CommuniQuest Incentive Travel Digest - Year 11 Vol. 1, 206

Vol. 1, No. 206

DIRECTORY

INDEX

Visionary, Founder and Seller of Dreams: Jose Manuel GARCIA, CDS jmgarcia@ividmc.travel

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President: Jose Manuel (Manolo) GARCIA

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Flying Along with the I-Bee Squad - Kicking off more programs in Los Cabos plus Essential Destinations Quest

CIS, CMS, CCM, CES manolo@ividmc.travel Vice President of Marketing: Raquel MIJARES, CIS, DMCP, CITP

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Corporate Business

C ul i nar y deligh t s, we l l ness ret reat s, a g ro w i n g t ren d f or SMERF even t s in L os C ab o s

Mariana LEON, CMS, CITP corp.business@ividmc.travel

A growing trend in the Mexican Caribbean catered by the best experiences

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rmijares@ividmc.travel

Director:

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Colombia´s initiatives to regain course in the tourism sector

Corporate Quality Director: Julia ORTIZ, CES, CMS

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jortiz@ividmc.travel

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IT Manager:

Sailing in Luxury, plus culture-infused experiences in the heart of tequila city Puerto Vallarta & Riviera Nayait

Angel PEREZ informatica@ividmc.travel Content & Editing: Omar DELGADILLO corp.news@ividmc.travel

Destination offices

Cover subject: Embracing a thriving segment; SMERF Travel

Follow us on:

Mexico:

Caribbean:

Central America:

South America:

IVI DMC Los Cabos

IVI DMC Cuba

IVI DMC Costa Rica

IVI DMC Colombia

Yazmin ELOSEGUI, DMCP, CIS,

Alejandro DEBASA, CMS

Jeremy ZUÑIGA

Alexandra MONTAÑEZ

CMS, CITP

Regional Managing Director

Regional Managing Director

Regional Managing Director

Destination Managing Director

adebasa@ividmc.travel

jzuniga@ividmc.travel

amontanez@ividmc.travel

IVI DMC Dominican Republic

IVI DMC Panama

yelosegui@ividmc.travel IVI DMC Puerto Vallarta & Riviera

Bidia BISSUMBHAR, CIS, CES, CMM Malek ALMAINI

Nayarit

Regional Managing Director

Destination Manager

Jaime NELO, DMCP, CIS, CMS,

bidia@ividmc.travel

malek@ividmc.travel

CES, CCM Destination Managing Director jnelo@ividmc.travel IVI DMC Cancun & Riviera Maya Ximena LOPEZ, CMS Marketing & Planning Director cun.planning2@ividmc.travel

© Copyright 2021. All Rights Reserved.

A WORD FROM OUR PRESIDENT. Dear reader, SMERF is a term used in hospitality to represent the Social, Military, Educational, Religious, and Fraternal segments of the industry that continues to be a growing group not only in Latin America but around the world. SMERF businesses are often disregarded, however, including SMERF events as a part of your long-term business strategy will ensure long-term stability while catering to a much-demanded niche in the hospitality sector.

Latin America is proud to welcome SMERF Events with surprises, new groundbreaking resorts, and exquisite cuisine to achieve the most remarkable experience. Plan your extraordinary event with our leading quality of service. Our accomplishments and enthusiastic attitude are what upholds our motto, in your business, “We make YOU look GREAT”!

Sincerely,

Jose Manuel (Manolo) GARCIA, CIS, CMS, CCM, CES President IVI DMC Enterprises

COMPANY PROFILE •

IVI DMC and the BLUE BEES. (Our new hallmark nickname) “We make YOU look GREAT”

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Since 1986 and also to the dedication of an extraordinary team of duly certified associates, partners, and suppliers, we have integrated an exemplary company of professionals all of them with a high spirit of service, honesty, and loyalty, where to date we have reached more than 8,501 testimonials of events achieving, and extraordinary reputation within this yet amazing industry.

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Did you know that the difference between a good DMC and another is their HIGHLY RECOGNIZED BRAND, MANY YEARS OF PROVEN EXPERIENCE AND CREATIVITY OUT OF THE BOX?

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At IVI DMC we highlight our ability to bring all imaginative ideas to life, from the formal to the absurd and from the artistic to the comic.

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Our corporate image has changed, and with an amazing comparison between the world of bees so essential to the life of the planet, and where also the “IVI DMC & the BLUE BEES” are so essential in the service industry.

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iVi DMC works with international hygiene, health, safety and protection protocols through its OWN ISO9001 quality system model and world-class performance, from the formal to the absurd and from the artistic to the comic”.

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Our company commitment is to always perform with our 10 world-class CORE VALUES, where everything is done with: • Love and Passion • Communication • Respect • Tailor-Made Proactivity • Discipline & Dedication • State-of-the Art Creativity • Knowledge • Honesty & Integrity • Safety & Security • Cost-Value Same as: SUCCESSFUL DESTINATION MANAGEMENT.

Flying along with the I-Bee Squad What a great month! We’re finally feeling like everything is returning to back normal. Soon we’ll be meeting up in person with lots of our beloved partners and clients. And now it’s time for one of your favorite sections of the Communiquest; “Flying Along with the I-Bee Squad”, where you’ll learn about everything we’ve been doing during the month! Let's jump right into it.

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IVI DMC Costa Rica received the “Safe Travels Stamp” granted by ICT & WTTC. We’re very proud to receive this recognition! We’re ready to welcome you to Costa Rica for a memorable experience, and to make YOU look GREAT!

We are also very excited to mention the operation of an amazing program of 1,000 people in Los Cabos. After the trip, every single one of the guests tested negative and returned home with the required documentation to meet the CDC guidelines. They all wore masks as required, and everyone had an amazing time. We’re glad to share that the meetings and incentives industry can function if every protocol is in place, followed, and if you work with the correct partners.

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By the end of the month, Mariana LEON participated in the mpm meeting place mexico Virtual Event!

Did you know that it is one of the largest business exchange events between event organizers and suppliers in the convention industry?

This event has positioned itself as an important piece in the tourism industry to attract congresses, conventions, and incentive trips!

Then, our team from Los Cabos visited our good friends and allies from Live Aqua Los Cabos—thanks for an amazing time! We can’t wait to start working together once again.

Nearing the end of the month, we had an online meeting with our valued partner and friend David Shwartz from Haven Resorts. This hotel is an exceptional option for your upcoming Meetings, Incentives Events!

Thanks for reading this edition of “Flying Along with the I-Bee Squad”! We hope you enjoyed it, see you next month.

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One of the greatest things that transpired during the month was the launch of our “Essential Destination Quest” streaming series. An educational and informative event, where we bring you relevant topics and speakers who will share valuable information about the industry's trends. In this first edition, the conference was centered around the Mexican Caribbean. Learn more in our section dedicated exclusively to everything that happened during this amazing online event!

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Power in

Numbers

SMERF is an acronym for Social, Military, Educational, Religious and Fraternal groups, and often also includes sports, entertainment, and recreational groups. Two key characteristics place these varied groups under one umbrella: SMERF events are typically unrelated to the full-time jobs of attendees, and guests usually travel on their own dime and their own time rather than having a business pay their expenses.

Los Cabos

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Weddings to cherish for a lifetime Los Cabos is home to one of the best Wedding Places in Mexico. The emotion that this event evokes, and the amazing effect that the professionals in this industry archive at every step of the way in this niche market is flawless.

Certainly, a wedding day is a truly special moment that comes from love and should be treated with the utmost care and respect. This exceptional destination offers endless options for everything, from venue to cake to entertainment, and works within most budgets.

Los Cabos has a wide range of options for Entertainment, Flower arrangements, Photographers, Coordinators, Catering Services, and the most spectacular venues. There is also an option for getting married or renewing vows underwater in the extraordinary "Aquarium of the world."

A taste of culture in every bite Take a journey through the colorful and soundless streets of the Todos Santos Art District, or visit this magical town while you learn more about the crafts and souvenirs made from locals, full of tradition, warmth, and enthusiasm.

If you happen to be staying in Los Cabos on a Thursday, we highly suggest you go to San Jose Del Cabo and enjoy a beautiful evening around its art walk. This experience is featured every Thursday from November to June, get to admire the beautiful artwork, and perhaps, you’ll be able to find a beautiful addition to your collection. Discover how these beautiful crafts are practiced through generations and have become a part of the Mexican family membrane.

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Gastronomic Experiences Imagine yourself savoring the most exquisite, authentic, and inspiring culinary delicacies while visiting Los Cabos. An appreciation for food is an essential part of Mexican culture. While it is common to typically think of Mexican food like tacos, burritos, chips, and guacamole – even though this isn’t wrong – there is actually a lot more to it.

Being at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California, Los Cabos is home to some of the most delicious seafood. Also, because Los Cabos is a rural region with large acres of land for farming, ingredients at restaurants tend to be local and as fresh as can be.

While sitting down for a meal anywhere in Los Cabos is a delightful experience, learning what goes into the making of your food can be even more gratifying.

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In 2012, Los Cabos hosted the G-20 Meeting, an event that brings together the world’s leading advanced and emerging economies.

The G20 is made up of 19 member countries and the European Union. Some of its objectives are to coordinate its members to achieve global economic stability and sustainable growth. The facilities that hosted this great event were at the International Convention Center which has 1,500 m2 of flexible spaces for 20 simultaneous sessions.

It has a capacity of 1,042 guests. It also has large windows that offer spectacular views.

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Military Meetings in Los Cabos

Religious and Fraternal One of the best advantages of a place like Los Cabos for this type of event is that it offers boundless picturesque views and the most pleasant weather to host retreats, courses, and even Yoga certifications.

There are facilities around this charming destination that offer an inner trip for personal and spiritual development while appreciating the stunning beaches that surround them.

Yoga-Fest is an annual event that takes place in Todos Santos, highly regarded by yoga enthusiasts and newcomers as it offers classes and workshops.

Locals and foreigners are led by the hand of distinguished teachers from around the country and the world.

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Yoga and wellness events are not only driving this niche, but are also springing as part of a healthy lifestyle. This region has been witness to notable growth in the field as many are beginning to seek better habits and healing through this kind of ancestral practice.

Private or Fraternity Activities Puerto Vallarta & Riviera Nayarit offer a variety of activity alternatives that can be done on a private basis, an option convenient for Social and Family Events, tailor-made with them in mind.

Riviera Nayarit & Puerto Vallarta

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Private Luxury Sunset Sailboat IVI DMC will make all the arrangements for an unforgettable encounter between you, the sea, and the majestic sunset, which you can share with those important to you. Sail on this wonderful adventure while enjoying the comfort of a luxury sailboat that features first-class services, such as wine tasting and delicious canapés to make the journey even more pleasant.

Come and live the wonderful spectacle that nature has in store while you gaze at the stars one by one and close your eyes to listen to the sounds of the sea, with the pleasant caress of the ocean breeze. When the sun has already hidden under the starry night, you can toast and celebrate this unmatched experience.

Private Luxury Sailboat

Climb aboard a luxurious private sailboat in Puerto Vallarta and venture off into the Mexican Pacific! Sightseeing along our incredible bay is only part of what you will experience on this Private Luxury Sailboat Ride. You will design your tour, whether you want a moment to relax or take unique ecotours, it is all up to you.

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An excellent fleet of private sailboats in Puerto Vallarta is ready to sail on an exclusive trip alongside a team of professionals who are always ready to make your dreams come true. Enjoy a day of Vitamin Sea with your family, friends, and partners, and learn more about this incredible city from another panorama!

Sayulita & San Pancho Private Tour

W

e want to take you through an experience where you can immerse yourself in nature, adventure, and culture. This experience begins North of Puerto Vallarta, passes through the mountains of the Sierra Madre, until reaching the picturesque towns of Sayulita and San Pancho. On this tour, we will stop at a community center that recycles materials and turns them into amazing pieces of art, as well as accessories. Visitors can purchase these items and contribute to the lives of the locals and children of this community. In the magical towns of Sayulita and San Pancho, you can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, and you will free yourself from work while delighting your palate with the most delectable dishes that the region has to offer. All this with the shore of the most famous hippie chic beach in all of Mexico to frame the most incredible experience.

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Hacienda Tequila Cuervo in Private Walk

This Tequila Tour in Puerto Vallarta has been created for lovers of this mythical spirit! There is no better way to celebrate your passion for this historic Mexican drink than with our VIP tour of the impressive José Cuervo distillery, La Rojeña. Bilingual expert guides will lead you through a celebration of the history, and culture of this traditional spirit, which, of course, includes a tasting of the best tequila in the world. You will enjoy behind the scenes of a unique place in Mexico, appreciated by many, but enjoyed in all its splendor by very few.

Mexican Caribbean The Meetings Tourism niche during its infancy was centered exclusively around Conventions, Congresses, and Incentive Programs.

With time, the Meetings Tourism niche turned a fashion drift into a tendency and has become recurrent over the past years among many clients. In addition to being a jobs catalyst for the touristic industry as well as for the suppliers concentrated around this market. Before this business branch was denominated as “Business Tourism” it was developed in other kinds of activities that were no longer limited to be just for professional meetings.

This niche is now comprised of four touristic market sectors, Conventions, Congress, Incentives, Fairs, and Expositions.

All of these are key components in the segment and are also fundamental in the economic development of Mexico. This niche has aided the tourist demand in Mexico, helping improve the occupancy during low seasons while contributing to the average expense ratio from visitors.

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A dose of Vitamin Sea

Cancun and the Mayan Riviera are home to a plethora of exceptional activities for all ages. From Archaeological sites, extreme escapades in the Jungle, Cenotes, Caves, Theme Parks, Fishing, Golf, Sailing, and night tours, there is something in store for everyone.

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Quintana Roo and the Mayan Riviera have the infrastructure to provide all the services demanded by this class of meetings, offering large hotel options in all categories 3,4,5, stars, and of course the G.T hotels as well. This grand destination caters to all varieties of groups; family, sports, religion, just to mention some. Also, the great perk is that the majority of the accommodations are All-Inclusive, so our visitors have the opportunity to anticipate and coordinate their expenses for activities on-site during their stay.

In Cancun, in addition to the vast assortment of delightful specialty dining options—from the formal to the most sophisticated cuisine to fulfill any demanding palate—we have fancy shopping malls with worldwide brands, the flaring nightlife with the ultimate sounds and ambiance, all of this just a few minutes from your Hotel.

SMERF is one that shouldn't be forgotten it represents Social, Militar, Educational, Religious and Fraternal groups, that even if they don't attract much attention like the corporate events, they represent a needed market for the industry. SMERF tends to be a minor size meetings, however the numbers always add up.

The WTO, classifies the meeting tourism in five categories

Corporate Groups - Normally these types of events are sponsored by a company where the attendees are part of it or an extension of it. (Clients, suppliers, associates, etc,) Congresses - This is the encounter of large groups of people where they exchange points of view about a specific topic, such as cultural, academic, scientific, religious, etc.

Exhibitions - These are commercial and cultural events, that gather members of a corporate, professional, or social sector, organized with the main purpose of promoting or exhibiting products and services while establishing commercial relationships.

Incentives - These are trips that a company arranges to reward their staff for accomplished and achieved a goal for productivity or sales.

Other meetings - All those that fulfill the standards before mentioned, with at least 10 people, a contracted headquarter, and a 4-hour length.

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A Member Of The World Travel And Tourism Council a i b m o l o -C

Colombia was accepted as a member of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), which will allow the country direct access to the 200 companies representing 30% of what the tourism industry generates globally, as communicated by ProColombia.

"Being accepted as a Destination Partner is a very important news story that further drives our management as an entity that promotes tourism internationally. We appreciate that WTTC has placed its trust in our work and we are ready to contribute to the projects and initiatives that this important organization will undertake this 2021 focusing on the recovery of tourism," explained Flavia Santoro, President of ProColombia.

Santoro added: "We will have access to the world's leading private sector networking in the tourism sector, which will allow us to leverage commercial opportunities for the attraction of international tourists and foreign tourism investment projects."

This new membership enables it to be part of the network composed of countries around the world that helps promote and boost the industry. ProColombia will have the opportunity to be part of the summits and events organized by the WTTC or be part of its executive committee. In addition, you can engage in the development of joint projects, share best practices and receive information and data made by the organization, the entity reported.

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According to Santoro, "the World Tourism Organization, WTTC supported the 'Checkin certified, COVID-19 bio insurance seal of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Tourism, which has undoubtedly contributed to Colombian companies that have obtained it, more than 300, have the prestige of both organizations in meeting all safe parameters for travelers."

He also included Colombia in its list of safe destinations to travel to and awarded it the "Safe Travels" label, being one of the seven countries that have it in South America along with Argentina, Chile, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, and Brazil. (WTTC calls for coordination between countries to avoid 2020 errors). Source: REPORTUR

Colombia prepares to host international events again The business tourism segment in Colombia begins to show progress within the framework of the sector's reactivation strategy. The most recent of these was announced by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) confirming Cartagena as the venue for its World Summit for 2021.

During that space, all the tourist potential of the city was exposed to more than 1,300 attendees from the five continents.

“We have taken advantage of this juncture to prepare and be ready to welcome travelers from all over the world and world-class events. Hosting the ICCA Congress World 2021 means that we are on the right track and that, under strict biosafety parameters, we are making steady progress in the reactivation of the business tourism segment, which has a positive impact on our economy ”, said Flavia Santoro, President of ProColombia.

The announcement was made at the 59th edition of the ICCA 2020 summit, held from November 1 to 3 in a blended manner, in which ProColombia made a presentation of the country with a focus on Cartagena.

In addition, the entity presented a champeta class, coordinated by the local host committee of the event, made up of Las Américas Hotels Group; the Cartagena de Indias Convention Center; Aviatur; Cartagena de Indias Convention & Visitors Bureau; and the Cartagena de Indias Tourism Corporation.

Likewise, ProColombia announced the perspectives that the country has for the industry, especially for the meetings segment. For his part, President Iván Duque Márquez had a space to welcome future attendees to this international meeting.

Reactivation Strategy For Meeting Tourism Among the actions that ProColombia has carried out during this juncture, is the launch of the campaign “Change the date, not the destination”, a joint initiative with the National Network of Burós. The strategy seeks to remain in contact with organizers of large-scale world events that keep Colombia as the venue for meetings, including the World Congress of Neurosurgery, Devcon, FIEXPO, as well as the ICCA World Congress.

On the other hand, in mid-September the Ministry of Health issued a biosafety protocol for business fair activities, which apply to events of no more than 50 people. This, added to the facilities provided by the use of technological tools, has ratified the trend of organizing events in a blended way.

Such is the case of the organization of the recent Colombia Investment Summit, the most important foreign direct investment summit in the country, which was held under this modality and which brought together 50 attendees in person and 3,000 people virtually. In addition, several venues have acquired the “Certified Check-in, COVID-19 bioseguro” seal from the National Government.

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AM Resorts

Agora; Corferias; Golden Gate; Estelar Santa Mar Hotel; Convention Center in Santa Marta; and the Las Américas Hotel and Convention Center in Cartagena and; the Cartagena de Indias Convention Center, among others. For its part, ProColombia has developed the Incentives Empowerment program, the objective of which is the training and adaptation of companies focused on this segment so that they offer experiences that allow the promotion of incentive trips in the country.

Another initiative of the entity is the development of the virtual Meeting Planner platform to display online the entire infrastructure offer that the country has for the meetings industry. ProColombia carries out this promotional work by prioritizing the concepts of sustainability and trust.

Rosewood

“Trust has become the most relevant bargaining chip and destination organizers and promoters must be an efficient vehicle to transmit it. In the stages of "falling in love" for a decision maker to choose my venue, hotel or destination, tools such as testimonials, success stories and being able to teach the participants what their experience will be like through (...) digital inspection visits , with emphasis on biosafety protocols, will be fundamental elements ”, explained Eduardo Chaillo, expert in meeting tourism.

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Another of the advances that the country has registered was the consolidation of the National Network of Burós. "This is a table in which we work on an action plan for this segment in six axes: diagnosis, measurement indicators, financing, communications, biosafety and reactivation", indicated the President of ProColombia.

This synergy allowed the MICE Business Plan to be carried out, the purpose of which is to work on specialized missions for this segment, a business roundtable and an incubator that seeks to establish an academic network of high-impact ventures around the meetings industry.

Interview with

The Experts!

The intention of Interview with The Expert is to get you closer to some of the hospitality industry leaders and learn from them their objectives, vision, and expectations.

During this month we had the privilege and opportunity to Interview David Manzella, Senior Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Posadas, Andres Huertas - Director of Sales & Marketing, Sofitel Bogota Victoria Regia, and Marc Murphy, General Director at the Hotel Association & Visitors and Conventions Bureau, Riviera Nayarit.

It was a pleasure talking and learning about them while they shared their passions, main business aspects, and expectations. We hope you enjoy them too.

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David Manzella

Senior Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Posadas We had a great interview with David Manzella who shared a few personal insights about himself, to allow our audience to get to know him better.

Such as his favorite sport, which is Hockey. A sport that really enjoys playing in his spare time.

His favorite food is Italian, but he also enjoys Mexican food. One of his favorite memories is going to a Buffalo Bills game with his father. He shared the book he’s currently reading, which is called “Green Lights”, written by Matthew McConaughey. Lastly, his favorite destination is San Miguel de Allende, he thinks it’s a magical city and would love to spend time there with his family.

David shared gave us an insight into the next openings for Posadas in Latin America. They’ve just opened the “Live Aqua Beach Resort, Punta Cana”. They’re really proud of this hotel, it’s their first property outside of Mexico. They’re also opening the “Fiesta Americana Tulkal Riviera Maya”, “Live Aqua Beach Resort Riviera Maya Tulkal” and “Tulkal Convention Center”, all of these, in an area outside of Tulum, scheduled to open in the upcoming year. David says that the future looks bright for Fiesta Americana!

We asked David about the new protocols they’ve been implementing in their properties. After teaming up with various groups, they've developed the “Travel with Confidence Program”. Their new safety measures at each resort now include free Covid testing.

Click here to watch the full interview >> Page 27

He also shared with us about the Revival promotion of 2021, they’re focusing on the future. To make plans for late 2021, 2022 and so on. Also giving flexibility in cancelations. After these new strategies, they’re looking at a bright future ahead. Then we talked about their Recognition Program.

David told us that it is an individual incentive travel program. Companies reward their employees with a certificate, and the individual has the chance of deciding when to make their travel!

Lastly David mentioned that we’re all in this together, and he thinks that our industry will have a revival, and we’ll be stronger than ever. He’s looking forward to seeing people back at their properties!

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Andres Huertas

Director of Sales & Marketing, Sofitel Bogota Victoria Regia We interviewed Andrés Huertas, an expert in the hotel industry with more than 16 years of experience! He founded his true passion in sales, and he has been able to grow in this industry. To get to know him better, we asked a couple of personal questions. We've learned that his favorite drink is beer, his favorite sport is soccer, his favorite quote is “You must face every single day with passion, attitude, and fun”, and his “bucket list” place to visit is San Andrés in Colombia. He would also love to visit Buenos Aires and Paris.

We talked about Sofitel Bogota Victoria Regia, which has been in this city for 27 years. But they wanted to renew their image. Andres told us that “Regia” means something of high quality, so they decided to make their hotel stand out for its quality. While adding “Simply Chic” to give it a modern twist. Andres told us the main highlights of this hotel, is its location, as they are close to the main business area of the city.

Click here to watch the full interview >> Page 29

''French luxury and local cuisine in the world's most exciting city'' Also their experiences, for example, everyday they make “The candle ritual” to make a relaxing and different experience with their visitors, he also talked about “The Coffee ritual” where they teach their visitors how to make a delicious cup of coffee. Also the gastronomy is one of their highlights, since they mix french cuisine with colombian cuisine.

Andres told us that their hotel is ready to welcome tourists, groups, and to hold small events. He talked to us about the implementation of the new hybrid events in Sofitel Bogota, and they 're definitely looking forward to working together with many of their clients! Lastly Andres told us there are many wonders in Bogota Colombia, that you may not know yet. He encourages you to visit this amazing city, and to consider Sofitel Bogota as your best choice!

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Marc Murphy

General Director at the Hotel Association & Visitors and Conventions Bureau, Riviera Nayarit Lastly, during the month we had an interview with Marc Murphy, an expert in Riviera Nayarit.

He’s been promoting these amazing destinations for many years, and he leads the organization's strategies and oversees the day-to-day operation.

To get to know Marc better, we asked him a few personal questions. And we learned that his favorite restaurant is called “La Negra”, his favorite place to watch the sunset is in any of the rooftop bars in Riviera Nayarit, his favorite activity is to go on adventures to the wild jungle with his girlfriend, his favorite quote is “living the dream”.

Marc talked to us about how challenging this past year has been, and about all of their reopenings in Riviera Nayarit.

Click here to watch the full interview >>

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The good life just a flight away

He also shared with us all of the new protocols which are being implemented in this amazing destination. Their biggest challenge has been all of the testing required for American visitors, but they’re helping to provide these quick tests to all of the visitors coming to Riviera Nayarit, and making this procedure as simple as possible.

Despite the fact we’ve been in a pandemic, there've been a lot of new hotel openings, such as Conrad

by Hilton, there are also 5 different new property openings programmed over the next couple of months. Marc also shared that Riviera Nayarit has 15 properties planned over the next 48 months!

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Then, Marc explained about the difference between Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta. He compared it to Cancún and Riviera Maya (two destinations that share an airport). He told us that Puerto Vallarta offers a traditional mexican approach, and Riviera Nayarit is the beach, sophistication and adventure destination.

Riviera Nayarit has been implementing new campaigns, focused on maintaining the tourism industry aware of keeping up with the protocols to keep their clients safe, by wearing masks and staying home if they feel sick. Another campaign they’ve been implementing is “Disconnect to Reconnect” to send a powerful message about social distancing, and connecting with yourself.

Lastly, Marc’s recommended to escape, get away and enjoy your life because it’s short!

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Celebrating with…

Lorena Armengual The importance of having an Activity Timeline for D’Quest/ Celebración is crucial. From the moment the event is confirmed to the day of the Wedding.

When the event is confirmed, we prepare a “Timeline.” Here is where we integrate all the activities and actions that we deem important for planning the event.

We divide this timeline into 5 periods.

1.- The first phase begins from the moment the event is confirmed until the couple return to the destination for their second visit.

We begin this first period just after having chosen the location of the event; the actions to be considered are the following:Arbis liis conlos adhuid

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a.- Tentative general program for the day of wedding. b.-Calendar of important dates such as dates for payment of rooms, food and beverage in the hotel and other services added to the contract for general services. c.- Dates on which cancellations can be made on the original room block. d.- Weekly emails with important information to be checked for the wedding. e.- Catalogues of photography, video, flowers, furniture, music, lighting are among the most important. f.- We will share inspiring photography and videos to clearly define the event’s concept and select which suppliers are best for your wedding. g.- Quotes will be requested from all suppliers considered up to this point.

2.- The second phase comprises activities that will be carried out during the visit to the destination. During this period, we will begin to confirm activities based on preferences:

a.- Tasting of the chosen menu.

b.- Visit the event location and reconfirm each of the areas to be used, along with times assigned in each area.

b.- Audition of music for the ceremonies.

c.- Samples of both furniture and table centerpieces.

d.- Appointments with suppliers: transportation, fireworks, candy tables, props, tents, etc.

e.- Event layouts.

3.- The third phase comes just after the visit to the destination and continues up to one month before the wedding date.

a.- More detailed general program. b.- Detailed check of quotes. c.- Documents for ceremonies. d.- Update budget if necessary.

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For the most memorable ''I Do''.....

4.- The fourth phase comprises actions that should be taken between one month and a week before the date of the wedding.

a.- Checking payments based on the up-to-date budget. b.- Final layout. c.- Guest rooming list. d.- Guestlist format for the reception. e.- Authorization of BEO’s (banquet event orders).

5.- The fifth phase is designated for tasks we should check and define one week prior to the event.

a.- Complete guest list.

b.- Table assignments.

c.- Quick look at the general program.

d.- Detailed special regard for guests and the event in general.

The timeline aims to ensure the bride and groom and the planner are on the same wavelength and everyone can see where we are in the planning process. This helps everyone to enjoy the process while avoiding congestion.

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On February 25th we launched Essential Destinations Quest; a virtual event by dQuest DMO, JSAV, and IVI DMC. In this first edition, the featured destination was the Mexican Caribbean! The event was hosted by Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun All-Inclusive Spa Resort in one of their beautiful meeting rooms. The production was led by JSAV.

During the event, there were important topics presented and discussed with our special guests. These ranged from updates on the Mexican Caribbean, news on technology services, sustainable events, and important Causes by the Amigos of the Planet Foundation.

Click here to watch the full event >>

Darío Flota

CEO of the Quintana Roo Tourism Board He shared relevant information, including some of the main reasons to visit the Mexican Caribbean and information about safety and health protocols. Here he discussed a few new hotel openings in the state of Quintana Roo which, despite the current situation, continue to offer new and beautiful options in Cancun, Puerto Morelos, Riviera Maya, and Tulum. These hotels include Nickelodeon in Puerto Morelos, Planet Hollywood in Costa Mujeres, Sensira Resort in Riviera Maya, SLS in Puerto Cancun, Misión Tulum, and Alof Tulum.

Some of the main attractions he highlighted are: visiting Mayan archeological sites in Tulum and Coba, theme and adventure parks, visiting Bacalar's colorful Lagoon, the new Mystic Museum in Tulum ( multi-sensorial gallery); the Clear Boat in Cozumel, among others.

In regards to flight connectivity, he shared great news about the increase in flights from the US. Even before the pandemic, 35 cities from the US were flying into Cancun International Airport with nonstop flights; and 55 from Europe and SouthAmerica.

He also discussed all of the safety measures and strict protocols that are being implemented in Cancun and Cozumel international airports.

These include protocols in the check-in areas, monitoring body temperature, camera scannings, also during chosen periods the application of tests to visitors arriving to ensure a safe stay in the current environment.

He explained more about the program, Mexican Caribbean Clean & Safe Check certification, and also about the Safe Travel program by the WTTC — both of which are aimed to reduce infections. He also indicated that the Mexican Caribbean was included in the first 5 destinations recognized with the Safe Travels stamp worldwide.

He also noted that the state of Quintana Roo (authorities and hotels) is equipped to provide negative-COVID tests for visitors, with 70% of hotels already offering this service to their guests. He said since the reopening of flights in June 2020, the Mexican Caribbean welcomed more than 4 million passengers of which less than 1% were positive COVID cases; this highlights the effectiveness of these protocols.

Hudson Barnes President of JSAV

We had an informative and enlightening conversation about Hybrid events, which are becoming highly important in recent years and in our current environment. He detailed the technology required to produce a hybrid event and stated that understanding the client's specific needs and expectations is the most important part.

He denoted the different platforms available for events, from small webinars to larger productions such as a virtual concert or even a Q&A chat. For streaming there are platforms like Vimeo, Facebook live, YouTube live, Zoom, Skype among others. He shared how streaming works in three steps: Capture, Encode, and Stream.

In regards to the Virtual Convention Center, he considers it the perfect tool for a hybrid event, from registration options, breakout sessions, chat rooms, general sessions, coffee breaks, voting options, exhibits, allowing customizing and branding opportunity. Participants, as they enter the lobby, can interact in various ways.

Here's a breakdown of his discussion: Streaming services A few differences when broadcasting events with JSAV are: the content is multi-platform that means it can be viewed on devices such as cell phones, computers, smart TVs, or any multimedia device with internet access. Broadcast with a variable bit-rate as it can be watched by people on their devices no matter their internet speed. The player adjusts the image quality according to the user's connection.

High technology equipment Their gear comes from reliable manufacturer standards in the entertainment industry worldwide. Unlike other companies that have shared servers, JSAV is dedicated and scalable no matter how many participants are connected. If 100 or 100,000, it will work smoothly. Similar servers are used by companies such as Fox Sports, Netflix, Amazon Prime, and YouTube. With more than 25 years as a leader in the industry, they have service staff with vast knowledge in making events such as Congress, Meeting, Conferences, and Concerts a success.

Advantages of the JSAV Virtual Convention Center Virtual Convention Center is a perfect tool for hybrid events, it includes a personalized landing page with 360 views that shows:

• Visitor and provider registration options • Live Events sectio • Customizable floor hall with provider logos that takes the visitor directly to the virtual booth • Personalized virtual booth • Branding opportunities • Information from the provider (pdf´s, videos, photos) Worldwide content delivery network • Side panels with additional editable information No matter if a viewer is located on the other side of the world, the quality and latency are the • Link to virtual Zoom Meeting or any otherplatform. same. Viewers are not required to install complex software or buy a license, by just having Skype and internet access, hosts are ready to broadcast.

Alma Avila

Commercial Director, DocTour Alma Avila talked about Virtual Medical services they provide, she called it telemedicine; this is what she shared with us: Telemedicine allows doctors and health care professionals to evaluate, diagnose and treat patients at a distance using telecommunications technology. Telemedicine has become very important for travelers because when thinking about your traveling, we always seek a worry-free journey with the least distress possible. Unlike traditional medical consultation, Telemedicine has proven to be very accessible, cost-effective, and capable of increasing patient participation. At DocTour they have developed different options for travelers as well as for hospitality & tourism businesses.

The DocTour founders are doctors and entrepreneurs that, since 2018, have been providing telemedicine services via video calls or chats to a large number of travelers that have come to Mexico in search of a sunny getaway or for business purposes. Having realized that remote care was very well received by the patients, alleviating their concerns in a fast and innovative way, the founders decided to create a cutting-edge telemedicine technology aimed to assist travelers during their stay in Mexico. Their service extends from their airport of origin or while they are participating in outdoor activities or excursions.

DocTour is easily accessible from any device with an internet connection. Their bilingual doctors can treat multiple health issues, such as respiratory and gastric diseases, skin problems related to sun exposure, and other tropical environment-related problems. A lot of them can be solved remotely, thus reducing patients waiting and commuting time.

Services provided by DocTour Medical Orientation.- A Chat or talk with the Doctor's Assistant to get help on their services and general health topics.

Teleconsultation.- Patients access their platform to talk to their specialized Doctors via video call and receive medical advice and recommendations for a speedy recovery, including a prescription whenever needed, for over-the-counter medications and antibiotics.

Onsite Services.- Patients can have a Doctor or Nurse making a housecall for primary care or carrying out minor procedures such as wound cleansing, wound sutures, nebulizers, IV solutions, etc.

Travelers may choose from on-demand services in which they will be paying for every teleconsultation or service requested, basic memberships, in which they will be entitled to have unlimited teleconsultations plus great discounts in additional services, and premium memberships, in addition to the benefits included in the basic memberships, virtually all the additional services will also include, nebulizers, wound cleansing and sutures, IV solutions, etc.

DocTour can assist virtually any patient calling from anywhere, but they understand in some cases patients may need to see a doctor or a nurse in person. They currently operate in the Mexican Caribbean, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, Acapulco, Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, Mérida, Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey exclusively, but they will be serving more destinations in the near future.

SUSTAINABLE EVENTS Our third topic was about sustainable events, our guests shared the essential practices, recommendations, and examples of what has been done or can be done in the Mexican Caribbean to take better care of nature and our communities.

Paola Rubio, Founder, and Director of Chameleon Sustainable Consulting, and Raquel Mijares, Vice President of Marketing at IVI DMC Enterprises and 2021 Vicepresident of Marketing for SITE Mexico Chapter shared the following:

Paola said that a sustainable event is designed and implemented in a way that minimizes potential negative impact while leaving a beneficial imprint for the host community.

She explained the difference between green meetings and sustainable events. She said in this regards, all sustainable related issues have been addressed first as green or environmental-only topics (we tend to think of sustainability as environmentally-friendly but we fail to see the importance of people and economic interactions), however, we now know that, in order to create real lasting changes, it's necessary to understand the big picture and what sustainability comprises.

Experiences can be part of a sustainable event: Attendee experiences may include volunteer programs and creative CSR projects. I believe is very important for these activities to be aligned with the organization’s own CSR programs, this way, a sunscreen brand might be optimal for reef protection activities or a telecommunication company may want to benefit a local community by improving connectivity in rural areas.

Elements needed to consider an event sustainable: One-of-a-kind experiences create A sustainable meeting or event goes beyond recycling or zero-waste events. A sustainable meeting needs to have a management system that allows appropriate planning and analysis of every small detail of the event. This will render suitable decisions in every operative area, such as transportation, waste management, carbon and water footprint, venues, menus, etc, and one of the most important aspects: experiences.

awareness, lasting memories, and real changes in the participants' perception of a global problem and the ways it be addressed on a local level. This is what they look for with their unique experiences, to go beyond just philanthropy and transform the lives of both, local communities and participants.

SITE Mexico Chapter goals on sustainable events SITE Mexico Chapter board is fully committed to promoting the implementation of sustainable practices.

When planning their Chapter events, there are different sustainability elements to be considered according to SITE Global Excellence Guidelines. In fact, in the Mexico Chapter, they will apply for the new SITE Certification in Sustainability which was just launched in 2020. They have already included this certification goal in their Chapter annual strategy.

Raquel; as VP of Marketing in SITE Mexico Chapter; shared how SITE is involved in the Mexican Caribbean in helping create these types of experiences: She mentioned they just had their first SITE Mexico - Annual Board Meeting last weekend at the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach.

The goal of the meeting was to work on their annual Strategic Plan, which entailed several initiatives to give back to the community. These initiatives include a grocery donation in March, a prescription lenses donation for Children’s Day, which in Mexico is April 30, and a special surprise planned for Earth Day, a school supplies donation in the summer, and more to come. These initiatives will not only be carried out in the Mexican Caribbean, but they are also planning to replicate them in other cities in Mexico.

As VP of Marketing at IVI DMC Enterprises, she and her teams promote Sustainable events IVI DMC has a Foundation, called Amigos of the Planet, which is an international nonprofit organization that seeks to inspire international charitable giving with an emphasis on Mexico and Latin America.

Through their Corporate Social Responsibility program, APF offers activities to empower clients that consist of training, team building, and community service, always favoring local communities with projects centered around education, health, and environmental welfare. Amigos of the Planet Foundation works hand in hand with local organizations and local foundations in each destination, to offer flexibility for clients according to their needs, timetable, group size, and budget. She said they can plan CSR activities either in a local community or at the hotel.

Mexican Caribbean Our Causes We had a conversation with Dr. Jane García, President of Amigos of the Planet Foundation, and here are her comments.

She states that the foundation has been present for years and the main key focus points are Health, Education, and the Environment. It is very important to concentrate on the communities where children and adults need to be taught the basics. From how to eat healthier and source from their communities, to have a better understanding of nature on how to preserve it.

Various projects have been created for several communities, from promoting health, education and to continue supporting products made from raw materials. These products include honey and other products made from bees and the production of products coming from the richness of their community. Offering their goods to groups, incentives, and conventions is a direct and great way to support their community.

The importance of caring for our sea nature is vital. It's not enough to have the second most important coral reef in the world (in Cozumel) after Australia but to preserve it for future generations. One of the most relevant causes Jane Garcia supported in her previous roles and continues to be involved in is the sexual exploitation of children in the travel industry. She has been promoting educating hand-in-hand with hotels and the entire tourism industry, raising awareness to help people detect and avoid these types of activities in our industry. She shared there is a certification provided to industry players who prepared themselves and trained their staff to detect and avoid this practice.

It is important to support these causes to increase opportunities mainly aimed at children in the rural communities to help towards education, living conditions, and environment preservation. There is so much help needed and clients and travelers coming to the destination can support these causes.

From helping a school, provide medication, work in certain communities, bring support to communities, sometimes in their housing complex with construction material; repairs in schools, food donations, clothing, or on month-to-month donation support; help is always needed and wanted.

Welcome to the magic of a rainforest. An amazing experience where technology and unique scenic elements are combined to perfection.

Make a memorable impression on your event attendees and explore one of the earth’s oldest living ecosystems. JSAV’s Rainforest Event Theme indulges the senses in this rich experience combining minutely detailed scenic design, life-like video, and sound. We can add entertainment with cirque-like qualities, acrobatic show, or fire dancers.

Click here to learn more

What our client’s have to say.

“

While I wasn't as involved during this phase of the program, Ximena was great to work with on the site inspection and had a lot of knowledge regarding any questions we had! Eugenia was on top of all the program elements and responded quickly to all inquiries, which was a huge help!

Nicolas was great to work with on site! Always helpful and knowledgeable.

“

Eugenia was so wonderful to work with. She did a fantastic job pulling it all together Thank You! I can't say enough about how wonderful IVI was to work with especially Eugenia, Fernando and Jose, they were so attentive and helpful, I would highly recommend IVI for future events or to others planning events here. Thank you so very much!

Jose and Fernando, also wonderful!! They kept everything going with a smile , Thank you ! Thank You!

“

Cheryl Kaufman | Senior Manager, Experiential Marketing

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Tracy Gall | Account Manager

Efren knew exactly what the group needed and was so helpful during the planning! Fausto and Fernando were amazing from the very start! We couldn't have done it without them!

Samantha Hess | Account Coordinator

Doctor Travel’s cure for the common trip Learn a new skill - Take a class!

Travel is the perfect opportunity to try something new. Why not take a 1 or two-day cooking class in the Mexican Caribbean, a surf lesson in Baja California, and both a paddleboarding and fishing lesson in Costa Rica. It’s a fun way to learn a new skill while pushing yourself out of your comfort zone!

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Serving the meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions industry since 1986.

Find us in over 41 destinations throughout: • Mexico • Cuba • Dominican Republic • Costa Rica & • Panama • Colombia

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CONTACT:

Dear reader!

Thanks for reading Communiquest Incentive Travel Digest I hope you find in this newsletter a useful tool that will help you make decisions for your successful business.We would be delighted to know if there anything else you’d like to see or experience in this monthly newsletter. Your suggestions are more than welcome.

We wish you the best in your endeavors and business adventures, and please, don’t forget, working with us “Will make YOU look GREAT”.

IVI DMC² Corporate office: Ave. Acanceh #1-01, SM 15 Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mx Phone: +52 (998) 287-1700 Email:ivicorp@ividmc. travel

Sincerely,

For further information on the finest hotels, deals, activities, and group packages mentioned in this travel digest, please contact:

José-Manuel GARCÍA, CDS Visionary, Founder Founder and and Seller Dream Visionary, ofSeller Dreams

Raquel MIJARES rmijares@ividmc.travel

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