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Year 8 Vol. 1, Issue 90 Visionary, Founder, Jose-Manuel GARCIA jmgarcia@ividmc.travel and Master Coach President Jose-Manuel (Manolo) GARCIA manolo@ividmc.com Marketing Vice President Alicia ASTUDILLO, DMCP aastudillo@ividmc.com General Comptroller Trinidad SANCHEZ tsanchez@ividmc.com
Contents: How to Prepare The Perfect Cup of Coffee
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Happy Anniversary IVI DMC² Colombia
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Cover Subject:
The Best Part of Waking Up in South America: Colombia Brazil
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Interview with Andrea MAJELA
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The Breathtaking Iguazu Falls
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Motivation Excellence Star Partner Award
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Corporate Business Director Francisco BAEZA fbaeza@ividmc.com Corporate Quality Director Julia ORTIZ jortiz@ividmc.com Electronic Publishing Alejandro PECH apech@ividmc.com Content and Editing Omar GALLEGOS ivicorp@ividmc.com
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Quick Hits:
Managing Director Jorge OROZCO jorozco@myday.travel —MyDay Travel Corporate Headquarters: Av. Acanceh 1-01, SM 15 Cancun, Q. Roo, 77500 Mex. Ph. +52 (998) 287-1700 www.ividmc.travel
Friends of the Maya Chile Argentina
Travel Secret: Increase Your Smileage
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Destination Offices: Mexico
Central America
South America
IVI DMC² Puerto Vallarta & Riviera Nayarit, Mexico City, & Central Mexico Jaime NELO Regional Managing Director jnelo@ividmc.com
IVI DMC² Guatemala, Belize, El Salvador, & Honduras Jorge LAZO Regional Managing Director jlazo@ividmc.travel
IVI DMC² Colombia Carolina CALDERON Regional Managing Director ccalderon@ividmc.com
IVI DMC² Los Cabos Mario FOSTER Regional Managing Director mfoster@ividmc.travel
IVI DMC² Costa Rica Sonia VARGAS Destination Manager svargas@ividmc.com
IVI DMC² Brazil Andrea MAJELA Regional Managing Director amajela@ividmc.com
The Caribbean
IVI DMC² Panama Ligia VARGAS Regional Managing Director lvargas@ividmc.com
IVI DMC² Argentina & Chile Leila GOROSITO Regional Managing Director lgorosito@ividmc.com
IVI DMC² Dominican Republic Genaro ALMONTE Regional Managing Director galmonte@ividmc.com
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February 2015
How to Prepare The Perfect Cup of Coffee There are quite a few details to consider if you would like to have the perfect cup of coffee. We will share a few with you now:
It seems to go without mentioning that the first step is to buy good quality whole coffee beans, but it is worthy of mentioning again seeing that all too often what is cheaper ends up following us to the checkout counter.
Maintenance is required with anything of good quality. Therefore, the next vital step is the need to store the beans in an airtight container.
Next grind only the necessary amount of beans for how many cups your are making, a finer grind is usually better tasting. Note: 2 to 3 tablespoons of ground coffee for 6-8 ounces of water.
If you are making your daily cup of coffee in a French press, do not use too hot of water, as this can make the coffee bitter. Only boil the water for less than 1 minute, no longer.
The last is a health tip: If you using a coffee maker to brew your coffee, it is recommended to use paper filters. Why? Doing so will prevent coffee from raising your cholesterol level.
Fun Facts: In the 1400’s Arabic coffee was first cultivated on the Arabian Peninsula. It reached Brazil in 1727 and Colombia in 1790. Ten coffee producing countries made it onto Coffee Review’s top 30 coffees of 2014 and Colombia was one of them. Today coffee is a $30 billion dollar industry.
expectations by going the extra mile so to speak in regard to superlative service. A satisfied client is our ultimate goal. With these lofty standards in mind, we strive to choose and only work with suppliers that meet our criteria in order to render an out-of-the-ordinary service.
Message From Headquarters As President of IVI DMC2, I deem it an honor to run this prestigious company and continue its positioning as one of the best in the market. The canons assertively say that the customer is first, and I concur. I also agree that our associates are the strong backbone of our company, and I consider them as my extended family. Without them we would not be where we are today.
After 28 eventful years in the business, IVI DMC2 is proud of the relationships we have forged with thousands of satisfied customers. We invite you to enjoy the pleasure of doing business with us and see for yourself that an unforgettable and successful event is feasible. You have my unfailing commitment to make you and your group look great!
Our company is recognized in the M&I industry as being down to earth and having an outstanding service-minded attitude. Our unchangeable commitment is to exceed our customers’
Sincerely, Jose-Manuel (Manolo) GARCIA President
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Happy Anniversary IVI DMC2 Colombia
IVI DMC2 Colombia fulfills one year of successful operations in this beautiful country! Colombia offers tourism for every taste! Come learn about its history, culture and traditions, fall in love with it, care for it and come to know it. The incredible biodiversity of its nature, and its innumerable landscapes of great beauty make it perhaps the most attractive place in the world. Choose from our different touristic offerings (Business, adventure, ecotourism, golf, religious pilgrimages, leisure or shopping) and share our passion for Colombia. These pictures are just a few highlights from last year’s operations!
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Cover Topic:
The Best Part of Waking Up in South America
DISCOVER WHY COLOMBIA IS SO MAGICAL Located in the middle of the American continent and above the equator, Colombia lies in a strategic geographic position. This location gives Colombia the privilege of being the gateway to South America and allows for easy access to the rest of the continent. Also, Colombia has a pleasant tropical climate throughout the year.
From the diversity of the plants and wildlife in Colombia arises a varied cuisine that is essentially Creole, with some foreign influence. Colombian dishes vary in preparation and ingredients according to the region, and incorporate Spanish, Mestizo, and African cultural styles. Each region has its own dish that distinguishes it from the others for its ingredients, tastes, and aromas. Some traditional dishes are, arepas, Ajiaco, sancocho, and Bandeja paisa. You will always want more!
Colombia is the second-most bio diverse country in the world: Home to between 45,000 and 55,000 plant species, many found exclusively in here 56 million hectares of natural forests 22 million hectares of savannah, arid zones, wetlands, and snow-capped peaks.
Colombia is the 2nd largest producer of best quality coffee in the world! Take a few days and experience life as a coffee farmer in Colombia. Learn how this very popular product is produced, take tours of the facilities, and mingle with some local farmers. The Eje Cafetero (Coffee landscape), Declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2011, is where you will experience lush green landscapes, rolling mountains and the best freshly brewed cup of coffee in the world. Coffee tourism is a very popular attraction in Colombia.
Colombia is rapidly becoming Latin America’s leading destination for high-profile meetings, conventions, and incentive travel, bringing together thousands of visitors each year. The hospitality industry offers the choice of large and luxurious modern accommodations, tropical resorts, classic ranches on expansive coffee plantations, tourist lodges in nature reserves nestled in the forest or near the sea, and exquisite boutique hotels with the charm of the sixteenth century. Added to this Colombia offers a variety of modern infrastructure for different venue choices: Convention centers, exhibition centers, and meeting rooms with all the necessary logistic services to guarantee the success of your event.
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Cover Topic (Continued):
The Best Part of Waking Up in South America Belmond Hotel da Cataratas: The only hotel located within the Iguazu National Park, Belmond Hotel das Cataratas enjoys an unrivalled location just a short stroll from the sensational waterfalls. Enjoy exclusive access to this magnificent sight at dawn and in the evening when the park is closed to visitors. A Portuguese-colonial residence, this is a classy luxury hotel. At the heart of the hotel is located a beautifully designed swimming pool, heated throughout the winter to provide year-round enjoyment. From celebrations to product launches, milestone birthdays to memorable meetings, Belmond Hotel das Cataratas is an ideal venue. The colonial-style Iguassu and Dom Pedro conference rooms are located on the ground floor of the main building. They are airy and spacious, drawing in plenty of natural light. The rooms can be interconnected for larger events, and offer large terraces, suitable for cocktail receptions or coffee breaks.
Lunch At Porto Canoas The Porto Canoas restaurant is located inside the Iguassu National Park. It presents a cozy environment with typical dishes from the Brazilian regional cuisine. It boasts a beautiful deck over the Iguassu River, where visitors can behold the upper part of the waterfalls. With capacity for over 400 people, Porto Canoas can host various kinds of events.
Dinner at Rafain Show Traditional meat restaurant, with more than 50 different types of meat. Along with the dinner, there are traditional dances from 3 different frontiers: Panama, Brazil, Argentina.
A Kattamaram Evening Spend an amazing moonlit evening. The new attraction of Itaipu tourist complex combines comfort and refinement for a memorable journey through the wonders of the reservoir of the world's largest hydroelectric power generator. With a complete infrastructure to serve up to 200 people, the boat has an open deck, American bar, restaurant and solarium, ideal to relax and contemplate the beauty of the lush landscapes. In the Kattamaram restaurant there is a deck that provides an incredible view of Lake Itaipu. The boat departs from Kattamaram port. This panoramic tour navigates about 5 miles (8 km) along the impressive Itaipu dam, which borders Brazil and Paraguay. 6
February 2015
Interview with Andrea MAJELA CQ: We know you are the IVI DMC2 Regional Director for Brazil, but please tell us a little
Games. There are an array of creative themes
more about yourself.
for incentives: Sports, music, the world-famous
AM: Although for more than 15 years I lived in various parts of the world, I am still proud to say that I am a Brazilian. By means of my travels, I
Carnival, to name but a few. And then there are
have become acquainted with many enriching
Discovering Sugarloaf mountain, visiting Christ the Redeemer, walking the streets of Pelourinho
many
cultures from around the world. I was born in the city of Salvador, Brazil. I acquired a Bachelor's
iconic
sights:
in Bahia, seeing the Iguazu Waterfalls, experiencing adventure in the Amazon, walking
degree in Modern Letters, placing emphasis on French at UCSal (Universidade Católica do
along the Monumental Axis by the impressive government buildings in Brasilia, or just relaxing
Salvador). My husband and I later moved to France. At the Université de Paris VIII I earned
on the beautiful Atlantic beaches.
another degree. During our stay in Paris, I worked as an interpreter and translator at several events. I have taught both French and
CQ: In your opinion, why is Brazil a top destination for the M&I industry?
Portuguese as a second language. I later moved to the Dominican Republic, where I earned a
AM: Brazilian culture is rooted in that of Portugal. Brazil has 26 charming states that
bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management at PUCMM, Santo Domingo. For 5 years, I worked
offer the opportunity to enjoy the great traditions, legends, and cuisine of this country. A great
as the Director of the Dominican Republic Tourism Bureau for the Brazilian Market. I have vast knowledge and experience in the tourism
concept for a themed event. The fascinating diversity and immense beauty, everything seems larger than life. Brazil's large territory
industry, where I have been working for more than 15 years.
contains 60% of the Amazon rainforest, which is recognized as having the greatest biological
CQ: What are the advantages of holding a conference in a destination such as Brazil
diversity in the world. Further, it also has outstanding tourist infrastructure, from luxury
that is so rich in culture and biodiversity?
hotels
How can this enrich the experience of attendees?
Brazilian destinations offer a wide variety of excellent hotels that meet the budget of
The
tourism
sector
beachfront
cabanas.
All
that arrive early and depart from Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Brasilia, and Salvador late in the
investment in infrastructure in preparation for the World Cup last year and many hotels underwent renovations.
simple
individual travelers as well as group programs. Most international flights are overnight flights
AM: The country’s strength lies in the variety of options offered. In Brazil there was increased
huge
to
evening, thus making the travelling experience easier.
is
completely prepared for the 2016 Olympic
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The Breathtaking Iguazu Falls Visit the Brazilian Waterfalls A tour to amaze and excite, as it presents you with one of the most beautiful shows of nature. Situated 15 miles (25 km) from the Iguassu’s confluence with the Paranå river and 6 miles (10 km) inside the Iguazu National Park. At the waterfalls the 746 mile circuit (1,200 km) is followed on foot, appreciating the biggest waterfalls in the world and the exuberant surrounding rainforest. Macuco Boat Trip A trip full of adrenaline and emotions. Inside the Iguazu National Park, the trip starts on an electric jeep going 2 miles (3 km) into the forest. Take a 1/3 mile (600 meters) hike up to the Iguassu River. On twin engine motor boats, we steer the river upstream right to the heart of the Iguazu Waterfalls. A unique view where glowing rainbows all around guarantee an unforgettable experience. Trilha das Bananeiras - A Relaxing Walk Learn about the Carnivores Project, an initiative to protect the spotted jaguar in Iguazu National Park. During a 90minute walking tour with an Eco guide, hike the Trilha das Bananeiras (Banana Trail). This lush, 2 mile (3 km) path along the banks of the Iguazu River can be concluded with a boat or kayak trip on the river, and a final chance to view the majestic falls.
Abseiling- Some Adventure Rappel 180 feet (55 m) down to the banks of the Iguazu River. As you lower yourself, marvel at the astonishing views of the rainforest and the waters cascading down the falls.
Helicopter Tour This is the most spectacular way to admire the magical Iguazu Falls. You can also choose a 35 minute tour to 3 bordering landmarks in Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay.
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February 2015
Star Partner Award Motivation Excellence® incentive programs inspire and motivate higher performance. Motivation Excellence is a full service performance improvement agency that works as a strategic partner to create Performance by Design.®
IVI DMC2 Cancun Staff holding their Star Partner Award from Brad Hecht, Vice President of Travel Motivation Excellence Inc.
About Us... Our Vision: To run a world-class company that sets fresh trends and establishes new standards for best practices in the M&I industry by exceeding customer expectations. Mission Statement: To earn and maintain our clients’ trust at each one of our destinations by convincing them that their goals are our goals, and by delivering services that exceed industry standards and customer expectations. We also will meet client needs by providing exceptional product knowledge, creative solutions, cost-value and effectiveness in every measurable way. We pride ourselves on our efficient business organization that relies on strong management systems, ISO quality standards, and belief in the remarkable abilities of our people. Our mission also features an infinite commitment: "To make you look great!" Our People: IVI DMC2 has more than 150 year-round full-time associates within the entire Latin American network with great personalities, knowledge, a caring attitude, and vast M&I business experience! “Yes, since 1986, we are those neatly attired people in the turquoise blue and white uniforms. Many people call us "the Smurfs". We are knowledgeable, witty, fun to have around, and beautiful or handsome (not necessarily in that order).”
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For further information on the fine hotels, deals, activities, and group packages mentioned in this magazine please contact Alicia Astudillo: aastudillo@ividmc.com
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February 2015
Wine Route Some of the finest world-class recognized wines are Chilean. The country is now the fifth largest exporter of wines in the world, and the ninth largest producer. Visiting the haciendas, learning the process, and tasting the wine is a must do in Chile.
IVI DMC² World Headquarters: Ave. Acanceh #1-01, SM 15 Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mexico Phone: +52 (998) 287-1700 Email: ivicorp@ividmc.com
Serving the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions Industry since 1986. Find us in over 40 destinations throughout:
Native Traditions There are still local traditions persisting in parts of Chile, and together with the European influence makes for an interesting meld, creating a distinctive culture, reflected in the food, hand crafts, and architecture of the cities and villages.
Outstanding Tourist Infrastructure Outstanding international hotel brands will present familiar names to vacationers and group travelers alike. All Argentina destinations enable you to choose from rustic farm estates to luxury hotels, thus meeting the budgets of individual travelers as well as group programs.
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Mexico Dominican Republic Guatemala Costa Rica Panama Colombia Brazil Argentina Chile
Destinations • Mexico • Dominican Republic • Guatemala • Costa Rica • Panama • Colombia • Brazil • Argentina • Chile This portal was created to assist Meeting Planners in easily locating ideal destinations, hotels, services, and activities within the group market in Latin America. On this site you will find a large collection of photographs and videos of selected hotels, tours, and activities that fit the needs of the M&I industry, as well as a RFP engine that will directly connect you with the hotel of your interest.
Easy to use
Go to the menu on top of the home page and click on the destination(s) of your interest. For instance, if you want to know more about Dominican Republic for a possible group follow these steps:
From “Destinations” select Dominican Republic. Immediately you will be on the Dominican Republic home page. As with each destination, you can see 10 reasons that make each destination stand out above the rest. You can click on each photo to see even more images.
To the right side there is a submenu showing airlines, hotels, restaurants, what to see, and what to do, etc. The content of each submenu includes: property description, amenities, location (google map), photos, videos, pdf downloads. Some properties have 3600 photos.
You can use this site for your own presentations; feel free to use the photos and videos. From the home page menu you can easily access videos, sample programs, change the language, get connected through our social media, & contact us.
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February 2015
Travel Secret: Increase Your Smileage If you can’t find any laughter in a situation, remember to at least smile. When you smile, the world smiles back. “Smiles and frowns,” says Dr. Jerry Teplitz, a stress specialist, “affect people whether we are aware of it or not. If you are in an airport where nobody wants to be, and planes are running really late, literally the energy of everyone around you is affecting you.” Smiling is important, whether or not you have anything to smile about. Research has shown that your body doesn’t know the difference between a real smile and a fake one. So even if you don’t feel like smiling, do it anyway. It triggers a time when you were smiling for real (like when the plane actually left on time). (Taken from page 30)
“A smiling face will get you a great deal more than a stomping foot.” - V. Neil Wyrick
James Feldman, (a.k.a. Doctor Travel) is a Certified Facilitator and internationally recognized professional motivator, author, television host, and radio personality. His company Incentive Travelers Cheque Int’l provides individual and group incentive travel awards for many Fortune 500 companies. His book “Doctor’s Travel Cure For The Common Trip” is an entertaining and invaluable travel guide whose purpose is not to tell you where to go, but rather to help you get ready for the adventure. Communiquest is pleased to share some of Mr. Feldman’s travel wisdom with our readers, who from time to time must deal with lines, cancellations, lost luggage, and a person in the adjacent seat making extensive use of the air sickness bag. Reprinted by permission from the Author: jfeldman@itcheque.com
THANK YOU FOR READING
The Customer is Always Right
Like life in general, the M&I Industry seems to move at the speed of light. As a committed B2B partner, we aim to help you keep up with the latest industry news and opportunities. CommuniQuest magazine is a valuable tool that brings you the timely information and analysis that you need, with a lair for what's hot, relevant, and interesting. I wish you the best of success in your quest, whatever it may be.
“IVI exceeded our expectations in being able to fulfill all of our special requests. Any time we would ask if we could change or add something outrageous, there was never a "no" given or even a pause. RNE had a memorable experience and is looking forward to working with the IVI team again in the near future.”
Jose-Manuel GARCIA Visionary, Founder, & Master Coach IVI DMC²
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- Evan Croner
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