the lake region surrounded by green hills with a mild climate throughout the year.

The hotel also offers a bistro restaurant, an American bar & lounge area with summer terrace, and the Barchetta breakfast room.

THE DESTINATION ITALY – LOMBARDY

ERBUSCO (BS) – www.albereta.it

A temple of taste

★★★★★

hotels

Founded as a haven dedicated to the art of living, L’Albereta is a genuine temple of good taste thanks to its new restaurant Leonefelice that finds a perfect complement in the Vistalago Bistrò overlooking Lake Iseo L’ALBERETA RELAIS & CHATEAUX Maximum number of meeting rooms: 5 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 180 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 240 Sleeping rooms: 57 Nearest Airport: Orio Al Serio, Bergamo (25 km) Brand affiliations: Relais & Chateaux Address: via Vittorio Emanuele, 23 25030 Erbusco (Bs) Contact details: Ph +39 030 7760550 Fax +39 030 7760573 Email: info@albereta.it Contact person: Ariela Duina, Sales & Event Manager, email: a.duina@albereta.it

Standing in mature verdant grounds, surrounded by gently rolling hills dotted with the vineyards of Franciacorta, in the heart of Lombardy, close to Brescia and Bergamo and less than an hour by car from Milan and north Italy’s major cities such as Verona and Venice, L’Albereta is the ideal location for meetings and refined receptions, with an elegance and impeccable service, enhanced by an outstanding cuisine to delight the most discerning of palates.

After a remarkable experience with the great maestro of Italian cuisine, Gualtiero Marchesi, L’Albereta started a new chapter in its history, in January 2014, staying true however to its tradition as a temple of taste, thanks to the new haute cuisine restaurant Leonefelice, which is perfectly complemented by the Bistrò Vistalago, with its terrace commanding stunning views of Lake Iseo.

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L’Albereta is the perfect setting for business meetings and exclusive events, also offering a wealth of activities and experiences to enjoy: from guided tastings and cookery courses with the executive chef Fabio Abbattista, to the exclusive wellness & medical spa Espace Vitalité Henri Chenot, as well as outdoor pursuits.

Art lovers will be delighted by the Sculpture Park, an open-air itinerary showcasing modern art, starting from L’Albereta and ending at the nearby Bellavista and Contadi Castaldi wineries, where wine tasting and tours can be arranged.

Golf enthusiasts are spoilt for choice, with numerous, prestigious golf facilities near the hotel, including 27-hole courses.

Plus the Franciacorta area and Lake Iseo offer a wide range of activities, from excursions in the nature reserve at Torbiere del Sebino to private cruises to Montisola, one of Europe’s biggest lake islands, panoramic mountain bike tours and all aquatic activities, including sailing, windsurfing, water skiing and canoeing. Lastly the hills around the lake are home to numerous riding stables – for horse lovers to enjoy scenic treks in the area.

Milan

OPENED IN 2013 INNOVATIVE INTERIOR DESIGN AND STATE-OFTHE-ART MATERIALS

Sophisticated and avant-garde A new hotel, designed by the prestigious architect Simone Michelli, conceived with eclectic spaces and rooms that are pure design.

Located in the most promising business district of Milan and in the area where

Only 800m from Expo

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the forthcoming Universal Exhibition 2015 will take place.

Well connected to the airport, the city centre, the most important exhibition centres of Milan and just 800m to the Expo 2015 area.

Bike path

LOUNGE BAR WITH AN ELEGANT AMBIANCE GYM AND SPA AREA OF 600 m2 MODERN BUSINESS CENTRE WITH 7 MULTIFUNCTIONAL SPACES FOR ANY TYPE OF EVENT

Shuttle service

THE DESTINATION ITALY – LOMBARDY

GARGNANO (BS) – www.lefayresorts.com

Low-impact luxury

★★★★★L

hotels

A luxury, environmentallyfriendly resort, with breathtaking views, for a stay to combine work and wellness with an Italian style LEFAY RESORT & SPA LAGO DI GARDA Maximum number of meeting rooms: 3 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 80 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 90 Sleeping rooms: 93 Nearest Airport: Verona (88 Km) Linate, Milan (150 Km) Brand affiliations: SLH, Healing Hotels of the World, Virtuoso, FH&R, Kiwicollection Address: Via Feltrinelli, 136 25084 Gargnano (Bs) Contact details: Ph +39 0365 241800 Email: meeting@lefayresorts.com Contact person: Giulia Francinelli Mice Manager

Lefay Resort & Spa Lago di Garda, a five star luxury wellness resort, is located in Gargnano, in a superb natural setting, surrounded by gentle hills and natural terraces rich in olive trees and woods overlooking the lake. The resort is an exclusive, eco-friendly destination, standing in superb grounds of 11 hectares, overlooking the lake, offering its guests the utmost in relaxation with spacious interiors and outdoor areas, a peaceful setting and vibrant Mediterranean cuisine to enjoy in its two restaurants. This eco-resort has 92 different category suites, all wellappointed, and a Royal Pool & Spa Suite with private spa and pool. The resort’s most outstanding feature is the Lefay spa, a true haven of wellbeing, with a surface area of 3,000 square metres, offering innovative and exclusive beauty treatments and therapeutic massage.

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The resort is the ideal setting for holding corporate meetings, team building sessions or exclusive business meetings with a regenerating effect. A meeting centre with state-of-the-art equipment is situated in a private area with private garden overlooking the stunning lake Garda. Two naturally lit meeting rooms are available: the “Sala Goethe”, which is the bigger room, with a 90 square-metre floor surface, and the “Sala Lawrence”, with a 40 square-metre floor surface. There is also an exclusive third room, offering a more informal and intimate setting: the “Sala Caminetto”, next to the lounge bar, with an 85 square-metre floor surface, finely furnished and with large windows and blackout blinds, ideal for executive meetings or more simply for cocktails. With ad-hoc events for its guests, the resort is getting ready for Expo 2015.

The aroma of the wine of Franciacorta, the green of the natural reserve “Torbiere del Sebino”, the host of the historic center of Iseo: in this contest rich in art and gastronomic traditions, borns Iseolago Hotel & spa.

66 rooms 56 standard 8 Junior Suites 2 Master Suites

Meeting & Congressi 3 conference rooms holding up to 200 persons

Ristorante L’Alzavola Refined cuisine featuring local specialities.

Bar Spa & Fitness Large Park with outdoor swimming pools Via Colombera 2 - 25049 Iseo (Brescia) - Tel. +39.030.98891 - Fax: + 39.030.9889299 www.iseolagohotel.it - info@iseolagohotel.it

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – LOMBARDY

GAMBOLÒ (PV) – www.villanecchi.it

In nature at a stone’s throw from Milan

The Lomellina is an area of unique charm, a land of history and beauty that can offer truly special gastronomic and artistic tours.

The gaze lingers on the water of the rice fields, among which rise pretty villages and ancient places of worship.

A historic and prestigious residence, the Villa Necchi alla Portalupa is inside the Ticino Park and surrounded by ten hectares of private park in the Molino d’Isella area.

Dating back to the late 1800s, the Villa was made magnificent

by Vittorio Necchi, who used it as a holiday home and now the ancient splendour has been revived.

Guests are housed in the main villa with 21 rooms, including one suite and four junior suites, or in the elegant country-style chic of the Borgo (the village).

Villa Necchi alla Portalupa is not only a peerless location for meetings and events, but also an ideal destination for relaxing, immersed in the silence of nature.

VILLA NECCHI ALLA PORTALUPA GAMBOLÒ Maximum number of meeting rooms: 5 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 200 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 210 Sleeping rooms: 26 Nearest Airport: Milano Malpensa, 56 km Address: Via Cavalier Vittorio Necchi 2 Gambolò, Frazione Molino d’Isella (Pv) Contact details: Ph +39 0381 092601 Fax +39 0381 092699 Email: info@villanecchi.it Contact person: Stefania Gaiardelli, Event Manager – stefania.gaiardelli@villanecchi.it

The surroundings: Leonardo da Vinci’s “ideal city” – In the surrounding area you can find the charming medieval town of Sforzesca and then Vigevano, the “beautiful living room” of Milan, a stunning city of art whose charm and proportion caused Leonardo da Vinci to call it “the ideal city”.

Vigevano guides visitors through cobbled streets to Piazza Ducale: a jewel built between 1492 and 1494 under the rule of Ludovico il Moro, still considered one of the most beautiful squares in Italy.

The exploration of the historic centre continues in the Visconteo-Sforzesco Castle that, with its 70,000 square metres, is one of the largest architectural complexes in Europe.

In town you can experience the ancient tradition of shoemaking, which has made Vigevano famous around the world, and a visit to the International Footwear Museum is a must.

The museum offers an accurate journey into the history of the craft moving from models that belonged to Eleonora Duse, the famous stage actress who was born in Vigevano in the mid-nineteenth century, to Marilyn Monroe

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★★★★

In the heart of Lomellina, not far from Pavia, Villa Necchi alla Portalupa is an exquisite place to organise events and discover the beautiful surroundings with special proposals specifically for the Expo

THE DESTINATION ITALY – LOMBARDY

venues

and up to the bright red loafers designed by Moreschi for Pope Benedict XVI. The Lomellina cuisine – In this context of centuries-old history and culture, there is the Lomellina cuisine, made from delicious and famous local produce.

The province of Pavia is one of the top producers of rice at the European level.

As well as this outstanding product the asparagus, beans, red onions, pumpkins, frogs and locally produced cold cuts are also of a high quality.

A hearty rustic flavour but with noble and sophisticated origins.

The historic rice fields slope up to the base of the hills that are perfect for the cultivation of grape vines. This is the Oltrepò area where the precious fruit of the land gives life to wine cellars with unparalleled panoramas.

Treating yourself to a tour of the ancient vineyards is priceless and wine tastings allow the traveller to enjoy the scenery, starting from its flavours.

Wellness and nature – At the end of the day, when you return to Villa Necchi alla Portalupa, the best way to unwind is to stop in at the spa, followed perhaps by a cocktail on the terrace or in the brightly-lit conservatory.

At Villa Necchi, the spa is housed in one of the old greenhouses for growing orchids and the large windows that overlook the gardens offer unforgettable moments of relax in the luxury of silence.

The frame is that of the Ticino Park, with numerous trails and activities in a river area recognized by Unesco as being among the most important in the world.

A relaxing walk along beautiful nature trails or enjoying all the energy of the river white water rafting: however you choose to enjoy the park, the eco-guides will accompany guests to discover nature.

These spaces are in a timeless land with paths that retrace sections of the journey that the pilgrims took along the Via

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Francigena: the Shrine of Our Lady of Bozzole can be reached by bike from Villa Necchi along a pleasant path through the countryside.

An intelligent tourism that blends together art and leisure, haute couture, local produce and the culture of relaxing in harmony with nature. Staying at Villa Necchi alla Portalupa means experiencing first-hand everything that the Expo stands for: culture, nature, food and, of course, beauty.

Expo’s theme according to Villa Necchi During the Expo 2015, Villa Necchi offers guests the opportunity to enrich their stay with specially-designed activities to discover the area in harmony with the principles of Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life.

Feeding Wine and food tours in Lomellina area Wine tours in the Oltrepò Pavese Dinners and food tastings, traditional recipes and local produce

• • •

The Planet Visits to farms that follow production cycles and use biodynamic cultivation techniques The water and the rice fields Foot and cycle paths in the Ticino Park with eco-guides

• • •

Energy Following in the footsteps of the genius: Leonardo da Vinci and Vigevano, the Ideal City Visit to the eco museum in Mora Bassa The land of water: Ticino, watermills, springs and Fontanili

• • •

For Life Wellness programmes at the private spa in Villa Necchi Treatments with eubiotic natural products

• •

Ville Ponti Congress Centre

MalpensaFiere Trade Exhibition and Congress Centre

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What we can do for you. Plan your event. Getting around Varese. Set-up your Expo with us. Enjoy a special shopping experience. Discover our country side, nature, lakes & parks. Choose your outdoor activities & sports. Find your accomodation. Discover our local delica delicacies.

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Piedmont

The destination Ideas for events Team building The regional offer

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Verbania Biella Novara Vercelli

TURIN Alessandria Asti Cuneo

Valle d’Aosta The destination

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – PIEDMONT

Piedmont: a land of delicacies Multi-faceted and surprising, Piedmont is a unique blend of irresistible ingredients: sparkling Turin, the Langhe (land of truffles and great wines), the Alps (a paradise for winter sports fans) and the magnificent lake-side villages – all ideal for the meeting industry

Below Turin, dominated by the Mole Antonelliana

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Turin, the first capital of Italy, amazes with its unexpected medley of ancient, industrial and esoteric elements. Baroque and Art Nouveau buildings bearing strange symbols, museums of international standing (to name just two: the Egyptian Museum, the second most important in the world after that of Cairo; and the Cinema Museum, unique in terms of both the building that houses it – the imposing Mole Antonelliana, a true symbol of the city skyline – and the actual items on display), and an archaeological/industrial legacy transformed into stunning locations. In summer, the banks of the River Po come to life as the sparkling hub of the city’s night-life. Then there’s the underground version of Turin, but also the religious version (the city is home to the holy Shroud). And, just outside the city, the Savoy residences (the 15 most sumptuous, including the wonderful Reggia of Venaria Reale and the charming Stupinigi manor, have been declared Unesco World Heritage sites) and then the castles scattered throughout the region, many of them available to the meeting industry not only

Events beyond all expectations

There is now a new association that brings together the main MICE operators of the Lake Maggiore area: Lago Maggiore Conference.

Contact us. You will receive free professional assistance to find out the best solution and the most suitable location for your events: various and well-equipped Conference Centres, large-scale extremely high quality hotels, excellent conference services, all in a unique and fascinating environment and with the International Malpensa Airport just around the corner.

Lago Maggiore Conference Villa Fedora - S.s del Sempione, 4 - 28831 - Baveno (Vb) - Italy Tel. +39 0323.912826 - Fax +39 0323.922054 info@lagomaggioreconference.com www.lagomaggioreconference.com

THE DESTINATION ITALY – PIEDMONT

for conventions and gala dinners but also for re-enactments in period costume and team-building activities following a theme of bygone times.

Nature has been generous with this area, offering its whole range of colours: the green of the vines and woods that stretch as far as the eye can see in Monferrato and Langhe Roero hills, simply enchanting in Autumn; the sparkling white of the snow that coats the Alps, providing Mice with kilometres of ski slopes and fashionable resorts like Sestriere and Bardonecchia, perfect for incentive travels dedicated to winter sports; and the deep blue of the lakes – romantic Orta and captivating Maggiore with the splendid Borromean Islands (three gems which are alone worth a postcongress excursion, with lush and refined gardens boasting rare plants and flowers and noble palazzos) providing a magnificent backdrop. But Man has lent a helping hand too, embellishing the hills and embankments with fortified villages, jewel cities and manor houses: Asti, Barolo and Alba (also famous for their gourmet food and wine specialities – the prized white truffle first and foremost, but also full-bodied red wines like Barolo, Barbera, Barbaresco and Dolcetto), but also aristocratic Stresa with its Belle Époque atmosphere and elegant luxury hotels, cosy Arona with its labyrinth of narrow streets and the famous “San Carlone” statue, and Moncalieri, dominated by the austere castle.

Above one of the Borromean Islands.

Below the charming Langhe territory

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – PIEDMONT

Ideas for events which are…

MOTOR-ORIENTATED > VISIT THE PININFARINA SITES AND MUSEUM A true journey into the history of Italian car design from 1930 to the present time, proudly showing off the most beautiful and innovative prototypes that have led the way for the whole world, from Cisitalia to Modulo, from the Ferrari Mythos to the Maserati Birdcage 75th. Turin boasts also the highly technological National Automobile Museum. An idea for a post congress event for real connoisseurs.

TASTY > FOLLOWING THE SLOW FOOD ITINERARIES TO ENJOY THE LOCAL PRODUCTS Piedmont is the land of great wines – from Barolo to Barbera, from Nebbiolo to Dolcetto. But it’s also the land of gourmet delights like cheeses, truffles and... chocolate. From the classic Turin “gianduiotti” to the “baci” of Cherasco and the rum-filled “Cuneesi”: yet more ideas for incentive and post congress activities with a real palate-tickling flavour.

ITINERANT > BY TRAM, FOR DINNER Instead of the “usual” restaurant, you can choose to have lunch or dinner aboard a tram-restaurant that travels around the centre of Turin, letting you savour the local specialities and at the same time admire the city’s attractions. That extra touch? The presence of a tourist guide and excellent live music.

RAREFIED > ON MONT BLANC WITH THE CABLE CAR OF THE GLACIERS Admiring the panorama from the “roof” of Italy is an unforgettable experience. The cable car leaves from the fashionable resort of Courmayeur and, as it climbs, you can see how the landscape gradually changes. The first stop is the historical Torino refuge at an altitude of about 3,000 metres, going on to Pointe Helbronner and then starting to cross the real glaciers, reaching a height of 3,842 metres at the Aiguille du Midi before descending to Chamonix on the French side.

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – PIEDMONT

TRUFFLED > TAKING PART IN THE AUCTION OF THE PRIZED ALBA TRUFFLES They come from all over the world: buyers, onlookers and mere fans of the premium underground mushroom. They meet in mid autumn at the Castle of Grinzane Cavour, for the Alba International White Truffle Auction that focuses on this highly valued specimen. The event crowns the Truffle Fair (now in its 85th year) which, for about a month between mid October and mid November, “scents” the streets of Alba and enlivens them with music, exhibitions, markets, folklore displays and, of course, truffles.

UNDERGROUND > PLUMBING THE DEPTHS OF TURIN If Turin hides mysteries and legends within its urban structure, its subsurface is no less enigmatic. You just have to go about 15 metres down into the ground to find yourself in old tunnels dug in the 18th century, World War II air-raid shelters, the royal ice-houses of Porta Palazzo, and the unearthly “infernotti” of the Baroque buildings (mysterious cellars where ghosts and haunted souls are said to wander).

SPORTING > THE FOUR ELEMENTS OF SPORT Nearly all sports can be enjoyed in this part of Italy: sailing and windsurfing, horseriding, golf, trekking and mountain biking on the lakes of Viverone, Candia and Avigliana; hang gliding and paragliding from the surrounding mountains. Skiing on the Alps and even the Olympic disciplines in Turin itself.

THE DESTINATION ITALY – PIEDMONT

… and team building From gourmet delights to the Olympic legacy: in Piedmont and nearby small Valle d’Aosta, team-building activities have an original, unforgettable flavour CURLING, BROOMBALL AND...

In 2006 Turin and its region hosted the 20th Winter Olympic Games. Sports arenas were built for the occasion of course, along with circuits and tracks (the various facilities that were used are together called Torino Olympic Park), and they can now be used for winning and original team-building activities. The most exciting examples? Taxi Bob (a descent on the Olympic track of Cesana Torinese, alongside a professional, at over 100 kilometres an hour), Easy Curling (professional athletes will teach you the rules and technique of this innovative sport, to relive the Olympic spirit of a real team game) and Canadian Broomball (two 6-player teams, each armed with a special broom, try to drive the ball into their opponent’s net in a game very similar to hockey).

A CLASSIC TO GET THE ADRENALIN RACING Rafting doesn’t have a long-standing tradition in Italy, but it’s become very popular in recent decades, along with the less well-known canyoning. And Valle d’A osta was one of the first areas to offer these sports. Where? In the foaming waters of the Dora above all, but also in the numerous cool torrents that leave blue streaks on the mountain peaks.

THE TRUFFLE HUNT Taking part in a “hunt” that’s enthralling rather than bloody, following the truffle dogs in their search for the prized mushroom and learning the truffle hunter’s secrets for getting it out intact. Before this, perhaps, a bit of “theory” about the various types of truffle and the best way of enhancing their flavour and aroma. And, when the hunt’s over, everyone heads into the kitchen and then to the dining table, to savour a delicious risotto. With truffle, of course.

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milanigrafico.it

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – PIEDMONT

TURIN – www.ccui.it

convention centres

Why Turin?

A fully comprehensive service from the Centro Congressi dell’Unione Industriale di Torino (Turin Manufacturers’ Association Congress Centre): a link between companies and partner agencies in a strategic city

A vibrant, technologically advanced venue, the Congress Centre combines the latest safety standards with the utmost in structural functionality, offering a welcome that is both stylish and professional.

The Centro Congressi dell’Unione Industriale di Torino, situated in the city centre, was founded in 1992, with the aim of setting up a services company for congresses held by the Association and by its member companies involved in the events/congresses industry, and in response to the idea of creating a place in Turin for issues of greater social, cultural and topical interest, to promote interests and expectations of the business community, organisations, clubs and associations, as well as public opinion in general. Located just a few minutes from the Porta Nuova and Porta Susa railway stations, the Centre is also easily reached from Caselle Airport and by city and suburban transport services; public parking for 1,600 vehicles is available at special

CENTRO CONGRESSI UNIONE INDUSTRIALE DI TORINO Maximum number of meeting rooms: 4 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 428 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 300 Agreements with hotels: NH Torino Ambasciatori – NH Torino Lingotto – NH Lingotto Tech Nearest Airport: Aeroporto Torino Caselle (km 15) Address: Via Manfredo Fanti, 17 – 10128 Torino Contact details: Ph +39 011 5718277 fax +39 011 5718531 Email: centro.congressi@ui.torino.it Contact person: Laura Tognacci, booking – l.tognacci@ui.torino.it

rates. Conceived as a single system of facilities, fully equipped and cabled using the latest digital technologies, the Congress Centre offers the highest standard of services. All rooms have been designed to ensure the utmost flexibility, with the management of bespoke configurations in extremely quick times.

Yesterday and today – Created for a diverse range of needs, today the Congress Centre has two focuses: culture, rooted in the historical profile of the Centre, and congresses, and can ensure necessary services in different stages.

From creation to design, management and post-event activities, a staff of professionals will guarantee ongoing supervision and scrupulous care of the

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details that make a difference to an event’s success. Since 1992, more than 300 conference cycles have been designed, set up and managed, on nearly a daily basis in autumn, winter and spring. The Centre also hosts more than 400 events of any kind during the year: conventions, congresses, gala dinners and lots more. Its staff, from sales to administration, project management and marketing, all share a professionalism, expertise and passion, to deliver unique, innovative solutions for managing, coordinating and supervising every single stage of an event.

The Centro Congressi dell’Unione Industriale di Torino has four conference rooms, for 15 to 800 visitors, a press room, hall, exhibition areas, as well as four prestigious, eighteenth-century “Executive Rooms”, located in the aristocratic Marone Cinzano Palazzina, a historical building and symbol of late nineteenth-century Turin eclecticism. The interiors of the Palazzina, with their remarkable and ornate neo-Baroque decoration, overlook an elegant garden, which may be used in good weather. The Foyer, “Piramide” Room and “Torino” Room are large modular spaces that can be used for congress registration, displays and exhibitions or catering, allowing organisers to customise the layout of their event. All rooms are fully equipped with state-of-the-art audio-

visual, computer and administrative equipment. An exclusive catering service, “Il Circolo”, is managed by highly professional staff, and can meet the most wide-ranging needs, from a welcome coffee to coffee breaks, lunch in private rooms for a few people to large group catering and even buffets for 500 place settings.

The catering service may also be booked for the eighteenthcentury Executive Rooms as well as the modern “Club” room and “Circolo” room.

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TURIN – www.museoauto.it

convention centres

Creativity on display Completely renovated, the National Automobile Museum of Turin (Mauto) is a location with high added value, where every event is turned into an indelible memory because it’s linked with a place that excites, stuns and teaches It’s the custodian of the worldwide creativity linked to the automotive business – a point of reference that is now looking ahead, offering the meeting industry cutting edge rooms with a high usage potential, interactive facilities and multimedia communication. The contents of the National Automobile Museum of Turin, and even the architectural structure itself, have recently undergone a complete overhaul, giving rise to Mauto 2.0. In the wake of the museum’s cultural and sociological identity, it offers the latest digital technologies, various forms of exhibit-visitor interaction, different approaches to the contents, and spectacular scenic settings for the display items. The result is more flexible and differentiated access, reflected also in the range of areas available for events.

Areas for Mice – This is an example of a brand new concept of venues for the meeting industry. It satisfies the request (especially from the latest generations of managers) for innovative, more personal locations that make a stronger

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MUSEO NAZIONALE DELL’AUTOMOBILE Maximum number of meeting rooms: 4 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 400 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 342 Agreements with hotels: NH Hotel Nearest Airport: Sandro Pertini airport, Caselle (20 km) Address: Corso Unità d’Italia, 40 10100 Turin Contact details: ph +39 011 677666/7 fax +39 011 6647148 Email: congressi@museoauto.it Contact person: Marzia Tholozan m.tholozan@museoauto.it; Claudia Debenedetti c.debenedetti@museoauto.it

fully equipped rooms: the Auditorium (400 places) and Sala 150 (150 places).

The areas strictly designed for congress activities are within a display space of over 10,000 square metres (broken up into 30 themed and chronological sections, plus areas for temporary exhibitions) that boasts a collection of more than 200 cars from 90 manufacturers all over the world, along with the leading ideas in the field of design, concept vehicles and green cars, plus a visitable garage-workshop with an active, period, car renovation school.

impression and therefore provide any type of event with added value in terms of excitement and content.

All the areas made available at the Mauto are distinguished by a simplification of the architectural elements that instantly reveals advanced technologies and high standards. For the organisers, this means the possibility to extend the event with an exclusive visit to the museum, which now attracts an ever wider range of visitors who can consult historical details, archive images and technical info during their visit via a smartphone, multimedia totem or i-pad (supplied). All this is, of course, also made available to the delegates of the event, which can be organised in the new congress centre on the first floor. Here, the existing space has been re-invented to create two separate and

A living museum – This new Mauto conveys participation and involvement and, as Director Rodolfo Gaffino Rossi explains, it all started with the idea of a “living” museum: «The Museum organises teaching workshops, exhibitions, research, international conventions, scholarships and support for young designers, but also theme evenings in its outdoor area and the reproposal of interesting experiments like the “Theatre Visits” – a sort of historical contextualisation narrated by actors within a storytelling framework. But at the same time, the museum’s institutional role is respected; it has a duty to preserve, maintain and also extend its collection».

Apart from the more traditional congress areas, the museum also has a magnificent Piazza: a covered internal courtyard that has been the futuristic hub of the museum since 2011. The old courtyard with its garden has been closed to create a new area whose overall surface of about 1,000 square metres can host events of various types with a decidedly ample capacity: prize-givings, presentations, concerts, gala dinners, fashion shows and theatre plays.

In addition, for coffee breaks, lunches or exclusive dinners there are the 500 square metres of the North Gallery, which links the foyer with the observation room.

Alternatively, in the summer months, there’s the observation terrace that looks out onto the lush hills of Turin.

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – PIEDMONT

VENARIA REALE (TO) – www.lavenaria.it

convention centres

Royal Italy La Venaria Reale is a large permanent cultural project that offers a wealth of opportunities to learn and to make new experiences. It is a “contemporary court” awaiting to be discovered

La Venaria Reale is a grandiose estate just outside Turin, comprising 80,000 square metres of floor surface in the Reggia and 60 hectares of gardens, adjacent to the 17th century historical village of Venaria and the 3,000 fenced hectares of the Park of La Mandria. It is a natural and architectural masterpiece that was declared part of the World Heritage by Unesco in 1997. It reopened to the public in 2007 after completing one of Europe’s largest cultural restoration projects to date.

The monumental palace or Reggia boasts some of the finest examples of universal Baroque: the elegant Hall of Diana designed

by Amedeo di Castellamonte, the solemn

Great Gallery and the Church of St. Hubert, the imposing complex of the Juvarra Stables designed by Filippo Juvarra in the 18th century, the sumptuous decorations and the spectacular Fountain of the Stag in the Court of Honour provide a unique setting for the Theatre of History and Magnificence, the permanent display – almost 2,000 metres long – devoted to the House of Savoy, that spans from the basement level to the piano nobile of the Reggia.

A royal ambience for your events – La Venaria Reale has two exhibition spaces: the Juvarra Stables and the Rooms of the Arts, on the upper floors of the Reggia. The Stables, built in 1722-27 by Filippo Juvarra, are home to the Citroniera (that was originally used to store citrus plants) and the Great Stables – with their stunning construction of impressive size and architectural design – are ideal for national and international exhibitions, with their 5,000 square metres, each measuring 140 metres in length, and almost 15 metres in width and height.

The Rooms of the Arts are instead a delightful showcase for temporary exhibitions organised at different times of the year. In the second half of the 17th century, the rooms housed the Teatro delle Commedie (Theatre of Comedies) with its Belvedere. They have now been restored, commanding majestic views of the gardens, the village of Venaria or the Court of Honour with the spectacular water theatre of the Fountain of the Stag.

The gardens, a marvellous discovery – The gardens of the Reggia bring together an ancient and modern charm. Here the extraordinary balance between the archaeological remains and the contemporary artworks is set in a boundless scenery that remains unparalleled among Italian gardens for the majesty and the vastness of the natural landscape that extends from the forests of the Park of La Mandria to the mountain peaks of the Alps.

A tour of the gardens is always full of surprises, no matter how

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LA VENARIA REALE Maximum number of meeting rooms: 3 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 350 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 454 Nearest Airport: “Sandro Pertini” Caselle airport (16 Km) Address: Piazza della Repubblica, 4 10078 Venaria Reale (To) Contact details: Ph. +39 011 4324454 Fax. +39 011 4322228 Email: ilmiospazio@lavenariareale.it Contact person: Sonia Amarena, Marketing Manager

many times you have been to the estate.

There are many delightful alternatives to explore the gardens: taking a stroll, or the Diana’s Arrow train, on the Diana and Hercules gondolas or the horse carriage.

The 18th century Upper Park, characterised by a particular “chequered pattern”, is home to the reinstated Grand Parterre. At the centre lies the intriguing installation by the contemporary artist Giovanni Anselmo: six large blocks of African black granite are positioned on the ground, bearing the inscription “Dove le stelle si avvicinano di una spanna in più” (Where the stars are coming one span closer). The Upper Park is also home to the large Alleys, the groves with their peacocks and doves, and the Fantacasino – the particular attraction in the Leisure Grove designed for children and adults as a modern tribute to the ancient vocation

of the Gardens as a place of leisure and fun.

The Lower Park is home to the vast water expanse of the 11-millionlitre pond (Peschiera), the Garden of Fluid Sculptures by Giuseppe Penone, the 17th century grottoes, the remains of the Fountain of Hercules and of the Temple of Diana – that punctuate the long straight line of the Water Canal, and the orchards and vegetable gardens of the Potager Royal, one of the largest in Italy. The Lower Park of the Gardens of the Reggia is home to one of the largest Potager in Italy, that covers an area of 10 hectares in the vicinity of the Cascina Medici del Vascello farm. In the 17th and 18th century, this area was part of the vast Gardens, while in the 19th century extensive farming was carried out here by the Royal Farmers.

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – VALLE D’AOSTA

Valle d’Aosta: a tiny, natural jewel Valle d’Aosta is the quintessential land of castles; the border land entrenched between the Alpine ranges, but also one of the most popular destinations for lovers of winter sports. And they come here in summer too, for the magnificent scenery A small gem, the Valle d’Aosta (embedded between France and Piedmont) is famous for the beauty of its Alps (including the highest peak of Italy, Mont Blanc, at 4,810 metres) and for its fashionable ski resorts (posh Courmayeur, sparkling La Thuile and élite Cervinia first and foremost, but also Cogne, Saint-Vincent – where you can try your luck at the casino – and Pre Saint Didier with its relaxing spa). Above all though, it’s renowned for the lure of its castles – true lookouts protecting the entire area (the most striking are Fenis, Issogne, Saint Pierre and Fort Bard; the latter is an example of a highly successful renovation – one of the best preserved defence fortresses of the early 19th century. The ancient complex can be reached by means of a rack-railway. For Mice there are two rooms seating 100 and 130, plus the possibility to use Piazza d’Armi (the parade ground) in the summer months and the La Polveriera restaurant for gala dinners and exclusive evening events). Anyone thinking of this as just a winter destination though, is way off track: Valle d’Aosta seduces the meeting industry even in the milder season thanks to its lush nature – endless meadows, waterfalls, streams and woods stretching as far as the eye can see, to be explored during fabulous post congress events on foot or by mountain bike, or on the back of a horse. And then the Alpine refuges and malghe (the traditional shepherds’ huts) where the culinary traditions are still as strong as ever: the preparation of the delicious Fontina cheese or the mellow local grappas.

And ancient enclaves - like the Teutonic Walzer one – become the leitmotiv for unforgettable incentive activities. The main town of the region, Aosta, deserves its own Mice attention. It’s a splendid medley of unique elements that bring together the mountain soul of the city and the Roman legacy of its scenic archaeological remains.

Above the lovely Alpine landscape.

Below the Saint Pierre castle

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DESTINATION

FASHION THE MOST POPULAR DESIGNER BRANDS, JUST 40 MINUTES FROM VENICE. STRATEGICALLY LOCATED JUST A FEW MILES FROM VENICE, NOVENTA DI PIAVE DESIGNER OUTLET IS THE PERFECT DESTINATION FOR FASHION LOVERS AND SHOPAHOLICS: A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE INVOLVING THE MOST PRESTIGIOUS DESIGNER BRANDS AT 35% TO 70% LESS ALL YEAR ROUND.

THE CENTRE IS THE IDEAL SETTING FOR EVENTS, GROUP MEETINGS AND INCENTIVES THANKS TO ITS SPACIOUS AREAS, ORGANISATIONAL FLEXIBILITY AND HIGHLY PERSONALISED SERVICES.

D E D I C AT E D S ER V I CE S Noventa di Piave Designer Outlet offers a wide selection of dedicated tools that can be personalised, such as the welcome desk, the co-branded welcome pack with a discount card for further reductions on outlet prices, and prepaid gift cards.

The centre also boasts multilingual staff and guides, high-quality catering, car parks with video surveillance and a daily shuttle service from Venice. For further information, please email: tourism.italy@mcarthurglen.com

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Veneto

The destination Ideas for events Team building The regional offer

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Belluno

Treviso

Vicenza Verona Padua

VENICE

Rovigo

Friuli Venezia Giulia The destination

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Trentino Alto Adige

The destination The regional offer

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – VENETO

The Veneto region: wonderful traditions Magnificent cities of art – headed by Venice, where even the most overblown descriptions are an understatement – with sumptuous villas providing dream Mice locations, imposing natural settings and mouthwatering food and drink

In this page, two images of enchanting Venice

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The Veneto region is full of charm. Its blend of art, tradition and nature combines a wealth of unusual environments, with jewel-like cities and castles nestled in deep green forests and gentle hills criss-crossed by rivers, mountains of rare beauty and a coast epitomised by easy living. Venice shines with an irresistible light which never fails to seduce, even after the thousandth time you find yourself wandering between streets and squares, crossing over the many little bridges or stopping for a snack in one of the dozens of the typical bars or inns where you can try the local delicacies: creamed salt cod, polenta and raw fish specialities. The watery city offers Mice industry visitors a host of new sights and ideas, introducing out of the ordinary cultural itineraries to new corners of the city and the surrounding islands – even if a private night visit to the Basilica di San Marco is always enchanting! The Giudecca, for example, with postcard panoramas of the heart of Venice: once a Jewish ghetto and residential and “industrial” neighbourhood, the area has been subject to extensive restoration works in recent years, with many post-industrial buildings being put to new uses. The Lido, which has always been the glamorous “spine” of Venice, with super-luxurious historic hotels and high-society events such as the Venice Film Festival, and the elegant beach with its Belle Epoque ambience. In addition, Murano, Burano and Torcello, each famous for great artisan craftsmen producing real masterpieces, also offer unique and enchanting atmospheres.

THE DESTINATION ITALY – VENETO

NOT ONLY VENICE Next to Venice itself, the other Venetian cities of art – and the region that surrounds them – ensure the success of any event, rendering each and every one truly memorable. Verona, for example, boasts a stunning historic centre dominated by the Arena amphitheatre – whose extensive calendar of concerts and operas alone make planning an event in the city worthwhile – and is enveloped in evocative Shakespearean echoes. The city is a perfect focal point for the meetings industry, and offers wellorganised and varied surroundings; indeed, beyond the city, the Venetian shore of Lake Garda is ideal for engaging team-building activities, or for post-conference voyages of discovery to a host of small lakeside villages (Malcesine and Peschera del Garda, to name a couple) or to taste some of the great wines of the area directly in the cellars of the manufacturers (not far away, Valpolicella is home to some of the most internationally celebrated full-bodied reds: Amarone, Valpolicella and Ripasso). Padua, on the other hand, reveals its gems little by little, such as the unmissable Scrovegni chapel, adorned with Giotto frescos from the early fourteenth century and the thousand souls who live within the city walls. In this instance, too, the surrounding region is brimming with exciting assets and infinite ideas: the relaxing Euganei hills, best explored by bike, perhaps with a well-earned break at one of the famous thermal baths in the area, or the walled towns, perfect for historical reminiscences and post-conference cultural tours: Cittadella, with its intact walls, Este, with the remains of the castle and the twelve defensive towers, and Montagnana, with over two kilometres of walls, two castles and 24 towers.

And then there’s Vicenza, the elegant city embellished by Palladio, who left sumptuous villas across the area – protected by Unesco and almost all open to the Mice industry – as well as the imposing basilica (also a World Heritage Site), which has been recently reopened after an expert restoration project to return it to its former glory. Treviso, too, is not to be overlooked – floating gently on the water, a walled city with a compact historical centre. For meeting industry representatives in search of natural wonders, Polesine is the ideal destination, with the wonderful Po delta ecosystem, which can be explored by boat or canoe, or as part as a trek or birdwatching excursion. The Dolomites, too, are a powerful draw, and are beautiful in any season, with kilometre upon kilometre of ski slopes, trails and footpaths and mountain-top stone villages, crowned by Cortina d’Ampezzo, a symbol of glamour and sophistication. And last, but certainly not least, is the Adriatic coast: long, soft sands interspersed with lively spots such as Jesolo, calmer, more peaceful locations like Caorle or unexpected beauties like Chioggia, a deliciously small Venice.

In this page, clockwise from above: Padua, the islet of Burano, Malcesine on Lake Garda and, below, Vicenza

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Ideas for events which are…

“AQUATIC” > VISIT AQUAE VENEZIA 2015 Exhibitions, fairs and conferences, all on the theme of water. But also the International Food Experience Area for lovers of fish dishes, and a theme park dedicated to the young Leonardo Da Vinci. All this will be at your fingertips for the six months during which the Expo 2015 is running, in the new pavilion at the entrance to the city of Venice, created by architecture star Michele De Lucchi.

OENOLOGICAL > IN THE CELLARS OF CARTIZZE The region of big-name whites and bubbles, from both the Veneto and Trentino territories, with a few real jewels: Cartizze is one of these, obtained from rare, precious grapes cultivated in a tiny area in Valdobbiadene, in the Trento province.

Those who prefer red are better off heading over the Veneto to taste the Valpolicella (in the wine-producing region of the same name), the Amarone and the Ripasso.

OPERATIC> GO TO THE OPERA IN VERONA’S ARENA If opera can move even those who aren’t great music fans, an opera set against the backdrop of the Verona Arena will leave anyone open-mouthed, for the amazing staging opportunities and the beauty of the arches illuminated by the light of the stars if nothing else. For a touch of exclusivity, visitors can arrange to take an aperitif under these characteristic arches. If the participants to the incentive travel art too young, it may be better to opt for one of the great concerts that take place every year.

PALLADIAN > THE VILLAS OF PALLADIO There are 24 of these, protected by Unesco, seductive in the simple beauty of their clean architectural lines. As well as opening their doors to many Mice industry professionals for conferences and gala dinners, Andrea Palladio’s sixteenth-century villas are the perfect leitmotif for a cultural postconference trip. The really unmissable ones? Villa Almerico Capra, also known as La Rotonda, Villa Godi and Villa Foscari, often called La Malcontenta.

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Hilton HHonors™ membership, earning of Points & Miles™ and redemption of points are subject to HHonors Terms and Conditions. ©2015 Hilton Worldwide.

THE DESTINATION ITALY – TRENTINO ALTO ADIGE

… and team building One of the most celebrated desserts in the world, one of the most famous parties in the world, and one of the most popular material in the world. Team building in the Veneto region is based around tiramisù, the Venice Carnival and blown glass THE CONTAGIOUS CHARM OF CARNIVAL While Venice is always magical, during Carnival, the city takes a magical leap into the past, enveloping the streets with eighteenth century glories, when Casanova’s romantic theatrical excursions were all the rage. Planning an event during Carnival, securing a hall in one of the great historical palazzos on the Grand Canal for a masquerade gala dinner and dance, is most certainly a winning idea. Even outside of this brief season, the party atmosphere can still be recreated, transforming an event into an occasion for an original team-building course. You could start by visiting one of the many workshops where the famous masks are made, with the chance for each participant to create his or her own, before using this in a fashion show – along with historical costumes – or even during a great masquerade ball, organised exclusively in a building above the water. Your transport for the night? A gondola, of course!

THE MYSTERY OF BLOWN GLASS Delicate and riotously colourful – words which sum up Murano glass, which can be gently coaxed into any shape under the hands, and the breath, of the talented master glass-makers. Initially, a glass workshop seems a little banal for an incentive trip, but in reality, it is anything but – a team-building exercise among the kilns, the cannulas and bubbles of hot glass, during which each participant will be able to try their hand at creating their own glass object. A panel will then decide which is the most creative. An idea to toe the corporate line? Why not give each participant the logo of their company – in blown glass, of course!

THE REAL TIRAMISÙ... ...was born in Treviso. This delectable dessert is famous across the world, and now boasts a range of variants, but an event in Treviso could be the perfect occasion to finally discover the original recipe, and to put your new skills into practice with a mouthwatering contest.

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DOLOMEETING

Congress venue with view on the Dolomites CONGRESS VENUES ALEXANDER HALL

CINEMA EDEN

Centro Congressi

Seats 273

4 venues from 134 to 628 seats

SALA CULTURA

MORE VENUES FROM 20 TO 300 SEATS IN THE HOTEL OLYMPIC ICE STADIUM

Seats 95

Seats 2503

photo: stefanozardini.com

photo: giuseppeghedina.com

photo: dgbandion.com

photo: stefanozardini.com

INCENTIVE

EXCURSIONS | TREKKING | NORDIC WALKING | VIE FERRATE | CLIMBING | ADVENTURE | ORIENTEERING | ALPINE SKI | TELEMARK | FREE RIDE | SNOWBOARD AND MORE

More information: tel. + 39 0436 866252 cortina@dolomiti.org

cortina.dolomiti.org

THE DESTINATION ITALY – VENETO

www.veneto.to

Seven local convention bureaux and a single contact – the Venice Region Convention Bureau Network – is all that the organisers need to plan their perfect event in Veneto during Expo 2015 The international organisers that choose to hold their event in the Veneto region will have the great advantage of being able to communicate with all the local bureaux through a single contact, the Venice Region Convention Bureau Network.

«Our approach to the development of congress tourism has been recognised as one of the best in Italy» admits the Tourism Councillor for Veneto, Marino Finozzi. «The Venice Region Convention Bureau Network is, above all, a valuable tool for relating with the parts of the economy that are involved in the congress sector all over the world. They understand the needs of the sector and are available to fulfil them. Today, the convention bureau, with the support of the Veneto Region and their local partners, work as one, as regards both communication and promotion, thanks to various operations both in Italy and abroad».

Welcome2Venice Convention Bureau – In view of Expo 2015, there are many initiatives and proposals for the International Mice sector, starting from Venice, which has been welcoming many visitors in a historically and artistically unique setting for more than a thousand years, www.welcome2venicecb.it

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while at the same time offering modern and innovative structures, spaces and itineraries. The Welcome2Venice Convention Burea, even if through its institutional associate VELA S.P.A., is the right partner to access in an easy and quick way the congress services of Venice and its territory.

Padova Terme Euganee Convention & Visitors Bureau – Padua has launched the “Come www.padovaconvention.it to Padua and Discover Expo 2015” programme to promote the destination before, during and after the big event.

Many projects are under way including a specific culinary offer for tourists, proposals linked to the congress sector and local events “dressed up” for Expo 2015.

Ph © Gabrio Tomelleri

institutions

All of Veneto is here

Meet-inpolesine Convention Bureau – In the year of Expo 2015, Rovigo puts all its treasures on display: artistic villas and palaces, the landscapes of the Po Delta Park, Lusia and Rosolina’s farm food and the works of the circus craft masters from Melara and Bergantino. There are many team building opportunities along side the new incentive proposals on the track of the Adria International Raceway. The Meet-inpolesine Convention Bureau promotes this hidden corner of the Veneto region by supporting the creation of small and large “green” events. www.meet-inpolesine.it

THE DESTINATION ITALY – VENETO

conventionbureau.marcatreviso.it

Ph © Alessandro Poletti

Ph © Consorzio Marca Treviso

www.conventionbureau.biz

Verona & Lago di Garda Convention Bureau – The treasures of Verona, a World Heritage city, are linked to the theme of Expo 2015: the Valpolicella, Amarone, Recioto, Soave and Lessini Durello wines from the hills, the oil of the Garda area, the Monte Veronese cheese from the mountains, and the Vialone Nano rice from the plain, are some of the excellent products of the area. The Verona & Lago di Garda Convention Bureau provides assistance in finding and choosing the right location and additional services, free of charge.

castles to modern, stylish facilities. The entire proposal is coordinated by the Marca Treviso Convention Bureau, a branch of the Tourist Promotion Board Marca Treviso, coordinator of the Venice Region Convention Bureau Network and a founding member of the Convention Bureau Italia.

Vicenza Convention Bureau – The city of gold. The city of Andrea Palladio. The perfect combination of architecture and design. Vicenza faces ever bigger challenges. The motors for developing the Mice sector are the new Fiera di Vicenza Convention Centre and its

Dolomiti Belluno Convention Bureau – Successfully combining professional motivation with powerful emotions in a natural environment that is unique in the world: this is the proposal of the Dolomiti Belluno Convention Bureau, coordinated by the Consorzio Dolomiti. The territorial wealth of the Province of Belluno, just an hour from Venice, ranges from the magnificent setting of the Dolomites, a Unesco heritage site, with Cortina d’Ampezzo, the more gentle slopes of the Alpine foothills that surround cities of history and art, such as Belluno, for original events in a mix of nature, sports, adventure and flavours.

www.vicenzacb.com

13,500-square-metre Events Area, along side exclusive locations such as the Bisazza Foundation Museum, the Bolle Nardini, numerous villas and the Basilica Palladiana. The Vicenza Convention Bureau, a branch of the Vicenza tourism consortium, is increasing its services for Expo 2015 and is providing concrete operational support for events of any size.

Ph © bandion.it

Marca Treviso Convention Bureau – There are many possibilities for post congress proposals in Treviso and its local area, from wine tasting in the cellars to poignant visits and from team building activities based on sports, such as golf, to treks on horseback.

The Garden of Venice, a destination that offers a variety of locations, ranging from the majestic Palladian villas and mysterious

www.belledolomiti.it

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – VENETO

TREVISO – conventionbureau.marcatreviso.it

institutions

The “Garden” of surprises The Treviso Marca territory, with its county city Treviso, welcomes events in a land of history, flavours and professionalism, where you can enjoy yourself with unprecedented team building activities and learn new skills with thematic itineraries The Treviso Marca territory, or “The Garden of Venice” is the home of artistic talents such as Cima da Conegliano and Giorgione and even one of the fathers of neoclassicism, Antonio Canova.

A territory that excites, punctuated by elegant painted cities and medieval villages, which alternate with rolling hills where the famous local wines are produced, such as the well-known Prosecco, with both CDO and GCDO labels, and rich in culinary products, such as the Radicchio Rosso di Treviso PGI. This area is just 30 kilometres from Venice and offers many quality hotels and conference venues, majestic Palladian villas (two of which are Unesco World Heritage Sites), castles and excellent restaurants. Do not miss out on the wide range of post congress activities such as tastings in wine cellars and poignant tours or team building activities based on sports, such as golf (with 12 courses), sailing on houseboats, nature walks or treks on horseback.

Interesting ideas are also offered by recent innovations in the field of MARCA TREVISO CONVENTION BUREAU - CONTACTS Via Venier, 55 31100 Treviso Contact details: Ph +39 0422 541052 Fax +39 0422 591195 Email: conventionbureau@marcatreviso.it

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motorcycle tourism with the new high-quality tourist product “Roar... in Veneto”.

Treviso and the surrounding area also offer a varied range of ideal natural settings that can meet the different needs of national and international film productions.

The Marca Treviso is a branch of Tourism Promotion Board Marca Treviso and, with the support of partners such the Provincia di Treviso, Camera di Commercio, UNPLI-Pro Loco and Unascom Confcommercio, it is part of the project of regional excellence entitled “Venice Region Convention Bureau Network”. It is also one of the founding members of the Convention Bureau Italia, representing the regional Network.

The Marca Treviso will be taking part in Expo 2015 and is proposing visits to local production companies and major industrial realities in the area, creating customized thematic and formative itineraries.

T: +39 0422 9641 E: mailbox@relaismonaco.it www.relaismonaco.it

via Postumia, 63 31050 Ponzano Veneto Treviso - Italy

THE DESTINATION ITALY – VENETO

LOVADINA DI SPRESIANO (TV) – www.thai-si.it

The Thai Si, a splendid hotel close to Treviso, with evocative atmospheres offering wellbeing, aromas and magic in a perfect Thai style.

A plus for the meeting industry Organising an event at the Thai Si congress centre is a prestigious choice, with functional, welcoming rooms and elegant, stylish areas offering all amenities for meetings. The hotel is the perfect venue for organising any kind of event. The two congress rooms have a capacity from 10 to 70 seats; both are naturally lit in a truly stunning setting, ideal for hosting displays and exhibitions in the rooms with lake view: all with an elegance and impeccable service typical of this four-star establishment. The exclusive furnishings, sophisticated marble and precious gold adorning the walls and the superb views of the Le Bandie lake all afford a unique experience starting from breakfast.

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THAI SI ROYAL THAI SPA Maximum number of meeting rooms: 2 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 90 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 104 Sleeping rooms: 33 Nearest Airport: Antonio Canova, Treviso (13 km) Brand affiliations: LifeClass Hotels & Spa Address: Via G. Vecellio, 56/A 31027 Lovadina di Spresiano (Tv) Contact details: Ph +39 0422 881350 Fax +39 0422 889319 Email: reservations@thai-si.it Contact person: reservations staff

★★★★

hotels

An original touch of Thailand

At the Thai Si, attention has been paid to even the smallest details to faithfully recreate Thai culture and tradition. Interiors have been designed and fashioned by experts in art and architecture.

An exclusive and ideal destination for events and incentive trips, the hotel has 33 elegantly-furnished guest rooms, a restaurant with exquisite Thai and Italian dishes and a wellness centre with dreamlike Thai atmospheres redolent with essential oils, for guests to indulge in the beneficial touch of the expert hands of maestros of traditional Thai massage: a magical adventure to rebalance emotional, physical and spiritual wellbeing, after a hard day’s work.

The wellness centre and guest rooms command superb views of the lake, surrounded by unspoilt countryside with woodland paths that are perfect for walks or bike rides. A golf club is just a few kilometres away. Situated four kilometres from the A27 motorway, the hotel is in a strategic location close to Treviso, the historical art city and economic centre offering numerous attractions including major art exhibitions.

www.villacorner.it

QUINTO DI TREVISO (TV) – www.bhrtrevisohotel.com

Measuring up to Expo With Expo 2015 on the horizon and in response to the Mice industry, Best Western Premier BHR Treviso Hotel is getting ready to host Expo-themed company conventions ★★★★

hotels

THE DESTINATION ITALY – VENETO

BEST WESTERN PREMIER BHR TREVISO HOTEL Maximum number of meeting rooms: 13 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 600 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 581 Sleeping rooms: 133 Nearest Airport: Antonio Canova, Treviso (2 km) Brand affiliations: Best Western Address: Via Postumia Castellana, 2 31055 Quinto di Treviso (Tv) Contact details: Ph +39 0422 3730 Fax +39 0422 373999 Email: info@bassohotels.it Contact person: Tiziano Simonato General Manager – info@bassohotels.it

Best Western Premier BHR Treviso Hotel, with a view to partnering businesses in the Treviso area and more in general in the Veneto region, is preparing its traditional congress services for the great event of Expo 2015.

The hotel has all the facilities to be a leading destination, first and foremost thanks to its congress centre with 13 naturally lit, modular rooms that are ideal for executive meetings and for congresses with a capacity of up to 1,300 people.

The hotel has 133 guest rooms, a wellness and fitness area and the “DiVino Osteria

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Trevigiana” restaurant which, with its GalaDiVino format, offers organisers a range of “next generation” packages with tailor-made solutions for all needs.

In particular, for events scheduled in Milan and Venice from early May to the end of October 2015, BHR Treviso Hotel offers companies transport services, hotel accommodation, catering and congress areas and equipment, as well as company tours and entrance to Expo pavilions, all focused on Expo’s theme “Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life” and related activities, promoting active co-marketing among companies.

And to keep up with the times, in a continually evolving economic scenario, the hotel is also responding to the training needs of client companies, suppliers and Pmi consultants, offering managerial training services and programmes to develop human capital productivity, in partnership with leading training organisations.

The hotel has also started a co-working service, with equipped areas for temporary work stations and business start-ups in a setting that offers prestigious accommodation and catering services.

In partnership with

VILLAFRANCA (VR) – www.hotelveronesilatorre.com

Let yourself be amazed The Hotel Veronesi La Torre is housed in a former monastery near Verona and uses its stylistic setting to create a unique experience from a mix of design, comfort and location ★★★★S

hotels

THE DESTINATION ITALY – VENETO

HOTEL VERONESI LA TORRE Maximum number of meeting rooms: 11 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 130 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 166 Sleeping rooms: 88 Nearest Airport: Valerio Catullo, Verona (500 mt) Address: via Monte Baldo, 22 37062 Dossobuono di Villafranca (Vr) Contact details: Ph +39 045 8604811 Fax +39 045 8604815 Email: info@hotelveronesilatorre.it Contact person: Cristina Mascanzoni Kaiser, Sales & event Manager, email: cristina.mascanzoni@hotelveronesilatorre.it

Set in the splendour of an ancient monastery, the charming four-star Hotel Veronesi La Torre hosts events in a both elegant and modern structure that combines old charm with contemporary design. Located just minutes from the Valerio Catullo International Airport of Verona, the hotel is in a strategic position for international companies who want their events to make the best of a charming hotel near the historic centre of the beautiful city of Verona, known all over the world as the city of Romeo and Juliet.

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The Hotel Veronesi La Torre has 88 original and exquisite rooms and suites and two luxurious apartments. Italian design is the protagonist and can be seen in the many details that match the Renaissance-style decor perfectly and in the splendour of the 88 different marble cuts that cover the doors.

The conference centre consists of eleven modern meeting rooms and offers an extraordinary working experience in creative and sophisticated environments, spaces of various sizes and modern architectural solutions that house the most modern technology, wi-fi included.

The Torre 22 restaurant, thanks to the different types of dining spaces available, can be used to host events as diverse as romantic candlelit dinners to ceremonies, from business lunches to informal meetings and banquets. Whatever your event, the appropriate menu and space can be found here.

Another exclusive area of the hotel is the indoor saltwater swimming pool heated to 30 degrees Celsius, the flagship of the welcoming spa.

The hotel offers a variety of special events in collaboration with Openup by Cassiopeia: “Etiquette - the art of hosting with style”, a course aimed specifically at women entrepreneurs and wives of businessmen, and “Style at the table” that teaches you how to behave during a business dinner. Finally, “Killing Cangrande with a taste of Dante” is an interactive tour organised by Play the City, with wine tasting and local product sampling at the Serego-Alighieri estate.

HOTEL CAESIUS THERMAE & SPA RESORT FOR EXPO MILANO 2015 From the 1st of May to the 31st of October 2015 we are waiting for you in the beautiful setting of Lake Garda for your special events.

The Europlan group will assist you in ticket purchase and excursion organisation to take part of the 184 days of events linked to the EXPO 2015 in Milan.

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – VENETO

BARDOLINO (VR) – www.aqualuxhotel.com

Located in an area with numerous attractions, from Lake Garda to Verona, the Aqualux Hotel Spa Suite & Terme is the perfect location for exclusive meetings and events The Aqualux Hotel Spa Suite & Terme at Bardolino, first certified Clima Hotel structure outside Alto Adige and first hotel in the Worldhotels chain on Lake Garda, is the location of choice for an exclusive hotel experience in the Verona area of the Lake, offering guests a hospitality that focuses on all-round wellbeing. The Hotel boasts extensive facilities for the events industry, starting with size: 1,200 square metres of modern, versatile congress areas with two foyers, five breakout rooms and a plenary hall seating 250. The main “Colombara” room can be partitioned into two rooms, the “Novello” and “Riviera” rooms. The barrel-shaped “Bardo” room, with stateof-the-art acoustics, is ideal for meetings, displays and presentations of cars and motorcycles: the way spaces are arranged

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AQUALUX HOTEL SPA SUITE & TERME Maximum number of meeting rooms: 5 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 250 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 273 Sleeping rooms: 125 Nearest Airport: Catullo Airport, Verona 23 km Brand affiliations: Worldhotels Address: Via Europa Unita 24/b Contact details: Ph. +39 045 6229930 Fax +39 045 9900 Email: events@aqualuxhotel.com Contact: Niniane De Vecchi, Events Manager, e Mihaela Ardelean, Events Coordinator

gives vehicles direct access. The “Zerbetto” room is perfect for hosting executive board meetings and other exclusive events, while the “Gramole” room can host smaller and medium-sized meetings.

The hotel has 125 eco-clima guest rooms, yet its focal point is the extensive AquaExperience area, with four indoor and four outdoor mineral and salt water pools. In addition, the 1,000 square metres AquaSpa & Wellness area offers guests a haven of wellbeing.

At the two Italian restaurants, “Italian Taste” and “DropsFood & Wine”, guests can enjoy a superb gourmet experience, with a particular emphasis on outstanding, local produce. The vibrant Sparkling Lounge bar area serves delicious cocktails in a cosmopolitan atmosphere, while the elegant Cigar room, with its special selection of cigars and exclusive spirits, gives guests a chance to indulge.

With Expo on the horizon, the Hotel has a number of special offers for the Mice industry for 2015, to combine work and pleasure, including its “Meeting and Sport” package featuring fantastic team building sessions to explore the Garda area on bike trips, by sailing boat and on a caving trip at the remarkable Tinella cave.

S★★★★

hotels

The sublime spa experience

OspitalitĂ su misura.

Storia ed eleganza, benessere e sapori.

Tailored hospitality.

History and class, well-being and taste.

VERONA | +39 045 6767300 | VILLAQUARANTA.COM

THE DESTINATION ITALY – VENETO

VENICE – www.guggenheim-venice.it

© Peggy Guggenheim Collection, Venice.

Ph. AndreaSarti/CAST1466

convention centres

Events among masterpieces The Peggy Guggenheim Collection is one of the most important museums in Italy for European and American art of the 20th century, created by the American heiress Peggy Guggenheim (1898-1979)

© Peggy Guggenheim Collection, Venice. Ph. Matteo De Fina

The Peggy Guggenheim Collection is one of the most important museums in Italy for European and American art of the 20th century created by the American heiress Peggy Guggenheim (1898-1979).

Peggy assembled the core of her collection in London, Paris and New York between 1938 and 1947. In 1948 her collection was exhibited at the first post-war Venice Biennale. The following year Peggy acquired Palazzo Venier dei Leoni, an unfinished 18th century palace on the Grand Canal of Venice, where she was to live for thirty years and which still today hosts her museum. The collection was assembled with the advice of distinguished artists and critics, such as Marcel Duchamp, Herbert Read, Nellie van Doesburg and Howard Putzel and today includes masterpieces by Picasso, Magritte, Dalí, Chagall, Pollock, Calder, de Chirico, Braque, Kandinsky. It also exhibits twenty six masterpieces on long-term loan from the Gianni Mattioli Collection, including famous works of Italian Futurism by Boccioni, Carrà, Russolo, Balla, Severini, Sironi, and organizes temporary exhibitions of modern art. From October 2012 eighty works of Italian, European and American art of the decades after 1945 are added to the collections

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PEGGY GUGGENHEIM COLLECTION Contact details for private visits: Ph +39.041.2405 434 specialevents@guggenheim-venice.it Opening hours: 10 am – 6 pm.

Closed on Tuesdays and December 25 Tickets: € 14; € 12 over 65 yrs; € 8 students; free under 10 yrs. and members Services: Museum Shop, Peggy Guggenheim Cafe, Audioguides

of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation in Venice. They includes works by Burri, Capogrossi, de Kooning, Dubuffet, Rothko, Oldenburg, Stella, Twombly, Warhol, Kapoor and are the bequest of Hannelore B. Schulhof, who collected the works with her late husband Rudolph B. Schulhof. According to an agreement drawn up by the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and Mrs. Schulhof, the gift of paintings, sculptures and works on paper will reside permanently in Venice. The Patsy R. and Raymond D. Nasher Sculpture Garden at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection presents works from the permanent collection (Arp, Duchamp-Villon, Ernst, Giacometti, Holzer, Mirko, Merz, Moore, Richier and others), as well as sculptures on temporary loan from other foundations and galleries (Calder, Marini, Smith, Kapoor, Nannucci). The museum offers the opportunity to visit the collection in peace and privacy, before it opens at 10 a.m. or after it closes to the public, from 6:30 p.m. Guests may be accompanied by trained guide, to enjoy the masterworks of the collection in an exclusive atmosphere.

Since 1955 ENDAR International Center for Conference Services has a consolidated experience in every aspect of worldwide technological communication services. Over the past sixty years it has successfully provided professional assistance for the most prestigious international conferences and events. ENDARâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s technical services offer a wide range of state-of-the-art technology, indispensable to the impeccable management of any meeting, conference or event.

These include video support, infrared simultaneous translation booths, multi-media and interactive system.

ENDAR - International Centre for Conference Services - offers national and international conference organizers the complete and exhaustive assistance that is the key to the success of any event or congress. t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t

32 channels Bosch Integrus simultaneous translation equipment; Sennheiser infrared simultaneous translation equipment; Audipack translation booths & Endar translation booths; Sound amplification system; Conference system computerized microphones (DCN Bosch); Videoprojection on large screens (from DLP 3.000 A/L to DLP 20.000 A/L Full HD); Multivideoprojection (watch out, folsom, etc.); Led monitors, ledwalls, etc.; Professional video recording system & post-production; Video conferences and streaming; Show and theatrical lighting; IT slide centre, IT services and equipment; Cordless interactive voting system; Specialized technical assistance; All professional technical services required.

ENDAR, A PROVIDER OF TECHNICAL CONGRESS SERVICES HOLDS ISO 9001:2008 QUALITY MANAGEMENT CERTIFICATION

www.veneziaconventionbureau.com

It offers experience for the successful organization of any national and international congress based on its well established professional expertise. t t t t

Full conference planning, coordination and supply; Professional simultaneous and consecutive interpreters ; Conference and exhibition hall installation, signage and decorative accessories; Publicity materials (design and printing).

Endar International Centre for Conference Services provides assistance to clients from all over the world on sites throughout Italy.

ENDAR s.n.c.

Castello 4966, 30122 VENEZIA Tel 041 5238440 / 041 5286866 / Fax 041 5286846 ENDAR s.n.c.

Piazza della Borsa 7, 34121 TRIESTE Tel 040 660352 / Fax 040 660353 www.endar.it congress@endar.it

convention centres

THE DESTINATION ITALY – VENETO

VENICE – www.sanservolo.provincia.venezia.it

Around the waters On the Venetian island of San Servolo, an ancient monastery now serves as a modern congress venue, close to the lagoon yet far from the crowds SAN SERVOLO SERVIZI Maximum number of meeting rooms: 12 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 240 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 235 Agreements with hotels: 173 rooms on the island Nearest Airport: Marco Polo (18 km) Address: Island of San Servolo 30124 Venice Contact details: congressi@sanservolo.provincia.venezia.it Contact person: manuela.cracco@sanservolo. provincia.venezia.it

This marvellous park of 4,000 square metres on the island of San Servolo, in the lagoon city par excellence, houses an unusual congress location. The building was originally an ancient Benedictine monastery before being used as a military and psychiatric hospital and then undergoing renovation to transform it into a lively, versatile and extremely welcoming venue.

San Servolo is a location of choice for the local meeting industry, thanks to its 12 congress rooms that can seat 20-240 people and the attached accommodation facilities offering over 300 beds in modern, comfortable surroundings.

The flexibility of the rooms and their

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varying capacities, together with the tailor-made services and all the latest technologies, will meet every possible request. The indoor and outdoor areas are directly accessed from the rooms, providing the ideal environment for catering services and coffee breaks. Rooms for meetings, banquets and gala dinners (hosted in rooms measuring 150 and 450 square metres), exhibition rooms and terraces are immersed in a large park with centuriesold trees. There’s an enviable view towards Saint Mark’s Bay, which can be reached by ferry in just a few minutes. And it’s precisely the vicinity to Saint Mark’s Square in the centre of the city that allows San Servolo to offer its guests a wide range of cultural events and specific itineraries, to delve fully into a unique heritage made up of history and traditions.

Apart from the park and the countless organised events, the Museum of Madness completes the cultural offerings of San Servolo, now an affirmed outstanding location chosen also by the Venice Biennale and other prestigious cultural bodies. A fascinating place, far from the tourist chaos of Venice; ideal not only for business but for rest and relaxation as well.

THE DESTINATION ITALY – FRIULI VENEZIA GIULIA

Friuli Venezia Giulia: exceptional melting pot Glamorous ski resorts, important Roman excavations, a lush coast and Trieste, a city of rare beauty: this is the main entrance into Italy from the East A borderland, nestled between Italy, Slovenia and Austria, Friuli has an incredible mix of Middle-European influences in its cultural, artistic and gastronomic Dna (an interesting point: in Friuli, the customs and traditions of all three major European ethnic strains – Latin, Germanic and Slavic – come together). It can offer the Mice sector a surprising variety of proposals considering the relatively small size of the region. The capital of the region, Trieste, is an absolute jewel. A beautiful, cosmopolitan city, situated around the stunning Piazza Unità d’Italia, one of the largest in the Peninsula, and certainly among the most fascinating, surrounded on three sides by elegant aristocratic houses and by historic literary cafés with the fourth side looking out over the foaming sea. Just outside the city, the white mass of the impressive Miramare castle is literally perched on a spur of rock that plunges into the waters of the Adriatic sea. This sea laps a short but lively stretch of the Friuli coastline with characteristic beach resorts such as the picturesque Grado and the animated Lignano Sabbiadoro, along stretches of golden sand, or Duino, amid white cliffs and surrounded by secluded coves that can be reached by boat.

Even the lovers of archaeology and architecture in the Mice sector can find delights in Friuli, ranging from the Roman remains of Aquileia, called the “second Rome” and protected by Unesco, to those of Lombard Cividale, seat of the first Lombard duchy of Italy, to the beautiful Palmanova, the incredible star-shaped city-fortress that is a masterpiece of the Venetian military. The region offers something for everyone, from the medieval charm of Venzone to that of the Renaissance in San Daniele, which is the home, among other things, of the delicious and famous cured ham, one of the excellent culinary products of the region.

Finally, there are, of course, the mountains, the great winter protagonists with kilometres of slopes for skiing, snowboarding and bob-sledding and trails for Nordic walking and snowshoe hiking in the Carnia and Tarvisio areas. They are also fascinating during the other seasons when the mountains take on all the colours of the rainbow.

Above Trieste, cosmopolitan and elegant.

Below the impressive Miramare castle

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – TRENTINO ALTO ADIGE

Trentino Alto Adige: impressive nature Pure, lush, green nature is what dominates the views across the Trentino region, sparking a range of ideas for Mice activities: the Dolomite peaks that occupy most of the area seduce with their beauty and the unique opportunities they offer for sports and excursions

Above the Dolomites.

Below the sober Castel Thun

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These stone giants are the focal point for events in Trentino, from skiing to walking in the woods and hiking in the beautiful valleys amid streams and lakes (of all of these, the rainbow colours of the lake of Carezza are unmissable, without forgetting the Trentino bank of Lake Garda, dotted with sparkling, Mice-oriented resorts).

Nature is punctuated by country mansions and castle, rich with stories of nymphs, witches and ghosts, which can provide a starting point for exciting post-conference activities. The Noarma manor, for example, in Vallagarina, was the setting for a range of mysterious happenings and in the seventeenth century, apparently even hosted a famous witch trial. Following the Adige river towards the north, the Altipiano in the Sciliar area also has its fair share of witches and ghosts, all ready to greet Mice industry visitors. Nature, lakes and castles: however, there is another Trentino Alto Adige to be discovered – that of cities with a decidedly central-European atmosphere. Trento, with its beautiful Renaissance-era palazzos dominated by the Buonconsiglio castle, Bolzano, with its rarefied, sober South Tyrolean soul, but also Bressanone, Brunico and Merano, particularly beautiful when their Liberty buildings are clad in Christmas lights and the air is scented with Toerggelen, or hot spiced wine. From a cultural perspective, too, Trentino is irrevocably linked to its mountains, as testified by the very original Messner Mountain Museum. This attraction is not in fact a single museum, but five, housed in fascinating structures within the wonderful setting provided by the Dolomites themselves. Mmm Firmian, housed in Castel Firmiano near Bolzano, offers an overview of this incredible mountain universe; Mmm Juval, set among the vineyards of the Val Venosta in the castle of the same name, is dedicated to the myth and sanctity of the mountain for all peoples. Mmm Ortles, at Solda in a kind of “cleft” dug into a hill specifically to house the museum, tells the tale of an extreme, icy world; Mmm Dolomites, housed in a First World War fort on Monte Rite in Cadore, focuses on rock and mountain climbing; while Mmm Ripa, inside the Brunico castle in Val Pusteria, is dedicated to the people of the mountains.

Located in the immediate vicinity of the start of the Schumacher piste and the Spinale cable car, only a few steps from the centre of Madonna di Campiglio, Hotel Spinale welcomes you with its refined and exclusive atmosphere. It is a place situated in the magical setting of the Brenta Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where

HOTEL SPINALE ★★★★S

www.effehotels.it

Via Monte Spinale, 39 Madonna di Campiglio (TN) tel. +39 0465 441116 fax +39 0465 442189 info@spinalehotelcampiglio.it

www.spinalehotelcampiglio.com

tradition is combined with attentive service and a highquality cuisine. The Spinale Hotel Madonna di Campiglio offers its guests 61 rooms divided between Relax, Charme, Deluxe, Perla, Family Suites and Suites decorated with the warm tones of the mountains creating a unique balance between originality, comfort and elegance.

HOTEL CRISTAL PALACE ★★★★S

Via Cima Tosa,104/A Madonna di Campiglio (TN) tel. +39 0465 446020 fax +39 0465 446007 info@cristalpalacecampiglio.it

www.cristalpalacecampiglio.it

Set in the magnificent Brenta Dolomites, a shining gem: the Cristal Palace Hotel. Here class and modernity intertwine in a whirl of colours and patterns. You are surrounded in a welcoming atmosphere. The Cristal Palace Hotel offers its guests 62 rooms, divided between Silver, Golden, Platinum, Junior Suite and Suite, decorated with the warm tones of the mountain creating a unique balance between originality, comfort and elegance.

THE DESTINATION ITALY – TRENTINO ALTO ADIGE

RIVA DEL GARDA (TN) – www.rivadelgardafierecongressi.it

convention centres

Where excellence is at home A middle-European destination with all the charm of the Mediterranean, the Riva del Garda Congress Centre has a plenary hall with a 900-seat capacity, directly on the lake.

For Expo 2015, exclusive events are planned to discover the delights of a remarkable area At the top end of Lake Garda, in North Italy, surrounded by sheer rocks and Mediterranean vegetation with olive, lemon and palm trees, stands the town of Riva del Garda in the province of Trento. Arriving from the North, Riva del Garda is one of the first places to boast a mild climate, and is chosen by tourists for its fantastic weather and the charming atmosphere of the lake and surrounding Dolomite mountains, famous the world over, also because they are a Unesco world heritage site. Riva del Garda’s vocation for hospitality and its prestige among middle-European aristocrats of the late 19th century, have ensured that today the town is an elegant, welcoming location with an important artistic and cultural heritage, boasting numerous facilities for leisure tourism and the Mice industry. Situated in the very heart of the town in mature grounds, the Riva del Garda Congress Centre commands stunning views of the lake and enjoys a strategic position, easily reached on foot from the town’s hotels.

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Big numbers on the lake – With a total surface area of 6,100 square metres, the centre is ideal for hosting any type of event. The interior boasts modular, conference areas: the plenary hall with a 900-seat capacity directly overlooks the lake and 16 meeting rooms (for 30 to 600 people). A multi-functional 2,700 square-metre area is connected by a panoramic walkway to the main building. The space, which is easily

convention centres

THE DESTINATION ITALY – TRENTINO ALTO ADIGE

RIVA DEL GARDA CONGRESSI Maximum number of meeting rooms: 16 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 900 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 798 Nearest Airport: Valerio Catullo, Verona (80 km) Address: Loc. Parco Lido – Riva del Garda (Tn) Contact details: Ph +39 0464 570139 fax +39 0464 555255 Email: meeting@rivafc.it Contact person: Alessandra Albarelli, Congress Manager, email: meeting@rivafc.it

customisable and highly versatile, is ideal for catering services, exhibitions and events such as shows, concerts, sports events and above all conventions, with events for Diesel, North Face, Renault Trucks and Forever Living recently being held here. Besides company events, the Riva del Garda Congress Centre hosts numerous international conferences and congresses, including medical and scientific congresses.

International conferences held at Riva del Garda are always well attended and record numbers are often registered for events held here. Indeed, the natural beauty of the area and the logistics services offered are highly attractive for participants who see Riva del Garda as a location on a human scale. Riva del Garda offers numerous types of

accommodation, with a total of 4,500 guest rooms in three-, four- and five-star hotels, to cater for every requirement. With its strategic position, Riva del Garda is also perfect for trips to wineries, distilleries, farms, museums and castles throughout Trentino, where visitors can taste local produce and admire the historical heritage of this area. Events can be planned, for when Expo 2015 is held, to discover the excellent food and wines of Trentino – from visits to companies making products, with informative tours (including foreign language tours), to catering services with Trentino produce and recipes, gala dinners organised at wineries and customised food and wine gifts for participants. Riva del Garda is a meeting place that excels: with a plenary hall for up to 900 people on Lake Garda, an environmentally friendly location and a superb tradition of local food and wines in a border area that has combined Italian and Mediterranean flavours with more northern tastes.

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ExcelsiorEsterna_Layout 1 07/02/12martedì 15:09 Pagina 1

hôtellerie couture hôtellerie couture hôtellerie couture L’incanto di inizio secolo rivive in ogni dettaglio dell’ Excelsior Palace. Dentro la fresca, intramontabile eleganza, fuori il profumo dei gelsomini e del Mediterraneo. 5 stelle Lusso ed oltrecharm 100 anni di esperienza per indimenticabili soggiorni.

The of the beginning ofogni last century dell’ comes alive L’incanto di inizio secolo rivive in dettaglio Excelsior in every detail of the Excelsior Palace.

Inside the cool, Palace. Dentro la fresca, intramontabile eleganza, fuori il timeless elegance, outside the scent of jasmine and profumo dei gelsomini e del Mediterraneo. 5 stelle Lusso ed the Mediterranean. 5 star Luxury and over 100 years of oltre 100dianni disecolo esperienza indimenticabili L’incanto inizio rivive per in ogni dettaglio dell’soggiorni.

Excelsior

experience for an unforgettable stay.

Palace. Dentro la fresca, intramontabile eleganza, fuori il profumo dei gelsomini e del Mediterraneo. 5 stelle Lusso ed oltre 100 anni di esperienza per indimenticabili soggiorni.

Via San Michele di Pagana, 8 - 16035 Rapallo - Tel. 0185 23 06 66 - Fax 0185 23 02 14 - excelsior@excelsiorpalace.it - www.excelsiorpalace.it

Via San Michele di Pagana, 8 - 16035 Rapallo - Tel. 0185 23 06 66 - Fax 0185 23 02 14 - excelsior@excelsiorpalace.it - www.excelsiorpalace.it ViaMichele San Michele di Pagana, 8 - 16035 Tel.+39 01850185 23 06 66 66 - Fax 0185 02 23 1402 - excelsior@excelsiorpalace.it - www.excelsiorpalace.it Via San di Pagana, 8 - 16035 RapalloRapallo - Italy -- Tel. 23 06 - Fax +3923 0185 14 - excelsior@excelsiorpalace.it - www.excelsiorpalace.it

Liguria

GENOA Savona La Spezia Imperia

The destination Ideas for events Team building The regional offer

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – LIGURIA

Liguria: the sea of Milan It stretches in an arc from the Côte d’Azur to Tuscany: Liguria is a treasure trove of artistic and natural wonders, strategically positioned not far from Milan

Above charming Camogli.

Below, two pictures of Genoa

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Liguria is an extraordinary region boasting a diverse landscape made up of beaches, cliffs that fall sheer to the sea, and terraced hills, all within the setting of an ageold culture. And, like a solitaire in its exquisite mounting, Genoa (the main town) sparkles at the centre of the arc. It charms visitors with its medieval city centre (one of the most extensive in Europe), its labyrinth of alleys with their tall, narrow houses, and its many noble residences of outstanding beauty (so beautiful, in fact, that they were declared a heritage site by Unesco, which registered a good 72 of them; many open up their sumptuous rooms to the world of events). But Genoa also has a buzzing soul in its Old Harbour – an excellent example of post-industrial renovation of the old cotton warehouses, transformed into a micro-world of 130,000 square metres of shops, large congress areas, museums (the Aquarium alone makes a trip to Genoa worthwhile) and even a panoramic lift cabin – the Bigo.

The Riviera stretches out from Genoa to the east and west (Levante and Ponente) like two long arms, embellished with stunning pearls. Heading east, you soon come to Camogli (a little group of multi-coloured houses facing the sea) and the headland of Portofino with its protected marine area and the colourful fishing town now so-loved by the international jet set. Just a short distance away, another two little towns with a worldly elegance are Santa Margherita Ligure (with a lovely seafront promenade and scintillating night-life) and Rapallo (whose hotels still echo the Belle Époque). And then Chiavari, Lavagna and Sestri, with their typically Ligurian atmosphere; being a little smaller, they’re ideal for events on a more limited scale.

The coast then gradually becomes more rugged and the immediate hinterland gets wilder, leaving only tiny scraps of land for the towns: Levanto (young and windy), the Cinque Terre (each with its own character and unmistakable charm) and then, in the Gulf of La Spezia, Portovenere (simply captivating) and Lerici (protected by its beautiful castle). Different but equally elegant atmospheres also distinguish the Riviera di Ponente, stretching from Genoa to the French border. This section is the perfect solution for meetings and events in a peaceful setting: Loano, Alassio, Sanremo (famous for its casino and palm-bordered promenade), Bordighera and Ventimiglia.

GRAND HOTEL VILLA BALBI

Villa Balbi, ancient and aristocratic XVII-century mansion, placed on Sestri Levante beachshore, just a few metres from the wonderful sea of the Tigullio Gulf.

Elegant and richly decorated interiors, still bearing their original charm, a professional service and a very high level of comfort make of Villa Balbi the ideal place for meetings plunged into history and immersed in the evocative Ligurian nature.

Different meeting rooms, all fully equipped and air-conditioned, are available, as well as ballrooms, exhibition spaces and excellent technical support.

GRAND HOTEL VILLA BALBI Viale Rimembranza, 1 - 16039 Sestri Levante (GE) Ph. +39 0185.42941 - Fax +39 0185.482459 e-mail: villabalbi@villabalbi.it - www.villabalbi.it

THE DESTINATION ITALY – LIGURIA

Ideas for events which are…

BEWITCHED > SEARCHING FOR THE LAST WITCHES IN TRIORA Triora, sitting huddled on a rocky ridge not far from Sanremo, is famous as the town of witches: in the second half of the 16th century, various witchcraft trials were held here and a number of young women were subsequently burnt at the stake. Today, you can visit the interesting yet disquieting witchcraft museum and then take a stroll around the village, in the footsteps of the witches.

EXQUISITE > VISIT TO THE SCIACCHETRÀ WINE CELLARS It’s an extremely rare wine these days, given the difficulty of cultivating its vine. You can still find vine dressers who produce it though; they follow the rules of nature, letting the bunches of grapes “wither” in the wind before being hand-picked, pressed and left to ferment for two weeks, then aged in their own yeasts for 20 months.

SEA-SALTY > WHALE-WATCHING IN THE CETACEAN SANCTUARY There’s a triangle of sea between the Ligurian, French and Sardinian coasts inhabited by dolphins, sperm whales and fin whales – the famous protected marine area known as the “Cetacean Sanctuary”. Excursions can be arranged to get a closer look at these giant marine mammals from the vantage point of a boat, in the company of expert biologists.

WHIZZING > AT FULL SPEED AROUND THE OSPEDALETTI CIRCUIT Located just outside Sanremo, this “street” track was created straight after World War II for the second Sanremo Grand Prix, a prestigious motor race. In reality, it actually went on to host a number of motorcycle races and various car races, with the greatest drivers of the time, from Ascari to Fangio. The race tension can be relived again with the old cars or motorbikes, or you can take part as a spectator in the historical reenactment of the motorcycle trophy that the municipality organises every two years.

WINNING > SPORT AND NATURE IN LIGURIA Unforgettable views and dream-like landscapes to be enjoyed during sports activities that are anything but predictable. A few examples? You can go trekking and free climbing in the Cinque Terre National Park along the coast as far as the five towns. And then take a trip into the nature of the Monte di Portofino Regional Park, or go rafting in Val di Vara.

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – LIGURIA

…and team building The culture, gastronomy and land of Liguria offer a wealth of peculiar resources for activities that reinforce the team spirit ALL-UNESCO Monterosso, Manarola, Corniglia, Riomaggiore and Vernazza: the Cinque Terre glisten from their setting in the rugged nature of the Ligurian Riviera; 18 kilometres of coast where cliffs overhanging the sea alternate with secluded little beaches, offering unforgettable views.

18 kilometres that can easily be covered by train, stopping off at each of the five towns protected by Unesco. You can follow exciting treasure hunts that unwind along the alleys and the terracing with its vines and olive trees bordered by dry stone walls, passing along the narrow roads and lanes and taking in the harmonious beauty of each of these five towns with their painted houses hugging the rock and the spectacular cliffs falling away into the sea.

PESTO CONTEST When you think of Ligurian cooking, what comes immediately to mind (apart from the fresh fish prepared in a thousand different ways and the focaccia bread, the speciality of Recco and Camogli) is the green basil sauce called pesto.

But to make a good pesto, you have to select all the best ingredients and use them in the right quantities: that was the idea behind this highly original cookery competition with a definite Ligurian leaning. And when the pesto’s ready, it’s time to prepare the “trofie” pasta that’s traditionally eaten with the sauce. At the end of the contest, dinner’s served!

MEETINGS... OF THE MARINE TYPE The Ligurian seabed is rich not only in fish but also in the remains of ships, including the famous Haven oil tanker that sank to a depth of about 40 metres in front of the port of Genoa in 1991. It’s the biggest visitable wreck of the Mediterranean, but it’s not easy to reach. The sea of this area has a lot of unexpected surprises though, even for those who’ve never used an oxygen bottle and wet suit: in the bay of San Fruttuoso, between Camogli and Portofino, a bronze statue of Jesus Christ measuring about two metres and a half lies just 15 metres below the surface. The water is so clear that the statue can even be seen from a glass-bottomed boat.

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – LIGURIA

CAMOGLI (GE) – www.cenobio.it

All the class and charm of yesteryear with the best in contemporary comfort for a unique venue. The Cenobio dei Dogi Hotel at Camogli is the perfect location for company events, conferences and incentive trips

beauty. History, tradition and style lend a dream-like air to the one hundred rooms and suites and the spacious areas of the Hotel that effortlessly blend in with the mature pine trees in the grounds and charming courtyard with its abundance of flowers. In this idyllic, peaceful setting, the Cenobio dei Dogi Hotel has seven light, airy, multi-functional meeting rooms, with the smaller room accommodating 15 people to the spectacular “Mare” Room, incorporating the “Cassiopea” and “Syrius” rooms, for 200 people. Besides meeting and conference rooms, the Hotel offers a functional secretarial service and 70 square metres of display areas, as well as staff and technical equipment, including mega screens and plasma monitors, simultaneous interpreting, a hospitality desk, assistants, overhead projectors and free wi-fi connection.

During congresses and company conventions, the stunning Doge Terrace, with bar, is the ideal setting for coffee breaks and welcome cocktails, while the Doge Restaurant, open all year round, and the smaller “La Playa” and “La Terrazza

The exclusive, panoramic terrace with pool overlooking Camogli and the blue waters of the “Golfo del Paradiso” immediately gives a sense of the unmistakeable style of a location such as the Hotel Cenobio dei Dogi, the ideal venue for guests who appreciate all the charm of one of the most attractive spots on the Levante Riviera in Liguria.

This historical and picturesque fishing village, the myriad reflections from the

Ph © Andrea Pace

hotels

A buen retiro on the Italian Riviera

sea and sky and luxuriant vegetation of the Portofino promontory are the setting for a holiday that will take guests into another dimension, far from everyday life, in an area of unparalleled natural

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HOTEL CENOBIO DEI DOGI Maximum number of meeting rooms: 7 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 200 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 180 Sleeping rooms: 103 Nearest Airport: Cristoforo Colombo, Genova (km 26) Address: via Nicolò Cuneo 24, 16032 Genova Contact details: Ph +39 0185 7241 Email: cenobio@cenobio.it Contact person: Paola Pastine (Assistant Manager) – dogi@cenobio.it

courses can be booked on request, held by the restaurant’s chefs, who will guide guests in discovering the art and secrets of time-honoured Ligurian cooking and exquisite patisserie making. Naturally, the Hotel’s indoor and outdoor facilities, plus the surrounding area with its famous locations including Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure, Le Cinque Terre and Genoa, are ideal for a whole host of leisure activities and entertainment, as well as post-congress programmes, incentive trips or team building sessions with a cultural and social, or sporting and adventure focus. Guests can admire and appreciate all the beauty and heritage of the Levante Riviera on a boat trip along the coast, on a kayaking trip or during a scuba dive, to explore the multi-coloured submerged world of the protected marine area; sea and sun worshippers seeking an increasingly hard-to-find privacy, even in high season, can enjoy the hotel’s private beach with facilities or the capacious sea-water swimming pool and solarium to make the most of their relaxation time undisturbed. With the prestigious Rapallo Golf Club just a few kilometres away, and tennis courts and five-aside football pitches in the Hotel grounds, guests will also have the chance to play their favourite sport. The nearby natural park Monte di Portofino is a paradise for walkers, with numerous trails to cater for all levels, from easy strolls to more challenging treks.

Giulia” restaurants, open in season, offer breakfast meetings, lunches with local dishes and sumptuous gala dinners for 200, 90 and 50 guests respectively.

The cuisine, offering a wide assortment of different dishes, will tempt and delight guests with the most delicate palates, perfectly combining the best of traditional regional cuisine with Mediterranean and international flavours, all using scrupulously selected, fresh, genuine produce.

Ph © Andrea Pace

Incentive trips starting with cuisine The Hotel’s gastronomic tradition is a perfect reason to arrange an incentive trip at Camogli to explore and experiment with flavours. Cookery

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hotels

S★★★★

Ph © Andrea Pace

THE DESTINATION ITALY – LIGURIA

Vis Ă Vis Via della Chiusa 28, 16039 Sestri Levante Tel. +39 0185 42661 Fax +39 0185 480853 visavis@hotelvisavis.com www.hotelvisavis.com

THE DESTINATION ITALY – LIGURIA

SESTRI LEVANTE (GE) – www.hotelvisavis.com

hotels

Room with a view As a location for both leisure and business, its magnificent views provide the ideal backdrop for the perfect event, in the cosy Ligurian town of Sestri Levante HOTEL VIS À VIS

★★★★

Overlooking the bays of Sestri Levante and nestled into the terraces that gradually descend to the sea, the Hotel Vis à Vis has been a jewel in the crown of Ligurian hospitality for 50 years. It has 46 rooms guaranteeing the best in comfort, along with a restaurant – the Olimpo – whose large windows offer a wonderful sea view while you enjoy a gastronomic journey through a menu of top cuisine, and the Ponte Zeus Sky bar, serving buffet-style brunch and aperitifs. The hotel’s congress centre is a real point of reference for local convention tourism. It’s fitted out with the best technical equipment and, thanks to the large windows looking out onto the park, the three versatile rooms can also be used with natural light: the Andersen Room has a central stage with a podium and production room, and can accommodate up to 180 people; the Byron Room gives direct access onto the garden and is ideal for small meetings, cocktails and aperitifs; the Descalzo Room has an independent production room and is perfect for medium-sized meetings. The Mice facilities are completed

Maximum number of meeting rooms: 4 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 180 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 176 Sleeping rooms: 46 Nearest Airport: “Cristoforo Colombo”, Genoa (30 km) Brand affiliations: Charme & Relax /Condé Nast Johansens Address: Via della Chiusa 28 16039 Sestri Levante Contact details: Ph +39 0185 42661 Fax +39 0185 480853 Email: visavis@hotelvisavis.com Contact person: Paola Pittaluga – Management

with an exhibition room of 150 square metres. The other indoor and outdoor areas (the bridges, swimming pool and park) can be used for cocktails, buffets and receptions. The rich variety of the Liguria region, combined with the creativity and experience of the hotel team, make it easy to arrange a whole selection of pre- and post-congress activities with team-building sessions such as cooking classes, gourmet food & wine trips, and guided tours via sea to discover the local area. On the occasion of Expo 2015, thanks to the Sestri Levante In consortium, this spot is being promoted as “Milan Beach”. It can be reached in just two hours from the Expo site, allowing the visitor to complete or end his/her visit with the discovery of the breathtaking natural beauty that the Riviera di Levante has always offered.

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If you're looking for something special for your event, look here.

www.centrocongressigenova.it

Porto Antico di Genova Centro Congressi, in the Porto Antico, provides you with an auditorium seating 1,480, 13 rooms for parallel meetings, 8,500 sq m for exhibitions and events, and a team of tried and tested professionals who work with commitment and enthusiasm to guarantee the utmost quality. That's why the pinnacles of appeal and functionality are easy to reach. For you. As are hotels, the airport and excellent facilities in a city and a region that will never stop astounding you. All you have to do is contact us.

PORTO ANTICO DI GENOVA S.P.A. Calata Molo Vecchio, 15 - Magazzini del Cotone - Modulo 5 - 16128 Genova - T. +39 010 2485611 - F. +39 010 2758929 - www.centrocongressigenova.it - centrocongressi@portoantico.it

GENOA – www.centrocongressigenova.it

Porto Antico, unique performance PORTO ANTICO DI GENOVA CENTRO CONGRESSI Maximum number of meeting rooms: 13 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 1480 Main meeting room area (sq mt): Agreements with hotels: Through “Convention Bureau di Genova” Nearest Airport: C. Colombo - Genova (7 km) Address: Calata Molo Vecchio 15 - Magazzini del Cotone Contact details: Ph +39 010 2485611 Fax +39 010 2758929 Email: centrocongressi@portoantico.it Contact person: Daniela Balbi – Congress Manager

An event hosted at Genoa’s Conference Center located inside Porto Antico’s historical cotton warehouses is a guarantee of success. It is a venue highly valued by meeting planners, able to meet all conference, convention, exhibit and entertainment requirements perfectly.

One of the features event organisers most appreciate about Genoa’s Conference Center is its multi-storey structure that allows gathered arrangements of space. The Auditorium and thirteen different sized rooms, plus their adjacent open spaces, can be easily fitted for exhibitions and receptions.

The Auditorium, capacity 1,480 people, divisible into two separate mirror-like meeting rooms, is matchless thanks to its theatrical structure and central stage.

Genoa’s Conference Center is one of the symbols of the city. Located in a historical cotton warehouse it is now a multi-storey structure and a guarantee of professional advice and modern technology Its distinct character enriches stage set designs of business conventions or corporate events. The possibility to change room configuration from plenary to parallel sessions and the variety of different sized rooms is the ideal solution for medical conferences.

The vast surface of the contiguous modules – 8,500 gross square metres – guarantees visibility to exhibitions and the possibility to accommodate attendees in private areas for receptions. There are eleven halls in all and they develop over four floors. The ground floor has direct access to the Porto Antico quays offering the option of continuing the exhibit arrangement outdoors. Functional for the adjacent meeting rooms, their large windows overlooking the harbor and particular architectural structure make them very pleasing environments easily fittable for a variety of uses. They are adaptable to the needs of scientific exhibitions, alternative catering areas for large receptions or fit out to host entertainment events during conventions, accommodate team-building activities or fit shows.

Professional advice, up to date technology and continuous renewal of equipment warrant the success of even the most complex events.

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convention centres

THE DESTINATION ITALY – LIGURIA

Seating for 9000 in 39 rooms.

Large hall Seating forseating 9000 in4700.

39 rooms.

500 parking spaces.

Large hall seating 4700.

State-of-the-art technology.

500 parking spaces.

Particular focus State-of-the-art technology. on environmental Particular focus impact and energy conservation on environmental impact policies. and energy conservation

policies.

Plus a staff of professionals at your side.of professionals Plus a staff at your side.

Plus a destination that in terms of hospitality has no equal.

Plus a destination that in terms of hospitality has no equal.

Just for you.

Just for you.

via della Fiera 23 - 47923 Rimini - Italy tel +39 0541 711 500 - fax +39 0541 711 505 via della Fiera 23 - 47923 Rimini - Italy www.riminipalacongressi.it tel +39 0541 711 500 - fax +39 0541 711 505 info@riminipalacongressi.it www.riminipalacongressi.it info@riminipalacongressi.it

Emilia Romagna

The destination Ideas for events Team building The regional offer

Piacenza

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Ferrara Parma

Reggio Emilia Modena

Ravenna

BOLOGNA ForlĂŹ

Rimini

Cesena

Marche

The destination

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – EMILIA ROMAGNA

Emilia Romagna: the art of the good life It’s one of the most “complete” Italian regions from a tourism viewpoint: art heritage cities, endless beaches, an inland area with a wealth of castles, medieval villages and nature sanctuaries, gourmet food and wine trails and everything enveloped in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere that can’t fail to win you over

Above the two towers of Bologna.

Below, the wonderful Este Castle in Ferrara

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It’s hard to define Emilia Romagna with a single adjective, or pigeonhole it in just one type of landscape: the region, in fact, offers an incredible mixture of zones and, above all, atmospheres, thanks to its superb historical legacy of villages, manor houses and art heritage cities made unique by the cheerful friendliness of the local people – true standardbearers of the Italian good life. Bologna is the main city, boasting the longest porticoed historical centre in the world (about 40 kilometres) and exquisite buildings to embellish it even further; Ferrara, with its wonderful Este Castle still surrounded by the original moat and embedded in the heart of the town centre (a bit of trivia: some of the splendid rooms open their doors to Mice); Ravenna and its beautiful Byzantine mosaics that make the Basilica of San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia so unique. And then there’s the ancient Duchy of Parma and Piacenza, scattered with fortresses, castles and Romanesque constructions (the not-to-be-missed Sanvitale Fort in Fontanellato, the fairy-tale castle of Rivalta, and the palace of Colorno) plus the manor houses of Matilda of Canossa, set in the rugged countryside.

These historical and architectural riches sit alongside the fun factory of Italy, on the Romagna coast, with Rimini (ideal for both Mice and leisure with its endless velvety beaches and nights when it always seems too early to go to bed) and Riccione (the refined coastal spot) – both enhanced in recent years with imposing, futuristic congress centres. But the common thread between the region’s many facets lies in the choice flavours of its excellent cuisine: lasagne, cappelletti, ravioli, tortelli and cannelloni all come from this region in fact, but we’re also in the land of outstanding products that have become true brands recognised all over the world (the prime example is perhaps Parmigiano Reggiano, but then there’s Parma ham, balsamic vinegar from Modena and Reggio Emilia, Lambrusco and Sangiovese wines). The same ingredients provide the plus factor for the numerous local spas too, becoming the ingredients of anti-age and skin toning treatments; the Salvarola Spa (in the province of Modena) for example, is famous for its massages using Lambrusco Grasparossa grapes or fresh Trebbiano must.

And, last but not least, a little pearl that’s not actually part of the region: San Marino, the oldest republic in the world(1,700 years of history), and the three defensive forts that protect it.

THE BEST FOR YOUR MEETING

Admiral Park Hotel waits for you with      

118 elegantly furnished rooms and 2 prestigious Suites 10 Meeting rooms up to 800 people Restaurant “Il Tulipano” up to 250 people Outdoor panoramic swimming pool Fitness Room with “Technogym” machines Relax area with sauna, atmospheric shower, chaises longues

  

Lounge Bar and Tulip Bar Free Wi-Fi 250.000 mq green park with 3 different routes, suitable for team building activities.

THE DESTINATION ITALY – EMILIA ROMAGNA

Ideas for events which are…

FERRARI-FOCUSED > IN THE LAND OF THE PRANCING HORSE Saying “Ferrari” in Emilia means opening the door to a practically endless range of incentive activities: you can drive a classic Ferrari around the town circuit of San Marino (reserved ad hoc); or follow a stretch of the Mille Miglia route in a racing car, alongside an official driver; or visit the Galleria Ferrari and, not far from there, the Ferrari plant in Maranello.

A BARGAIN > FROM OUTLETS TO TAX-FREE SHOPS A “local” shopping session always provides an event with added value. You can opt for the numerous designer outlets around Rimini, open to groups for private visits, or save by heading for the tax-free shops of San Marino.

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – EMILIA ROMAGNA

ASININE > ON THE BACK OF A DONKEY AROUND THE CONERO NATIONAL PARK, IN MARCHE REGION It can last just a few hours, or a few days: trekking with donkeys and mules in the Conero National Park will leave you with unforgettable memories. You can choose one of the 18 paths to discover the natural and archaeological heritage of the area, from the mountainous high ground to the snow white beaches (don’t miss the Due Sorelle beach) and crystal-clear waters.

THRILLING > GO BACK TO CHILDHOOD AGAIN IN THE THEME PARKS OF THE ROMAGNA RIVIERA Being the true fun factory that it is, the Romagna coast offers a choice of water parks and theme parks, many of them also boasting congress facilities: on the hills of Riccione for instance, there’s Parco Oltremare and the legendary Aquafan, with slides and water plays; Cattolica has Parco Le Navi, with paths linked to the marine world theme; and, near Ravenna, the famous Mirabilandia with its amazing themed areas.

MEDIEVAL > DINE IN THE CASTLES OR FORTRESSES OF THE INLAND AREA Marche and Emilia are scattered with medieval manor houses, but those of the Duchy of Parma and Piacenza in particular arrange countless themed dinners in strict keeping with the historical age: from the place settings to the menu, from the personnel in period costume to the torch lighting, everything has a medieval flavour. Maybe you can’t find a castle? These costumed dinners can be arranged in the squares of the many little atmospheric villages of the two regions.

THE DESTINATION ITALY – EMILIA ROMAGNA

… and team building Emilia Romagna is synonymous with Ferrari and Ducati but also with tortellini, lasagne and Lambrusco: world-famous local products, for wonderful team-building activities TORTELLINI, RAVIOLI & CO. Learning to make tortellini like the real Emilia pasta-makers, rolling them around your little finger. But also grasping the secrets for making proper Emilia-style lasagne or Bolognese ragù. And even how to prepare a piadina (the typical local flatbread) or gnocco fritto (fried dough dumplings). Where? At the International School of Italian Cooking, in the Ducal Palace of Colorno. Renowned chefs will teach you all the secrets... and then assess the results.

IN THE LAND OF CARS... ...something that can’t be missing is an adrenalin-packed team-building activity on board the racing cars or bikes made locally by Ferrari, Ducati and Maserati. At the Driving School of the Santa Monica circuit in Misano, for example, there are courses for safe driving, sports driving and competitive driving on a 4-kilometre track that’s ideal for both motorcycle and car competitions.

AMARCORD In his films, the great Federico Fellini – a native of Romagna by birth and by nature – immortalised the region’s “typical” characters on various occasions, but also innumerable corners of his beloved Rimini. And it’s precisely Federico Fellini that can become the underlying theme of interesting team-building activities to discover atmospheres, locations, sets and, above all, that constantly alert world presented by the great director.

IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF MATILDA OF CANOSSA Matilda became head of an immense kingdom at a very young age and her lands were defended by often impregnable fortresses like that of Canossa (in the province of Reggio Emilia), scene of the famous meeting between Pope Gregory VII and the Emperor Henry IV (giving rise to the famous saying “go to Canossa”).

A treasure hunt in search of her castles and the ancient buildings where she must have walked is sure to offer exciting moments. The ultimate destination? The Pietra di Bismantova – the squat mountain in the form of a ship, just a thousand metres high and enveloped in legends and mysteries.

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – EMILIA ROMAGNA

MARANELLO (MO) – www.pushstart.it

agencies

Discovering Italian excellence at top speed The crème de la crème of Italian manufacturing can be tasted in a memorable experience behind the wheel of Ferraris and Lamborghinis on a trail of discovery through Maranello and its surrounding areas, thanks to the range of products and services offered by Pushstart and its partners Italy moves in time to the roar of the engines in Maranello, in the province of Modena. Since the 1940s, the city’s name is inseparably tied to that of one of the ultimate symbols of Italian excellence and luxury: the Ferrari. Indeed, this town has been home to the factory of the legendary supercar since 1943, and the entire surrounding area, by way of antonomasia, is known as the Motor Valley. There are four legendary companies in Maranello specialised in welcoming guests seeking a “Ferrari experience” and much more. Warm up, Pushstart, Luxury Store and Driver Bar and Restaurant all have years of experience in their respective sectors and by joining forces, are now able to organise unforgettable activities, successful events and unique holidays, allowing visitors to fully experience all the “must-sees” and “mustdos” on offer in Maranello.

Test drives and adrenalin – Pushstart is a specialised company that enables clients to test drive sports cars on the road and racetrack. Professional instructors accompany and assist

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PUSHSTART CONTACTS Via Dino Ferrari 41 41053 Maranello (Mo) contact details: Ph +39 346 3705035 +39 0536 945888 info@pushstart.it

clients throughout this unique driving experience, ensuring that they experience the thrills and fills of a test drive, in the maximum safety.

Ferrari F430 Spider, Ferrari California, Ferrari F458 Italia, Spider and Speciale, Ferrari F430 Challenge, Lamborghini LP570-4: these are the vehicles that form the magical fleet proposed by Pushstart, in which clients can “live their dream” at

agencies

THE DESTINATION ITALY – EMILIA ROMAGNA

least for one day. Not only can clients enjoy an unforgettable experience in the driving seat of one of these amazing cars, to tell all their friends about, but they will also be able to discover the fantastic countryside nearby.

There are various tour solutions offered by Pushstart: from the basic tour with a drive in the area around Maranello – ideal for those enjoying their first experience in the driving seat of the “car of their dreams” – to the extended tour, with an itinerary that crosses the countryside and hills so that the driver can test his skills at top speed and in the curves, while admiring the scenery.

There is also a standard tour that gives the driver a taste of the power of the engine and allows him to get used to the vehicle with a quick drive outside the city centre, and a mountain tour which is the stuff that only real budding test drivers are made of.

Additionally, the panoramic tour (which is perfect for the Ferrari California) includes an exciting itinerary that allows drivers to enjoy the beauty of Italy, while the Precision tour, which lasts no less than two hours, is ideal for those seeking to put the finishing

touches to their advanced driving skills.

But the services in the Pushstart range don’t stop there: indeed, thanks to the company’s exclusive partnership with the Motordrome of Modena, clients can also make the most of many unique offers, including test drives on the road and on the racetrack. Last but not least, your ideal choice could be a ride on the Simulator: thanks to an advanced movement system, state-of-the-art software and a professional audio-video system, clients can experience the emotion of driving on their favourite racetrack in complete safety.

Visitors who wish to take a souvenir of their driving experience home with them can find further examples of Italian excellence in the Luxury Store – a point of sale that combines elegance and style – and if it is true that the ultimate in Italian production is our food, the Driver Bar and Restaurant offers an excellent menu for you to savour in an enviable location, on the veranda, overlooking the fleet. Its exceptional location makes the venue the ideal choice for events, or for taking a break during a day trip to Maranello.

The Acetaia Ca’ Rossa is also a unique location, situated alongside the Ferrari museum: tours of the factory can be organised and in the small attic, visitors can also taste traditional balsamic vinegar from Modena, Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and Parma ham.

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Rimini - Imperiale

Hospitality, professionalism, kindness and quality: our four stars 2 junior suites, 68 rooms, 8 executive rooms, seaview restaurant, lounge bar, 9 meeting rooms, banquets and events, spaces for sat tv, internet and wi-fi, mini gym, parking area Holiday inn rimini imperiale just a few steps from the sea, close to the exhibition building and the congress centre.

Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; o a s i d i Mo nt eb e l l o Azienda agricola - Resort Santarcangelo di Romagna tel. 0541 620710 www.sangiovesa.it sangiovesa@sangiovesa.it

Rimini - Imperiale Telefono 0541 52255 www.hirimini.com info@hirimini.com

Montebello Torriana (RN) tel. 366 7862921 www.tenutasaiano.it info@tenutasaiano.it

THE DESTINATION ITALY – EMILIA ROMAGNA

RIMINI – www.hirimini.com

hotel

A whole world to explore

★★★★S

The Holiday Inn Rimini Imperiale is an ideal venue where to meet, in a city in which it’s easy to have fun with discos and shopping or dip oneself in culture and history.

With elegant, up-to-date meeting rooms HOLIDAY INN RIMINI IMPERIALE Maximum number of meeting rooms: 9 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 200 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 170 Sleeping rooms: 78 Nearest Airport: Federico Fellini International Airport, Rimini (6 km) Brand affiliations: Holiday Inn Address: Viale A. Vespucci, 16 – 47921 Rimini Contact details: Ph +39 0541 52255 +39 800 017329 – Fax +39 0541 28806 Email: info@hirimini.com eventi@hirimini.com Contact person: Marinella Ottaviani, Director of Sales and Marketing, email: eventi@hirimini.com

Located near the Federico Fellini International Airport, the four-star superior Holiday Inn Rimini Imperiale has a magnificent location: on the seafront along the main shopping avenue in Marina Centro, with welcoming and fashionable areas. There are 78 cosy rooms with 14 new rooms, two of which are junior suites on the rooftop with a private solarium terrace and Jacuzzi. All the rooms are comfortable with a terrace and a panoramic view. As relates to the Mice, there are nine meeting rooms, with modern equipment and natural lighting, and the venue is perfect to organize business meetings, conferences or an incentive activity for the best companies.

You can also organize a golf tournament or a top class party on the hillside or

overlooking the sea. Or you could try the exclusive Cookery School in order to bring you closer to the culinary culture of the place, while having fun at the same time. On the 5th floor of the hotel, there is the “Panoramico” restaurant from which you can see the wonderful Adriatic Coast and where you will be offered various menus, including delicious dishes from the traditional local or international cuisine together with an extensive wine list. In the morning, you can have a very rich breakfast with handmade cakes made by a real pastry chef. You can also find: a large car park, a private beach with sport equipment, fun areas, a swimming pool (in July and August) and a gym. The hotel staff is young, friendly and will take care of everything: from an exclusive shopping spree in the outlets where “Made in Italy” products are on sale, to the most romantic dinner at “La Sangiovesa” restaurant in Santarcangelo di Romagna, a walk under the stars in the enchanted Montebello oasis or a trip around the historical towns in the inland areas.

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – EMILIA ROMAGNA

ZOLA PREDOSA (BO) – www.admiralparkhotel.com

hotels

The view from above Major events and international meetings choose the simplicity, style and comfort that characterise the Admiral Park Hotel, where you can find that serene Bolognese friendliness The sounds and the frantic liveliness of the city of Bologna are a distant dream at the Admiral Park Hotel, set in its 250 thousand square metres of natural park. Nevertheless, it is logistically well connected: a short drive from the international Guglielmo Marconi airport and 10 minutes from the Central Station of Bologna. The building is submerged in nature, just 15 minutes from the exhibition area, and it seems to almost belong to the landscape. The park is reinterpreted, brought back to life, by the choice of materials, the colour palette and the complicity between artificial lighting and the natural one, in a free play of references between the decorative details and nature.

Here, there is a versatile harmony made up

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of multi-purpose areas, which can be rearranged and are ideal for meetings, incentives and large successful events.

Congress and post congress – New concepts, designs and northern-style environments make this location the ideal setting for meetings, team building activities, gala dinners and conferences. Its convention centre has 10 rooms equipped with the latest technology. The main hall can seat up to 300 people, while the entire convention centre can hold, in total, up to a maximum of 800 people. The rooms are equipped with a video projector, amplification system, Wi-Fi, and all that is needed to organise a turnkey event. In addition to the convention centre, the hotel has “unconventional” areas, such as the rooftop swimming pool, perfect for a cocktail or corporate party and relaxing after work. Located on an upper floor, the swimming pool overlooks the green hills surrounding Bologna. To get back into shape even when you are on a business trip, the hotel also has a fully equipped fitness area complete with Technogym equipment

ADMIRAL PARK HOTEL Maximum number of meeting rooms: 10 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 250 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 152 Sleeping rooms: 118 + 2 suites Nearest Airport: Guglielmo Marconi Bologna (8 km) Address: Via Fontanella, 3 40069 Zola Predosa (Bo) Contact details: Ph +39 051 755 768 Fax +39 051 6167192 Email: info@admiralparkhotel.com Contact person: Paola Mascagni info@admiralparkhotel.com

and a relaxation area with a sauna, herbal tea and a multi-sensory shower, all at the complete disposal of conference participants and guests. The 118 rooms and two suites have an innovative and modern design and are very comfortable.

Finally, the hotel has a real art exhibition, with works by young artists that alternate periodically to create a very original display. “Il Tulipano” restaurant, which can accommodate up to 250 people seated in one room, pays particular attention to the use of excellent local products. Revisiting the traditional cuisine with a modern twist, a meal at the restaurant is a must for lovers of good food. To go with the local products, guests chose from a large selection of wines, both local and not.

hotels

★★★★S

THE DESTINATION ITALY – EMILIA ROMAGNA

The outdoors metaphor - Among the methodologies based on the close connection between learning and action, there is outdoor training. Being fully immersed in a natural environment can stimulate group dynamics and processes of individual and team development.

The Admiral Park Hotel has the right spaces and an unparalleled varied environmental to choose from, making it the ideal location for special team building sessions. Here, “war games”, such as softair and paintballing, promote skills and are an excellent training context. You can also organise, with the support of specialised agencies, any type of team building activity in the countryside, such as bird watching, orienteering and much more. Numerous food and wine tours radiate out from the Admiral Park Hotel and can be used to discover the area. Starting from Bologna, there is much to see, such as Ferrara and Ravenna, and further afield there is Rimini, San Marino and Florence.

A visit to the Modena balsamic vinegar factory is a must. In the land of the cars, you can visit the big brands, such as Lamborghini, Ducati, Ferrari and Pagani – brands that have traced a furrow in the history of the area and can be discovered during dedicated tours.

Above, the hotel inauguration day with some local political authorities. Next to the data profile from left, Oscar Bertoni, Hotel Director; Luca Carboni, famous Italian singer; Ivan Bertoni, Hotel Manager

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – MARCHE

Marche: gems to be discovered Marche is one of those regions that literally leave visitors open-mouthed, seducing them in a whisper with their striking yet refined treasures, with cities, villages and fortresses that invite you to slow down and really enjoy their atmosphere

Right the wonderful Conero beach.

Below the 15th century ducal palace in Urbino

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A delightful treasure chest of jewels to be discovered off the beaten track: that’s Marche, with its parlour cities enveloped in the charms of time (Ascoli Piceno alone is worth an incentive trip, with its elegant Piazza del Popolo and historical Caffé Meletti where you can try the local liqueur of the same name that has a delicate aniseed flavour; and then there’s beautiful Urbino, laid out around the imposing 15th century ducal palace); villages with narrow alleys and stone buildings that bring to mind a nativity scene (like the elegant Ripatransone and Offida, both embellished with - amongst other things – marvellous historical theatres, true “chocolate boxes” with their stuccoes, velvets and box seats, perfect as original Mice locations); the two natural parks (Conero and Monti Sibillini) are ideal for unusual open-air teambuilding activities in every season; the lively coastal resorts like San Benedetto del Tronto (with its palm-bordered seafront), Sirolo and Numana or, on the other hand, unblemished beaches like the Due Sorelle on the Conero coast, washed by turquoise waves – a must for the meeting industry looking for something beyond the welltrodden, standard destinations. And then the archaeological sites such as Sentinum, museums (the interesting “Cemetery of the Mummies” in Urbania is one of its kind at worldwide level) and spas (Fermo and Macerata Feltria). But Marche has to be explored calmly, lingering as much inland as on the coast, because the surprise is always just around the corner. And speaking of surprises, one final place worth a mention is the beautiful castle of Gradara – the setting for the contested 13th century love story between Paolo and Francesca, murdered by Francesca’s husband Giangiotto Malatesta but immortalised in the fifth canto of Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy – the greatest work of Italian literature.

DESTINATION

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D E D I C AT E D S ER V I CE S Barberino Designer Outlet offers an array of personalised services including co-branded welcome packs with a discount card for further reductions on outlet prices, or prepaid gift cards. Please contact us for further information at tourism.italy@mcarthurglen.com

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Tuscany

Massa Carrara Lucca Pisa

The destination Ideas for events Team building The regional offer

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Prato Pistoia

FLORENCE

Livorno Arezzo Siena

Grosseto

Umbria

The destination The regional offer

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – TUSCANY

A brand called Tuscany Chiantishire, Florence, the Palio horse race, the Leaning Tower, Leonardo Da Vinci, Brunello: these are just a few of the many Tuscan symbols which have become famous all over the world.

And they’re all available when the meeting industry chooses this marvellous region for its events

Above Florence and its imposing Duomo

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If Tuscany enjoys highly deserved worldwide fame, elegant Florence has to be one of its main standard-bearers: you just have to wander around the city to come across fascinating views and breathtaking buildings. The “Tuscan feel” that you get in the city streets takes you back in time to when Florence was that great artistic hotbed patronised by the most brilliant minds of the Renaissance: Piazza Duomo alone seems to be an open-air art history book, with Giotto’s Bell Tower, the beautiful Italian Gothic façade, the incredible dome designed by Brunelleschi (a truly bold architectural feat: it’s one of the biggest masonry domes ever built without the aid of centring) and the inside of the cathedral overflowing with the works of Donatello, Ghirlandaio, Poliziano and Vasari.

The age-old counterpart to the Church’s power as expressed by its sacred buildings is understated Piazza della Signoria, dominated by the 13th century Palazzo Vecchio, ennobled by arcades and statues (there’s also a copy of Michelangelo’s David; the original is on display in the Gallery of the Academy of Florence) and closed on the side that looks towards the Arno by an exceptional backing cloth – the Uffizi Gallery, one of the most famous art galleries in the world and home to renowned works like Botticelli’s Venus. When the meeting industry wants to take a dive into art, private visits can be arranged to the gallery, followed by cocktails or a buffet (for up to 150 people) on the spectacular terrace of the Uffizi café.

Speaking of private visits, the themed tours of Palazzo Vecchio are worth considering, in particular the one that unveils a thousand secrets: hidden passageways, doors concealed behind paintings, and staircases built into the thickness of the walls. And it’s precisely Palazzo Vecchio that’s the starting point of the Vasari Corridor, linking it with Palazzo Pitti on the opposite side of the River Arno by means of a striking series of galleries, covered bridges, arches and passageways that even pass through a church (at that point the gallery becomes a balcony with grating, looking down into the church) and the Boboli Gardens, offering wonderful views of Florence.

THE DESTINATION ITALY – TUSCANY

THE “MINOR” PEARLS

In this page, clockwise from above: the lovely Chiantishire; the crystal-clear sea off the Elba Island; the Leaning Tower; Siena

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All around Florence, the thousand other stars of the “minor” cities sparkle as real jewels of stunning beauty. The first of these has to be Pisa, a one-off at international level with its Leaning Tower that’s known throughout the world. But it’s the entire Piazza dei Miracoli that entrances the visitor; the Tower, Baptistery and Cathedral that almost seem to have been accidentally dropped onto their emerald carpet by the hand of a distracted giant.

And then Siena, embedded in a magnificent landscape: bright green hills, vineyards as far as the eye can see and scattered here and there with an isolated cottage. Siena is synonymous with the Palio, and here’s a tip: if you plan your event a little in advance, you can hire one of the balconies that look onto Piazza del Campo. But the city has much more to offer throughout the year too, thanks to its lively neighbourhoods and beautiful attractions (to name just one, the wonderful cathedral).

A few kilometres away, two destinations worthy of a post congress activity are Monteriggioni, a small medieval town protected by impregnable turreted walls, and San Giminiano, famous for the multitude of towers, keeps and tower houses that distinguish its silhouette.

Another two cities classed as “minor” actually offer a wealth of charm and incredible resources for Mice: Lucca, the city of a hundred churches, and Arezzo with its refined, elegant centre. But it’s not only art in Tuscany. The region can count on the society feel of its coastal resorts, especially those of the legendary Versilia tract that combines Art Nouveau buildings with fashionable hotspots: Viareggio, Forte dei Marmi, Pietrasanta. Or, on the exclusive Punta Ala, Castiglioncello, Porto Ercole and Castiglione della Pescaia (further south). There’s even a city on the coast that’s just waiting to be discovered – Livorno, with its imposing 16th century fortress and lovely seafront walk.

And further inland? It will literally leave you openmouthed. Chiantishire, defined “the most idyllic place in Europe” by the prestigious magazine Forbes; the wild Maremma area, enshrouded in mysteries and legends; Montalcino, with a dreamy atmosphere conjuring up knights and ancient myths; the “crete senesi” area (Siena clays), with its unusual lunar landscapes in shades of grey and blue.

THE DESTINATION ITALY – TUSCANY

Ideas for events which are…

EXCLUSIVE > HIRE A CASTLE, COMPLETE WITH BUTLER There are many different types of location that can be hired for events, group activities and retreats: ancient castles, prestigious villas and entire medieval villages. A couple of examples? The medieval Arnetoli Castle on the hills of Greve in Chianti, which can sleep up to 44 people, and Villa Massimiliano set in the Siena countryside, perfect for retreats with up to 10 participants, who will be able to enjoy a spectacular view of San Giminiano.

INGENIOUS > THE PLACES OF LEONARDO AND MICHELANGELO Two of the many undisputed geniuses who lived in the late 15th and early 16th centuries and helped make the Medici court exquisitely beautiful. David, along with the Pietà with the famous self-portrait and the Buonarroti house could form the common thread for a post congress activity in the footsteps of Michelangelo. And the Leonardo da Vinci Museum has about fifty of the great artist’s famous machines on display; his signature can actually be found on a wide variety of works.

LUXURIOUS > A TOUR IN A FERRARI OR A PERIOD CAR Tuscany and Umbria seem purpose-made for a tour in a sparkling convertible.

Depending therefore on the character you want for your incentive trip, you can choose a roaring Ferrari or a period car with a vintage feel. The itineraries? Endless!

Through the rows of poplars, the hills, vineyards, crete and woods.

WINDY > REGATTAS AT SEA... OR ON THE LAKE Regattas or peaceful jaunts, it doesn’t matter: sailing always brings people together and stimulates them. And if you then add the clear turquoise waters of the bays on the Island of Elba, or the rocks of the smaller islands facing Tuscany, success is guaranteed. In Umbria, the sails spread out over Lake Trasimeno, dominated by a host of delightful historical villages.

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If you are looking for a truly Italian experience, Much More Partners, successful DMC, will organize your perfect journey with special on site initiatives and a brand new program of events creating unforgettable tours, incentives and meetings thanks to its deep knowledge of the territory and its professional expertise.

Event planning Location scouting Expo tickets Team building Gala dinners and catering Entertainment proposals Private and exclusive cultural visits Video making and DVD editing Travel packages Guided tours Cooking class Local products and wine tasting Multilingual staff, guides and tour leaders Simultaneous and consecutive interpreting services Gadgets

• PISTOIA • Via della Madonna 32 51100 Pistoia – Italy PH +39 0573 25701 FAX +39 0573 25702 • MILANO • PH +39 02 43912636 Email mmp@mmpincentives.it

THE DESTINATION ITALY – TUSCANY

… and team building Lost amid myths, traditions, legends and marvellous wines: team-building activities in Tuscany have a tannin flavour, or an aura of mystery suggesting bygone times WINE TASTING IN THE WINERIES Numerous Tuscan reds have become real world-level brands; symbols of top quality drinking. Brunello di Montalcino leads the way, along with Chianti, but the fullbodied Supertuscans and the highly exclusive – and highly expensive – Sassicaia are multi-sensory experiences as well. A visit to the splendid wineries nestling amid the vineyards in the Tuscan countryside can turn into an engrossing team-building activity if, instead of the “usual” tasting session, you organise a real wine contest where participants not only have to guess the type of wine but also recognise the components of its bouquet and flavour.

WITH THE COWHERDS OF THE MAREMMA The “butteri” are the Tuscan cowboys who lead the cattle along the paths of the Maremma pastures, sitting astride the lively local steeds. You can recognise them straight away, not only by their clothes (moleskins, velvet jacket, black hat and wide cape) but by the way they ride and by the unusual harness on their horses. A day in the saddle of the buttero, on a Maremma horse, perhaps attempting to drive a small herd: a team-building activity that will be hard to forget. And, at the end of the day, everyone heads off for a drink in a tiny local osteria.

EXCALIBUR, TUSCANY The only real “sword in the stone” anywhere in the world is in the 13th century chapel of Montesiepi, in the Siena hills. Legend says it belonged to King Arthur’s nephew Gawain, also a knight of the Round Table. Leaving aside the myths and legends though, the sword really does date back to the 12th century and there’s no explanation as to how it came to be driven into the stone. The beauty of the surrounding countryside is made even more noteworthy by the remains of the imposing Gothic San Galgano Abbey. The location is ideal for gala dinners, but also team-building activities based on King Arthur. A little bit of advice though: don’t try to pull the sword out of the stone; due to some acts of vandalism, the sword has been “cemented” to the rock.

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Organizza il tuo evento anche a Firenze!

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THE DESTINATION ITALY â&#x20AC;&#x201C; TUSCANY

www.chgroup.eu

Strength through unity An integrated service, with three different destinations, each with its own identity but sharing the values of the local area and a passion for hospitality Threeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s better than one: what better than this slogan to summarise the philosophy of a group with a triple identity, offering sea and mountain locations, catering for both international leisure tourism and the meeting industry. The Cosmopolitan Hotels Group comprises the business-minded Grand Hotel Continental

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in Tirrenia, directly connected to the Continental Resort, and the Val di Luce Spa Resort, a smaller and more intimate destination, in the unspoilt location of Abetone. The position of the Grand Hotel Continental and Continental Resort is truly unique. An area that has written the history of Italy and fostered its culture: in fact the main historic towns and cities of Tuscany can all be easily reached from the hotel, which is located in a delightfully unspoilt area, commanding stunning views of the sea, the Mediterranean maquis and even the hills of Chianti. Situated just a few kilometres from Pisa airport, the hotel is near the sea, with superb views from the guest rooms, and a large fitness area directly overlooking the beach. The hotel has 175 guest rooms, 50 stylish apartments and six congress rooms, with a capacity of 20 to 280 people.

The rooms are modern, well-lit, with all the latest technological equipment and have a highly versatile and adaptable layout. In addition, a 400 square-metre display area can be customised to event specifications. A dedicated team,

★★★★

hotel chains

THE DESTINATION ITALY – TUSCANY

GRAND HOTEL CONTINENTAL Maximum number of meeting rooms: 6 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 280 (theatre) Main meeting room area (mt): 12 x 33,85 Sleeping rooms: 175 Nearest Airport: Pisa Galileo Galilei (15 km) Brand affiliations: Cosmopolitan Hotel Group Address: 1-56128 Tirrenia (Pi) Largo Belvedere, 26 Contact details: Ph +39 05037031 fax +39 05037283 Email: info@grandhotelcontinental.it Contact person: Bruno Campana, Sales Director

complimentary wi-fi, a spacious outdoor car park, plus 60 spaces in the hotel’s indoor car park, are important added values for congress tourism. Plus the outdoor areas, garden and Olympic-sized swimming pool are perfect in summer months for hosting receptions or al fresco dinners, along with the hotel’s restaurants serving international cuisine and superb Italian dishes.

From the sea to the mountains – Mountain lovers can instead stay at the Val di Luce Spa Resort, on the Pistoia side of the Apennines, 80 kilometres from the Grand Hotel. The resort, with its 35 guest rooms and 45 suites, plus modern spa centre with fitness area and a meeting room with a capacity of 60 people, is the ideal venue for combining a leisure stay with business. The delightful resort, with its relaxing atmosphere, stands in an unspoilt area, perfect for both summer and winter activities. The pyramid roof of the pool, in the middle of the resort, is striking, evoking the often snow-capped mountains of the area and enabling guests to enjoy the sensation, particularly in winter, of warm pampering, cocooned in a softened landscape. The Cosmopolitan Hotels Group, a leader for tourist accommodation in the area, has recently acquired three existing facilities, which will all be managed with the Group’s winning philosophy: the Drago Residence and Riva del Sole on the island of Elba and the Miramare Resort at Tirrenia. A strategic and timely choice considering the international scope of Expo 2015, which the Group is targeting, offering excellence on a local level – with culture, art, natural beauty and fine dining. The Cosmopolitan Hotels Group is entering into agreements with leading international operators so they may appreciate the many benefits offered by the Group: from tastings of classic Tuscan dishes to versatile solutions for business, guided tours of historic towns and cities and nature excursions in the nearby area.

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – TUSCANY

www.tuscany-lifestyle.com

★★★★

Spa treatments as a way of life, with a view to total wellbeing, from looking after your health to relaxation and beauty treatments. This is the philosophy behind the Fonteverde Collection Group founded

by Leandro Gualtieri and which brings together the spa resorts of Fonteverde FONTEVERDE TUSCAN RESORT & SPA - CONTACTS Maximum number of meeting rooms: 4 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 85 Address: San Casciano dei Bagni (Si) Contact details: Ph.+39 0578 57241 Fax: +39 0578 572200 Email: info@fonteverdespa.com Contact person: Eleonora Bellini, Event Manager - eleonora.bellini@fonteverdespa.com website: www.fonteverdespa.com

GROTTA GIUSTI RESORT GOLF & SPA - CONTACTS Maximum number of meeting rooms: 4 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 70/80 Address: Monsummano Terme (Pt) Contact details: Ph.+39 0572 90771 Fax: +39 0572 9077200 Email: info@grottagiustispa.com Contact person: Elisa Landini, Event Manager elisa.landini@grottagiustispa.com website: www.grottagiustispa.com

BAGNI DI PISA PALACE & SPA CONTACTS Maximum number of meeting rooms: 4 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 100 Address: San Giuliano Terme (Pi) Contact details: Ph. +39 050 88501 Fax: +39 050 8850401 Email: info@bagnidipisa.com Contact person: Mirko Bartaloni, Event Manager - mice@bagnidipisa.com website: www.bagnidipisa.com

hotel chains

Wellness to business Employee’s wellbeing is the way towards a company’s wellbeing. The Fonteverde Collection Group offers an effective approach in a stylish and exclusive setting at San Casciano dei Bagni (Siena), Bagni di Pisa at San Giuliano Terme (Pisa) and Grotta Giusti at Monsummano Terme (Pistoia).

In mature grounds, the Grotta Giusti resort welcomes guests to a nineteenth-century villa with frescoed lounges, enhanced by antique furniture and pictures: a place that has retained all its historical heritage.

A gem of the Natural Spa Resort is the one-thousand-year-old grotto, with its hot spring waters, divided into three areas. On the executive floor, visitors will find fully equipped meeting rooms.

The Fonteverde Tuscan Resort & Spa is located at San Casciano dei Bagni, a historical town in the Tuscan countryside. The hotel is part of The Leading Hotels of the World, a prestigious brand of luxury hotels, and is next to a spa which boasts the Leading Spa brand. Events may be hosted in the La Casina delle Rose, a splendid Liberty style building inside the resort which has been superbly renovated.

This multi-functional area is ideal for private events, meetings, exhibitions, parties and receptions. Bagni di Pisa is an elegant five-star spa resort of the Fonteverde Collection Group, with stunning views of the Tuscan countryside. The rooms and suites have original eighteenth-century frescoed vaults in pastel shades, parquet mezzanines and marble, grit and Tuscan terracotta floors. The “Teatrino dei Granduchi” room has been designed for business meetings and is fitted with business equipment. The “Byron” Room, “Gioco” Room and elegant lounges of the prestigious suites are all available for small meetings. The “Dei Lorena” restaurant is a gourmets’ paradise.

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THE DESTINATION ITALY â&#x20AC;&#x201C; TUSCANY

www.fhhotelgroup.it

Customize your stay The FH Hotels Group offers customers the must-haves of a modern hotel - many cutting-edge proposals tailored to the business sector in view of the Expo, including the landscape, and features The FH Hotels Group was founded in Florence in 1955 and offers high quality accommodation in the two cities of art par excellence: Florence and Rome.

The facilities meet the requirements of the Mice sector by providing hotels for hosting events, incentives and various types of meetings with different needs.

The Tuscan capital is home to three of the FH Hotels, located in strategic areas of the city. The Hotel Calzaiuoli, with its 53 rooms decorated in a modern style, overlooks Piazza della Repubblica and is a short walk from the Duomo and the Palazzo Vecchio.

A boutique hotel for small incentives, it immerses its guests in a

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perfect Renaissance atmosphere. After a short walk through Florence and a visit to the Ponte Vecchio, you can walk along the banks of the Arno as far as the Grand Hotel Mediterraneo, to date one of the facilities with the largest accommodation capacity in Tuscany. The hotel was renovated last year, creating a completely new product, in line with the Mice expectations.

It consists of 331 rooms of various types, including some suites with views of the river. The new hall can hold cocktail parties for up to 350 people, as can the three dining rooms, including a private tarvern. Il Globo convention centre is inside the hotel and includes 21 modular meeting rooms with natural light.

Il Globo has a free broadband wi-fi

★★★★

Maximum number of meeting rooms: 16 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 300 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 314 Sleeping rooms: 331 Nearest Airport: Amerigo Vespucci, Florence Peretola (9,3 km) Brand affiliations: FH Address: Lungarno del Tempio, 44 50121, Florence Contact details: Ph: +39 055 660241 Fax: +39 055 679560 Email: events@hotelmediterraneo.com mice@hotelmediterraneo.com Contact person: Ilaria Tarchi & Adele Varrecchione, Event Coordinators Meeting & Congress Dept.

HOTEL CALZAIUOLI

HOTEL VILLA FIESOLE

Maximum number of meeting rooms: 0 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 0 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 0 Sleeping rooms: 53 Nearest Airport: Amerigo Vespucci airport, Florence Peretola (9,3 km) Brand affiliations: FH Address: Via Calzaiuoli, 6 50122 Florence Contact details: Ph: +39 055 212456 Fax: +39 055 268310 Email: mice@calzaiuoli.it Contact person: Walter Cardini, General Manager

Maximum number of meeting rooms: 1 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 28 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 40 Sleeping rooms: 32 Nearest Airport: Amerigo Vespucci, Florence Peretola (9,3 km) Brand affiliations: FH Address: Via Beato Angelico, 35 50014, Fiesole - Florence Contact details: Ph: +39 055 597252 Fax: +39 055 599133 Email: mice@villafiesole.it Contact person: Cristina Gori, Event Manager

connection (30 MB guaranteed, for up to 500 users connected simultaneously) for all the participants of events and conferences and offers the possibility of parking in the hotel’s garage at a discounted rate. The hotel also offers both classic and electric bicycles for guests to use during their free time.

The Grand Hotel Mediterraneo is near the

city centre but not within the limited traffic area making it a strategic position as it is easily accessible from the Firenze Sud motorway exit.

From Florence to Rome – On the hills surrounding Florence, in Fiesole, there is the ninteenth-century Villa Fiesole aimed purely at small meetings or incentives for 25 people or as a wedding location thanks to its large terrace. The Grand Hotel Palatino is located in Rome between the Colosseum and Termini train station, a short walk from the Cavour subway station.

The hotel underwent a major renovation that was completed in 2013 and now offers free wi-fi both in the rooms and in the common areas, Sky television and a paid car park. The 200 rooms, which were also completely renovated, now include a number of junior and executive suites. The large lobby adjacent to the two restaurants, Le Erbe and Le Spighe, can host coffee breaks and cocktails parties for up to 300 people. The meeting rooms are flexible with a maximum capacity of up to 200 people when set up as a theatre. The Hotel also has three business rooms for small meetings.

Tailor-made prestige – The Florence hotels of the FH Hotels Group, thanks to a partnership with the Region of Tuscany and through the Por Creo operational programme, have created the Prestige project, which is very innovative both from the point of view of the accommodation and that of the customer. The Project aims to develop a system that will allow the guests’ pre, during and post-stay activities to be customized. Cys (Customize your stay) is dually beneficial: on the one hand, it allows you to collect data and analyse the interests, attitudes, tastes, age group and propensity to spend of the customers; on the other hand, it allows you to offer a free service that helps the customer find exactly what they want. Cys includes the ability to develop an app that analyses the real-time data collected through a questionnaire. The responses are then processed to create an information sheet, sent by email to the customer. This sheet is geolocalised and refers to the period of the guest’s stay.

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hotel chains

GRAND HOTEL MEDITERRANEO

★★★★

★★★★

THE DESTINATION ITALY – TUSCANY

hotel chains

THE DESTINATION ITALY – TUSCANY

FLORENCE – www.toflorence.it

Toflorence to live Symbol of Florentine hospitality, offering the perfect balance between preservation and new wave, Toflorence Hotels offer their guests a privileged environment within a fascinating blend of history, culture, art and landscape The Toflorence Hotels group is made up of three four-star superior hotels in Florence. Plaza Hotel Lucchesi, Villa Olmi Firenze and Mulino di Firenze are true journeys into the specific area and its history: you’ll find yourself in an atmosphere of olden times, underlined in the details, folklore traditions, contact with nature and gourmet food and wine.

From the magnificent Italian-style garden of Villa Olmi, immersed in a centuries-old park covering six hectares, the view takes in the Chianti hills that offer some of the most beautiful itineraries in the whole of Tuscany. The structure, with its charming and prized décor, is divided into three main parts: the Villa, the Farmhouse and the Rural House, where the past and present intertwine in the most natural way. The suite collection,

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villa junior suites and garden junior suites offer a premium rural setting with a reinterpretation of the interior architecture typically found in the villas of aristocrats. The congress section has three meeting rooms fitted out with the latest technologies and ideal for conferences, meetings and special events.

The excellent “Il Cavaliere” restaurant is available for guests, along with an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre.

pool, overlooking the city roofs. The original co-working area is an innovative addition aimed at all those searching for a temporary, practical place to work in the city: the “Empireo (Co) Working Space” provides its guests with an efficient and friendly bar service, with numerous versatile work stations offering privacy and fitted out with individual or collective tables, chairs, wi-fi internet and all the equipment and technologies needed for business and general work meetings.

And more... – An old mill town dominated by water and stone, nestling on the picturesque banks of the Arno River, the Mulino di Firenze is a peaceful oasis just a few minutes away from the city centre. Tastefully furnished in the traditional Florentine style, the rooms are comfortable and romantic and some have a river view. And then there’s the outdoor swimming pool with solarium and indoor wellbeing area. Framed in the splendid setting of the Arno embankment, the historical Plaza Hotel Lucchesi has been a symbol of warm Florentine hospitality since 1860. From its vantage point on the banks of the river, it offers an enchanting view of the hills of San Miniato a Monte and Piazzale Michelangelo to the south, while to the north you’ll have a stunning view over the city rooftops, including Santa Croce and the cathedral.

Fully renovated in terms of furnishings and services, it now offers its guests a brand new, exclusive terrace with bar and

In view of Expo 2015 – From 2015, the group will also have a new multi-purpose area. Hewn from the old retaining reservoirs of the ancient Florentine aqueduct, “Officine Condotte” is a brand new, multi-function area consisting of a versatile indoor space and a small outdoor amphitheatre.

Designed and furnished to suit every possible need, it can host a wide variety of events: from weddings and receptions to conventions and meetings, as well as exhibitions, art installations and performances of every kind. The covered area measures 28.7 metres by 11.3 metres. Nearby, San Gimignano, Siena, Volterra, Colle Val d’Elsa, Monteriggioni and other archaeological sites all provide interesting postcongress solutions. What distinguishes the countryside around Florence is the extraordinary harmony between man and nature, rooted in far-off times. Amid the retreats and abbeys, and the noble and rustic hills of Chianti (sanctuary of outstanding wines), little universes are just waiting to be explored and enjoyed with everything they have to offer. Art heritage cities, fortified towns, churches, farms, villas and castles spring up just about everywhere, many of them still with their original medieval structure intact. A mighty interlacing of civilisations to be savoured, via the vast selection of exquisite local products too.

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hotel chains

THE DESTINATION ITALY – TUSCANY

venues

THE DESTINATION ITALY – TUSCANY

FLORENCE – www. boccanegra.com

The warm welcome of the dining table BOCCANEGRA RISTORANTE FLORENCE Maximum number of meeting rooms: 5 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 180 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 200 Agreements with hotels: yes Nearest Airport: Amerigo Vespucci, Florence Address: Via Ghibellina 124 r 50122 Florence Contact details: Ph +39 055 200 10 98 Email: info@boccanegra.com Contact person: Andrea Angelini (Owner) Sonia Vannetti (Sales Representative)

The Boccanegra Restaurant is located in the heart of Florence, in the 16th century Salviati palace in Via Ghibellina (opposite Teatro Verdi) just a stone’s throw from Piazza Santa Croce and the Duomo.

Its name derives precisely from its location: Simon Boccanegra, the first Doge of Genoa, was in fact a Ghibellino whose story was told in an opera by Giuseppe Verdi. Some of the original traces of the building can still be seen in the stone walls, wrought iron and old wooden door, now mounted in a glass wall. The carefully selected furnishings show off modern elements within a period setting, creating an elegant yet warm and welcoming feel.

The restaurant is a laboratory of taste, where creativity interprets the excellent ingredients and the aesthetic aspect blends perfectly with a wealth of culinary delights. Ideal for tasting sessions or

Historical roots, art and an unmatchable urban environment provide the backdrop for Florence’s Boccanegra Restaurant, that has long since accustomed its many fans to a range of unbeatable culinary delights refined dinners, with wonderful dishes produced by the chef’s knowing hands. The extensive menu bears witness to the longstanding tradition of good food, and celebrates a cuisine of land and sea whose ancient roots are well-embedded in the local area.

Another wonderful feature of the restaurant is the Osteria section (with a separate entrance in via Verdi 27R), entirely given over to traditional Tuscan cooking. The foundations, built around the ancient city walls, house the wine cellar with its vast selection of the best wines to satisfy even the most demanding palates.

And then there’s the adjoining Little Wine Cellar next to it, where you can enjoy freshly baked delicacies accompanied by a glass of wine. The restaurant can accommodate up to 180 people, so it’s perfect for big events too. And its strategic position makes it ideal for post congress activities.

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venues

THE DESTINATION ITALY – TUSCANY

FLORENCE – www.hardrock.com/florence

Music and events HARD ROCK CAFE FLORENCE Via Dè Brunelleschi, 1 (just off Piazza della Repubblica) – 50123 Florence Contact details: Ph. +39 055 277 841 Fax: +39 055 211 186 florence_sales2@ hardrock.com

With 192 venues in 60 different countries, 146 cafes, 21 hotels and 10 casinos the Hard Rock Cafe brand needs no introductions: quality music and entertainment, authentic rock memorabilia and a strong focus on events make every location in the chain an exclusive, iconic and intriguing venue.

There are three Hard Rock Cafes in Italy, in three of its symbolic cities: Rome, Venice and Florence. In Florence, the Hard Rock Cafe has been open since 2011 and is located in the spacious, stylish setting of the historical Gambrinus cinema, keeping all the fascination of this venue, with an open space design and even a cinema screen, making it perfect for presentations, product launches, congresses and press conferences. Plus the Cafe has state-of-the-art multimedia equipment, including interactive monitors to show music videos and concerts – a feature of all the Hard Rock Cafes throughout the world – as well as customised content, on request.

The Cafes serve classic home-made American food, and creatively mix colours

Faithful to its motto “Love all, serve all” - one of the most well-known and regarded locations at a global level, the Hard Rock Cafes are suitable for any kind of event, with a strong, unmistakeable style and flavours of Italian traditions. Along with the bar, the Cafes guarantee a high standard of catering for any occasion, from buffets to gala dinners.

Just around the corner from Florence Cathedral and the Uffizi, the Hard Rock Cafe Florence can offer its visitors a truly memorable atmosphere. The chain’s motto is “Love all, serve all”, perfectly reflecting its services for the Mice industry: from catering to music, from setting up spaces to merchandising, which can all be fully customised and adapted to the needs of event planners.

Just as rock is animated by an international, friendly and informal spirit, each Hard Rock Cafe opens its doors to a large and diverse group of customers, of every age and race, who want to socialise and engage with others: just like the public who will be at Expo.

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – TUSCANY

SARTEANO (SI) – www.abbaziadispineto.com

convention centres

Places near to perfection Today, just like a thousand years ago, a positive energy is released in an ideal place and time - between the past and present. An event at the Abbazia di Spineto is much more than team working. Instead it embraces an actual way of thinking The Abbazia di Spineto nestles in a small valley at the foot of Monte Cetona, overlooking the Val d’Orcia park, at Sarteano, south of Siena. After nearly 1,000 years, the Abbey, with its farmhouses and land, has been converted into a multi-functional centre for studies, scientific research meetings, educational activities, and cultural and artistic workshops. During the restoration works, the owners, Marilisa Cuccia and her husband Franco Tagliapietra considered the historical and environmental heritage of the site, retaining the features that time has left in this place. We interviewed Marilisa Cuccia.

What does it mean for a site like the Abbazia di Spineto to have an opportunity such as Expo 2015 to rediscover its deep-rooted identity?

«The year of Expo Milano, by a remarkable coincidence, will be the year when we celebrate the Abbey’s millennium; at the same time as the activities of our study centre, we have

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ABBAZIA DI SPINETO INCONTRI E STUDI Maximum number of meeting rooms: 8 in the Abbey + 5 in different structures Main meeting room capacity (persons): 200 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 209 Sleeping rooms: 98 Nearest Airport: Peretola, Florence (110 km) Fiumicino, Rome (130 Km) Address: via Molino di Spineto, 8 53047 Sarteano (Si) Contact details: Ph + 39 0578 23271; +39 0578 265555 Fax + 39 0578 266174 Email: info@spineto.net info@abbaziadispineto.com Contact person: Marilisa Cuccia, general manager – marilisa.cuccia@spineto.net Beatrice Vinciarelli, booking and executive manager – beatrice.vinciarelli@spineto.net

been preparing a programme of cultural meetings focused on art, science and spirituality, and 2015 will be dedicated to genius loci, a fascinating theme to explore the soul of a place and discover its spirit.

Starting from this theme, we will look at the many aspects of genius loci, not only of the one-thousand-year-old Abbey at Spineto, but also of the local area. We are at the crossroads of two medieval roads, the Via Teutonica and the Via Francigena, travelled first by pilgrims many centuries ago and later by travellers on their Grand Tour. Today we would like this area to be not just a destination of hasty visitors, but a place for people who want to take time to explore and find out more; clients who organise seminars, conferences and

training courses at our venue will have a chance to participate in an invaluable “sharing of culture” with an eclectic vision of all aspects of art, the landscape, archaeology, artisan traditions and food, as well as our ecological footprint».

Expo 2015 is also a chance to reflect on the future and on sustainability, a moment to engage with others about issues of global interest. How can a stay at the Abbey turn this engagement into a spiritual journey and a moment of reflection?

«The stunning natural setting of the Abbey, balanced between the past and present, the perception of an energy in a place that has not lost its soul and has not been overturned by a contemporary influence, undoubtedly lead to reflection and a spiritual dimension. The surrounding beauty and nature are a balm when studying and working. All our activities are centred on sustainability and respect for the idea that man is not a detached element, different from his environment, but is a part of the whole. From 2015, we will be offering our clients eco-meetings with a special formula catering for our guests and the environment. We are located in the first large-scale area in Europe that is carbon free and so we must act in line with our projects».

Are these standard or customisable?

«The landscape, silence, voices from nature, the scent of herbs in our Hortus conclusus, the traditional flavours of our food are all a sort of format. But of course we like to offer our clients bespoke projects too».

Can you tell us about your special initiatives?

«The international human ecology award “Le terre e il cielo dell’abbazia di Spineto” (The land and sky of the Abbazia di Spineto) is now in its fourth edition and will be a special occasion as it will take place just before Expo 2015 ends.

We will be holding courses on food education for children (the courses have been running for the last 12 years), and on food culture for adults.

Lastly we have our “Company Mindfulness” programme, with mindfulness moments for companies so they are better equipped to deal with the complex side of managerial experience».

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convention centres

THE DESTINATION ITALY – TUSCANY

THE DESTINATION ITALY – UMBRIA

Umbria: the green heart of Italy Green and mystical: these are the two adjectives that sum up beautiful Umbria, one of the very few Italian regions without a coastline. A land of saints, knights and thriving nature: Mice will be spoilt for choice This coastless region is usually defined as the “green heart of Italy”, perfectly summing up the beauty that nature has bestowed on it. Nature that is protected by six regional parks and boasting some striking and unique sites such as the magnificent Marmore waterfall, Lake Trasimeno and the River Tiber – three stars of an incomparable natural heavenly vault that will welcome and charm the meeting industry with a highly varied range of activities.

But Umbria is also the mystic land of saints and knights, whose footprints can be found in the many little villages that safeguard priceless architectural treasures: Assisi, Gubbio and Cascia are firmly linked to the figures of Saint Francis and Saint Rita, honoured with majestic religious buildings, while Spoleto, Todi, Foligno, Città di Castello and Orvieto will seduce with their opulent historical centres where secular and spiritual power compete in pomp and splendour.

In Orvieto, for example, the Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo is worth a visit: also known as Palazzo del Podestà, it has an unusual structure sustained by five solid stone arches under which the life of the town was centred in days gone by. It dates back to 1157 and offers an interesting contrast between the austere, square main part and the highly elegant three-mullioned round windows. It’s also one of the most successful examples of the transformation of an old historical building (interesting Etruscan remains have recently been found too) into a modern and technological congress centre.

But true pearls are to be found amongst the smaller towns as well – Deruta, Bevagna and Bettona, chocolate–box villages with an exquisite appearance and an irresistible atmosphere. And of course, the wonderful Perugia – the main city of the region. A sparkling and culturally rich centre that’s managed to preserve its architectural beauty whilst at the same time evolving towards progress.

Above Assisi.

Centre the Marmore waterfall.

Below Spoleto

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ƵĚŝƚŽƌŝƵŵ ϳϬϬ ƐĞĂƟŶŐ ƉůĂĐĞƐ ͮ Ϯϲ ŵĞĞƟŶŐ ƌŽŽŵƐ ĨƌŽŵ ϱ ƚŽ ϳϬϬ ƐĞĂƟŶŐ ƉůĂĐĞƐ ͮ ĨƌĞĞ t/Ͳ&/ ϯϬϲ ƌŽŽŵ͕ ŽĨ ǁŚŝĐŚ ϵϳ ĚĞĚŝĐĂƚĞĚ ƚŽ tŝŶĞ͕ ϯϯ ĂŵĞƌĂ ĂŶƟŶĂΠ͕ ϳϲ ĚĞĚŝĐĂƚĞĚ ƚŽ :Ănjnj͕ ĂŶĚ Ăƚ ƚƌƵƐĐĂŶ ŚŽĐŽŚŽƚĞů ϵϰ ƌŽŽŵƐ ĞŶƟƌĞůLJ ĚĞĚŝĐĂƚĞĚ ƚŽ ŚŽĐŽůĂƚĞ͊

www.hotelgio-perugiacentrocongressi.it

hŶŝƋƵĞ͗ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ŚĞĂƌƚ ŽĨ dŽǁŶ͕ ĐŽŵƉůĞƚĞůLJ ĚĞĚŝĐĂƚĞĚ ƚŽ :Ănjnj͘​͘​͘ Ă ,ŽƚĞů ǁŝƚŚ ŽŶŐƌĞƐƐ ĞŶƚƌĞ ƚŚĂƚ ŝƐ ǁŽƌƚŚ ǀŝƐŝƟŶŐ͊

www.apicehotels.it

THE DESTINATION ITALY – UMBRIA

PERUGIA – www.hotelgio-perugiacentrocongressi.it

Jazz and why-no-t?

HOTEL GIÒ PERUGIA CENTRO CONGRESSI Maximum number of meeting rooms: 26 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 700 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 600 Sleeping rooms: 206 Nearest Airport: San Francesco d’Assisi, Perugia (12 km) – Leonardo da Vinci, Fiumicino Rm (200 km) Brand affiliations: independent group Address: Via Ruggero D’Andreotto, 19 06124 Perugia Contact details: Ph. +39 075 5731100 Fax +39 075 5731100 Email: direzione@perugiacentrocongressi.it Contact person: Paolo Fiandrini, Congress Centre Manager direzione@perugiacentrocongressi.it

features the Wine Area of Hotel Giò. The CameraCantina is a delightful hotel room evoking the hues, atmospheres and typical ambience of a wine cellar, to “transport guests” to the world of wine.

The CameraCantina is also an exhibition area, where wine companies and businesses can relate their stories, style and the passion that has accompanied the creation of great wines and some of the best examples of Italian wine making in Italy.

There are 33 CameraCantina rooms at the Hotel Giò Wine Area – Perugia, each dedicated to a wine company, product (still wines, as well as sparkling wines and distillates) or wine making region.

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★★★★

Multi-sensoriality is not just a trend, but a real need driving different market segments. And the Guarducci family is well aware of this, having opened three multi-sensory hotels in Perugia from 1992 to the present day, first introducing wine, then chocolate and lastly music, combining an entrepreneurial flair for tourism with an internationally inspired artistic touch, levering the “added value” of the area. In 1998, Valeria, Alberto, Eugenio and Massimo Guarducci (in the picture below) continued their more general project of themed hotels, with their second, the Etruscan Chocohotel dedicated to another “local value” - chocolate.

In 2007, during Umbria Jazz week, their third themed hotel was inaugurated. This last hotel is actually an expansion of the Hotel Giò, which became the Hotel Giò Wine and Jazz Area: a single building with two themed areas connected by an original arcade dominated by a huge piano keyboard walkway and by music videos which come on as guests pass by.

Throughout the Jazz Area and at the Perugia Congress Centre, jazz is celebrated with a collection of first edition vinyl records, a collection of antique pianos dating from 1740 to the late nineteenth century, a Steinway & Sons and fine art photographs of the greatest jazz artists; the guest rooms have massage armchairs and Cd players for guests to listen to music at their leisure; the restaurant, dedicated to New Orleans, features treble clefs as table centrepieces and bespoke LPs as place mats, a well-stocked music store and lots more.

A new initiative of the Apice Hotels Group is the “CameraCantina” (Guest Room/Wine Cellar) project, which

hotels

In an area brimming with historical, wine, food and nature tours, the Hotel Giò Wine & Jazz Area offers a multi-sensory experience combining a land full of flavours with the glamorous notes of jazz for special events

D E D I C AT E D SERVICES In order to ensure a shopping experience that will meet even the highest of your clients’ expectations, Castel Romano Designer Outlet can organise unforgettable shopping days out for your guests, providing dedicated services such as the exclusive Welcome Pack and a shuttle service from the city centre. Please contact us for further information. tourism.italy@mcarthurglen.com

DESTINATION

FASHION THE MOST POPULAR DESIGNER BRANDS, JUST 20 MINUTES FROM ROME. STRATEGICALLY LOCATED JUST A FEW MILES FROM ROME, CASTEL ROMANO DESIGNER OUTLET IS THE PERFECT DESTINATION FOR FASHION LOVERS. A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE INVOLVING THE MOST PRESTIGIOUS DESIGNER BRANDS AT 30% TO 70% LESS ALL YEAR ROUND. THE CENTRE IS THE IDEAL SETTING FOR EVENTS, GROUP MEETINGS AND INCENTIVES THANKS TO ITS SPACIOUS AREAS AND ORGANISATIONAL FLEXIBILITY WHICH ALLOW IT TO OFFER YOU PERSONALISED SERVICES.

SHU T TLE SER V ICE

BUS

Castel Romano Designer Outlet is easily reached by shuttle bus from Rome city centre. Go to: McArthurGlen.it/CastelRomano for more information.

TA X FR EE SH OPPIN G In addition to exclusive discounts, non-EU citizens can enjoy a tax refund on all products purchased.

McArthurGlen.it/CastelRomano Via Pontina, exit Castel Romano, Rome

Lazio

The destination Ideas for events Team building The regional offer

Viterbo

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Rieti

ROME Frosinone Latina

Abruzzo Molise The destination

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – LAZIO

Lazio Caput Mundi The region that contains beautiful Rome – the Eternal City – can also boast a land rich in jewels, both artistic and natural, and resources that are ideal for the meeting industry; perhaps a little overshadowed by the capital, but worthy of a post-congress or incentive event

Two images of Rome, the Eternal City

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Just about everything has been said and written in relation to Rome, and every visit – even the thousandth – leaves you open-mouthed. Even if you never get tired of seeing the Colosseum, or climbing the 135 Spanish Steps, planning an event in Rome could be the perfect “excuse” for discovering new and unusual sides to the city, like the student area of San Lorenzo with its round-the-clock lively atmosphere and somewhat decadent allure.

Or the less well-known but highly creative neighbourhood of Coppedé, that contains around forty eclectic buildings designed in the first decades of the 20th century by the architect Coppedé; the parlour of this extravagant area is Piazza Mincio (immortalised in numerous films), with its famous arch with an iron chandelier and the Fountain of the Frogs.

And then there’s Eur – the big area designed in the Italian Rationalist style for the Universal Exposition of 1941-42. Today it offers unusual museums and noteworthy architecture, first and foremost the frank profile of the Palazzo della Civiltà Italiana, fondly referred to by Romans as “the Square Colosseum”. And, speaking about museums, in recent years Rome has extended its range of museums and cultural venues that don’t snub the attentions of the meeting industry either; these include the centrally located Montemartini thermoelectric power station (now housing exquisite archaeological finds that sit alongside modern and post-industrial items in a melting pot of irresistible charm) and the monumental new Ara Pacis, designed – not without controversy, given the shape that’s generally considered too futuristic – by architect Richard Meier, where conventions can be organised in the cutting edge auditorium, along with exclusive visits, private events in the foyer, and cocktails on the terrace.

Emerging from the city, post congress opportunities are not only numerous, but each one of them alone is worth the trip for that unique, characteristic medley of art, nature and gourmet food and wine that the whole of Lazio can offer. Travelling a few kilometres towards the south in fact, you soon come to the area of the Castelli Romani. Here you can choose whether to give in to the pleasures of the table in one of the many “fraschette” (traditional osterias) of Ariccia (famous for its stuffed, roasted pork) and Frascati (known for the delightful Doc white wine and the magnificent Tusculum villas, built from the 16th century on by the papal nobility) or head into the nature, in search of the wonderful lakes of Nemi and Albano. And if all that’s still not enough, there are the sumptuous gala dinners in the stunning aristocratic residences and elegant noble homes of Castel Gandolfo, Velletri, Monte Porzio Catone, Grottaferrata, Frascati and Tivoli.

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IN THE WORLD E M O R E K LI Choosing Rome as the venue for congresses means guaranteeing a successful event. Beauty, history, culture, shopping, entertainment: Rome offers more than any other city in the world, because of its huge monumental heritage, its countless offers of events but also a range of outstanding conference facilities to suit all needs.

There is no other place that can offer both the efficiency of the latest multifunctional centres and the charm of a conference room in a historic home or an 18th century theatre.

Enjoy your congress in Rome.

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Right the turreted Orsini-Odescalchi castle.

Below Calcata.

Bottom the “Square Colosseum”

BEYOND ROME Leaving behind the Eternal City and heading northwards instead, you come to Tuscia.

Here, the countless wonders begin with the magnificent Lake Bracciano, surrounded by medieval villages and overlooked by the turreted Orsini-Odescalchi castle, built in the second half of the 15th century.

The fortified town of Calcata, not far away, is striking: perched on a tuffaceous formation that stands out from the surrounding vegetation, over the years this medieval village has attracted a wide range of artists and artisans, who’ve set up their workshops along the narrow streets.

Another two lakes with crystal-clear waters – little Lake Vico and romantic Lake Bolsena, the perfect destinations for unusual post congress events. And finally, you should make at least one trip to the “capital” of Tuscia, Viterbo, with its medieval hub of winding lanes and alleys, stone houses with beautiful engraved doors, and noble buildings with exquisite architectural decoration.

But the resources that Lazio can offer Mice certainly don’t end here.

There are still numerous historical villages that provide the ideal backdrop for memorable events; and the coastal towns are another option, with their blend of glamour and uncontaminated nature (from Circeo to Sabaudia, from Gaeta to Anzio), not forgetting the spas (from Papi to Fiuggi) and the smaller towns with their own particular charm: Rieti first of all, proud of sitting right in the middle of Italy and preserving an atmosphere of bygone days; Latina, which tells the recent architectural story of Fascism (the city was founded in 1932 with the name of Littoria); and Frosinone, secluded main town of the Ciociaria area.

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Ideas for events which are…

ANCIENT > A DAY AS A GLADIATOR... OR LEGIONARY! Perhaps taking advantage of one of the many “period” locations that abound in Rome, you can put on the clothes of the ancient warriors, take up their weapons and learn their fighting and defence tactics, facing tests of ability and gladio-soft air sessions, and ending the day with a banquet in pure “convivium” style with music, costumes and dishes strictly in keeping with the context.

EXCLUSIVE > VISITING THE SISTINE CHAPEL OUTSIDE THE NORMAL OPENING TIMES The Vatican Museums (and, it goes without saying, the Sistine Chapel) form one of the most visited and well-loved artistic sites in the world. That means finding yourself in the middle of an irritating sea of people to admire Michelangelo’s masterpiece... unless you organise an exclusive visit outside the normal opening times. And you can follow it with a gala dinner or a cocktail, perhaps in the splendid Vatican gardens if the weather allows it (they’ve just recently been made a little more accessible to the public).

GASTRONOMICAL > LEARNING THE SECRETS OF THE GREAT LAZIO DISHES Does the original recipe for spaghetti alla carbonara call for bacon or pork cheek?

And how long should “coda alla vaccinara” (the Roman oxtail stew) cook for? Should you add chilli powder to pasta all’amatriciana? After a cooking lesson with a local chef, you’ll take home not only lots of thrills and memories but also some tasty recipes that are sure to be a success with friends and family.

THERMAL > RELAXATION AND FITNESS AMID THE SPA WATERS AND VAPOURS From the Terme dei Papi mentioned in Dante’s Inferno to those of Fiuggi (enjoyed

by Michelangelo), from Acque Albule not far from Rome itself to the Terme di Stigliano, the most iodised of Europe, and the very famous Fiuggi, Lazio can offer world-renowned spa facilities.

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studio sismondo • roma • foto Moreno Maggi

Your Conference will be Spectacular!

• 13 halls seating from 30 to 2,800 people • 4,000 sq.m. of exhibition space

The Auditorium Parco della Musica is a modern structure just a short distance from the centre of Rome, able to host a total of 150 high-profile

• Catering for up to 3,000 people

meetings and international congresses a year.

• Sophisticated audio/video equipment

Its impressive multifunctional spaces, created by Renzo Piano’s inspired genius, welcome thousands

• Parking

of visitors every day, with concerts of all musical genres, jazz evenings, film previews, fashion shows,

MANAGED BY

theatre, dance, literature and conventions.

The Auditorium Parco della Musica is all this.

A venue that gives big and small events the unique character they deserve.

viale Pietro de Coubertin, 00196 Rome • I t a l y • Tel (+39) 06 80.24.11 • Fax (+39) 06 80.24.12.84 commercia le @ mu s i c a p e r r o m a . i t • w w w. a u d i t o r i u m . c o m

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… and team building Water sports, treasure hunts in search of the most choreographic views, but also chases after ghosts: Rome and the whole Lazio offer a host of team-building opportunities FILM-BUILDING: ANGELS AND DEMONS OR LA DOLCE VITA? Dan Brown’s second best-seller, largely set in Rome and made into a film straight away, perhaps met with even more success than The Da Vinci Code. The Pantheon, Piazza Navona and Castel Sant’Angelo are just some of the famous locations immortalised, while others will have to be found and recognised before heading behind the camera to shoot a format (that of film remakes) that is still so popular. And the list of films shot on location in Lazio is a long one: a couple of examples are The Gladiator and Eat Pray Love. And not forgetting La Dolce Vita and Roman Holiday, of course.

SPORTS ON THE LAKES Bracciano, Vico, Bolsena. But also Nemi and Albano. There’s no shortage of lakes in Lazio, each with its own characteristics and morphology and with a backdrop of magnificent scenery. That’s why there’s a practically endless range of opportunities for exciting team-building activities: from regattas in sailing boats on Lake Bolsena or Lake Vico, to canoeing, surfing and rowing competitions on Lake Albano, not to mention scuba diving in tiny Lake Posta Fibreno in the province of Frosinone. And if the lakes aren’t enough to satisfy, there’s always the splendid Lazio coast with crystal-clear waters and charming towns set in splendid natural contexts (to name just one, the stunning Circeo).

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Two unique historical venues now await you in Rome Two unique historical venues await you in Rome largenow events! for small and for small and large events!

Complesso Monumentale Santo Spirito in Sassia Borgo Santo Spirito, 1 omplesso Monumentale 00193 nto Spirito in SassiaRome, Italy T. +39-06-68210854 orgo Santo Spirito, 1 Complesso Monumentale Complesso Monumentale i info@giubilarte.it f i bil t it 193 Rome,Santo Italy @ Spirito in Sassia Santo Spirito in Sassia www.santospiritoinsassia.it +39-06-68210854 Borgo Santo Spirito, Spirito, 1 1 o@giubilarte.it @ iBorgo bil 00193 t Santo it Rome, Italy Complesso Monumentale 00193 Rome, Italy ww.santospiritoinsassia.it T. +39-06-68210854 Santo Spirito in Sassia T. +39-06-68210854 iinfo@giubilarte.it f @ iSanto bil tSpirito, it Borgo 1 iinfo@giubilarte.it f @ i bil t it www.santospiritoinsassia.it 00193 Rome, Italy www.santospiritoinsassia.it

Complesso Monumentale S. Spirito in Sa Renaissance ambiance forS.contemporary mee Complesso Monumentale Spirito in Sassia Renaissance ambiance for contemporary meetings Complesso Monumentale S. Spirito in Sassia Complesso Monumentale S. Spirito in Sassi Renaissance ambiance for contemporary meetings Renaissance ambiance for contemporary meeting Complesso Monumentale S. Spirito in Sassia

T. +39-06-68210854 iinfo@giubilarte.it f @ i bil t it www.santospiritoinsassia.it

Renaissance ambiance for contemporary meetings

La Pinacoteca del Tesoriere Pinacoteca delgTesoriere Piazza San Luigi dei Francesi, 37 inacotecaLa del Tesoriere Piazza Luigi g Italy dei 00186 Rome, za San Luigi g deiSan Francesi, 37Francesi, 37 Rome, Italy T. +39-06-68301354 86 Rome, 00186 Italy T. +39-06-68301354 39-06-68301354 info@patricianvenuesrome info@patricianvenuesrome.com com La Pinacoteca del Tesoriere info@patricianvenuesrome com info@patricianvenuesrome.com @patricianvenuesrome @patricianvenuesrome.com com Piazzawww.patricianvenuesrome.com San Luigi g dei Francesi, 37 www.patricianvenuesrome.com La Pinacoteca del Tesoriere w.patricianvenuesrome.com 00186Piazza Rome,San Italy Luigi g dei Francesi, 37 T. +39-06-68301354 00186 Rome, Italy

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HUNTING FOR... IMAGES Instead of the usual treasure hunts, an innovative team-building activity could take advantage of the fact that Rome is so photogenic: capturing the most stunning or unusual corners of the capital, starting from the famous keyhole on the gate of the Priorate of Malta, or the odd perspective of the dome of St.Peter’s seen from via Piccolomini (it seems to move further away as you get closer to it) or the stunning view from the secluded Garden of Oranges.

LIKE A GHOST-BUSTER Rome has a wealth of history and is enwrapped in countless legends and cults involving ancient leaders, emperors, vestals, popes, noble women of the Renaissance, political men, men of letters and artists. But the Eternal City also has its own population of... ghosts! One address for a “ghost-buster” teambuilding activity is undoubtedly Villa Brasini, on via Flaminia Vecchia; designed by the architect/alchemist of the same name, it’s known as the “castellaccio” and is said to be infested with ghosts and creatures from the afterworld. The villa welcomes its visitors with a mysterious and almost eerie aura, with its thousand different roofs and its haphazard complex of buildings, parks and secret courtyards. One of these is dominated by a strange fountain sitting, so they say, in the exact point where witches were burnt in medieval times and atop an underground energy line. Alchemical and Masonic symbols everywhere, rebuses and decorations and, in the rooms of the villa, the constant sound of steps and the feeling that “someone’s there”.

THE LAST TO ARRIVE (ON THE DOME) PAYS FOR THE DRINKS Rather than a team-building activity, this is a test of stamina and only the best will survive.

Joking aside, the view from up there makes all the effort truly worthwhile. We’re talking about the possibility to climb onto the dome of Saint Peter’s basilica and embrace the whole of Rome (the panorama stretches as far as Castelli Romani, Colli Albani and the sea) from a height of 136 metres. To reach the panoramic outer walkway of Michelangelo’s masterpiece though, you have to climb the 537 steps of the spiral staircase known as the “lumaca di Sant’A ndrea”.

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ROME – www.visitlazio.com – www.lazioexpo2015.it

Lazio, the quintessential Mice region Art, history, culture, but also many state-of-the-art facilities for hosting conferences and events: today, the land that spawned Roman civilisation is a mine of opportunities for the tourism sector If Rome is still capable of charming visitors from all over the world, even on their one thousandth visit to the city, Lazio, the extraordinary region that frames the city, is by no means less powerful, and contains many treasures to be discovered – also when it comes to Mice. Full of coastal towns, enchanting hamlets and castles, hillside locations of extraordinary historical and artistic interest, natural parklands, lakes, rivers and streams and renowned spa centres, Lazio has everything required to charm even the most demanding international visitors.

During the six months of Expo 2015, the Lazio region will promote its excellent products and wide range of fresh produce to the best of its ability, together with its consolidated

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REGIONAL TOURISM AGENCY CONTACTS via Parigi, 11 00185 Rome Contact details: Toll free number: +39 800 012283 info@visitlazio.com

tradition of hospitality, creativity and a classic warm Lazio welcome: visitors will have the chance to discover first-hand the cradle of western civilisation and the Christian culture, which presents itself

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to the international meeting industry as a land capable of offering an ideal balance between the efficiency of the modern world and the rich value of an illustrious past.

Hundreds of locations to suit all kinds of requirements – A recent study on the conference locations and stately homes used as venues for Mice examined no less than 370 halls located throughout the five provinces of Lazio – Rome, Frosinone, Latina, Rieti and Viterbo – with a high quality range of tourist facilities, institutional areas, conference and business hotels, conference centres and

areas for large events. The areas around the capital obviously have a high profile, (with approximately 120 areas for events, excluding Rome), but the other provinces are no less significant, and all offer an extraordinary mix of locations and services for the tourism industry, capable of fulfilling the requirements of meeting planners and Pcos alike. And all the far-flung corners of the region also provide many dedicated artistic, cultural and sporting opportunities, offering guests a wide range of unforgettable postconference activities.

The top 100 fine food and wine products in Lazio for Expo 2015 Lazio will be present during the Universal Exhibition scheduled to take place in Milan, with various themed itineraries, and a selection of fine quality products: 26 wines, 14 types of fresh and cured meat, 8 bakery and cake products, 10 cheeses and dairy products, 26 types of fruit, vegetables and legumes, 4 oils and 12 products from other categories, including fish and mineral water, for a total of the top 100 fine food and wine delicacies. These figures are an indication of the wide range of products made and produce farmed in the region, where a calendar full of presentations, meetings and B2B workshops has been scheduled to promote its specialities. Additionally, from a Mice point of view, this amazing variety of products offers the possibility of transforming each event held in the Lazio area into a truly unforgettable taste experience.

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The provinces of Viterbo and Latina include the coastal area and some of the most famous seaside resorts overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea are located here, such as the magnificent towns of Sabaudia, Sperlonga, Gaeta, Ventotene and Ponza. Nearer the capital there are the Ostia, Fregene, Anzio and Nettuno facilities, which provide the backdrop for many prestigious events but also for “on the beach” incentive and team-building activities.

The immediate surroundings of the capital also contain a number of true artistic treasures, such as Castel Gandolfo: the famous summer residence of the Holy See, and part of the Roman Castles circuit.

Moving inland, instead, to the north, we enter the Rieti area – located right in the very centre of Italy – where it is possible to pursue a number of outdoor itineraries heading towards the Apennines. Instead, to the south, the province of Frosinone coincides with the area also known as Ciociaria, famous for its folklore, which is linked to the area’s ancient farming traditions. And it is precisely here that visitors can enjoy a spectacular view from the majestic Abbey of Montecassino: the Abbey was a great spiritual and cultural centre for no less than 1,500 years (it

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was founded in the 6th century), and today it is still a popular destination with the hordes of tourists who come here from all over the world each year.

Fiuggi, where wellness and business go hand-in-hand – Lazio is famous for its spa towns, popular since Roman times. At just over an hour from the capital, the city of Fiuggi is renowned worldwide for the fine quality of its spa waters, which over the years have made it a popular tourist destination, and one of the main conference centres in Italy. Its popularity is also due to its people-friendly environment, with conference centres, hotels, town centre and shopping areas all within a comfortable walking distance.

The town’s proximity to Rome and the efficient roads and means of transport that connect it to the capital make it the perfect setting for large institutional events, and in general

for all types of Mice events, thanks to its combined businesswellbeing profile, which only the most modern spa locations can offer. Surrounded by a large forest area, the spa complex is composed of two sections, which span a total surface area of over 90,000 square metres. A favourite with spa fans for centuries (as we can see from a letter written by Michelangelo Buonarroti dated 1549, in which the great artist praises the benefits its healthy waters provide), Fiuggi is still an oasis of wellbeing and relaxation today, where visitors can fully restore their spiritual and physical energies.

A timeless charm – In inland Lazio, it is easy to get lost in the thousand and more corners where time seems to stand still, and visitors are spoilt for choice by the many archaeological sites, medieval hamlets and Renaissance villas in the area. The noble families from Ancient Rome who once lived here have lefts traces of their architectural beauty everywhere, such as the twelve Ville Tuscolane that stand tall on the Frascati hills.

Each age has truly left its mark and contributed to making the landscape unique: one of the many examples we could cite is Tivoli, just outside Rome, where the extraordinary Villa Adriana is located, commissioned by the Emperor in the 2nd century AD; however, the beauty of this location continued to work its magic throughout the Renaissance period, as we can see from the spectacular Villa Este, with its garden full of fountains,

nymphs, grottoes and water features; and Villa Gregoriana, a marvellous complex commissioned by Pope Gregory XVI nel 1835, is by no means any less splendid.

All three of these villas, built in different periods and in completely different styles, are testimony to the age-old tradition of beauty and elegance that is today one of the most valuable assets in the conference tourism and events industries.

This special quality also makes Lazio the ideal setting for large Vip events, including many Hollywood weddings, such as that of Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes, celebrated against the magnificent backdrop of the lake of Bracciano, on the outskirts of Rome.

A land of magical hamlets and landscapes – The hamlet is one of the most characteristic types of settlement in medieval Italy and the whole nation is sprinkled with striking stone citadels mounted on the rocks in the hills and high ground: breathtaking settings, fragments of history entwined with nature that provide the perfect location for all types of private event, for an unusual reception, an unforgettable post-conference evening or a distinguished meeting in a discreet, relaxing atmosphere. Lazio boasts many hamlets that seem to come straight out of a painting from the Romantic period, or the pages of a fantasy novel.

Many of these are almost completely uninhabited, without assuming the decadent feel of a ghost town. In fact, on the contrary, unbelievably, the fact that they are empty makes some of them even appear more charming. For those seeking original locations, places such as the Hamlet of Antuni, Camerata Vecchia, Celleno or Faleria – to name but a few – are a particularly interesting option.

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ROME – www.turismoroma.it

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Rome, the Capital City The Eternal City is ready to welcome the international Mice industry in the year of Expo 2015, with all its ancient splendour, new congress centres and a calendar offering a wealth of customised events Loved and known throughout the world, Italy’s capital has always held great appeal for international leisure and business tourism. According to 2013 figures released by Icca, Rome is one of the top 20 destinations for the number of meetings organised at an international level, and aside from the many historical and artistic splendours of this city, which play such an important part in making it so attractive, the facilities and integrated services for events and congresses are equally important, and are now gaining even more ground. Organising an event in Rome is, in many ways, a guarantee of a successful, satisfying and unforgettable event: few other locations are so vivid in the collective imagination of millions of people, few other skylines are so easily recognisable and famous the world over. Rome has always been used to welcoming and managing large numbers of visitors, tourists, pilgrims and business travellers. Its open and monumental spaces, from the Imperial Fora to the Circus Maximus, made unique by the city’s vicinity to its historical remains, are an impressive stage for events to unfold. The sheer number of possible tours enable visitors to discover archaeological Rome, Christian Rome and modern and contemporary Rome, one by one, enjoying a different dimension of this amazing city each time.

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ROMA CAPITALE CONTACTS Contact details: Ph: +39 06 0608 Email: turismo@comune.roma.it

Ancient and modern together – Plus Rome is home to major congress hubs, modern, state-of-the-art facilities designed by internationally renowned architects, with numerous multifunctional spaces that can easily accommodate 1,000 people. The Rome Trade Fair with its 14 pavilions and around 50 meeting rooms has a total capacity of 20,000 people and is an excellent choice for events and shows in the capital. The Auditorium Parco della Musica, in the Flaminio district, in the heart of the city, is a multi-functional complex designed by Renzo Piano to host music and cultural events. The Eur area, which takes its

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name from the Universal Exhibition of Rome (Esposizione Universale di Roma), which should have been held in 1942 but was cancelled because of the war, is today the location of numerous company offices and some government buildings, and has always been an important reference point for the international Mice industry. Eur’s vocation is even more focused – on the two main structures in the area – the historical Palazzo dei Congressi and the majestic Salone delle Fontane – and in view of the eagerly awaited opening of the New Congress Centre: a futuristic building designed by the architect Massimiliano Fuksas, better known as

“The Cloud”, which has a capacity of up to 8,000 people. This new centre will add to the centres and services for events in Rome, further consolidating the city’s position as a global congress destination.

Rome caput mundi – The immortal proverb “all roads lead to Rome” perfectly sums up the logistics of getting to the capital: with two international airports, Leonardo da Vinci - Fiumicino and Rome-Ciampino, the city is connected with the rest of the world 24-7, while high speed rail links can connect visitors to Milan – the heart of Expo 2015 – in under three hours. The capital will also host a number of events directly related to Expo, to offer the more than 140 participating countries a programme with numerous exhibitions, conferences, shows, tastings and other ad-hoc communication events. This is the “Rome towards Expo” project, which will closely involve the Embassies and Cultural Institutes of many of the countries taking part in Expo.

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ROME – www.gvst.it

agencies

With Italy in our hearts An enduring presence with many success stories, and an all-round international vision: with these credentials, and with a great passion, expertise and versatility that have always set it apart, GVST Event Management is ready to take on the challenge of Expo 2015 GVST Event Management started out more than 20 years ago, in 1992, when it was established by Giorgio Vernengo, its current Chairman, as a consulting company specialised in tourism, under the name Giorgio Vernengo Servizi per il Turismo (Giorgio Vernengo Services for Tourism). Yet the company’s history dates back even further: in the 1980s, Andrea Vernengo, GVST’s current Ceo, took his first steps in the business at Barberini Tours owned

by Giuliano Girini (a true mentor for the Italian Mice industry at the time). After gaining valuable experience, Andrea decided to put his knowledge to good use and with a group of friends set up a business in 1994 with just a camping table and land line as his office. His courage proved right and in its first year the business organised successful events for Mercedes-Benz Finanziaria and Aspen Institute Italia. Circus Impossible was its most memorable event, with the surprise transformation of Mercedes-Benz employees into talented circus artists, and went on to win three Eibtm Awards in 2001, as the best overall event, best European

GVST EVENT MANAGEMENT CONTACTS Viale dei Romagnoli, 1053 00119 Roma Contact details: Ph +39 06 2246561 Fax +39 06 22465650 Email: info@gvst.it

event and best event in its category. Since then, GVST has achieved one success after another, increasing its customer base and staff, also thanks to major events in five continents: from Japan to China, from Australia to the United States, as well as Brazil, Morocco, Tunisia, Turkey and practically all of Europe.

Despite its international mindset, GVST has always had and will always have Italy in its heart: after all, says Andrea Vernengo: «It’s impossible not to believe in a country with such potential; that’s why we try to promote Italy in a way which is authentic, doing the most to discover smaller places which are less well known but full of

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magic, like our dinners and concerts at the San Fruttuoso Abbey in Camogli, or our acrobatic displays at the Torre del Mangia Tower in Piazza del Campo at Siena». And it is this passion for Italy, its local flavours and a profound knowledge of the country, from the Alps in Trentino to the very tip of Sicily that led GVST to another great success in 2006: the organisation of the Samsung Torchbearer Campaign for the 2006 Turin Winter Olympics. A travelling event passing through Rome, Florence, Bologna, Genoa, Naples, Palermo, Venice and Milan, with 480 torchbearers from 50 different nations, more than 1,000 guests and 300 staff, two months on the road, three consecutive weeks of visits and gala dinners in some of the most stunning locations in Italy.

The future is green – An ability to engage with cultures the world over, gained in many years of international experience, and an extensive knowledge of Italy and its hidden splendours, make GVST the partner of choice for all international organisations that wish to host exclusive, original events with class and an “Italian style” in the splendid setting of Italy. GVST’s future is without a doubt focused on sustainability, social accountability and the environment. In fact the agency launched its FriendlyEnvent brand in 2009, dedicated exclusively to the organisation of ecosustainable events. Where better in the world than Italy with its excellent cuisine made from local produce, sun, sea, mountains

and natural splendours? GVST thinks the same, and that’s why it can’t wait to show everyone all the splendours of Italy, with a class and style that have always been its hallmark, during the Universal Exhibition that will be held in Milan from May to October 2015.

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ROME – www. barcelo.com

hotel chains

Rome according to Barceló The Spanish hotel chain showcases its two Roman establishments: Barceló Aran Mantegna and Hotel Barceló Aran Park, both of which are ideal for events taking place during Expo 2015

★★★★

BARCELÓ ARAN MANTEGNA

★★★★

Rome is an unmissable stop for anyone visiting Italy: it’s impossible to come to the country without planning in a stay in the Eternal City to discover its rich history and culture.

Expo 2015, which takes place in Milan between May and October, could also present the ideal opportunity to organise an event in the capital.

The Barceló hotel chain proposes its two magnificent structures in Rome to international meeting planners; these are particularly well-suited to hosting meetings and conferences.

BARCELÓ ARAN PARK

Maximum number of meeting rooms: 12 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 450 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 440 Sleeping rooms: 323 Nearest Airport: Fiumicino, Rome Brand affiliations: Barceló hotels & Resorts Address: Via Andrea Mantegna, 130 00147 Rome Contact details: Ph +39 06 98 952 829 Fax. +39 06 98 95 27 99 Email: italy.sales-mice@barcelo.com Contact person: Nuria Paños

Maximum number of meeting rooms: 7 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 280 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 224 Sleeping rooms: 325 Nearest Airport: Fiumicino, Rome Brand affiliations: Barceló hotels & Resorts Address: Via Riccardo Forster, 24 00143 Rome Contact details: Ph +39 06 98 952 829 Fax. +39 06 98 95 27 99 Email: italy.sales-mice@barcelo.com Contact person: Nuria Paños

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The contemporary Barceló Aran Mantegna hotel is a superior fourstar establishment in a strategic position not far from the centre of the city and Rome Fiumicino airport, with which it boasts excellent connections. The building, constructed in glass, wood and marble by the architect Lorenzo Bellini, guarantees light and space throughout the interior, including its 297 rooms, 11 suites and two restaurants. The hotel also provides guests with a private car park, and above all, with a roomy conference space across two levels, which can contain anything from twelve to 480 people. The space is extremely versatile, and can be divided into 12 smaller rooms with a total capacity of a thousand people: all of the meeting rooms are illuminated by natural light, and are fully equipped, with wi-fi internet connection. The conference centre is accessible from the entrance of the hotel via two spectacular panoramic lifts.

The Hotel Barceló Aran Park, on the other hand, can be found in the quiet Eur residential zone, with excellent connections to Fiumicino and Ciampino airports. The hotel boasts 325 rooms, all with a terrace, along with two restaurants, one of which – “Il Giardino Delle Rose” – is situated on the seventh floor, with a fantastic view across the Appia Antica park and the Cecchignola castle, an ideal location for exclusive events, with a 450-person capacity. The hotel also possesses six fully-equipped meeting rooms, again illuminated with natural light, with a 750-person total capacity: the main one of these, Zeus, features a parquet floor, and holds 280 people. Both hotels can be easily reached via shuttle bus from the city centre.

SCIENTIFIC SOCIETIES

EVENTS

MARKETING

CONGRESSES

20YEARS YOUNG e meeting&consulting CORE BUSINESS IS IN THE SPHERE OF EVENT ORGANISATION AND MARKETING CONSULTANCY. FOUNDED IN 2006, IT IS A YOUNG COMPANY WITH A WEALTH OF EXPERIENCE. IT COMBINES A MODERN-DAY, DYNAMIC OUTLOOK WITH THE QUALITY AND SPECIALIST EXPERTISE OF PROFESSIONALS WHO HAVE BEEN ORGANISING EVENTS IN ITALY AND OVERSEAS FOR 20 YEARS, AND HAVE LEARNED THAT IT IS ATTENTION TO DETAIL THAT MAKES OR BREAKS AN EVENT.

via Michele Mercati 33- 00197 Rome t+39 0680693320 f+39 063231136 info@emec-roma.com www.emec-roma.com

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ROME – www.plh.it

hotel chains

Congresses in Rome The Palenca Luxury Hotels Group offers a modern, functional, competitive, continually evolving product, in line with clients’ needs. In some of the most stunning parts of Rome... and Europe Rome – “the Eternal City” – has had 27 centuries to become the mythical place it is today, and a visit calls for a full immersion in its history. Which is the best tour to take to discover the many different sides of this melting pot of ancient and modern civilisation? Ancient Rome and its immortal monuments? The Rome of Christian times, with its many churches and basilicas housing superb works of art? Or the secular Rome with its villas and piazzas? From whatever viewpoint visitors take to explore the artistic and architectural heritage of Rome, the Palenca Luxury Hotels, with all their hospitality, give them the chance to do so, from the best location in the very heart of the city.

The Palenca Luxury Hotels project is a new-generation, highend initiative, that will continue to expand, as it has managed to fully interpret the needs and trends of both business and leisure tourism.

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PALENCA LUXURY HOTELS CONTACTS Direzione Commerciale Via Aureliana, 25 00187 Roma Contact details: Ph +39 0648907503 Email: info@plh.it

The essence of events – Situated in a prestigious Palazzo close to the Via Veneto, the Empire Palace Hotel boasts 100 rooms and 10 suites. The restaurant offers a creative Mediterranean cuisine and extensive wine list. The atmospheric Blue Bar with its outdoor patio is perfect to while away the time relaxing. The top floor of the hotel has spacious, multi-functional congress areas, with glass façades overlooking the characteristic rooftops and terraces of Rome and its Pantheon.

The Art Hotel is just a short distance away from Piazza di Spagna, with an art theme – not only because of its location,

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but also because art is the link connecting all its parts.

Particular features include the white marble lobby and hall, which was once the chapel of the 19th century college that once stood in the building that has now been restored. The corridors of the four floors, with their 46 rooms and suites, all feature four different colour schemes: blue, orange, yellow and green. Along the sides are light strips with verses written by great poets such as Garcia Lorca and Octavio Paz, in different languages.

The Castello della Castelluccia is a 17th century castle, standing in grounds, in a charming and unspoilt location.

The hotel has 23, uniquely styled guest rooms, named after noble families who once lived in the castle. Many of the rooms feature 18th century four-poster beds and wall frescoes, while all the furniture and furnishings are 16th 19th century antiques. The location is ideal for exclusive events and banquets.

In Europe – In the heart of Austria, the Grand Hotel Europa at Innsbruck, built in 1869 as the Grand Hôtel de l’Europe immediately gained a reputation as the best hotel in Innsbruck, and today is the only five star hotel in the city. Located in the historical centre, it blends all the tradition of the Tirol with the imperial style of a hotel offering the utmost in comfort. The hotel has 122 rooms and suites, all recently renovated with the utmost attention to details. The awardwinning restaurant serves an excellent local cuisine in antique wood-panelled dining rooms. Seven rooms are available for conferences and events of any type, to accommodate up to 400 people.

A “Dolce vita” for meetings – The Centro Congressi Roma Eventi-Piazza di Spagna is strategically located on Via Alibert, next to Piazza di Spagna.

This multi-functional congress centre also has a theatre, dedicated to Federico Fellini, with a capacity of 500 people.

The centre has well-structured congress areas, including a foyer, reception area, secretarial office, press room and seven meeting rooms, for a total capacity of 800 people, as well as state-of-the-art technological facilities.

The Centro Congressi Roma Eventi-Fontana di Trevi in Piazza della Pilotta is located instead a short distance from Fontana di Trevi and the Quirinale, inside the neoclassical building housing the Pontifical Gregorian University and its library with superb literary treasures. The strategic, easy-to-reach location and the historical and cultural importance of the building give

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this congress centre a unique profile.

With its 15 rooms and 1,500 square metres of exhibition areas, the centre can accommodate up to 1,000 people and is the ideal venue for congresses, product launches and exhibitions.

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ROME – www.rosciolihotels.it

hotel chains

An exclusive tradition Roscioli Hotels is a family brand at the cutting edge, known for its excellence, with five locations in Rome, each capable of giving guests a different “taste” of the Eternal City Roscioli Hotels is a prestigious group comprising five hotels, of which four are located in the centre of the capital and one just a few minutes away from Rome’s new Trade Centre Fiera di Roma.

With nearly a century of tradition behind it, the Roscioli family has made hospitality its mission, interpreting its indissoluble bond with the Eternal City with passion.

Today, the Roscioli Group is known for its elegance and the warmth of a tradition that is reflected in all its venues, without foregoing an interest in innovation.

In fact, the Roscioli family takes the credit for having created one of the first Italian chains awarded all categories of quality certification (Iso 9001, Iso 14001 and Ohsas 18001) in line with the group’s mission: to offer a product that always meets market standards, in terms of efficiency and quality, but also respects the environment and the most advanced safety systems.

ROSCIOLI HOTELS CONTACTS Sales Department Via Marsala, 22 00185 Rome Contact details Ph. +39 06 4487542 Fax +39 06 4457205 Email: rhr@rhr.it

Hotel by hotel – The Roscioli hotels are all four-star venues, offering in total 27 meeting rooms of a different capacity and configuration, for meeting and incentive industry operators to organise any type of event.

The room with the greatest capacity is located at the Best Western Universo and can accommodate up to 300 people, making it ideal for conventions and gala banquets. Thanks to its amenities, this hotel has been selected by major names such as Nokia, Menarini and Chanel to organise their events, with a professional, expert staff overseeing every single detail with style and passion, for a guaranteed success.

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The Best Western Hotel Universo, like the Best Western Premier Hotel Royal Santina, is located near the city’s central railway station, the Stazione Termini.

The Best Western Hotel Universo is modern and functional, and ideal for business events, with dedicated services and nine meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 800 people. The Best Western Premier Hotel Royal Santina has five meeting rooms

with a total capacity of 250 people, and has been fully renovated to be awarded the “Premier” category of the Best Western group. The hotel has just inaugurated a new fitness room available for all guests who like to stay in shape, even when they’re away from home, and is an added benefit, also featuring at the Best Western Hotel Universo, the new Hilton Garden Inn Rome Claridge and the Aris Garden Hotel at Axa (Casal Palocco) – the ideal location for receptions and parties, in a natural setting where good taste and a contemporary touch blend seamlessly.

The Best Western Hotel President is a recently renovated business-oriented destination, while the new Hilton Garden Inn Rome Claridge, the eighth Hilton Garden Inn in Italy, and recently refurbished to feature all the amenities of this well-known brand, is located in the Parioli district, one of Rome’s most chic areas. All the traditional warmth of the Roscioli family welcomes guests here, at a destination with a sophisticated design, hitech services and a congress centre that can accommodate up to 220 people. The hotel is just minutes away from well-known tourist attractions in the centre of Rome, such as the Trevi Fountain and the Vatican, and is well served by public transport; it is just 15 minutes from Rome’s main railway station, under 35 minutes from Rome’s Ciampino airport and only 30 kilometres from Fiumicino airport.

Complimentary wi-fi is offered throughout the hotel, a service greatly appreciated by business travellers.

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ROME – www.kolbehotelrome.com

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Where the quality is worthy of an Oscar The choice location for all those who love luxury, the Kolbe Hotel Rome proudly announces the important nomination it has just received for the World Luxury Hotel Awards An historical building set in a thriving but relaxing garden with a wealth of flowers, age-old olive trees and citrus fruit trees, facing the Palatine Hill and overlooking the striking Forum Romanum. A very recent renovation project has cleverly combined the ancient charm with the most up-to-date comforts; two years of work followed by the repositioning of the hotel (from mainly leisure to business-orientated), firmly sustained by Managing Director Carlo Izzo (in the picture below). «My experience in business hotels made me realise that the Kolbe Hotel Rome had all the necessary credentials to convert to business and congress tourism. Starting from its quiet, peaceful and almost stern atmosphere (don’t forget that the building, dating from 1625, was once a Franciscan monastery) where everything runs like clockwork, to the latest pioneering technology that guarantees – for instance – free wi-fi use even on the terrace or in the garden apart from (it goes without saying) in the bedrooms and communal areas. It was undoubtedly a brave marketing shift, – says Izzo – but I drew up the plan and put it into practice precisely because I was aware of the hotel’s potential; and in fact, in just one year, we’ve gone from 10% business occupation to 40%, and we’ve already got bookings for 2015».

Eminent awards and famous guests – Tranquillity, a central position, efficiency and technology are, therefore, some of the ingredients of the business success of this refined four-star hotel in the heart of the Eternal City, just a stone’s throw from the Colosseum and the Circus Maximus. Ingredients that have earned it a nomination – by the guests themselves – for the highly prestigious 2015 World Luxury Hotel Awards. And on the subject of guests, the “affiliated” companies include the big pharmaceutical names like Novartis, Roche and Menarini, but it’s not difficult to meet diplomatic and political delegations too, linked above all to the European Union: «for example the former president of the European Commission, José Manuel Barroso, and also European Parliament president Martin Schultz, often stay with us» says Izzo.

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Between past and future – Its position is therefore a source of charm, but also the interior of the Kolbe Hotel Rome is enticing with its unusual and highly original combinations, such as the burgundy leather sofas that stand out wonderfully against the brick vaulting and imposing designer

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KOLBE HOTEL ROME Maximum number of meeting rooms: 19 Main meeting roomcapacity (persons): 150 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 136 Sleeping rooms: 72 NearestAirport: Leonardo Da Vinci, Fiumicino (27 km) Address: Via di San Teodoro, 48, 00186 Rome Contact details: Ph +39 06 6798866 Fax +39 06 6794975 Email: info@kolbehotelrome.com Contact person: Carlo Izzo, General Manager izzo@kolbehotelrome.com

light fittings in the hall, or the relaxing tailor-made furnishings of the bedrooms, fitted out with all the comforts as well as numerous plus factors like the view over the peaceful garden. And, on the subject of the bedrooms, the junior and deluxe suites all have a jacuzzi bath-tub or shower (the jewel

in the crown of the deluxe is its elegant bathroom with a mosaic wall covering and a big, circular jacuzzi bath-tub), as well as all those little details that guarantee the best possible comfort. The five rooms of the congress centre are also rich in charm, characterised by an irresistible blend of the old and new; architecture of the past and technology of the future, making them ideal for top class events. The Biblioteca Kolbe for example, with its cross vaults, can accommodate up to 150 participants in a “theatre” layout, while the Colosseo with its brick ceiling and arches can seat up to 100. For smaller meetings of top management on the other hand, the 17 more intimate rooms (created by converting some suites into meeting rooms) reveal a delightful mixture of ancient and modern and can be fitted out for even just six people when necessary.

Now that the works have finished, the gourmet Garden Restaurant Al Palatino can seat up to 150 diners. It’s the perfect setting for business lunches, elegant dinners and banquets thanks to the enticing delicacies that emerge from the kitchen, combining traditional national dishes with international cuisine, and also the magnificent panoramic terrace overlooking the beautiful garden.

And it’s precisely the terrace and gardens that provide equally scenic and versatile settings to create an undoubtedly striking effect: a relaxing coffee break between one work session and another, but also gala dinners and working lunches. And finally, for those who like to wind down at the end of the day with a cocktail and some soft music, the ideal place is the Lounge Bar.

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ROME – www.parcodeiprincipi.com

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Rome à la carte A venue for stunning, exclusive events, with a five-star service just a short distance away from the most famous locations of the capital, from the art collections of Galleria Borghese to Piazza di Spagna To be perfect, a stay or an event in the Eternal City needs a perfect venue too - and the Parco dei Principi Grand Hotel & Spa fits the bill. With its refined, baroque atmosphere, this elegant urban resort is located in one of the most exclusive areas of the capital, next to the splendid Villa Borghese park – just like a real “Central Park” in the heart of Rome – with the outer fringes practically merging with the Italian gardens of the hotel. The Parco dei Principi Grand Hotel & Spa has long been a go-to location for VIPs, celebrities and international visitors, an exclusive venue which is part of the Roberto Naldi Collection, comprising another two luxury hotels in Rome and two in Lugano, all offering high profile stays.

The 179 rooms of the hotel, many with generous-sized balconies and terraces, all command stunning views of the Rome skyline and Vatican City, and include the outstanding Royal Suite, an exclusive 400 square-metre apartment where guests can re-live all the splendour of noble Barocque

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Palazzos. The design of each room reproduces features that have made Italian style famous the world over, with crafted wood inserts, baroque decorations and multi-coloured stuccoes to enhance the interiors, given a modern, functional touch with cutting-edge technologies.

Spaces to suit every need – Meeting planners and PCOs can count on the quality and spacious areas of the congress centre, with its 18 modern, elegant, state-of-the-art meeting rooms, which are fully modular and distributed on three levels, with natural lighting and very high ceilings, for an easy management of all events.

PARCO DEI PRINCIPI GRAND HOTEL & SPA Maximum number of meeting rooms: 18 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 900 Sleeping rooms: 179 Nearest Airport: Fiumicino, Rome (35 km) Brand affiliations: Roberto Naldi Collection Address: via G. Frescobaldi, 5 – Rome Contact details: Ph +39 06 854421 Fax +39 06 8845104 Email: sales@robertonaldicollection.com Contact person: Gerardo Fruncillo, General Manager

The “Fernandes” room alone, which is the biggest of the congress centre, has a capacity of 900 delegates, with a stunning terrace directly overlooking ancient walls, while numerous foyers guarantee the utmost flexibility for exhibitions and coffee breaks. The large private car park (112 spaces) and central location ensure seamless logistics and an excellent capacity.

With its luxurious yet welcoming atmosphere, the Parco

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dei Principi Grand Hotel & Spa is the perfect venue for high profile company events, press conferences, product launches, receptions and special meetings. The Pauline Borghese Gourmet Restaurant and lounge bar with direct access to the private garden are ideal for an outstanding food&beverage service, with all the best tradition of Italian haute cuisine.

To make a stay at the hotel truly memorable, guests can be pampered at the Prince Spa, a wellness area on three levels, with fitness centre, private suites, indoor swimming pool for winter, and a semi-olympic sized heated outdoor pool for the mildest months.

12 treatment rooms are available for guests to cocoon themselves in a relaxing, away-from-it-all atmosphere, to regain and maintain a sense of wellbeing after long journeys and particularly intense work sessions.

Last but not least, guests can step outside the Parco dei Principi to enjoy all the ancient and superb splendour of Rome: the capital with the most monuments in the world, the Eternal City that has been the stage for western history for more than two thousand years, and which, in the upcoming months of the Expo 2015, will be an unforgettable setting for highly successful events.

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ROME – www.radissonblu.com/eshotel-rome

In seventh heaven hotels

Contemporary design, the latest technology, high quality cuisine and service: a hotel for people on the move. The Radisson Blu es. Hotel succeeded in the difficult task of establishing itself as a point of reference for hospitality in the capital without compromise

★★★★★

It is not easy to deal with history, especially when you are in one of the richest cities in the world in terms of memory and culture. It is even more difficult to reconcile modernity with such RADISSON BLU ES. HOTEL, ROME Maximum number of meeting rooms: 12 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 500 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 500 Sleeping rooms: 232 Nearest Airport: Fiumicino Fco, Rome Brand affiliations: Radisson Blu Address: Via Filippo Turati, 171 – Rome Contact details: Ph +39 06 444841 fax +39 06 44484397 Email: info.rome@radissonblu.com Contact person: Pippo Savarese, Director of Sales and Marketing

a glorious past, made up of the events and milestones of our civilisation. In fact, Rome has often rejected the modern, hindering its development and affecting the outcome, even when the result would have been excellent The Radisson Blu es hotel is managed by the Jsh Group, a company from Rimini that offers extensive facilities throughout the country, from luxury resorts to hotels in cities like Rome, Florence and Bologna. The arrival of the new General Manager, Gianluca Capone, two years ago, made this hotel a cutting-edge space, projected into the future and always open to new influences, but remaining firmly

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in connection with the context and the ancient history of the Eternal City.

Overall, the hotel has 232 rooms, decorated in a minimalist style but with a strong character, using a creative balance of fabrics and bright-coloured surfaces, in a mix of natural materials and contemporary style that helps make your stay unforgettable.

Today, the Radisson Blu es. Hotel is not only an ideal location for a stay in the capital, but also for meetings and events, thanks to its strategic position in the Esquilino quarter (hence the name) and its proximity to the Termini railway station.

Completely tailor-made – The customisation of an event is one of the great advantages of this hotel. 12 rooms for meetings, conferences and events including the XL room, located on the ground floor near the lobby – a single area of 500 square metres that can be divided into three independent or integrated areas depending on the number of participants and the set up required. On the first floor, directly connected to the convention

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centre, is the Es. Libris Lounge, perfect for coffee breaks, receptions and presentations, while the seventh floor Conference Sette meeting room can accommodate up to 60 participants and has a private terrace with stunning views over the city. All the conference rooms have natural daylight and can be set up with interactive management to simply change the settings via a touch screen monitor without the need for a control room. Everything is tailor-made: any requirement can be met in detail so that every event or meeting becomes unique.

The Radisson Blu es. Hotel is a cosmopolitan hotel, open to tourists and businessmen from all over the world.

The professionalism of the staff both

at reception and during your stay makes the difference and, thanks to the dedicated staff, they can help also in preparing tenders and conducting meetings.

A similar argument can be made for the cuisine, in line with the new restaurant philosophy. Dishes made with fresh, Italian, seasonal ingredients that introduce the unique culinary heritage of our country, if the guests are not already familiar with it.

Business, hospitality and culture, not only for our customers: the Radisson Blu es. Hotel is a new centre of the city and on the seventh floor a 1,250 square metre roof top is the designated location for cultural events open to the public and to the city. A rich programme animates this space that is a boundary between public and private, a role usually reserved for the ground floor. It confirms the indissoluble ties to the city but also the desire to aim for maximum excellence. Topped off with a fitness area and a rooftop swimming pool, this is an ideal place to unwind after a day of work or relax after a tour of the city.

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ROME – www.sheraton.com/roma

hotels

A journey to the future The Sheraton Roma embraces the theme of Expo 2015 “Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life” and confirms its stand-out style with a whole host of new features The Sheraton Roma, with Expo 2015 on the horizon, is extending its welcome to guests and the business community, offering a whole host of new features in its guest rooms and communal areas. Innovative materials, furnishings, objects and colour schemes combine to create a thrilling new experience of style and practicality. After a renovation project lasting three years, the hotel is an ideal destination for memorable events and for guaranteeing the highest businessoriented standards. This project has also been boosted by the arrival of the new General Director Giuseppe De Martino who, aware of current trends, is giving the Sheraton Roma a new outlook, beyond its business profile.

Prestigious suites and guest rooms are furnished in a modern style with a contemporary design, where the recurrent leitmotiv focuses on well-lit interiors effortlessly blending natural and artificial light. Situated on the highest floors of the hotel, the Club guest rooms and suites offer dedicated services with special attention paid to every single detail. These include access to the Club Lounge, an exclusive and comfortable area with a relaxing atmosphere, for convenient check-in and check-out. To make guests feel at home, the Sheraton Roma guest rooms all feature the exclusive Sweet Sleeper Bed, designed exclusively for the Sheraton brand, to guarantee guests an excellent night’s sleep. The

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lobby has a Link@Sheraton experienced with Microsoft point, with wi-fi internet connection and individual work station, offering guests the chance to work and socialise while they enjoy a cup of coffee or read a paper in total comfort. The Sheraton Roma is a partner of excellence, offering high-level services for congress organisers and operators, guaranteeing the success of any event.

AQVI restaurant and bar – One of the hotel’s strong points is undoubtedly its catering service. After its restyling, the restaurant and bar have a more contemporary and innovative edge, with a lounge area extending outdoors, around the pool and garden, creating a particularly warm and welcoming atmosphere. Different-shaped tables and chairs in varying colours and sizes contrast with small sleek pouffes and ample sofas in earthy hues.

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SHERATON ROMA HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER Maximum number of meeting rooms: 26 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 2,000 theatre style Main meeting room area (sq mt): 1.320 Sleeping rooms: 640 Nearest Airport: Leonardo da Vinci, Fiumicino (21 km) Brand affiliations: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. Address: Viale del Pattingaggio 100 00144 Rome Contact details: Event Sales Office ph +39 06 54537382 fax +39 06 5940813 Email: sales.sheratonrome@sheraton.com Contact person: Franca Faccini Director of Group Sales & Conference Center

Entirely refurbished and offering modular spaces, the Centre has over 4,000 square metres of multi-functional areas. The main hall, of approximately 1,350 square metres, can accommodate up to 2000 people, for different kinds of events. The Centre also has outdoor spaces. The pool terrace and Piazzetta, surrounded by extensive gardens, offer a superb setting for any type of event. The StarMeeting Concierge service is an exclusive facility to assist event organisers. The Sheraton Roma, in keeping with its focus on Expo 2015, offers numerous services, reflecting its commitment to an environmentally sustainable approach. The use of paper is minimised during meetings; all notepads, pens or other items are kept on a separate table during meetings, to encourage participants to use only what they really need. Digital, lowenergy signs and a preference for environmentally sustainable suppliers and local produce all help minimise waste.

The hotel offers guests typical regional dishes with a modern twist, to enjoy from dawn to late into the night, based on a philosophy reflected by its Labs – Local Authentic Bio Sustainable – menu which, as its name suggests, offers a healthy new way of eating that is also tasty.

Green meetings – The congress centre has areas with a variable geometry offering a unique flexibility for the widest-ranging use, from the biggest of events to the smallest and most sophisticated, with an attention focused on the needs of guests, that are met with the highest-quality service.

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ROME – www.thechurchpalace.com – www.thechurchvillage.com

Timeless prestige The Church Palace hotel embraces the concept of “living hospitality”.

Uniqueness is accompanied by availability for selected meetings and major events, all supported by the neighbouring hotel, The Church Village During the months of Expo Milano 2015, which will begin on the first of May this year, those who want to take this opportunity to organize an incentive trip, a meeting or an exclusive event in Rome, to discover the wonders of the Italian capital, can take advantage of a new and original accommodation solution, consisting of two neighbouring establishments: The Church Palace and The Church Village. Both are part of the multifunctional Rome Congress & Expo Centre (with an enormous 2,800-squared metre space, equipped with wi-fi connection) but above all, these are two innovative hotels expressly dedicated to an international client base, who, in addition to appreciating the functionality and services of Mice venues, also love engaging in cultural tourism. San Pietro and the Vatican are minutes away, as are the main shopping streets and the historic centre of Rome, and visitors are never more than a stone’s throw away from the underground (the stop Cornelia is 500 metres from the hotel).

A visit to the Eternal City – Housed in a Renaissance-inspired palazzo, The Church Palace is an impressive four-star superior hotel, and has been fully renovated to meet the needs of a distinctly cosmopolitan clientèle. In the midst of the private parkland surrounding the hotel, which overlaps with the grounds of Villa Carpegna, guests can catch a glimpse of an ancient fountain and an eighteenth century nymphaeum. Behind a beautiful courtyard, right at the heart of the hotel, lies an unexpected church with three aisles, adorned with precious green marble colonnades (hence the name of the location). As far as conference services are concerned, meeting planners and event managers can take advantage of eight meeting rooms, each six meters high, with wi-fi and natural lighting, as well as a multi-purpose auditorium with more than 500 seats and personalized multimedia services. A “Conference Arcade”

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THE CHURCH PALACE Maximum number of meeting rooms: 8 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 544 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 400 Sleeping rooms: 200 Nearest Airport: Fiumicino, Rome (25 km) Brand affiliations: Worldhotels Address: Via Aurelia, 481 00165 Rome Contact details: Ph +39 06 660011 Fax +39 06 6623138 Email: info@thechurchpalace.com Contact person: Daniele Santaniello Sales & Marketing Manager daniele.santaniello@thechurchpalace.com

and the foyer are the perfect addition for big events. Guests wishing to stay can choose from one of the 200 rooms and suites, all of which are spacious and modern, while three restaurants offer a special selection of quality Italian food with an international twist: “Nero” is the most exclusive of these, and is also open to external customers, while the internal restaurant “Il Colonnato” has

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THE CHURCH VILLAGE Maximum number of meeting rooms: 6 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 800 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 700 Sleeping rooms: 250 Nearest Airport: Fiumicino, Rome (25 km) Brand affiliations: Worldhotels Address: Via di Torre Rossa, 94 00165 Rome Contact details: Ph +39 06 6600711 Fax +39 06 66007816 Email: info@thechurchvillage.com Contact person: Daniele Santaniello Sales & Marketing Manager daniele.santaniello@thechurchpalace.com

250 covers and “The Square” serves up quick yet well thought-out dishes. “The Office” is a lounge bar serving creative aperitifs alongside delicious bites of the chef’s latest specialities. The “Cultural Concierge” service provides customers with a series of proposals designed to ensure that their stay is one-of-akind. Thanks to an agreement with the Vatican Museums, buying tickets in the

hotel is quick and simple, with no queues at the cash desk. In addition, guests can take a stroll in the park or through the city followed by a session with a personal trainer, jogging between monuments, or place themselves in the hands of a personal shopper for expert advice and guidance, or even rent a Vespa for total freedom. By next summer, a swimming pool is due to be open too, along with a new wellbeing area.

Palace or Village? – The Church Village hotel, on the other hand, is a luxurious three-star establishment. The 250 comfortable rooms are divided across four buildings, which in turn are connected to a central structure by a delightful garden. This central space contains a spacious lobby, a conference area, a restaurant and a charming bar with an outdoor seating area.

The communal spaces, which include an 800-seat auditorium and various meeting rooms, are used for seminars run by the University for Foreigners, and conferences of all types. In the near future, a complete overhaul of these space will transform it into an “open ceilinged social hub”. All of this will centre around the world of the internet. Through social media, the hotel will advertise its events, many of which will be based round the festivals and nationalities of its guests, allowing visitors to stay in touch and encouraging them to return to Rome.

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ROME – www.ristorantelacarovana.it

venues

Roman holiday Let a lunch or work meeting gain a stunning dimension, in an atmosphere reminiscent of times gone by: the 18th century Antico Casale La Carovana will surprise guests, above all with its gardens with ancient ruins Major restoration work has recovered historical and environmental values in a perfect mix of technique, expertise and harmony, demonstrating the Zaccardi family’s considerable commitment to an important project to redevelop an artistic heritage destined to become a prestigious venue for meetings and congresses. This is the 18th-century Antico Casale La Carovana, recently restored to all its former glory. The La Carovana restaurant has existed since 1971, when it was opened

by Giovanni Zaccardi with his father Alfredo. Today it is managed

by Giovanni’s sons, Alfredo and Fabio Zaccardi. A sense of belonging to a place, spacious areas and a classical taste have created a new venue that retains a strong link with the local area and its history. The location is in the city centre, but is a peaceful haven amid the chaos of Rome. Stunning gardens with centuriesold olive trees, an attractive small lake with water cascades and a choreographic fountain all make the outdoor area a key feature

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ANTICO CASALE LA CAROVANA Viale di Vigna Pia, 33 00149 Rome Contact detail: Ph +39 06 5577758 Contact person: Alfredo Zaccardi, email: alfredo@lacarovana.info

of the entire site. An archaeological area – with necropolis dating from the 2nd century AD evokes ancient splendours.

The interiors favour neutral shades recalling nature. Earth, wood and stone hues prevail. The natural light blends with the simplest of materials, such as open brickwork and the wood of the beams.

Cooking tales – The restaurant’s cuisine has been created with a special attention to the wealth of excellent local produce. Products are rigorously selected based on quality, freshness, origin and season: simple choices exalted by the great care taken to prepare a cuisine with clean flavours. Mediterranean

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meat and fish dishes are served daily in the four indoor rooms, which can accommodate up to 950 people, in addition to a capacity of over 1,000 guests outdoors. Business lunches, aperitifs and gala dinners in such a setting immediately have a magical allure.

Eating is not just about nourishing our bodies, but about thinking and engaging with others. Food is not just something to enjoy and share. It is a way to socialise too, through the spectacle it offers.

Company dinners at the restaurant feature show cooking, a fresh, contemporary format where a part of the dinner focuses on business talk, while another part focuses on the food. Team building courses in the kitchen enable participants to directly and fully engage to create and consolidate team work through cooking. Fun combined with training in an ideal setting such as the Antico Casale La Carovana makes for an even more appealing event. The passion of its professionally trained staff and the approach to clients’ needs make the location a highly qualified partner for making an event

truly memorable. The venue can host any type of event, from corporate meetings to product presentations. The restaurant also hosts themed evenings, and its “classic” toga parties, held next to the Roman ruins of the archaeological area, are always a great success.

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ROME – www.auditorium.com

Ph © Moreno Maggi

Three large shells created by the architect Renzo Piano in 2002 and placed in the Villa Glori park in Rome. A complex of more than 90,000 square metres that injected life into the city’s cultural sphere and soon became a point of reference at international level not only for music. The Auditorium Parco della Musica is one of the largest multifunctional space in Europe and in the world. A space suspended between past, present and future, with the remains of a sixth century BC Roman villa and its museum that are the crown-jewels of the complex.

Today, it is the absolute star of the contemporary music scene thanks to its flexibility. It is an ideal location for all types of events, as confirmed by the high numbers of participants registered since its opening. In 2010, about 1,000 events were organised for over a million spectators, and over these last nine years the Auditorium has established itself as the top European cultural structure for the number of events held there, second in the world only to the

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A multifunctional centre at international level, a space designed and built for music but able to accommodate and enhance meeting and events of any type

Ph © Moreno Maggi

convention centres

Not just music

Lincoln Center in New York.

The main areas of the complex are the four concert halls, which can accommodate a minimum of 308 people to over 2,700, all four equipped with control booths and sound systems. There are also three 160-square-metre rehearsal rooms and a large auditorium, as well as a large exhibition area with 3,000 square metres of floor space over two levels.

The Auditorium also has other smaller spaces that can host 20 to 200 people, dressing rooms for artists and large outdoor areas, such as the roof garden and a 1,200-square-metre pedestrian

THE DESTINATION ITALY – LAZIO

AUDITORIUM PARCO DELLA MUSICA Maximum number of meeting rooms: 13 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 2,742 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 4,790 Nearest Airport: Airport Leonardo da Vinci, Rome, 33 km Address: Viale Pietro de Coubertin, 10 Contact details: Ph +39 06 802411 Fax +39 06 80241284 Email: commerciale@musicaperroma.it Contact person: Berta Zezza, Senior Marketing and Sales Manager commerciale@musicaperroma.it

Ph © Musacchio & Ianniello

Ph © Musacchio & Ianniello

area that includes a greenhouse – a 300-square-metre glass and steel structure, complete with air conditioning and blackout curtains. The halls are connected together by an annular path and an internal drive way to make loading and unloading equipment and instruments easier.

Musical and cultural events such as festivals, exhibitions or shows are all condensed into a hectic schedule.

However, in recent years, the Parco della Musica has seen an exponential increase in conferences and is now home to many business events: conventions, conferences, product launches, incentives and business meetings, with an average of about 1,000 participants per event.

Personalised proposals, in line with the needs of companies and institutions, that allow the participants to become involved in what the cultural programme has to offer. Ad hoc solutions for every need such as guided tours with refreshments,

convention centres

packages with delicious cocktails and the best seats for the concerts on show at the time, with the possibility to meet the artists, or attend closed showing of the concerts. Not to mention the use of the Auditorium as a location for fashion shows, culinary events, exhibitions, or, as is often the case given that it is in the capital, as a film set.

Just to cite a few examples, in 2012 the Auditorium Parco della Musica hosted the opening night of the Fig Working Week, the Eupsa-Baps meeting and the first National Unity and Value Congress of Italian Surgeons. This year, on the other hand, there were congresses with 3,000 delegates among others, and the Maker Faire that was attended by 90,000 people over a three-day event.

The modernity, charm and versatility of the spaces, the many excellent services and the quality and professionalism of the technical staff have, over time, come to guarantee the success of any event hosted in this treasure trove of music and culture.

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PERFECT LOCATION TO ORGANISE YOUR EXCLUSIVE EVENTS

Villa Borghese • Piazza Bucarest • 00187 Roma Tel. +39 06 69922090 • info@casinavaladier.it w w w. c a s i n a v a l a d i e r. i t

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ROME – www.casinavaladier.it

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The great beauty In the Eternal City, history and magic breathe life into wonderful places and venues, where each event is unforgettable.

One of these is the splendid Casina Valadier, on the Pincian Hill The widespread charm of a city that is unique the world over, with its roots dating far back in time, layered with history and memories, enhanced for the last two hundred years by a neoclassic building of outstanding beauty. Casina Valadier, built in Rome in the 19th century on the ancient ruins of a Roman cistern, dominates Rome from the Pincio (Pincian Hill) and, like a precious jewel, illuminates the splendid Villa Borghese park. After a complex restoration project, the Casina re-opened to the public ten years ago, rediscovering its former glory of frescos, decorated vaulted ceilings and well-lit rooms that make it one of the city’s

most exclusive locations. Today the Casina Valadier is a prestigious restaurant and above all a venue with different sized interiors, ideal for hosting any type of event, from gala dinners to business lunches, chic weddings or executive meetings. The Casina is compact, on four floors, and has three terraces with breathtaking views of the Eternal City. It also has gardens of 2,000 square meters, to host events for up to 1,500 guests seated, or 2,000 standing. The outstanding interiors include the gala room for 150 people, the three small private rooms, an executive floor for 65 people seated and 85 standing, a spectacular room with the walls of the ancient Roman cistern and a terrace commanding a stunning view, to host events for up to 70 guests seated or 100 standing.

A wide range of exclusive services for the Mice industry, because charm and appeal cannot be bought, but come naturally to the Casina Valadier.

CASINA VALADIER Maximum number of meeting rooms: 6 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 150 (Salone degli specchi) Main meeting room area (sq mt): 120 Nearest Airport: Fiumicino international airport Address: Piazza Bucarest, 00187 Rome Contact details: Ph+39 06 69922090 Fax +39 06 6791280 Email: info@casinavaladier.it

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IL CASINO DELL’AURORA

Palazzo Pallavicini A precious baroque venue in the heart of Rome realized in 17th Century by Vasanzio and decorated by Reni’s famous fresco.

Three big halls suitable for meetings, conventions, exhibitions and concerts.

Per informazioni: Holding Immobiliare Pallavicini S.p.A. Via XXIV Maggio 43 Roma - Tel 06-83467000 - Fax 06-83467070 Per informazioni: Holding Immobiliare Pallavicini S.p.A. Via XXIV Maggio 43 Roma - Tel 06-83467000 - Fax 06-83467070 aurorapallavicini@holdingimmobiliarepallavicini.it –Roma www.casinoaurorapallavicini.it Per informazioni: Holding Immobiliare Via43, XXIV Maggio 43 Roma Tel 06-83467000 - Fax Info: Holding Immobiliare Pallavicini S.p.A.Pallavicini Via XXIVS.p.A. Maggio 00187 – Ph. -+39 06 83467000 Fax06-83467070 +39 06 83467070 aurorapallavicini@holdingimmobiliarepallavicini.it – www.casinoaurorapallavicini.it aurorapallavicini@holdingimmobiliarepallavicini.it – www.casinoaurorapallavicini.it aurorapallavicini@holdingimmobiliarepallavicini.it – www.casinoaurorapallavicini.it

venues

THE DESTINATION ITALY – LAZIO

ROME – www.casinoaurorapallavicini.it

Perfect meetings The Casino dell’Aurora is an example of the illustrious Roman history and provides International meeting planners with a venue full of seventeenth-century allure and elegance.

CASINO DELL’AURORA PALLAVICINI Address: Via XXIV Maggio 43 00187, Rome Maximum number of meeting rooms: 3 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 120 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 97 Nearest Airport: Ciampino (17 km) Contact details: Ph +39 06 83467000 direct +39 06 83467002 – Fax +39 06 83467070 Email: aurorapallavicini@ holdingimmobiliarepallavicini.it Contact person: Luisa Capaccioli (Congress Manager) – aurorapallavicini@ holdingimmobiliarepallavicini.it

A host of artistic and historic treasures makes the Casino dell’Aurora one of the most prestigious and evocative locations in Rome, an ideal place for planners from all over the world to recreate the original charm of the Roman Baroque period. Its position in the heart of the Eternal City and its unique architectural features make it the perfect venue for exclusive big and small events, in absolute privacy.

The property, which stands on the central Quirinale hill, is surrounded by greenery and overlooks the magnificent Piazza del Quirinale, the official residence of the President of the Italian Republic. Three large glass doorways face the private hanging garden of about 1800 square meters.

It is within the precious monumental complex of Palazzo Pallavicini that

Cardinal Scipione Borghese erected the Casino dell’Aurora on the top of the Costantino’s Bath ruins, rendering it one of the architectural jewels of the Roman Baroque era.

A double access staircase, known as “Pastorella” adorned with marble statues and busts of Roman origin, leads to the spacious secret garden where the majestic façade rises profusely decorated with slabs of Roman sarcophagi from the second and third century A.D. The large glass doorways of the pavilion open into the beautiful hall adorned with the famous Guido Reni’s fresco “L’Aurora” and break up the central body of the building creating picturesque transparencies between “inside” and “out”.

In the two smaller adjoining rooms, also decorated with frescoes, visitors can admire paintings and furniture from the incredible Pallavicini’s Collection.

This prestigious venue, as well as exclusive guided tours, hosts in its unique halls: meetings, conferences, exhibitions, concerts and institutional dinners, also outside in the private garden.

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ROME – www.cinecittastudios.it/en/corporate-events

Just like in a film A shrine to the cinema industry renowned the world over, Cinecittà is also a stunning location for hosting meetings and incentive, team building and company events with a striking effect. From the studios where Fellini filmed, to the sets of ancient Rome, this is a place where visitors can dream In view of Expo 2015, the most wellequipped and original events locations in Italy have an extra opportunity to show international Mice operators the services they offer. And a destination like Rome and an amazing place like Cinecittà are unrivalled. In 2010, the centre of the Italian film industry, renowned the world over and linked to some of the

biggest names in cinema and Tv, decided to make its spaces and know-how available for company communication, for the organisation of meetings and exclusive events. And it has been a success worthy of an Oscar! Brands such as Shell, Toshiba, Ernst&Young, Nestlé, Harley Davidson, Swarovski, Algida, New Holland, Louis Vuitton (and many others) have all chosen the Cinecittà studios to give their events visibility, and by the end of 2014, 200 events had already been held in just four years. As Giuseppe Basso (left in the picture) , Ceo of Cinecittà Studios, says: «If you consider the emotion of spending time in these 32 hectares of art and history, plus the modern spaces and facilities that make practically any technical and set installation possible, it is easy to understand why our location beats more traditional venues. Events for thousands of people with major installations can be held, but we also have smaller areas, in particular Studio 1, built in 1937, with a floor surface of 450 square metres, which has quite a unique appeal. The Caffè di Cinecittà has also recently been inaugurated. This flagship store is suitable to host events for up to 250 people, requiring no installations and has kitchens and a catering service». Each day, visitors can easily bump into actors and directors taking a break, and this goes to show how vibrant Cinecittà is, and above all, as Giuseppe Basso says: «If you imagine the feelings of a visitor to the film sets and museum areas, you can easily understand that the gift of an event at Cinecittà, for clients or employees, is truly unique».

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CINECITTÀ STUDIOS Maximum number of meeting rooms: 6 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 1,200 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 1,800 Nearest Airport: Ciampino, Rome Address: Via Tuscolana 1055 – 00173 Rome Contact details: Ph +39 06 72293215 Email: eventi@cinecittastudios.it Contact person: Francesca Versace, Location & Key Account Manager; Ph +39 06 72293215 + 39 06 2293718

Action! – So imagine you are in the legendary film studio number 5, the “Temple to Federico Fellini”, or on the nearby Ancient Rome set, that can be linked to Studio 10 with various solutions. With a floor surface of 1,800 square metres and a flexible, modular architecture, the studio is a real creativity lab for the organisation of events. It can be customised with sets

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and logistics solutions of any kind and striking installations, thanks to light effects and giant screens to project moving images or the company’s logo and corporate colour scheme. When visitors leave the studio, they step into the fantastic era of Rome 2,000 years ago: the set, splendidly lit for events, covers an area of four hectares, with the imperial forum in the middle. Here, a seven-metre high, 900 square-metre marquee is situated, for indoor events, while in summer it can be turned into a stunning outdoor area for gala dinners and receptions for over 2,000 guests. The location also includes Studio 5, Broadway and Medieval Florence sets, museum tours, team building activities (with storyboarding, film making and final awards) and lots more. A dedicated team is on hand to design projects together with highly experienced production directors and is partnered by specialist suppliers.

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – ABRUZZO – MOLISE

Abruzzo and Molise: growing regions Two small regions at the centre of the peninsula, secluded and practically unknown to the general international public, yet full of original and absolutely fresh ideas for the meetings industry Fortress-towns perched on rocky crags, with stone houses squeezed between them. Cities of art as beautiful as precious jewels. Woods as far as the eye can see, on the edge of which stand hermitages and ancient abbeys. Pastures and valleys that slope down to the sea. Abruzzo is revealed slowly, unfolding landscapes that have been frozen in time and unveiling a primordial beauty before the eyes of the visitor.

A beauty that is protected by parks and reserves – in the Abruzzo National Park, you can see bears and wolves that are now endangered species. It is home to a rich biodiversity: according to some estimates, Abruzzo alone holds more than 50% of the entire biodiversity of Europe. A biodiversity that is also home to picturesque villages, 21 of which are among the most beautiful villages in Italy and, of these, the ones that are most worthy of note are Santo Stefano in Sessanio, Civitella del Tronto and Pacentro, famous not only for the exquisite town centre dominated by high towers, but also for being the town from which the family of the famous singer, Madonna, came from. And then there are the coasts, with vibrant and lively tourist areas along the velvet beaches, which are many kilometres long and covered in soft sand, and located at a point where the Adriatic sea is a crystal-clear blue.

Even the tiny Molise overlooks the sea with a beautiful sandy beach bordered with Mediterranean vegetation and clear water. Its hinterland, on the other hand, is marked by sheep tracks – historical transhumance paths – that run through valleys used for pasture and wooded hills. The archaeological remains of the mysterious Samnite period (like the beautiful theatre of Pietrabbondante), castles (the one in Pescolanciano is stunning), abbeys, sanctuaries and picturesque towns (do not miss Bagnoli del Trigno, the “Pearl of Molise”) enrich the panorama. There are also a number of renowned ski resorts, such as Capracotta and Campitello Matese. All this in a small stretch of land that seems to be suspended between the past and the present, where old crafts – from bell forging to the production of goat-skin bagpipes – still exist along side traditions that are thousands of years old and are capable of charming even the most jaded Mice attendee.

Above Abruzzo boasts 21 villages among the most beautiful in Italy.

Below the crystal-clear blue Adriatic sea

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FASHION THE MOST POPULAR

DESIGNER BRANDS, JUST 20 MINUTES FROM NAPLES. JUST A FEW MILES FROM THE CITY OF NAPLES LIES MCARTHURGLEN DESIGNER OUTLET LA REGGIA, A SHOPPING PARADISE HOUSING THE TOP INTERNATIONAL AND ITALIAN DESIGNER BRANDS, ALWAYS AT 35% TO 70% LESS. LA REGGIA IS THE PERFECT SETTING FOR EVENTS, GROUP MEETINGS AND INCENTIVES THANKS TO ITS SPACIOUS AREAS AND ORGANISATIONAL FLEXIBILITY WHICH ALLOW IT TO OFFER YOU PERSONALISED SERVICES.

D E D I C AT E D S ER V I CE S LA REGGIA DESIGNER OUTLET OFFERS A WIDE RANGE OF HOSPITALITY SERVICES INCLUDING MULTILINGUAL HOSTESSES, PERSONAL SHOPPERS, VIP LOUNGES AND AMPLE PARKING FOR CARS AND COACHES. YOU CAN ALSO ORDER A PERSONALISED WELCOME PACK FOR YOUR CLIENTS, WHICH INCLUDES A

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Campania

Caserta

Benevento

NAPLES

Avellino Salerno

The destination Ideas for events Team building The regional offer

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Campania: sparkling and welcoming Campania is one of the most iconic regions of Italy, with its own unique character. It has provided the collective image of “Italy” with some of its liveliest elements – an explosive blend of culture, art and verve that wins you over straight away

Above the lovely Amalfi Coast.

Below Naples and Vesuvius

Campania is a one-off. It offers jewels of outstanding beauty, starting with its main city – Naples - which has turned its contradictions into one of its most enticing features. The Gulf of Naples is one of the city’s symbols, with the unmistakable profile of Vesuvius looking down on the frenzied comings and goings in the alleys of the historical town centre, declared a Unesco World Heritage site and constantly enlivened by festivals, shows and events. Another famous city of the region is Caserta, whose Reggia is compared with Versailles for its magnificence and is open to Mice for exclusive visits and events. But, apart from the biggest cities, Campania is a land where nature has been particularly generous, offering highly differing and unusual landscapes alongside a renowned shoreline, where the world-famous Amalfi coast stands out for its stunning beauty. We’re talking of a strip of land that runs from the Gulf of Naples to Salerno, embellished with towns like Amalfi, Positano, Ravello and Vietri; places of history, but also of shopping and entertainment, embedded in a natural context whose cliffs and Mediterranean shrub offer a multitude of incentive activities to suit every taste. Opposite the coastline, the islands of Procida, Ischia and Capri are three gems that have discovered their Mice vocation. And to add to the attractions for visitors, there are also the thermal springs of Ischia, rich in curative waters and offering a choice of wellness centres.

Another first class tourist destination is the much-loved Sorrento; with its striking natural and artistic beauty, it’s the most famous town of the peninsula that bears its name. The true heart of Sorrento, far from the modern developments, is its port, still proudly bearing the appearance of a fishing village and separated from the rest of the city by a headland.

NESTLED AMID THE VOLCANO AND ARCHAEOLOGY The symbol of Campania is Vesuvius, majestically standing out on the skyline as a strategic ally for incentive organisers wanting to amaze their guests. It’s protected by a national park where Mice can organise trekking activities to discover the unique volcanic landscape and learn more about the history of this special area whose origins date back to the Roman age. And if you think about the ancient Romans (and above all, about Vesuvius), your mind can’t help but travel to the archaeological digs in Pompeii and Herculaneum – two sites unique at world level due to a destiny which brought them together and “froze” them in the pre-Christian age when the volcano erupted. The

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exceptional trait of these two ancient Roman cities is the fact that they were preserved in their original form beneath the lava, ash and mud that rained down in the eruption of 79 A.D. Another area with its own strong identity is Cilento – an uncontaminated place extending from Paestum to the Gulf of Sapri; practically a lush headland diving out into the sea. Cilento also has its own unique archaeological monuments, like the temples of Paestum and the remains of the ancient colonies of Velia. The charm of this area lies in its ability to convey the traveller back to a bygone age, in true epic terms: you can still hear the Sirens that tried in vain to seduce Odysseus. A charm like the one exercised by the Cilento National Park and the Vallo di Diano – a treasure chest encasing a legacy of nature and scents: those of the Mediterranean shrub, broom, myrtle and rosemary. In Cilento you can follow the wine itinerary – an ideal path touching on the towns of both the coast and hinterland, from Agropoli – famous as the ancient stronghold of the Saracen pirates – to Sapri. Heading inland, you’ll find not only vines but also olive trees – the common denominator of the entire Mediterranean area.

Irpinia is an outstanding zone of greenery; a part of the province of Avellino that can be explored via themed itineraries in the wake of nature and the great wines produced there, from Taurasi to Greco di Tufo and Fiano di Avellino. And Irpinia is also home to the Regional Parks of Monti Picentini and Partenionelle, where nature takes the form of watercourses and springs, lakes and woods. Last but not least, remember that the whole of Campania offers a rich calendar of events, festivals and exhibitions that draw the spotlight onto the various towns.

In this page clockwise from left: the Royal Palace of Caserta; Capri; Sorrento and, below, the island of Procida

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Ideas for events which are…

VOLCANIC > IN THE SHADOW OF VESUVIUS For an incentive activity focusing on adventure, and above all offering a breathtaking experience, you can go trekking in the Vesuvius National Park. You can choose from a variety of itineraries for all fitness levels, but the most stunning is without doubt the one that takes you to the crater of Vesuvius. Passing along the crest of the Great Cone, you’ll be walking on the ash, stones and lava of the last eruption, in 1944.

ESOTERIC > AMONGST THE GHOSTS OF NAPLES The magic of Naples is hidden above all in its alleys, or “vichi and vicarielli” as they say in the local dialect. Ghostly legends inhabit the 17th century buildings, and you can find out more with a “spine-tingling” trip. The cult of Isis, on the other hand, hails from the East; an esoteric tour will tell you all about it. And for those wanting to dive right into the depths of the city, numerous themed tours will help discover the hidden Naples, the underground city, via a dense network of passages that formed a city beneath the city, 40 metres down, from the time of its founding up to the Second World War.

HEADY > AMID THE CAMPANIA WINE CELLARS A visit to the wine cellars offers a unique chance to discover Campania’s first class products. There’s no shortage of wine-making areas throughout the region, and gourmet tours are the perfect opportunity for getting a first-hand view. Amongst the most well-loved are those of Irpinia and the itineraries of the Phlegraean Fields, where the prized Falanghina vine is cultivated.

THERMAL > TOTAL FITNESS In Campania, for a wellbeing incentive you can take your pick of the many spas of differing kinds dotted along the coast and further inland. The beautiful island of Ischia is also famous for its refined thermal baths, where relaxation begins with the wonderful views all around and then continues inside the health spas.

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… and team building Whether it’s nature, craftwork or gourmet food and wine, Campania is the perfect place for a wide range of team-building activities, thanks also to its climate AMERICA’S CUP REGATTAS A competitive team-building activity is one of the most effective ways a company can choose to draw together its employees, bringing out the group spirit and sense of belonging with just the right amount of competitiveness. To be really incisive, it all has to be irresistible and, even better, require a touch of adrenalin.

That’s why a sailing activity, with a real 1-day or 2-day regatta, can’t help but unite those taking part. One spot-on example is a regatta in the beguiling Gulf of Naples – a naturally scenic theatre that can also boast of having hosted the America’s Cup. Everyone will feel a bit like a champion!

LEARNING HOW TO MAKE A REAL NEAPOLITAN PIZZA Naples is known the world over as the undisputed pizza capital, but the “real Neapolitan pizza” is based on a long tradition that has rightly been elevated to the rank of an “art”. In this particular context, a team-building activity that promises a challenge based on dough and toppings can’t help but have a special flavour. And even though the secrets of the master pizza chefs can’t be entirely revealed, learning to make a real Neapolitan pizza will anyhow be a unique experience to take back home, to impress friends and relatives. Talk about an unforgettable team-building activity!

A BANQUET IN POMPEII A magical place like Pompeii inevitably triggers thoughts of living a unique experience thanks to a journey in time. That will be the feeling of those taking part in an activity aimed at recreating, actually within Pompeii, a “convivium” in true Ancient Roman style. Not just a dinner, but the reconstruction of bygone atmospheres and the possibility to take a midnight stroll along the city walls from the Suburban Baths (in the labyrinth of houses, vegetable gardens, flower gardens and fountains overlooking the Via Marina) to the Temple of Apollo.

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SORRENTO (NA) – www.comune.sorrento.na.it

A five-star destination A city with time-honoured and deep-rooted seafaring traditions, Sorrento, a jewel in the Sorrentine peninsula, is one of the world’s capitals of the hospitality industry. The area has some 200 facilities, from luxury hotels in verdant grounds directly overlooking the sea of mermaids, to farm accommodation and elegant, prestigious villas with a grand style and architectural impact that have been turned into hotels. In total, the area has a capacity of 10,000 beds, which are always sold out in high season.

But here, “where the sea shines and the winds howl”, as the lines of a famous song by Lucio Dalla say, dedicated to the great Neapolitan tenor Enrico Caruso, who spent the last days of his remarkable existence in a suite of a grand hotel in Sorrento, the tourist season has been extended to include autumn and winter months too. The home town of Torquato Tasso, who was born in the mid 16th century and wrote the poem “La Gerusalemme Liberata” (Jerusalem Delivered), one of the greatest works of Italian literature of all time, is today loved above all by American tourists and visited throughout the year. If Sorrento is no longer just about sea and sun, this is mainly thanks to the tourism policy steadfastly pursued by the local authorities, who have boosted the development of the congress industry considerably.

«Expanding congress facilities – says the mayor, Giuseppe Cuomo

institutions

Sorrento boasts 200 facilities throughout the area. Yet its main development, says the city’s mayor Giuseppe Cuomo, stems from expansion in the Mice segment and out-of-season hospitality

(in the picture above) – has enabled the town to do extremely well in the tourism stakes. This impetus has come from the entrepreneurial and far-sighted spirit of COMUNE DI SORRENTO CONTACTS Piazza S. Antonino, 1 80067 - Sorrento (Na) Contact details Ph +39 081 533 51 11 Fax +39 081 877 19 80 protocollo@pec.comune.sorrento.na.it

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some businessmen and women committed to the hospitality industry: over the last few decades, Sorrento has embraced the challenges of the congress industry, to develop new opportunities for hospitality.

Consequently the number of tourists to the town has gone up considerably, even out of season».

A destination for the Mice industry – Sorrento offers considerable and diverse opportunities for congress tourism. Approximately 20 venues (10% of the city’s total) have facilities offering spaces, know-how and state-of-the-art technologies for the sure-fire success of any event, congress, conference or business meeting: 16 hotels have rooms of varying dimensions and configurations, for a total capacity of 4,150 people.

Sorrento as a Mice destination is ideal, also because of its “setting”. It is an integrated and fundamental part of a global tourist system, situated in an

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area that is home to most of the region’s tourist attractions all located within a few kilometres. In just half an hour, visitors can reach the beautiful, fashionable island of Capri, the excavations of Pompeii, or the Amalfi Coast with the ancient, seafaring republic of Amalfi and the picture-postcard villages of Positano, Praiano and Conca dei Marini, nestling among cliffs with sheer drops down to the sea. They can also visit the verdant island

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of Ischia, with its beaches, characteristic villages and spa facilities, the splendour of Naples, with its stunning historic, artistic and architectural heritage, it monuments and natural attractions, that each year delight millions of visitors from all over the world; or the ancient site of Ercolano (Herculaneum), Torre del Greco, home to the coral industry, the crater of Vesuvius, and the Punta Campanella nature reserve which divides the Bay of Naples from the Bay of Salerno. In just an hour, visitors can reach the international airport Capodichino, with connections to main European and international capitals, or Naples railway station. With all that it

has to offer, Sorrento has recently climbed the special rankings of the most visited cities in Italy, coming only after Rome, Venice and Florence, and was even ahead of Naples in 2012.

Business with a taste for leisure – At Sorrento, the atmosphere, events and resources generously provided by mother nature, all enable “global” business travellers, who have to make the most of their very little free time, between one commitment and another, and professionals who are seeking concentration and downtime too, to combine profitable business meetings or professional activities with the fun of the many leisure pursuits on offer in the area. From mini-cruises to golf, sailing and scuba diving, from mountain biking to team sports, walks with stunning views and even cooking with typical products of the Mediterranean diet: all activities designed to ensure visitors get the most out of their stay. This is why the place that enchanted Enrico Caruso and fascinated numerous European travellers on Grand Tours between the 18th and 19th century, including poets, writers, artists and musicians, is today one of the leading destinations for Mice tourism. Because Sorrento offers a picture-postcard setting all year round: sheer cliffs plunging down to crystal-clear waters, narrow roads fragrant with the aromas of herbs and citrus fruits that are so abundant in this area, breathtaking views with blazing sunsets and promising dawn skies. Plus artisan shops selling limoncello, chocolates, lemon desserts, ice-cream and baskets of locallygrown lemons, with the European “protected geographical indication” (Pgi) mark, gnocchi “alla sorrentina” with a tomato, mozzarella and basil sauce, mozzarella “plaits” with grilled vegetables, stuffed cuttlefish, local provolone cheese and local beef tomatoes, as well as extra-virgin olive oil, the white wines Falanghina, Biancolella and Greco Bianco Dop, and the hearty reds Piedirosso, Sciascinoso and Aglianico.

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A calendar with a wealth of events – By now, Sorrento can fully cater for every need of the tourist industry and to gain an even greater reputation with international tour operators, it hosts a wealth of events each year, in all four seasons. «The ability to host events, also of an international standing, says the mayor Giuseppe Cuomo – perfectly complements a range of services and opportunities the city is used to offering to people who see Sorrento not

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only as an ideal holiday destination but also as a fully equipped yet easy-to-experience venue, for any successful industry or business event». Between June and October, the city is host to the event “Notte per Caruso: il mare dalle notti d’estate alle notti d’autunno” (A Night for Caruso: the sea from summer to autumn nights). The winter calendar includes numerous events, focused on the winter light show “M’illumino d’inverno” (from November to January): with light installations showcasing the artistic splendours of the city and creating a live theatre animating the streets, historic centres and monuments of this area. The programme starts in the last few days of November, with the Christmas tree

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lights being turned on in Piazza Tasso.

At the same time, the characteristic Christmas market stalls are opened in Piazza Sant’Antonino, transforming this jewel in the Mediterranean crown into a little piece of central Europe. The “Piazze Incontriamoci” event is held concurrently, with stands, artistic installations and shows in three of the city’s piazzas: Piazza Veniero – the site of the old town market, Piazza Sant’Antonino and Piazza Achille

Lauro. At Christmas time, the local parish of Casarlano designs and sets up a characteristic “live nativity scene”. The New Year’s Eve Concert in Piazza Tasso and “Christmas Concert”, with stars of an international standing, are two important events, with considerable appeal. In December, Sorrento becomes one of the world’s capitals of cinema, with its “Giornate Professionali del Cinema” (Professional Cinema Days), Italy’s main convention for the cinema industry. The historic town centre becomes a huge set for a week, hosting actors, directors and producers. The event previews full-length Italian films, holds mini-conventions for Italian film distributors and showcases the upcoming season, with trailers and tasters of new films. Numerous events are held in summer, including “Una notte per Caruso”, held each summer at Marina Grande, to mark the award of the “Caruso prize” to a leading, internationally acclaimed Italian artist and to pay homage to the great Neapolitan tenor, as well as celebrate great successes of Italian pop music with live Tv broadcasts. At the end of July, Borgo di Marina Grande is the scene of a stunning fireworks display set to music, attracting visitors from all over the world, while the summer event “Notti chiare e dolci sogni tra terra e mare” (“Moonlit nights and sweet dreams between the land and sea”) showcases pop concerts. The theme of Sorrento by night is revisited in Autumn. In the second half of October, “Notti Divine” (Divine Nights) pairs wine with art and its musical, artistic and photographic expressions. The fundamental element is the musical tour of the piano, guitar and bandoneon of the tango dancers, who take us on a journey as travellers in time and space.

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SALERNO – www.salernoincontra.com

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A historical venue with a cutting-edge outlook The historical headquarters of the Chamber of Commerce at Palazzo de’ Mercanti, in the historical centre of the vibrant Salerno, have been transformed into “Salerno Incontra”, a functional, and stylish congress centre The international “Salerno Incontra” Congress Centre was created from an idea of the Salerno Chamber of Commerce, working with its special company “Intertrade”. The historical site at Palazzo de’ Mercanti, in the heart of Campania’s second biggest city, has been transformed into a modern, functional and efficient congress centre. Designed to host meetings and congresses, the rooms of the “Salerno Incontra” centre are ideal for the most discerning clients from the leisure, business and Mice industries. The historical, executive hall, named after the economist and follower of the Enlightenment movement, Antonio Genovesi, with its 102 seats in the stalls, is perfect for important, prestigious events. The “Follaro” Hall and Auditorium have a capacity of 60 and 49 respectively, while the “Alfonso Gatto” room with all the latest technological systems can be used for video conferences, with participation from all 47 places in the room. The attractive “Galleria del Gusto” and artistic

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CENTRO CONGRESSI INTERNAZIONALE “SALERNO INCONTRA” CONTACTS Maximum number of meeting rooms: 20 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 150 (Gran Salone del Genovesi) Main meeting room area (sq mt): 250 Agreements with hotels: Lloyd’s Baia Hotel, Grand Hotel Salerno, Mediterranea Hotel, Hotel Bruman Nearest Airport: Salerno - Costa d’Amalfi Airport (15 km) Neapolis International Airport – Capodichino (57 km) Address: via Roma 29, 84121 Salerno Contact details: ph. +39 089 2786535 Fax +39 089 3115017 Email: info@salernoincontra.com Contact person: Gerardo Milito (Coordinator) direzione@salernoincontra.com

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“Galleria delle Opere” are ideal locations for displays, exhibitions, catering services, concerts and social events, while board meetings, management focus events and business meetings are a perfect match for the “Scaramella” room (25 places), “Gonfalone” room (12 places) and “Penelope” room (six places).

The well-appointed reception area is ideal for coordination, organisation and welcome activities. The “Salerno Incontra” Congress Centre has numerous secretarial areas available, with stateof-the-art technological equipment for large congresses, and two catering areas specifically designed for every need.

The centre’s location is prestigious: designed in 1916 by the Rome-born architect Arturo Gasparri, the Palazzo de’ Mercanti was inaugurated 11 years later in 1927. For 70 years it was the headquarters of the Chamber of Commerce. In the mid 1990’s, lengthy and meticulous work was carried out to restore the artistic and architectural heritage of the site and modernise it.

From restyling to a new life – Since its re-opening in February 2000, the fully-restored centre hosts congresses, seminars, conferences, workshops and business meetings. With the “Opere in Camera” project, the centre has also been opened to the public, with guided tours of the masterpieces that are on display in the elegant rooms of this four-storey building.

The centre has an elegant air inspired, in the manner of the early 20th century, by the most beautiful architectural models dating from the late 16th century to the first half of the 17th century, and is located in the heart of Salerno, one of the most attractive destinations of south Italy and a centre that has undergone a real urban revolution over the past few decades, making it even more attractive and vibrant. The new “Salerno Incontra” Congress Centre is just a short distance away from the city centre’s leading hotels, and can be reached on foot from the railway station, crossing the pedestrian-only area of corso Vittorio Emanuele, Salerno’s shopping district. After a hard day, congress-goers can enjoy the vibrant street life of Salerno, continuing along via Roma, in the direction of the Teatro Verdi, to the characteristic narrow streets of the city centre, which are home to an important historical, artistic and archaeological heritage. A true treasure trove indeed. Visitors can also enjoy trips further afield: with a perfect location in the middle of the “crescent-shaped” bay of the verses of the poet Gabriele D’Annunzio, Salerno stands between the Amalfi Coast, with its picture-postcard towns suspended between the cliffs and sea, and the Cilento coast, the land of myths with Paestum and Velia and their archaeological sites, Castellabate, Palinuro and the Gulf of Policastro.

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CASTELLAMMARE DI STABIA (NA) – www.towershotelsorrento.com

Landing on modern shores

It is like walking into a small town, where guests can enjoy a pleasant view overlooking the sea along the more than 150-metre seafront path, or relax on a beautiful beach in privacy. The Towers Hotel Stabiae Sorrento Coast is a modern resort created by converting and radically restructuring a decommissioned cement factory and the best way to get there is by sea. The hotel is in an enviable position surrounded by breathtaking landscapes: Sorrento is on the main road between Castellammare di Stabia and Vico Equense, where the Campania coast draws a large loop that turns the Tyrrhenian Sea into a sort of closed basin, meaning that Sorrento Peninsula finds itself right in front of Naples, Vesuvius and the islands of the Gulf. A gouache landscape, a breathtaking view: for example, from the Vertigo Suite, on the seventh floor of the hotel – where the two towers from which the hotel takes its name come together in a single space in the shape of a figure of “8” –, you can enjoy six different views over the beautiful Bay

TOWER HOTEL STABIAE SORRENTO COAST Maximum number of meeting rooms: 5 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 230 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 275 Sleeping rooms: 150 Nearest Airport: Napoli Capodichino (km 40) Address: S.S. Sorrentina 145 80053 - Castellammare di Stabia (Na) Contact details: Ph +39 081 3946700 Fax +39 081 3946770 Email: info@towershotelsorrento.com Contact person: Antonino Russo, Director of Sales & Marketing email: a.russo@sorrentocoasthotel.com

of Naples through six glass doors. The particularly fitting location is coupled with the high standards of hospitality, charm and accommodation. The Towers Hotel Stabiae Sorrento Coast has 150 modern rooms, a large swimming pool, an enviable quay, a private beach, an exclusive Spamarine wellness centre and the elegant Convivio Ricevimenti meeting area with a unique and spectacular view over the Gulf of Naples. The Mice sector can find all it needs here at the Towers along with a conference centre with five meeting rooms of various sizes.

Comfortable, spacious and equipped with the latest technology, the five meeting rooms can accommodate any type of meeting or conference within these functional spaces.

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★★★★

The particularly fitting location is coupled with the high standards of hospitality, charm and accommodation: the Towers Hotel Stabiae Sorrento Coast hosts its guests in 150 comfortable rooms

VIETRI SUL MARE (SA) – www.lloydsbaiahotel.it

Dug into the rock of Vietri sul Mare, the enchantingly curvy profile of the Lloyd’s Baia Hotel (since 1955 one of the most luxurious hotels of Salerno and the Amalfi Coast) blends perfectly into an incomparable setting. The hotel is actually a wonderful terrace overlooking the Gulf of Salerno, offering a 180° view: to one side the “Divina Costiera” and, to the other, the southern coast stretching away to the Cilento coast. The striking landscape provides the ideal backdrop for this well-proportioned structure, relaunched by the Marinelli Group – a family of Irpinia entrepreneurs that has always invested in innovation.

Ph © Cerzosimo

Ph © Cerzosimo

Starry cooking – The latest arrival is Re Maurì, a brand new restaurant serving lunches and dinners of top quality. In the capable hands of head waiter and two-star sommelier Matteo

LLOYD’S BAIA HOTEL Maximum number of meeting rooms: 7 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 300 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 180 Sleeping rooms: 133 Nearest Airport: Capodichino, Neapolis (60 km) Address: via Benedetto Croce snc, Salerno Contact details: Ph +39 089 7633111 Fax +39 089 7633633 Email: info@lloydsbaiahotel.it Contact person: Maria Teresa Ventura (Business Department) email meeting@lloydsbaiahotel.it

Trolese, Re Maurì is the temple of the Mediterranean culinary tradition, renewed and relaunched with local products and with a first class wine cellar and an “open” kitchen entirely decorated with the artistic ceramics of Vietri sul Mare. The Lloyd’s Baia Hotel has 133 rooms (including eight suites) spread over various levels but all with breathtaking views. Since the most recent restyling in 2010, the hotel has further reinforced its position in the business and leisure segments, with seven rooms (accommodating from 10 to 300 people) making up the congress area.

The rooms have a modular structure to suit specific requirements, the number of participants, and the chair layout. Each of the seven rooms can be made larger or smaller to ensure optimum comfort for the guests, who can enjoy pleasant and creative buffets and coffee breaks on the wonderful privately accessed terraces.

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★★★★

The luxurious Lloyd’s Baia Hotel sits on a terrace directly above the sea (a top Mice feature) and now offers a new plus factor – the Re Maurì restaurant, a temple of the Mediterranean culinary tradition

Ph © Cerzosimo

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Apulia

The destination Ideas for events Team building The regional offer

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Foggia Barletta

BARI Brindisi Taranto Lecce

Calabria

The destination

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Basilicata

The destination The regional offer

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Apulia: the sun lives here It’s the region of bright colours: the intense blue of the sky, the turquoise of the sea, the yellow of the sunny wheat fields, the blinding white of the whitewashed houses.

But it’s also a region with a wealth of folklore and irresistible cuisine

Above Lecce, glittering with its Baroque buildings.

Centre, the famous trulli in Alberobello.

Below the white Ostuni

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Apulia is now a consolidated Mice destination but it’s forever changing and evolving, constantly adding new locations and different ideas to rediscover places and traditions well off the beaten track. One of these discoveries is precisely the main town, Bari; in recent years it’s undergone a careful facelift with the result that its wonderful historical centre now shines like new again. Around Bari there are the “Murge” – a vast steppe dotted with caves, fortifications and tiny villages; not-to-be-missed gems include Bisceglie, Barletta and Trani with their remarkable architectural legacy, but also medieval Molfetta and the splendid Polignano a Mare, crouched on a rocky spur that protrudes into the sparkling sea. Ostuni (in the province of Brindisi), known as the “white city”, is a true pearl nestling on the slopes of a hill.

Heading inland, yet more surprises. First come the incredible and world-famous “trulli” constructions of Alberobello, invented as a way of getting round an edict issued by the Kingdom of Naples in the 15th century.

But the Murge are also firmly linked to the figure of Frederick II, the Holy Roman Emperor who scattered the area with manors and defensive fortresses, the most famous being without doubt Castel del Monte (a Unesco World Heritage site since 1996). And Taranto is another “recent” discovery of the meeting industry, to which the city has opened the doors of its 16th century Aragonese Castle, built right by the sea and defended by four enormous towers. One well-known Mice destination, on the other hand, is the Salento area whose “capital”, Lecce, glitters with exquisite ochre-coloured buildings in that typical, inimitable Baroque style that has left priceless treasures throughout the whole area. Otranto is another fascinating destination, huddled on a spur jutting out over the sea in the eastern-most point of Italy. And then Gallipoli, where the sea (in a stunning range of shades) laps the soft, sandy beaches that continue as far as the extreme tip of the Heel: Santa Maria di Leuca and Porto Cesareo are two of the best known ones.

Five beautiful islands, the Tremiti, are also part of Apulia: immersed in a crystal-clear turquoise sea, with blinding white cliffs topped by green Mediterranean shrub alternating with sandy bays, the five islands are shrouded in legend and will make any post congress event a memorable one.

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Ideas for events which are…

DANCING > LEARNING THE “PIZZICA” The pizzica is a primitive, mysterious dance. It’s charming and seductive, though it isn’t a courting dance: in fact, it’s not unusual to see two men dancing it together, especially in the Ostuni area. So why not give in to the insistent music and return from an incentive trip having learnt at least the basic steps?

EXTREME > SKIING AND TAKING A SWIM IN THE SEA ON THE SAME DAY Apart from Sicily, Calabria is the only other Italian region whose mild climate, high mountains and unfrozen sea waters can offer this exciting combination: skiing on the mountainous plateau of Sila in the morning and relaxing by the sea in the afternoon (you can choose either the Tyrrhenian or the Ionian Sea) – snorkelling included!

FLYING > GLIDERS, ULTRALIGHTS, OR...

Basilicata is beautiful when seen from above too, between the wings of an ultralight or glider, perhaps flying over Lake Pantano or the Pollino National Park.

In the Lucanian Dolomites, on the other hand, you can try out the famous “Volo dell’Angelo” (the Angel Flight – the only zipline of its kind in Europe): harnessed in a horizontal, face-down position and hanging from two steel wires, you’ll “fly” – at a height of about 400 metres – from Pietrapertosa to Castelmezzano, reaching speeds of up to 120 kilometres an hour.

AGRICULTURAL > PICKING OLIVES IN APULIA Extra virgin olive oil is one of the Apulia products most well-loved abroad. From October until the end of December, you can take part in the harvest and then the olive grinding, learning all the secrets of the local oil and the best pairings for really bringing out its full flavour.

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… and team building Excellent products and ancient gastronomical traditions, history, archaeology and a bunch of famous movie sets: the Mice industry has just to choose the mood ARCHAEOLOGY... IN THE WATER The pomp and splendour of Magna Graecia has left wonderful remains all across southern Italy. Some of these now lie beneath the sea, waiting to intrigue meeting industry members who are also scuba diving fans (in the waters of Apulia and Calabria there are around a hundred relics and fifty archaeological sites): a treasure hunt amid the Greek/Roman columns of Porto Cesareo in Apulia, or in the Capo Vaticano area of Calabria, will offer exciting discoveries. For those interested in more recent shipwrecks, the sea of Calabria preserves a 1910 steamboat and a small German military vessel, as well as the statue of Saint Francis of Paola, off the Paola coast.

MOZZARELLA, BURRATA & CO. Mozzarella may be famous all over the world as the main pizza ingredient, but in Apulia there are some delicious variations, first and foremost burrata – a fresh cheese made from buffalo milk, with a creamy centre and a slightly firmer outer layer. It’s hand-worked, with a whey cream filling and stretched curd called “stracciatella” because the pieces are stretched by hand. During an event in the Murge area therefore (even better if it’s in Andria – the true home of burrata), an original food contest could involve making burrata in one of the local dairies. It’s not only cheese in Apulia though: the region is also famous for it’s home-made pasta, especially the famous orecchiette made with hard wheat flour. There’s an art in making them, and they could be another idea for a post congress event in the kitchen (particularly if it’s the kitchen of an old rural “masseria” – the typical local farm). After making the pasta, of course, you’ll also prepare the 100% Apulian accompaniment – “cime di rapa” (broccoli rabe).

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IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF FREDERICK II An amazingly well-learned and active man, Frederick II was Holy Roman Emperor and King of Sicily in the early 13th century. His favourite area was Apulia though, to the point that he made Foggia the capital of his kingdom and built castles and fortresses throughout the region. Many of them have survived almost intact to the present day. The most famous is certainly Castel del Monte, designed as the emperor’s “pleasure dome”. He defined it the “Apulian diadem”, perhaps for its shape that suggests a turreted crown with its eight towers and octagonal layout. In Bari, on the other hand, the great mass of the Svevo Castle dominates the seafront with its strange trapezoidal shape – Frederick’s transformation of a previous Norman/Byzantine building. And then the towers of Bisceglie, the castle of Trani and the manor house of Gioia del Colle (linked to the unlucky Bianca Lancia, Frederick’s lover); there’s an almost endless supply of ideas and resources for orienteering and on-the-road team-building activities interwoven with history.

SOME LIKE IT HOT Calabria is the quintessential “spicy” region: the chilli pepper is not only cultivated here in its many varieties – it’s also one of the main ingredients of the tasty Calabrian cuisine. And it can become the leitmotiv of absorbing team-building activities or spicy post congress events, with tasting sessions (but take care with the famous and highly spicy “‘nduja” – a salami made with chilli peppers: it really is for brave palates), original pairings and food contests.

FILM-BUILDING IN BASILICATA With its unusual, coarse beauty, its sublunar and biblical landscapes, Basilicata has always attracted world-renowned directors and scriptwriters. A huge number of Italian films have been shot amid the Sassi and in the little towns of Lucania that bring to mind a nativity scene. But the true consecration of Basilicata as a film set came when Mel Gibson decided to make his “The Passion of the Christ” in Matera in 2004. From movie tour to team-building, the cinema thread can take various forms in Basilicata, all to the advantage of the meeting industry.

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hotel chains

More for the Mice industry CDSHotels, the brand from Puglia with quality and innovation as its winning hand, focusing even more on the Mice industry and related activities

RIVA MARINA RESORT Maximum number of meeting rooms: 9 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 900 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 732 mq Sleeping rooms: 441 Nearest Airport: Aeroporto Internazionale del Salento, Brindisi Brand affiliations: CDSHotels Address: Via della Pineta, (Specchiolla) Carovigno Contact details: Ph +39 0832 351321, fax +39 0832 228794 Email: v.denuzzo@cdshotels.it Contact person: Valentina De Nuzzo, Mice Dept.

One of the most interesting coastlines, at an international level, a pleasant surprise in Italy’s glorious heritage, a land where natural beauty and entertainment blend effortlessly with modern, fully equipped facilities for the world of business: in Puglia, the CDSHotels group is an exclusive partner for different customer targets.

White sandy beaches and unique, stunning landscapes vibrant with all the flavours and aromas of the Mediterranean are the perfect backdrop for the three, four-star hotels of the CDSHotels group, located in some of the most stunning areas of the region: the Costa del Salento Village at Ugento, just a few kilometres away from Santa Maria di Leuca, the Riva Marina Resort at Carovigno, near Ostuni and the Pietrablu Resort & Spa in the delightful town of Polignano a Mare, in the province of Bari.

Today, CDSHotels is a strong, innovative brand with a quality and excellence that set it apart, championing a hospitality that is

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Maximum number of meeting rooms: 5 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 650 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 477 Sleeping rooms: 191 Nearest Airport: Aeroporto Internazionale Bari Palese, Bari Brand affiliations: CDSHotels Address: Contrada Fontanelle 230 Polignano a Mare Contact details: Ph +39 0832 351321, fax +39 0832 228794 Email: v.denuzzo@cdshotels.it Contact person: Valentina De Nuzzo, Mice Dept.

typical of Puglia, with a balanced mix of culture, relaxation, entertainment and fun that values every aspect of the hospitality industry. An extensive range of facilities to cater for the most discerning clients and transform every moment into an unforgettable experience, to enjoy to the full. Besides a bespoke welcome, stateof-the-art wellness centres and expert, professional staff, the group’s resorts can organise catering services, including themed dinners, conference rooms, business events as well as complementary

★★★★

PIETRABLU RESORT & SPA

★★★★

www.cdshotels.it

the Pietrablu Resort & Spa is the ideal venue, with its five meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 650 persons, three restaurants and spacious outdoor areas for displays and activities. The stunning outdoor areas are also the ideal setting for gala dinners and receptions in superb style. To make the most of all areas and organise a truly impeccable event from all points of view, the resort also provides qualified technical service, a business office, secretarial staff, and equipment assembly/disassembly. CDSHotels focus for the Mice industry also includes important promotional activities overseen leisure activities, including excursions, tournaments and sports. In particular, two of the groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s resorts offer a prompt, professional service to meet the most wide-ranging needs of the meetings and events industry.

Corporate events and large conventions are second nature to the Riva Marina Resort, with its congress centre featuring nine rooms, seating for 16 to 900 people, spacious indoor and outdoor areas for displays and group events, as well as gala dinners and stylish coffee breaks. All rooms are naturally lit and equipped with indoor sound systems, overhead projectors, mega screens, video projectors, PCs, laser arrows, fixed and wireless microphones, broad band wi-fi and air conditioning. Facilities are complemented by an elegant 1,000 square metre outdoor foyer and a large open square next to the hall, while aperitifs, welcome drinks and buffets can all be served in an attractive roof garden on the first floor. For corporate groups and glamorous events right by the sea, by the group in recent years: from an internet presence to participation in leading trade shows and involvement in industry journals. Promotion and visibility will be stepped up in view of Expo 2015, with a special focus on portals dedicated to this international event.

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EXTRAORDINARY MOMENTS IN PUGLIA

Savelletri di Fasano (Brindisi) Puglia - Italy For information and reservations T: +39 080-225-50-00, Mail: info@sandomenicohotels.com www.sandomenicohotels.com

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www.sandomenicohotels.com

In pursuit of the past hotel chains

With strong ties in the local area but an international mind-set, the San Domenico Hotels Group brings exclusive offers and services to traditional locations, for a contemporary take on the Mice industry Typical 16th-century farmhouses, historical towns with all the charm of the real Puglia, sports facilities, outdoor areas, a golf club and even a historical residence in England. The San Domenico Hotels Group offers all this and is a perfect partner for all-round tourism with diverse yet detailed packages, that are fully comprehensive but focused on every single need, with both historical and contemporary sites in superb venues.

The setting of a fortified farmhouse – A watchtower silhouetted against a blue sky tells visitors they have arrived at the right place – the Masseria San Domenico at Savelletri di Fasano in the Brindisi area – ready to welcome guests to a unique destination, at this five-star (L) resort established in 1996 after major restoration works on the 16th-century farmhouse. A welcome in grand style and a fabulous atmosphere accompany guests throughout the resort, with its spacious interiors and stellar vault ceilings, elegant furnishings and water as its underlying theme. A dip into Italy’s past, and a place that also values the present, the resort welcomes business guests with two meeting rooms to accommodate 15 to 150 people, equipped with the latest-generation technologies. Events, meetings and business activities can all be turned into truly magical moments thanks to the high standards of the outdoor

areas, the stunning salt-water pool with natural-rock surround, the unspoilt olive grove, private beach and spa with spacious Technogym fitness centre. To relax after an intense working day, guests can regenerate playing sport just a few kilometres away. The San Domenico Golf Club, which was built in 2001 and has always been under the ownership of the Group, is one of Italy’s best golf clubs, combining a splendid course covering 6,300 metres with a unique panorama

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commanding breathtaking views of the intense blue of the Mediterranean sea.

★★★★★

hotel chains

On the site of an ancient Roman town – At Savelletri di Fasano, just a short distance away from the Golf Club, stands the 18th-century Masseria Cimino, built near the sea and containing archaeological excavations from the ancient Roman town of Egnatia, dating back to the 4th century BC. Surrounded by kitchen gardens and centuries-old olive groves, the site was once a large agricultural estate for farming the fields and storing produce. In 2005, the estate was fully restored, keeping its original structure and architectural features, along with the original materials, shapes and colours. Today it is the location of the exclusive Guest House of the San BORGO EGNAZIA Maximum number of meeting rooms: 3 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 180 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 220 Sleeping rooms: 183 Nearest Airport: Brindisi Brand affiliations: Leading Hotels of the World Address: Savelletri di Fasano, Fasano (Br) Contact details: ph +39 080 2255000 Email: info@borgoegnazia.com Contact person: antonia.guglielmi@borgoegnazia.com

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Domenico Golf Club. Borgo Egnazia is another stunning venue and an example of a more authentic Puglia, untouched by the boom in the popularity of this area over the last few years. A splendid location, blending history and memory, a new idea of hospitality offering extensive bespoke services for the Mice industry plus spaces which are perfect for the most complex of requirements. State-of-the-art technology features in congress rooms that are practical and ideal for organising business events,

without forgetting more unconventional areas that seamlessly match the professional world with tradition, offering a wide-ranging gourmet cuisine, different types of guest rooms and creative teambuilding activities. The site has seven congress rooms with a capacity of 590 people; the main room with theatre layout has a maximum capacity of 230 people. Microphones, video projectors, complimentary high-speed wi-fi and fax are just some of the additional services on offer. The site has 183 guest rooms, with 31 suites and 77 junior suites. Leisure and team building activities, relaxation and sport are all offered in a unique mix of the highest standards. In particular, Borgo Egnazia offers its guests a fully customised experience, with a local advisor on hand to suggest solutions, to cater for client’s needs and the event’s purpose, such as programmes to discover the local area, authentic tours off the beaten track, and team building and leisure activities in contact with nature.

hotel chains

THE DESTINATION ITALY – APULIA

time in one of the world’s most vibrant and dynamic capitals. Quality is the underlying theme of all the Group’s sites, with an attention to guests that is an absolute priority. The Expo 2015 in Milan represents a unique occasion for discovering Apulia and the San Domenico Hotels properties: a vibrant region where authenticity, nature, art and culture match in a perfect way with the truly upscale and yet warm hospitality touch of San Domenico Hotels .

Not just Apulia – The San Domenico Hotels Group not only operates in Apulia, but also has an international dimension, with its San Domenico House in Chelsea, London. The historical residence furnished with style and charm is perfect for spending a fantastic

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Tel. (+39) 080 543 09 07 Fax (+39) 080 543 16 62 una.regina@unahotels.it www.unahotelreginabari.it

THE DESTINATION ITALY – APULIA

NOICÀTTARO (BA) – www.unahotelreginabari.it

hotels

A city resort with a business vocation With a thoroughly Italian style and a mix of art and hospitality, the Una Hotel Regina is an excellent international choice for the Mice industry in a genuine part of Apulia

Some of the rooms are naturally lit – Comfortable foyers can be used to organise refreshment and coffee breaks and host all welcome and secretarial services.

The spacious outdoor areas are ideal for activities such as team building, cocktails and exhibitions.

A staff of expert professionals are on hand to find the best solutions for every client’s needs and provide support during every stage of the organisation.

UNAHOTELREGINA NOICATTARO (BA) Maximum number of meeting rooms: 12 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 700 (theatre) Main meeting room area (sq mt): 700 Sleeping rooms: 100 Nearest Airport: Karol Wojtyla, Bari (30 km) Brand affiliations: Una Hotels and Resorts Address: S.p. 57 Torre a Mare-Noicattaro (Ba) Contact details: Ph. +39 080 5430907 Fax +39 080 5431662 Email: una.regina@unahotels.it Contact person: Rita Mastrolonardo, Congress Manager email: r.mastrolonardo@unahotels.it

The hotel has a spacious car park for up to 250 cars and four lorries. The hotel also has a spa, with a 500 square-metre wet area entirely in stone and partially inside three traditional trulli, along with a pool, Kneipp walkway on river stones, colour therapy/aromatherapy showers, sauna and steam bath, relaxation areas with heated stone chaise lounges and individual whirlpools.

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★★★★

Una Hotel Regina is closely linked to the local area but attuned to the needs of international markets too. The hotel has successfully cultivated its vocation for the Mice and leisure segments, redefining a time-honoured tradition of hospitality based on an innovative concept that integrates the spirit of the place with the modern facilities of a resort that is always on trend. The ultra-new city resort, based on an architectural style typical of Pugliese villages, is located close to Bari and the sea.

The Una Hotel Regina offers a whole host of solutions for successful meetings and events. It boasts 12 meeting rooms, with a capacity of five to 700 people, all with independent entrance, automated sound and light controls, air conditioning, screen, video projector, stationery kits and high speed internet connection.

A modern All inclusive offer inside the natural park of Ugento Directly on the beach Relax under the olive trees Iberotel spa and wellness oasis Largest pool landscape of Southern Italy Relax and comfort at the tranquility of our pine forest 33 all inclusive activities for adults and children Treetop adventure courses, Dragon Boats, Eco Golf Academy, Adventure Golf Personalized Antistress Program Ideal for events, meetings, incentives and team building.

Your exclusive all inclusive antistress resort in Southern Italy

Contact us for your tailor made offer !

www.iberotelapulia.com Iberotel Apulia - Via Vicinale Fontanelle - 73059 Marina di Ugento (LE) T +39 0833 931002 - F +39 0833 933646 - e-mail: info@iberotelapulia.com

THE DESTINATION ITALY – APULIA

MARINA DI UGENTO (LE) – www.iberotelapulia.com

A culture of wellness

★★★★

IBEROTEL APULIA ANTISTRESS RESORT Maximum number of meeting rooms: 6 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 300 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 240 Sleeping rooms: 333 Nearest Airport: Brindisi (120 km) Brand affiliations: Iberotel Address: Via Vicinale Fontanelle 73059, Marina di Ugento (Le) Contact details: Ph +39 0833 931002 Fax +39 0833 933646 Email: info@iberotelapulia.com mice@iberotelapulia.com Contact person: lnes Ferilli, Mice Coordinator

Situated in the Salento area, an exclusive eco-resort, with a winning mix of wellness and ecology, for events with a powerful relaxing effect: it is the Iberotel Apulia

hotels

The cordiality and warmth of Apulia come to the fore in a unique location, that combines a stylish contemporary touch with the natural splendour of a stunning area and high-level facilities and technological services.

The Iberotel Apulia is an elegant, fourstar resort, located on the Ionian sea, at Marina di Ugento, in the very heart of the Salento area.

Excellence is a distinctive feature of this peaceful haven of wellbeing – an ideal location for meetings, incentive packages and congresses. Calm, quiet spacious areas, in a stylish and elegant setting where guests can enjoy the utmost in comfort while respecting all the natural

splendours of the location.

The resort has always been committed to the environment, because ecology and the protection of resources are key features of all the hotel’s activities, at this venue with 333 guest rooms including four suites, with terrace or balcony commanding superb views of the gardens.

Along with customary business services and equipment, the Iberotel Apulia offers an exclusive cuisine, a wide range of wellness and sports programmes, and above all peace of mind for guests to enjoy in outdoor areas that are truly exclusive, including the multi-functional, open air amphitheatre - an original and innovative venue for hosting unforgettable events, as well as the pools and gardens, perfect for receptions, presentations and gala evenings, plus the more traditional, naturally lit conference room overlooking the gardens, with a floor surface of 240 square metres and a capacity of up to 320 people.

In line with the theme of Expo 2015, “Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life”, this Pugliese resort is also focusing on healthy, sustainable nutrition, and on the quality of a genuine cuisine, using local produce, for a perfect mix of nature, health and taste.

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – APULIA

OSTUNI MARINA (BR) – www.masseriasantalucia.it

hotels

The essential nature of wellness Comfort, charm, taste and culture are the legacy of a great history, of a past that is revisited today at a contemporary destination of great beauty GRAND HOTEL MASSERIA SANTA LUCIA Maximum number of meeting rooms: 12 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 1,300 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 1,200 Sleeping rooms: 131 Nearest Airport: Brindisi (20 km) Address: S.S. 379 Bari-Brindisi, exit Costa Merlata 72017 - Ostuni Marina (Br) Contact details: Ph +39 0831 356111 Fax +39 0831 304090 Email: info@masseriasantalucia.it Contact person: Bartolomeo D’Amico e-mail direzione@masseriasantalucia.it

video projectors, wireless microphones and overhead projectors) and offering numerous complementary services (secretarial and typing service, technical lighting and sound management). The extraordinary heritage of the area where the hotel is located is perfect for an optimal organisation of free time and for comprehensive bespoke congress programmes.

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★★★★

Traditional Pugliese farmhouses (known as “masseria”) are rarely built nowadays. However successful restoration works, that have been on the increase in the last few years, have helped to conserve the tradition and typical features of these buildings, updating their interiors and functional destinations, which are nearly always for the hospitality industry. And this is true of the Grand Hotel Masseria Santa Lucia, inaugurated in 1992 at Ostuni, after a complex restoration project that maintained the existing structure which today houses the hall, reception area, bar and restaurant dining room, expanding it to accommodate new wings for the guest rooms. Standing in grounds close to the Adriatic sea, the hotel offers its guests a relaxing, peaceful stay, in the 132 guest rooms with their stylish, exclusive furnishings, and in communal areas such as the garden patio, hall and terrace with sea view, the splendid pool, private beach, tennis and five-a-side football courts, restaurant, reception rooms, wellness centre and gym, as well as the congress centre. A focus on the meeting industry is one of the strong points of the Grand Hotel Masseria Santa Lucia, which has attractive rooms and comfortable, welcoming, covered outdoor areas for congress attendants and guests on business. The hotel has a total capacity of 1,200 people, with rooms that can accommodate from 10 to 1,000, fitted out with all modern technological equipment (wi-fi, digital

hotels

THE DESTINATION ITALY – APULIA

OSTUNI (BR) – www.hotelmontesarago.it

Modernity with a view

A relaxing atmosphere and a modern conference centre make the Hotel Monte Sarago the perfect location to host an event in Apulia, even in the year of Expo 2015. In one of the most beautiful Apulian corners, it is just minutes from Ostuni.

The white city, the name that best describes the charming old Apulian centre with its traditional limestone houses, is the backdrop to this four-star establishment. Although it was only built recently, it has established itself as a popular conference venue in a short time. Event organisers have access to a large meeting room that can accommodate up to 230 comfortably seated people, in addition to another smaller meeting room, which is useful for business meetings of up to 40 people, and

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HOTEL MONTE SARAGO Maximum number of meeting rooms: 2 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 230 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 270 Sleeping rooms: 40 Nearest Airport: Brindisi (30 km) Address: Corso Mazzini, 233 72017 - Ostuni (Br) Contact details: Ph +39 0831 334470 Fax +39 0831 306493 E-mail: info@hotelmontesarago.it Contact person: Oronzo Sasso E-mail: direzione@hotelmontesarago.it

two recently added rooms with 50 and 10 seats respectively.

The 700-square-metre business area is equipped with the most innovative audiovisual facilities and the latest technological equipment: the free wi-fi

++++

It overlooks Ostuni, the white city of Apulia, embracing its popular beaches: the Hotel Monte Sarago will amaze you with its beautiful surroundings and seduce you with the efficiency and modernity of its spaces

covers the whole area; microphones and amplifiers have Dolby surround sound; the projector in the ceiling projects images onto a huge screen and there are also laser pointers and flip charts available.

Furthermore, experienced staff is always on hand to help clients in all the phases of the event, from technical choices to organisation, as well as planning all the post-congress activities.

Panorama and wellbeing – The four-star hotel is constantly renewed and recently the capacity has also been expanded with the addition of 10 new villas to offer the best in tranquillity and autonomy, guaranteed also by the amazing views. The

modern and attractive design of the villas is in keeping with that of the 40 rooms, divided into several types: standard, standard with a view and suites.

There are three suites: the Junior, a 30-square-metre suite with two panoramic terraces; the Suite Royal Blue, divided into three rooms, which includes a private spa; and the most prestigious of all, the Suite White Ostuni, which, in addition to a private spa, has a rooftop terrace with an incredible view of the white city.

The Hotel Monte Sarago is also environmentally friendly, thanks to the selection of the latest generation systems and certified materials that reduce the consumption of water and electricity in the rooms and that complement the green approach of the hotel, which promotes initiatives such as the reduction of waste products.

The contemporary style of the hotel can also be seen in the classic and elegant furnishings that characterise the public spaces, and that are well matched to the technological choices and the use of modern materials.

Outside the building, there are many spots from which you can admire the views of the local area. At the highest point, on top of the hill, suspended over rocks that have been softened by the wind, there is a beautiful swimming pool with incredible views, ideal for cooling off from the summer heat, perhaps after a day spent working in the convention centre.

Events in the hotel – Particular attention is paid to the cuisine at the Hotel Monte Sarago, starting with an abundant and colourful breakfast, full of genuine, seasonal produce. The L’Opificio restaurant, a paradise of perfumes made from local produce, from vegetables to seafood, allows you to enjoy the best of Mediterranean cuisine combined with a selection of fine Italian wines and, of course, Apulia’s red and rosé Doc wines. In the warmer months of the year, dinner and drinks can be ordered at the Bar Terrazza, a fantastic roof garden. An elegant and refined place, it is ideal for drinking a cool drink at lunchtime or a cocktail at sunset and for reading a good book, accompanied by the warmth of a glass of wine and good music. However, it is also an ideal place for organising business meetings, elegant appetizers and special events, as well as elegant dinners, pampered by the expert barman’s specialities and delicacies prepared by our chef. All this while enveloped in a warm lounge atmosphere.

Since the hotel and residential complex are located in a strategic position in relation to the old town and the sea, albeit with the privilege of being far from the turmoil of the cars and people typical of tourist destinations, guests can reach the medieval village, all the local night-life and the famous beaches of Marina di Ostuni in five minutes on the shuttle bus provided by the hotel.

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hotels

THE DESTINATION ITALY – APULIA

convention centres

THE DESTINATION ITALY – APULIA

CORATO (BA) – www.cortebracco.it

Charme and business Services of excellence for your meeting in an extraordinary itinerary, in the heart of Apulia: art, nature and food Just a few kilometres from Bari airport, in the land of the imposing castles built by Frederick II and the impressive Romanesque cathedrals of the Apulia, the elegant and evocative complex of Corte Bracco dei Germani is unique in offering different charming environments and gardens for hosting events, meetings, conferences, wedding receptions, art exhibition, concerts and fashion shows.

Corte Bracco dei Germani consists of two separate but communicating venues: the ancient Monastery, fruit of the renovation of an 18th century convent surrounded by a lush Mediterranean garden, and the Resort, the embodiment of a new modern concept of open space, where atmosphere and design combine in a spectacular garden of palm trees and water features. The Monastery and the Resort may be combined for large events and can host up to 1,000 guests.

There are large parking areas and six halls of different sizes that can be laid out to suit specific requirements and accommodate from 20 to 600 guests. These are all equipped with the latest technologies, which can be adapted to meet the communication requirements of guests during the event.

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CORTE BRACCO DEI GERMANI Maximum number of meeting rooms: 6 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 600 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 480 Nearest Airport: Karol Wojtyla, Bari (35 km) Address: S.P. 2 Km 6,800 70033 Corato (Ba) Contact details: Ph +39 080 8722698 – +39 080 8725344 – Fax +39 080 3580056 Email: info@cortebracco.it Contact person: Elisabetta Sbisà Congress Manager, Owner elisabetta.sbisa@cortebracco.it

Food art: creativity and healthy cuisine – Whether you are setting up the meeting, assigning it to someone else, or hiring a meeting planner, ensure that your choice of food reflects the level of concern that your business guests deserve.

Serving superb food during breaks and mealtimes will add a special flavour

to the meeting and bring a high-impact touch of flair to all kinds of events.

At Corte Bracco dei Germani, great care is dedicated to banqueting, which combine tradition and innovation. The excellent quality Mediterranean cuisine and highly qualified staff are the strengths of the location. The cuisine is creative, tasty, seasonal, innovative and in line with the tradition of excellent quality. Corte Bracco has distinguished itself over the years for its creativity and refinement, combining recipes from regional Italian tradition with hints of ethnic taste in a fusion of flavours. It has always sought new products and strives to develop new tastes, focusing on the quality of its cuisine and the craftsmanship with which its chefs lovingly create their menus.

The utmost attention paid to detail and the high levels of technical and logistic skills allow to serve large numbers of guests in a very short time, providing quality and a superior service.

Services with that little bit “extra” – The winning advantage of a location that hosts events is the quality of the logistic and added value services it provides, the so-called “services of excellence”, which can essentially be divided into two types: standardised, but truly excellent services, and real tailor-made services, which are clearly superior.

Those who have been guests at this fine Apulian location can confirm that Corte Bracco is a charming, stylish venue, at the same time modern and well-equipped, with all the technical and logistic services required to meet a wide range of diverse requirements; additionally, it has an extremely professional staff, including both the dedicated conference team and the banqueting personnel. These are experts in managing unexpected issues, resolving any problems that may arise in a speedy efficient manner and meeting all the requests that may be forwarded by customers, including the most unexpected ones.

Corte Bracco can always be adapted to meet the requirements of the situation in hand, its context and the demands of the market. By following the latest innovations and trends and developing customised menus and layouts, designed to create a special, evocative atmosphere, the staff adds a touch of originality and good taste to every challenge.

The beauty and elegance of the location, the professionalism of the staff, the continuous quest for quality, together with creativity, and impeccable service provided, have all rendered Corte Bracco dei Germani one of the most important Mice and banqueting venues in the Apulia, and a flagship venue for top Mediterranean cuisine at a national and international level.

The Corte Bracco experience: discovering Apulia in an international context.

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convention centres

THE DESTINATION ITALY – APULIA

THE DESTINATION ITALY – CALABRIA

Calabria: spicy and untouched The local cuisine uses a lot of chilli peppers and the flavours match the wild beauty of an area that has still not joined in the mass tourism circuits: the long Calabria region has kilometres of beaches (overlooking the Ionian and Adriatic seas) and original resources for the Mice sector

Above Morano Calabro, Below right Tropea; left one of the two famous Riace bronzes

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A harsh and mysterious land, secluded and shy: this is how Calabria appears at first. However, nothing could be more wrong: the welcoming people, the majesty of the landscapes and the splendour of the historical legacies unfold before the eyes of the visitor without secrets, ready to wrap him up in emotions. The hinterland is a magical strip where the beauty of protected parks (both the Sila and Pollino ones: two real treasures for the meetings industry in search of unusual activities) compete with the high mountains, dotted with villages that are suspended in time (where ancient traditions linked to unique cultures survive today: an incentive in the Albanian area of origin or in the Hellenistic are, for instance a holds pleasant surprises), castles, medieval fortresses and vibrant cities, attentive to cultural trends and jealous of their treasures. The two seas, the Tyrrhenian and Ionian, “hold in” so much natural exuberance and offer incredibly transparent waters, with tropical shades – and temperatures – and white beaches. Among the most exclusive areas along the Tyrrhenian coast are: Tropea, with its beautiful old town, a maze of narrow streets that come alive in the summer evenings, which seems to throw itself into the turquoise sea; Capo Vaticano, where sand and rocks compete in a succession of beaches and coves; Palmi, with beautiful cliffs; and Bagnara. Meanwhile, on the Ionian coast, there are: Soverato, with its transparent waters; Roccella Ionica, a delightful village clinging to a rocky outcrop and adorned with noble palaces; and Isola di Capo Rizzuto, with its scenic Aragonese castle jutting into the sea.

And then there are the cities, each with its own character, starting from Reggio Calabria, which is worth visiting if only to admire the famous Riace bronzes, two splendid Magna Graecian statues found on the sea bed in front of Riace in 1972.

THE DESTINATION ITALY – BASILICATA

Basilicata: a fairy-tail region Basilicata is a mysterious region, whose rare primordial beauty is charming, with beautiful landscapes dotted with stone cathedrals (the Lucan Dolomites), picturesque villages, vibrant coasts and even a city, Matera, (almost) entirely carved into the rock There is much to be discovered in Basilicata. Wedged between the major protagonists of southern Italian tourism (Apulia, Campania and Calabria), it has hills as far as the eye can see, wild woods, deep canyons carved by impetuous streams and mountainous reliefs (the Lucan Dolomites), which form suggestive totems and natural dolmens. In the shade of these mountains, there are picturesque villages wrapped tightly around cathedrals and castles (take for example the turreted castle of Morra, which dominates the landscape from on top of a cliff in Valsinni, reminding us of the feudal Basilicata that goes back to time immemorial). It is not surprising that such a rich and particular area was discovered, even before tourism, by the powerful film industry, which is always looking for evocative sets and unique atmospheres (in this regard, the ghost town of Craco, now immortalised in numerous films, is well worth a visit).

The beautiful pearl, near the border with Apulia, is Matera, the city of stones, a World Heritage Site since 1993. It is difficult to describe the picturesque jumble of houses and narrow streets, palaces embedded into the rock and stairways that seem to be balanced on the natural amphitheatre formed by the Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso. There are caves that were once used as dwellings and rudimentary churches – some of which have been deconsecrated and are now used for meetings and conferences. There are also gorges, arches, balconies that are the roofs of the houses below, bell towers and many decorations, including mysterious symbols carved into the stone – all this in an enchanting uniform colour. For the meetings industry and lovers of archaeology, Basilicata puts its best ancient foot forward: the site of Metaponto, on the Ionian Sea, contains evocative Magna Graecia remains, including the magnificent Doric columns of the Temple of Hera, dating back to 570 BC. Finally, Mice sector operators looking for sea and sophistication will not be disappointed by Basilicata: Maratea is the flagship resort of a region that, despite having just a few kilometres of coastline, offers pearls of rare beauty. It has been dubbed the “city of the 44 churches” because of the many churches, chapels and monasteries that adorn it. Maratea also boasts an absolutely spectacular coastline, a succession of inlets and coves, rocks and shoals, lapped by a crystal clear sea.

Above Matera, a World Heritage Site since 1993.

Below the coast and the site of Metaponto

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125 rooms - Conference Center up to 700 participants - Venus Spa 1500 mq

Matera

Via Germania snc - Borgo Venusio MATERA Tel.: +39 0835 215 111 - 703 Fax: +39 0835 259025 eventi.matera@hilton.com matera.hgi.com Hilton Garden In Matera

hotels

THE DESTINATION ITALY – BASILICATA

MATERA – www.matera.hgi.com

Pleasant discoveries

For Expo 2015, a destination such as Matera – which is a Unesco World Heritage Site with its famous “Sassi”, as well as the 2019 European Capital of Culture – combined with a stylish, quality venue such as the Garden Inn Matera, of the prestigious Hilton Worldwide Group, is undoubtedly an appealing idea for unforgettable meetings, incentive events and product launches.

With its hilltop location in the region of Basilicata, in beautiful grounds just minutes from the centre, the Hilton Garden Inn Matera offers high quality standards, with 125 well-appointed guest rooms, of which 60 with balcony, and three suites. The congress centre has four naturally lit meeting rooms, with direct access for unloading/loading equipment, with a capacity of

HILTON GARDEN INN MATERA

★★★★

A destination where culture and food have a long tradition. A location where every event stands out for its quality and international appeal. The Hilton Garden Inn at Matera is a perfect way to surprise in style

Maximum number of meeting rooms: 4 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 350 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 400 Sleeping rooms: 125 Nearest Airport: Karol Wojtyła, Bari-Palese (55 km) Brand affiliations: Hilton Garden Inn Address: Via Germania, snc – Borgo Venusio 75100 Matera Contact details: Ph +39 0835 215 111 – 703 Fax +39 0835 259025 Email: info.matera@hilton.com eventi.matera@hilton.com Contact person: Rosa Lentini Director of Sales email: rosa.lentini@hilton.com

700 people. Besides multi-lingual staff and simultaneous interpreting, services include the latest technological equipment for teleconferencing, projectors, sound, recording and direction systems, as well as an elegant foyer with ample display area, wardrobe and reception area, plus exclusive coffee break and business lunch areas. The hotel has five dining rooms, for private dinners and banquets, with a capacity from 40 guests (the Vip lounge) to up to 300 (the Venusio Gardens), plus the new “La Terrazza”, with sunroof, for striking poolside events for up to 200 guests. Themed culinary events include dinners serving local dishes, with local artisans attending. The hotel’s exclusive amenities also include the panoramic Benessere Venus Spa Fitness centre, a true haven of wellbeing and regeneration.

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Excellence ² ² ² ² ²

Sicily

Messina

PALERMO Trapani Enna

Catania

Caltanissetta Agrigento

Siracusa Ragusa

The destination Ideas for events Team building The regional offer

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – SICILY

Sicily: the land of legends Sicily has a thousand different faces, a thousand fascinating ideas that make it a unique treasure trove.

And Mice can take full advantage of those resources and tips for unforgettable events where success is guaranteed

Above the wonderful sea of the Aeolian Islands.

Below the splendid ruins of Selinunte

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Palermo is one of those places that you don’t forget easily: even the contrasts scattered all across the fabric of the city just seem to add a special charm. A post-congress activity here can’t help but take in all the atmospheres, heading out to nearby Monreale (with its splendid Arab/Norman cathedral), Mondello (a “parlour with a sea view” for the inhabitants of Palermo) and, just a bit further away, the magnificent coastal village of Cefalù. Palermo’s “loud” counterpart is Catania, the city of the volcano; it’s dominated by Etna, that continues to erupt spectacularly. A worldly air is to be found along the coast, at Taormina – a real international meeting place for Vips and celebrities. But Sicily is also synonymous with the Baroque style, that reached its sublime heights in the triangle formed by Ragusa, Noto and Modica; these cities are protected by Unesco because of their incomparable beauty. Not far away, stunning Siracusa combines an important Greek patrimony with Norman, Gothic/Catalan and Baroque legacies. And yet more Unesco sites further along the southern coastline: the incredible Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, which alone is worth an incentive trip to Sicily. And then Selinunte, whose splendid ruins are set in a spectacular position overlooking the turquoise waters of the sea. Heading west, you come to Trapani and Marsala set in a sublunar land of salt pans and windmills, before turning northwards to the medieval Erice and San Vito lo Capo. This area, with its Caribbean sea, is the gateway to the wonderful Zingaro natural reserve. Then Scopello, whose old tuna fishery plant is now a striking location for events. And finally, we can’t forget the splendid little islands scattered around the “main island”: the magnificent Aeolian Islands (seven islands all so different from each other that each of them is worth a visit; seven resources that provide Mice with ideas for memorable activities, from a trip to the volcanoes to bathing in the sulphurous muds of a natural spa), the Aegadian Islands (three jewels set in a turquoise sea) and not forgetting the beautiful Ustica, Pantelleria, Linosa and Lampedusa.

THE DESTINATION ITALY – SICILY

Ideas for events which are…

BAROQUE > A TRIP TO THE UNESCO HERITAGE OF NOTO, MODICA AND RAGUSA The south-eastern tip of Sicily is famous as the “Baroque triangle”, boasting true architectural treasures and, in particular, three gems: Noto, Modica and Ragusa, alluring towns with honey-coloured buildings, spectacular domes, elaborate pinnacles and narrow, sunny lanes.

OENOLOGICAL > DISCOVER THE SICILIAN WINE ROUTES Twelve wine roads criss-cross this splendid island, allowing you not only to explore the region but also to taste full-bodied wines like Nero d’Avola, lively ones like Etna Rosso, sweet wines such as Zibibbo, Malvasia and Passito, or strong and sweet like Marsala.

MUDDY > A MUD THERAPY SESSION IN THE OPEN AIR The fumaroles of the Aeolian island Vulcano produce true natural spas, embedded between the black rock and the turquoise sea, where you can enjoy a little relaxation and a mud therapy session. It seems that the island’s sulphureous mud is excellent for the skin.

GASTRONOMICAL > TASTING STREET FOOD IN THE LOCAL MARKETS A trip around the Sicilian streets and markets brings you into contact with the region’s local culinary delights: pani ca’ meusa (a delicious sandwich filled with fried spleen), stigghiole (lamb intestines on skewers), panelle (chickpea flour fritters), arancini di riso (rice balls), ‘u mussu (chopped calf’s gristle with onions) and boiled octopus. A little tip: before tasting these specialities, learn to pronounce their names... in Sicilian of course!

VOLCANIC > STUDY THE SECRETS OF ETNA WITH THE VOLCANOLOGISTS The scenic Etna is loved and yet feared. It dominates the life of Catania’s residents, who are used to living with its caprices and fiery snorts. You can climb its slopes in the company of expert volcanologists, to see first-hand the eruptive phenomena, lava flow and magma rock formation.

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THE DESTINATION ITALY – SICILY

… and team building Extreme Mice activities for a Sicilian thrill: extremely adventurous, extremely adrenalin-pumping, or extremely... tasty!

For unforgettable (Sicilian) experencies ALL IN ONE DAY For lovers of everything extreme, Sicily is one of the very few Italian regions that lets you go skiing and scuba diving in the same day: thanks to its year-round mild climate and the presence of numerous high mountains, you can find snowy slopes for skiing and snowboarding (perhaps on Etna itself) and then get out your oxygen cylinder and flippers for a marvellous dive into the sparkling – and never too cold – waters of the Mediterranean.

LIKE 007 Already done the rafting, quad and extreme trekking? In Sicily you can organise an adventure worthy of the bravest of secret agents – James Bond. To begin with, you’ll be parachuted with an instructor from a helicopter at a height of 4,000 metres over the slopes of smoking Etna, with the splendid Gulf of Taormina as your backdrop.

As soon as you touch the ground, you’ll have just enough time to choose your weapons from a well-stocked arsenal, and camouflage yourself, before shooting breaks out in the nearby woods: it’s Soft Air time! The “Sicilian” touch? Instead of concentrating everything on Etna, the alternative is to head towards world-renowned Corleone, setting the conflict amid the refuges and crevasses used in the past as hiding places by the mafia clans.

CANNOLI, SLUSH PUPPIES & CO. A classic team-building activity, the cookery school, is particularly absorbing and tasty in Sicily if it’s based on cakes and pastries: almond paste, ricotta, marzipan and candied fruit are the ingredients for making cannoli and cassate, while you’ll need coffee, ice, almond milk and lemon for the smooth slush puppies. That extra idea? Preparing a whole lunch, from sarde beccafico (stuffed, baked sardines) to pasta alla Norma (pasta with aubergine, tomatoes, ricotta and basil), from aubergines prepared in a thousand different ways to the almond sweets: a jury will decide the best dishes, which the whole group can then enjoy together.

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PALERMO – www.confindustriasicilia.it – www.sicilytasting.it

The three different food and wine itineraries within the island, using slow methods of transport, create a journey in time and space through the most authentic Mediterranean cultural tradition Food and flavours will be the protagonists of the upcoming World Fair: to enhance its excellent products and allow the international audience to experience its culinary identity directly, Sicily has designed a project that puts the emphasis on the food and wine heritage of the island, the culture of local, sustainable food and the traditions of the regional manufacturers. «The project has been created, alongside those from other Italian regions, as part of “Dall’Expo ai territori” (From Expo to the Local Areas) CONFINDUSTRIA SICILIA CONTACTS Via A. Volta, 44 90133 Palermo contact details: Ph +39 091 581100 +39 091 581319; fax +39 091 323982 email: info@confindustriasicilia.it turismo@confindustriasicilia.it

and is aimed at the delegates who will participate in Expo 2015, and all those who are interested in networking with Sicilian producers» explains Ornella Laneri, Chairman of Confindustria Sicily Hotels and Tourism. «It is an immersive journey that takes advantage of both direct experience through railway routes, many of which have fallen into disuse, and digital media and mobile apps. The delegates are offered a comprehensive package of tailored initiatives, inviting them to visit Sicily to discover the numerous typical gastronomic specialities that will be presented at a series of roadhouses. The stay on the island will be a useful b2b opportunity, while discovering everything that the area has to offer at the same time. The project also includes storytelling: female actresses and writers will tell stories and explain the traditions linked to the flavours of Sicily. It is a significant choice given the close relationship that exists between Expo 2015 and the figure of the woman thanks to “Women for Expo”. «Sicily Tasting Journey-Food and Wine Itineraries in Sicily will launch at the same time as the opening of Expo 2015, but our goal – adds Ornella Laneri – is to make the project available to all new travellers who wish to fully experience the emotions that Sicily can provoke». The itineraries will also be a unique proposal for unforgettable incentives and events.

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institutions

Discover the tastes of Sicily during Expo 2015

In Sicily for Holiday or for Business?

GHS Hotels is the right solution.

+39 091 6281111

THE DESTINATION ITALY – SICILY

PALERMO – www.ghshotels.it

Ghs Hotels is a functional, competitive, constantly evolving partner, which always meets clients’ needs. Quality, courtesy and efficiency for turnkey events

★★★★

Ghs Hotels is a Sicilian group known for its stability and determination in the international tourist industry for the last 20 years. Continually expanding, the group has three, four-star hotels all situated in the centre of Palermo – the Astoria Palace Hotel, the Hotel Garibaldi and the Hotel Vecchio Borgo, with a total of over 400 rooms – offering a vast range of solutions with the highest international standards for organising meetings, congresses or any type of event.

The Astoria Palace Hotel, with its 300 guest rooms, boasts a spacious conference centre, comprising eight modular rooms located on two floors, with a capacity of over 1,000 people; a secretarial desk on each floor, display areas, control room and latest-generation equipment are also available. Four dining rooms and large areas next to the rooms ensure seamlessly organised business breakfasts, brunches, coffee breaks and gala dinners.

Professional experts in the events industry are on hand to help from the concept stage to hosting, to ensure a successful event.

The Hotel Garibaldi, situated in the city centre just a short distance away from the famous Teatro Politeama, has 71 guest rooms and

a compact, functional congress centre with four meeting rooms and spacious areas for a secretarial desk, display areas, coffee breaks and business breakfasts.

The exclusive location and on-site car park make the Hotel Garibaldi the perfect venue for business meetings with optimal logistics.

The Hotel Vecchio Borgo, with its 32 guest rooms, is an elegant hotel situated near one of Palermo’s oldest and most typical markets, in the city centre.

With their strategic locations, the Ghs Hotels are easy to reach from main motorways and have good public transport connections.

GHS HOTELS CONTACTS Via Montepellegrino, 62 90142 Palermo contact details: Ph +39 091 6281111 toll free number: 800 893344 Fax +39 091 6372178 astoria@ghshotels.it garibaldi@ghshotels.it vecchioborgo@ghshotels.it

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hotel chains

Exclusive solutions for meetings

convention centres

THE DESTINATION ITALY – SICILY

BELPASSO (CT) – www.etnafiere.it

The goal is big events ★★★★

A favoured position, versatile spaces, good quality services and specific strategies: Etnafiere brings the big events to Sicily Two pavilions (one with free area and the other pre-defined) for a total of about 7,000 square metres, plus another 2,000 outdoors. Two different solutions for hosting any type of event from a congress to a trade fair, from a road show to a gala dinner.

The idea behind Catania’s trade fair complex was to finally make it possible to organise big events in Sicily.

And it’s certainly proved a success, starting from the excellent position of the site and its good links with motorways, the airport and the city centre. Then its capacity (the free area pavilion can seat up to 2,000 people and there are 6,000 free parking spaces), and the actual quality of those spaces: both the pavilions are air-conditioned and have a refreshment area, wi-fi, fully fitted-out conference room and separate entrances for the best flexibility of use. Pioneering technological equipment and endless configuration possibilities guarantee centralised, efficient and cost-effective management to meet both current needs and the changes that can be foreseen in the organisation of any event.

Its strength lies in its client service management strategies: an internal agency and qualified staff make Etnafiere a reserved support partner for the supply of first class organised, logistical services for Mice operators who choose Sicily for their events.

Choosing Etnafiere also means choosing the Italian province with the highest concentration of Unesco sites in the whole of Sicily, ensuring the perfect blend of business and tourism.

Last but not least, the proximity to the Etnapolis shopping centre (designed by Massimiliano Fuksas) with the possibility to enjoy a fruitful shopping trip to its 100+ boutiques.

At Expo 2015, Sicily will be managing and coordinating the activities of the Bio Mediterranean Cluster. An unrepeatable chance to develop the region’s marketing and lead the ‘Sicily brand’ towards the foreign markets. Etnafiere will be ready to host specific events and exhibitions, offering options and services at special tariffs.

ETNAFIERE – CENTRO FIERISTICO E CONGRESSUALE ETNAPOLIS Maximum number of meeting rooms: Upon request Main meeting room capacity (persons): 2,000/2,500 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 2,000 Agreements with hotels Nearest Airport: International Airport Vincenzo Bellini Catania Address: C.da Valcorrente, 23 Belpasso (Ct) Italy Contact details: ph/fax +39 095 7463355 Email: info@etnafiere.it Contact person: Barbara Mirabella General Director

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Sardinia

Olbia Sassari Nuoro

TortolĂŹ Oristano Sanluri Iglesias

CAGLIARI

Carbonia

The destination Ideas for events Team building The regional offer

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Sardinia: exotic glamour Turquoise, emerald, azure. And above all, as transparent as glass: the Sardinian sea is exciting, echoed by the island’s wild hinterland, waiting to be discovered

Above the Sardinian coast.

Below left Alghero; right Stintino

The sea is the star that “steals” the show on the Sardinian stage: the variations in shade are infinite, ranging from turquoise to sky blue, from emerald green to deep navy, but always so irresistibly clear. And this is why most people, when looking to organise an event in Sardinia, focus attention on the many coastal destinations. The Costa Smeralda, “discovered” in the 1960s by Prince Karim Aga Khan, is resplendent and has become the location of choice for the international jet set, who never tire of mooring their luxurious yachts in the delightful marinas dotted along the coast; Porto Cervo is the Costa Smeralda’s elite centre, for those looking for a truly unique atmosphere and lodgings characterized by extreme elegance and refined luxury.

Continuing round to the west coast, we come to Alghero, for those who prefer to fall under the spell of the echoes of ancient Spanish rule. And then on to Villasimius in the south, with stunning secluded beaches which are a little out of the ordinary (thoughts turn to the fine white sands at Notteri, and to the pink flamingos who have chosen this as their habitat). And then onto Chia in the south, Porto Rotondo in the east, and Santa Teresa Gallura in the north, all bewitchingly beautiful.

A HINTERLAND WAITING TO BE DISCOVERED But Sardinia actually boasts a rich and multifaceted inland territory, best discovered by meandering aimlessly off the main tourist track. From the south, the ponds are most certainly worth a visit, with a delicate and unusual ecosystem just a stone’s throw from the city of Cagliari, making it perfect for post-conference activities such as bird watching or for team building close to nature.

And indeed visitors to Cagliari will be seduced by the lively Poetto promenade, with its scintillating culture and Tuvixeddu Punic legacy (this site is the largest Punic necropolis in the Mediterranean), which combine to create a compelling contrast with the ramparts and towers dotted throughout the city.

With Cagliari as a base, the surrounding area offers a range of original post-conference activities, beginning with Iglesiente, with its rich mining history: today the mines, which are no longer operational, represent a rich industrial and

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archaeological heritage, as recognised by Unesco. Visitors can take in the whole experience, during a journey from the coast, from the nearby “sugar loaf” (one of the highest cliffs in Europe) inland to the recovered mine of Rosas in Narcao (which has been transformed into a tourist village), to the spectacular ghost town of Sedda Modditzis (Gonnesa) and the incredible – and fully intact – well of Santa Barbara in Iglesias. But the area also hides a much more ancient past, as evidenced by the “nuraghe” (these structures, of mysterious origins, are considered to be the largest megalithic monuments in Europe, and in Sardinia there are around seven thousand of these still standing, one every three kilometres: Is Cadonis, the tombs of the giants at Genna Solu, the temple of Serra Abis, and the remains of the PunicPhoenician Nora are some of the most important on the island).

The west coast running towards Oristano and on to Alghero is also wild and unspoilt, with some pearls of rare beauty, such as Bosa, a picturesque medieval village whose colourful houses overlook the water, and are dominated from above by the austere Malaspina castle; or like Barumini, one of the main nuragic complexes on the island. And onwards to the Catalan city of Alghero, the capital of red coral with a bustling, lively atmosphere, which serves as the gateway to a land of yet more wide and varied appeal, perfect for Mice delegates who want to combine nature and history in a decidedly unexpected postconference tour; indeed, visitors can take a trip to the medieval town of Castelsardo, still protected by its impressive ramparts and defended by the Doria fortress, before plunging into the nature of the protected marine area just a short way away at Capo Caccia, stopping off at the Cave of Neptune, with surreal views framed by stalactites and stalagmites, marked out by the salt lake that crosses the environments, with a host of tiny inland beaches.

The north-east coast of Sardinia is certainly home to the largest concentration of pleasure resorts of international fame (in addition to the above-mentioned Porto Cervo, Santa Teresa Gallura, Porto Rotondo and Baja Sardinia). While Olbia – called the “joyful city” by the Greeks – is the nerve centre of this coast, thanks to its new modern port and airport, this stretch of Sardinia nonetheless boasts beautiful, wild bays such as Poltu Quatu, Capriccioli and Cala di Volpe, with stunning inland territories waiting to be discovered, including lunar landscapes characterized by weird and wonderful rock formations like the Bear of Palau, created by wind and salt spray erosion of the rock.

Above Palau.

Below left the marina in Porto Cervo; right Bosa

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Ideas for events which are…

MINING > A VISIT TO THE COAL MINES AT SULCIS AND IGLESIENTE Coal, but also lead, zinc and fluorite: below ground, this corner of Sardinia is rich in natural resources, and saw the birth of a thriving mining industry in the nineteenth century. Today, the mines are disused, but their historical value has been recognised, and skilful restoration has transformed the settlements (entire mining villages) into points of interest for tourists, locations which demonstrate this rare industrial and archaeological beauty. The most atmospheric are those at Monteponi, San Giovanni and Masua.

ROARING > AT THE MORES AUTODROME CIRCUIT Built about sixty kilometres from Olbia, the Mores autodrome boasts an exciting track which is perfect for amateur go-kart racing, with free practice on two wheels and safe driving courses.

TYPICAL > EVERYTHING FOLKLORE Prepare a dinner – a typical menu, from malloreddus to seadas – at an inland dairy, perhaps preceded by a course in cheese-making, and followed by a show adapted from the rich folklore of Sardinia.

WATER-BASED > TAKE PART IN A WATER SPORT PARADE Choose between sailing or dinghy trips, water skiing or banana boating, kayaks, pedal boats and even para-flying: the Sardinian waters are synonymous with exciting sports, with groups of up to two hundred people participating simultaneously in events.

WITH A VIEW > GET A HOLE IN ONE BETWEEN SKY AND SEA ON A SARDINIAN GOLF COURSE With internationally acclaimed golfing greens, Sardinia is the perfect destination for golfers from all over the world, not only due to the perfect design of the courses, but also to the beauty of the landscapes in which they are immersed: the Pevero Golf Club in Porto Cervo, for example, is cited as one of the most beautiful in the world, while the Is Molas Golf Club, in Sulcitano, is one of the few authentic Italian championship courses; meanwhile, the Is Arenas Golf & Country Club, on the Sinis peninsular, boasts incredible views.

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… and team building From sports to folklore, and legendary mysteries; Sardinia offers countless appealing leads to meeting industry representatives in search of adventures off the beaten track AMONG THE ANCIENT COASTAL TOWERS These are scattered across the island in their hundreds, protecting the entire shoreline and giving off an irresistible charm: the coastal towers, bastions of defence from days gone by, when the seas were overrun with pirates and corsairs looking for shores to plunder and valuable loot to spirit away. This very past could become the underlying theme of an exciting team-building adventure: treasure hunts, orienteering, routes between the coastal towers and whatever other ideas these menacing Saracens from the sea inspire in planners.

COUNTING (AND SHEARING) SHEEP In Sardinia, sheep shearing is one of the most gruelling tasks in the life of a shepherd; this process begins at dawn but ends with a big party around a long table, with good wine flowing freely. So why not immerse yourself in the life of a real Sardinian sheep farmer for a day? You will begin by herding the sheep and leading them into the enclosure, where the manual milking takes place.

With the milk collected, the production of cheese, ricotta and other dairy products begins, while the bravest turn their hand to the sheep shearing.

EVERYONE IN THE SADDLE The island also boasts a native horse, the Sardinian Anglo-Arab breed, from a cross between an indigenous Sardinian breed, characterised by small stature, and Arab horses, which were in turn crossed with English thoroughbreds. Breed aside, the horse has a particular importance in the culture and folklore of Sardinia, and as such, is usually present in major popular demonstrations, often with a starring role and a close relationship with its rider.

Equestrian parades, bareback rides and historical re-enactments on horseback, in fact, are quite widespread throughout the region, as well as acrobatic tests of courage and skill of both horse and rider. For those who don’t wish to push themselves quite so far, there are stables everywhere, from the inland to the coast, and the countryside is criss-crossed by horse trails, allowing riders to discover the island at a leisurely pace and to get in touch with nature. An interesting fact: on the Giara plateau and in Barbagia, horses still live in the wild.

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CAGLIARI – www.maremania.com

agencies

Go anywhere Transfers, excursions, event organisation, booking and assistance services: Maremania is the incoming operator of choice for Sardinia MAREMANIA CONTACTS Ph +39 070 2548049 Fax +39 070 2548049 transfer@maremania.com Contact person: Barbara Cubeddu (owner) Ph. +39 349 4603110

Sardinia is truly an island of wonders, a glistening pearl in the midst of the Mediterranean sea that surrounds and envelops it within its many shades of blue.

With a bewitching combination of ancient natural charm and wild, enchanting beauty, from high rocky cliffs and wide sandy beaches, coves and caves to lonely settlements and thousand-year-old traditions, tourism of all forms represents the island’s key industry. Over time, this

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has led to unrivalled service and quality, delivering maximum satisfaction to tourists visiting for business or for leisure.

Maremania has been based in Cagliari for sixteen years, offering an excellent specialized service in the incoming tourism sector in Sardinia, with a focus on transfers from airports to hotels and vice versa, event organization, meetings, conferences and incentive management, as well as hotel reservations, tours and excursions.

Maremania’s greatest strength as a business is its ability to plan all aspects of a transfer perfectly, from organising travel to meeting visitors at the airport to the porter service and transport to the hotel chosen by guests, where any unexpected situations or emergencies are seamlessly resolved thanks to the 24-hour on-call service. Extreme precision, punctuality and availability epitomise the attentive and experienced team, who will ensure your stay is a truly unforgettable experience.

Maremania boasts a fleet of leading-edge vehicles and craft from the best manufacturers in the world: cars, minibuses and buses are used for all types of transfer, while a range of pleasure boats and yachts are available to rent for sea excursions, for those who wish to discover the island’s deepest secrets.

THE DESTINATION ITALY – SARDINIA

CAGLIARI AND PORTO CERVO (OT) – www.dmcsardinia.com

agencies

Serving the Mice industry Sardinia, with its beaches, flavours and traditions is undoubtedly one of the most appreciated destinations for events and trips: with its perfect balance of fashionable locations and unspoilt areas, it is an authentic treasure trove of wonders to explore.

For everyone visiting Italy during Expo, the island is a striking, nearby location, ideal for any type of conference or for a memorable social programme. And in all these cases, it is important to be able to rely on an organisation that knows the local area perfectly and that can propose bespoke solutions for every client.

In December 2013, a partnership DMC SARDINIA CONTACTS Cagliari Office: +39 070 9177683 Porto Cervo Office: +39 0789 906049 info@dmcsardinia.com

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Expertise, creativity and professionalism to discover one of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean: DMC Sardinia is the right partner for international planners wanting to set an event in Sardinia agreement which had been taking shape for some time, was signed between Blu Wonder and Sun Events, two professional organisations in the Mice industry, who have joined forces on the market, to create the new brand DMC Sardinia, offering clients the freedom to choose any location in Sardinia for their events, congresses and incentives, with the knowledge that they are getting the best possible local support. The aim is to give every event an authentic “wow” effect, guaranteeing a personalised, multi-lingual welcome and Vip service, at every stage, from design to hosting the actual event.

With its long-term experience in creating, developing and arranging incentives, events and group tours, organising meetings, training workshops, congresses and product launches, DMC Sardinia can provide fully comprehensive advice and operational support for all event managers and meeting planners who want to organise their event in the superb setting of Sardinia.

CONNECT

Golfo Pevero - Costa Smeralda - Italy ph +39 0789.907009 fax +39 0789.92064 www.colonnapeverohotel.it booking@colonnapeverohotel.it

THE DESTINATION ITALY – SARDINIA

Plenty of novelties for Expo 2015 hotels

CHIA LAGUNA RESORT (A COMPLEX OF 4 HOTELS)

The investments of Chia Laguna Resort continue: the exclusive facilities of this Sardinian complex have been extended with two brand new suites, while the new spa services combine professionalism with wellbeing

Ph © R. Patti

Ph © R. Patti

Sardinia is always in the limelight as a destination for congress tourism.

The primary ally comes in the form of a brightly coloured landscape, crystal-clear sea and pure white beaches caressed by a gentle breeze.

Firmly rooted in that Sardinian culture that always keeps one eye on its history, and where the tradition of hospitality is ever present, Chia Laguna is a project that goes on growing because it has managed to interpret perfectly the needs and trends of business tourism in Sardinia. Chia Laguna is betting on Expo 2015, presenting the event to its guests from a new perspective based on quality, design and freedom, with first class services and tailor-made solutions.

From company convention to product launch, Chia Laguna is one of the most exclusive locations for major events in southern Sardinia.

Efficient, modern, flexible and technological, the conference centre offers seven meeting rooms within a multi-purpose area covering 1,500 square metres, able to accommodate up to 950 people. The Laguna (five-star), Spazio Oasi (four-star prestige), Village (four-star)

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Maximum number of meeting rooms: 7 Main meeting room capacity: 700 (Chia Meeting Room) Main meeting room area (sq mt): 655 Sleeping rooms: 439 Nearest Airport: Mario Mameli airport, Cagliari (54 km) Address: Viale Belvedere, loc. Chia 09010 Domus de Maria (Ca) Contact details: Ph +39 070 92393475 Fax +39 070 9230141 Email: mice@hotelchialaguna.com Contact person: Carla Cantarella (Mice Director) carla.cantarella@hotelchialaguna.com

Hotel Laguna +++++ Spazio Oasi ++++ prestige Hotel Village ++++ Hotel Baia +++

CHIA - DOMUS DE MARIA (CA) – www.chialagunaresort.com

and Baia (three-star) hotels are ready to extend a warm welcome, with a total of 439 rooms. There’s a Piazza with charming boutiques where guests can enjoy a little shopping; then there’s the tennis club, diving centre and nautical centre; wonderful beaches of fine, golden sand, and a myriad of sports. A variety of exclusive locations are to hand for aperitifs, themed evenings and gala dinners.

All-round wellness – For the 2015 season, Chia Laguna is presenting its new spa – a true temple of “wellbeing”. Built over several levels, you can choose from three different directions after entering the spa: the treatment area, the moisture area (with swimming pools and hydromassage), and the open-air relaxation area amid the essences of the Mediterranean garden.

Ideal for experiencing the charm of Chia in an exclusive and stylish atmosphere, the two new suites of the Hotel Laguna offer a breathtaking view across the whole bay, further enhancing the facilities of the fivestar structure together with the brand new private pool that can only be accessed directly from the hotel.

For those free moments, there are extensive “post congress” programmes with a wide range of contents to suit every need.

THE DESTINATION ITALY – SARDINIA

ALGHERO (SS) – www.hotelcatalunya.it

Welcome to Sardinia, a land of stunning landscapes, with so much to discover, where a business-oriented holiday will find the perfect bespoke venue at the Hotel Catalunya Crystal-clear waters and dazzling colours are an unrivalled attraction in a place which has become legendary. This is Alghero, the location of the Hotel Catalunya, a modern, welcoming hotel superbly located opposite the marina and just a few minutes from the historical centre and beach of this Sardinian town known as the “little Barcelona”. The Hotel has a fully equipped conference centre, for up to 400 people. Four rooms are available for meetings and conferences, seating 12 to 250 people. In addition, the Hotel has a display area and two restaurants. The “Maqù” restaurant, on the first floor, seats 250, while the “Blau” restaurant, on the ninth floor, with a stunning panoramic terrace, seats 120; a delicious local and international cuisine will give gourmet lovers a chance to try out meat and fish dishes using top-quality produce. Even a drink can be a panoramic experience at the Hotel Catalunya, sipped in the stunning Blau Skybar, an ideal venue to arrange welcome drinks or coffee breaks. The Hotel Catalunya may be booked for congresses throughout the year, with participants also being able to explore this delightful Sardinian town, with its cultural heritage, numerous monuments and archaeological sites, natural splendours, superb beaches nearby and deeprooted traditions. In fact the historical town centre of Alghero,

its local dialect and dishes have kept their origins of a Catalan colony. Leisure activities for congress packages include a wide range of diverse activities, to cater for different needs.

HOTEL CATALUNYA Maximum number of meeting rooms: 4 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 250 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 220 Sleeping rooms: 128 Nearest Airport: Fertilia, Alghero ( 10 km ) Address: via Catalogna 22, 07041 Alghero Contact details: Ph + 39 079 953172 Fax +39 079 953177 Email: info@hotelcatalunya.it congressi@hotelcatalunya.it Contact person: Massimo Sequenza, General Manager – direzione@hotelcatalunya.it

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★★★★

hotels

Business or leisure?

Both!

venues

THE DESTINATION ITALY – SARDINIA

CAGLIARI – www.conventosangiuseppe.com

The sound of silence

A versatile, multi-sensory and engaging venue, where wellbeing is linked to an awareness of human values.

All in a magical corner of Sardinia Sardinia’s uniqueness starts from nature – because it is the atmospheres of this land that lend the island most of its universally recognised charm – and continues to encompass an important historical and artistic heritage. In this enchanting setting between history and nature, between the sea with its crystal clear waters and a land to discover, stands the Convento San Giuseppe: a journey to a place that will delight, that has kept all its charm and the atmosphere of a historical building, with its gardens, fruit orchard and olive grove; an experience full of emotion, that will encourage guests to tune into a state of mind that is more open to communication.

CONVENTO SAN GIUSEPPE Expo Milano 2015 will be an exceptional Maximum number of meeting rooms: 7 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 180 event, attracting Main meeting room area (sq mt): 180 considerable Nearest Airport: Elmas, Cagliari (7 km) attention and can Address: via Paracelso – 09134 Cagliari help us rediscover Contact details: Ph +39 070 503343 Fax +39 070 522765 the roots, as well Email: info@conventosangiuseppe.com as the beauty, Contact person: Luisa Carcangiu Bayre email: luisac.b@conventosangiuseppe.com culture and history

of Italy. And culture and history are an intrinsic part of the Convento and its philosophy, incorporated into exclusive projects to share a journey to discover an assonance with other countries in the world. Perfect for any type of event, the Convento’s indoor and outdoor spaces can be transformed into large multifunctional areas of varying geometries, with different corners for diverse uses, from lunch meetings to after dinner entertainment. The rooms can be set up for any use, with state-of-the-art equipment provided by the organisation. From one side of the welcome area, the “Piazza dell’Accoglienza”, visitors can access the larger rooms which are connected to each other and can accommodate up to 400 people. Smaller rooms for up to 250 people are perfect for supporting activities or work teams. The outdoor areas include five gardens, with three connected to the rooms, which if set up for catering services, increase the Convento’s capacity to 1,000 guests. All the gardens are available for welcome cocktails, coffee breaks, folklore or Sardinian crafts events, and even theatre and musical shows for a superb scenic effect.

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VILLASIMIUS (CA) – www.pullmanhotels.com

Pullman Timi Ama Sardegna is one of Sardinia’s most comprehensive resorts, where international standards go hand in hand with a typical Italian tradition Sardinia is renowned for its ever-changing turquoise waters, picturesque villages, fascinating folklore, rugged rock outcrops, granite, basaltic and limestone tablelands and wild mountains.

This is neither a dream or a stereotype, it is simply what you will find at Pullman Timi Ama Sardegna: the perfect place for a work meeting or conference, but also a multitasking resort ideal for an incentive holiday.

Situated in a sheltered spot at the far south eastern tip of Sardinia, in the heart of the outstandingly beautiful Protected Marine Area of Capo Carbonara, the Pullman Timi Ama Sardegna resort is in a stunning location: an ideal setting for a whole host of activities and numerous sports in a nature reserve with an abundance of flora and fauna to explore.

For guests on business, four meeting rooms are available to accommodate up to 350 people, with free wi-fi and a Connectivity Lounge on hand for events.

And for an energy boost, the Thalassa sea & spa centre, situated in the heart of the resort, offers relaxing and regenerating sea-water treatments. To wind down, guests can relax in Chill-Out Spaces,

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PULLMAN TIMI AMA SARDEGNA Maximum number of meeting rooms: 4 Main meeting room capacity (persons): 350 Main meeting room area (sq mt): 360 Sleeping rooms: 275 Nearest Airport: Cagliari-Elmas, 55 km Brand affiliations: Pullman Hotels & Resorts Address: Viale dei Ginepri, 3 09049 Villasimius (Ca) Contact details: Ph +39 070 79797001 Fax +39 070 797285 Email: H3040-CG@accor.com Contact person: Viviana Cuscusa, Congress & Incentive Department, email: H3040-CG2@accor.com

with their kaleidoscopes of dazzling colours and numerous uses, from informal chats to listening to music with the iPod Docking Station or browsing the books in the library (in different languages): a place for every preference, as well as the perfect location for themed evenings, happy hours and food and wine tastings.

Organisers can be assisted by a dedicated IT Solution Manager and Event Manager to ensure a flawless event.

From sports to team games and group trips, the location offers numerous formats for team building.

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hotels

Making tracks in the sand

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Coffee break at Lu’ Hotel.

Lu Hotel Hotel is justeasituato few minutes away from Il nostro al centro di uno deistunning paesaggi

naturalilike e umani più miles straordinari selvaggi d’Italia, places this one, of wildecoastline outside il Sulcis.

Da noi troverete 66 66 stanze dotate di rooms, ogni of the usual tourist routes. comfortable un attrezzato centro meeting sala acomfort, fully equipped meeting centre seatingcon upuna to 300 congressi di 150 posti e due salette modulabili participants, a swimming pool immersed in a per incontri fino a 25 posti, una cucina distarred altissimo livello Mediterranean garden, a Michelin Chef

www.luhotel.it

e unaraffinato benessere con gli esclusivi and relaxing centro wellness centre offering exclusive trattamenti viso e corpo dell’innovativa linea and innovative treatments.

Whether you arediacosmesi [comfort zone]. manager on a business trip, an enthusiast of trekking Il Lu’ Hotel an è qui per voi, potreste trovare luogo or surfing, expert of non gastronomy, a scholar piùancient adatto or dove organizzare il vostroorcongresso of industrial archeology, if you areo just le silence vostre vacanze. atrascorrere lover of the of a magical land away from Vi aspettiamo, e come amici. the chaos, you come mightospiti not find a most suitable place for your holidays or meetings.

Lu’ Hotel Carbonia - Sardegna Via Costituente 09013 Carbonia (CI) Tel. + 39 0781 665020 Fax +.39 0781 674240 info@luhotel.it

THE DESTINATION ITALY – SARDINIA

SANTA MARGHERITA DI PULA (CA) – www.fortevillageresort.com

Following the new structural interventions, the Forte Village convention centre can accommodate events for up to 2,000 people. Overlooking the Mediterranean Land and sea intertwine in the part of Sardinia’s coast that is home to the Forte Village Resort, 40 kilometres from Cagliari and its international airport. Crystal clear waters lap one of the most diverse coasts of the island, forming jagged cliffs, superb headlands, protected sandy coves, dunes and reeds, and creating an exclusive location.

Elected World’s Leading Resort for 16 consecutive years, the Forte Village Resort is immersed in a 47-hectare park and continues to be an important point of reference for the Mice sector, offering eight hotels, all with four or five stars, for a total of 750 rooms. Moreover, there are a wide choice of restaurants (up to 21) to help you organise anything from big dinners to private meetings. There

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FORTE VILLAGE RESORT Maximum number of meeting rooms: more than 20 Main meeting room capacity (persons): Pala Forte 2.000 pax Main meeting room area (sq mt): 2000 M2 Sleeping rooms: 750 Nearest Airport: Cagliari Elmas, Cagliari Brand affiliations: Eleganzia Hotels & Spas Address: SS 195 KM 39,600 – 09010 Santa Margherita di Pula (Ca) Contact details: Ph +39 070 92171 FAX +39 070 921246 Email: holiday@fortevillage.com

are also 1,650 beds, 20 meeting rooms, the largest of which, the Pala Forte can hold up to 2,000 people, and a little less than 3,000 square metres of exhibition space – all kitted out with the latest technology. Finally, there are almost endless postconference and team building possibilities close-at-hand in the new Leisureland area, including go-karting, bowling, disco, football, technological games and much more. Large national and international companies have chosen this location for their events, supported by a team of experienced professionals who can handle even the most complex event management challenges. La Thalasso in the Forte Village takes care of your well-being in the wonderful setting of a tropical garden with an extraordinary circuit of six seawater pools. Then there is the kitchen with three Michelin chefs: Gordon Ramsay, Rocco Iannone and Giancarlo Perbellini amaze guests with a refined menu of signature dishes. The big news of 2014 is the total redesign of the convention centre to include technological flexibility and high-impact scenes.

8 hotels, ★★★★ and ★★★★★

hotels

The Mediterranean for large groups