communiquest magazine - may 2015 special edition (cuba)
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"Breaking News, Travel Tips, and More for the M&I Industry"TRANSCRIPT
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Visionary, Founder, and Master Coach
President
Marketing Vice President
General Comptroller
Corporate Business Director
Corporate Quality Director
Electronic Publishing
Content and Editing
Managing Director —MyDay Travel
Corporate Headquarters:
Year 8 Vol. 1, Issue 96
Jose-Manuel GARCIA [email protected] Jose-Manuel (Manolo) GARCIA [email protected] Alicia ASTUDILLO, DMCP [email protected] Trinidad SANCHEZ [email protected] Francisco BAEZA [email protected] Julia ORTIZ [email protected] Alejandro PECH [email protected] Omar GALLEGOS [email protected] Jorge OROZCO [email protected] Av. Acanceh 1-01, SM 15 Cancun, Q. Roo, 77500 Mex. Ph. +52 (998) 287-1700 www.ividmc.travel
Contents: Page
IVIDMC2 Begins Operations in
Cuba!
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Interview with Alejandro Debasa
IVIDMC2 Cuba
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Cover Subject:
Cuba Jumps on the
Tourism Bandwagon -
Discover What’s Hot! 1. Architecture
2. Beaches
3. Nature
4. Music
5. Its People
6. Resorts
7. Cuisine
8. Nightlife
9. Rum
10. Habanos
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How to Prepare the World Famous
Cuban Mojito
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DQuest.travel 11
© Copyright 2015. All Rights Reserved.
Destination Offices:
Mexico The Caribbean Central America South America
IVIDMC² Cancun & Riviera Maya Jose-Manuel (Manolo) GARCIA President [email protected]
IVIDMC² Dominican Republic Genaro ALMONTE Regional Managing Director [email protected]
IVIDMC² Guatemala, Belize, El Salvador, & Honduras
Jorge LAZO Regional Managing Director [email protected]
IVIDMC² Colombia Carolina CALDERON Regional Managing Director [email protected]
IVIDMC² Puerto Vallarta & Riviera Nayarit, Mexico City, & Central Mexico
Jaime NELO Regional Managing Director [email protected]
IVIDMC² Cuba Alejandro DEBASA Regional Managing Director [email protected]
IVIDMC² Costa Rica Sonia VARGAS Destination Manager [email protected]
IVIDMC² Brazil Andrea MAJELA Regional Managing Director [email protected]
IVIDMC² Puerto Vallarta & Riviera Nayarit
Alexandra GONZALEZ Destination Manager [email protected]
IVIDMC² Panama Ligia VARGAS Regional Managing Director [email protected]
IVIDMC² Argentina & Chile Leila GOROSITO Regional Managing Director [email protected]
IVIDMC² Los Cabos Mario FOSTER Regional Managing Director [email protected]
Follow us on...
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expectations by going the extra mile so to speak in regard to superlative service. A satis-fied 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.
After 29 eventful years in the business, IVIDMC
2 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!
Sincerely, Jose-Manuel (Manolo) GARCIA President
Message From Headquarters
As President of IVIDMC2, 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.
Our company is recognized in the M&I industry as being down to earth and having an outstand-ing service-minded attitude. Our unchangeable commitment is to exceed our customers’
May 2015
Cuba offers an amazing
destination stopped in time.
This unique location makes it
ideal for M&I programs. The
historic meeting in Panama
with US President, Mr. Barack
Obama and Cuba President,
Mr. Raul Castro were the jump
start to a new era for this
island country.
The M&I infrastructure will be improving as important investments and time pass. Small to mid-size
groups can easily be accommodated, whereas, large ones will have to wait a bit. Services such as
fast internet or credit card acceptance are fast improving.
This is the right time to visit the island since it still keeps its vintage Caribbean taste. In the years to
come, Cuba will continue embracing change for the better and it will look more modern and boast
state-of-the-art tourism infrastructure. So, if you are putting together a small or medium size group
you can find iconic hotels in the main cities and prime beach resorts, such as El Nacional. Some
Spaniard brands have already been established, i.e., Barcelo, Iberostar, Melia, and Paradisus.
IVIDMC2’s long standing expertise and local know-how will help you out with your planning and
logistics for handling transfers, city tours, historic tours, water activities, dining at Paladares, special
events, and more!
IVIDMC2
Cuba invites you to come and enjoy this idyllic island, its history, charming cities, resorts,
and above all, its vibrant and lively people! As Christopher Columbus once said, discover “the most
beautiful land that human eyes have ever seen”.
IVIDMC2 Begins Operations in Cuba!
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Interview with Alejandro Debasa
IVIDMC2 Cuba CQ: Why is Cuba a trendy destination for the M&I industry?
AD: The island country has a strong magnet to the M&I industry due to its incomparable
beauty and candor of its people, its unexploited nature, and biodiversity. All the above
produces the perfect combination for fine hospitality. Cuba boasts archeological sites,
abundant fishing, sun and idyllic beaches, cruises, iconic hotels, and more! Cuba is a
country that is growing in the tourism sector. As of just a few years ago, tourism has
become an important income producing asset to the country’s economy. More and more
foreign investments are flocking to Cuba due to its potential in rendering good results. The
construction of golf courses, first class hotels, marinas, etc. have become a main priority
for the local government. Cuba is indeed trendy amongst meeting planners!
CQ: What progress is being made locally to meeting the needs of the growing
groups and incentives niche?
AD: Cuba is prioritizing the construction of new hotels in the City of Havana. The goal is to
feature modern and fully equipped hotel rooms and high end auditoriums for meetings and
events, Many important hotel chains have long been established here, such as the Melia
Cohiba, Melia Havana, Parque Central Park, among many others. These are fully
equipped to accommodate small to midsize events. Important historic events have been
held at the iconic PALCO Convention Center, which is an institution of indisputable
prestige in Cuba, specialized in events and congresses organization. It is located in one of
the most beautiful residential neighborhoods of the city and covers an area of 196,850
square feet (60,000 sq. m.) The Center organizes, promotes and carries out conventions,
congresses, symposia,
conferences, national and
international meetings,
fairs, and exhibitions. For
those who want to
combine work with pleas-
ure, as are big hotels in
the area of Varadero and
the Keys, all these same
feature set halls and
meeting rooms for events
and incentive groups.
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May 2015
CQ: What are some of the most popular activities in your agenda for customers
who visit Cuba for meetings and events?
AD: One Cuba’s main attractions is its happy and hospitable people. Mingling with the
locals in the beautiful Havana or at a beautiful beach while enjoying a refreshing mojito,
will add to the joy of our visitors. Besides that, colonial sites, historic venues, water and
beach activities, its
famous night clubs and
bars, complement each
other and are ready to
render a successful
business meeting or
congress.
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Cover Topic:
Cuba Jumps on the Tourism
Bandwagon - Discover What’s Hot!
Architecture For those who enjoy architecture,
Cuba offers a unique opportunity to
discover a blast from the past. Have
your camera ready as you are
exploring because picturesque cars
from the 1950’ s can still be found on
the road today as you are strolling
by and admiring the beautiful
colonial architecture on just about
every corner.
Beaches Cuba is a country with a privileged
coastline of 3,570 miles (5,746 km).
The paradisiacal beaches washed
by the Caribbean Sea in the South
and the Atlantic Ocean and its huge
coral reef in the North make Cuba a
paradise that is considered among
the 25 most popular and important
beach destinations in the world.
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May 2015
Nature Cuba has the most important natural habitats in
the Caribbean because of its biodiversity,
numbers of endemic species, and conservation.
Cuba shelters 4% of the world's terrestrial
species, including 6,700 different plants, 14,000
invertebrate species, and 650 vertebrates. Cuba
is also known for its rare varieties of orchids
scattered across its lush tropical forests, as well
as for its prehistoric cactus in the arid southeast,
estuaries bordered by mangroves, and one of
the most extensive coral reef systems.
Music The music of Cuba relies heavily
on its European and African
cultural backgrounds. The arrival of
thousands of African slaves to the
island over the course of three
hundred years resulted in a variety
of new musical forms. The
country's distinctive and world
famous music owes its melodic
Its people In Spanish a Cuban's way of speaking is very distinct. For example, instead of
addressing someone in Spanish as "my brother", they say, “ hey my brother”, which
speaks volumes of their unity. Cubans are hard workers; they are very resourceful,
witty, friendly, and loyal. Cubans are known for their enduring spirit under difficult
times. They rely heavily on education and like to study hard. Cubans bear rhythm in
their blood and are romantic by nature; this would explain why they were the
originators of the famous dance, danzon.
rhythm to the fusion of its African and Spanish heritages. Even to this day, the
cheerful and energetic Cuban cadence continues to exert a significant influence on
the musical styles around the world.
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Cover Topic (continued…)
Resorts Cuba offers iconic Spanish
hotels, i.e., Barcelo, Iber-
ostar, Melia, and Paradisus;
located along fine golden
sand beaches and areas
filled with pure nature.
Diving, snorkeling, yacht
rides, and a great number
of attractions make Cuba
the ideal place to relax and
enjoy a good time.
Cuisine Paladar is a term used exclusively in
Cuba referring to privately owned small
restaurants. Their food is a fusion of the
Taino customs, Spanish, African, and
Caribbean cuisines. Cuban recipes
share the wisdom of combining spices
and techniques inherited by the Taino
natives with the traditional Spanish and
African cooking, and mixed with some
Caribbean influence in spices and
flavors.
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May 2015
Rum Throughout history the Cuban rum has been recognized worldwide for its superb
quality. The long tradition of natural aging in oak casks, sugar cane of prime quality,
and the Caribbean climate greatly contribute to the unique flavor of the popular Cuban
rum. This unique combination results in a rum with an intense and unique flavor.
Habanos Cuba has an average temperature
of 77 °F (25 °C) and 79% relative
humidity. Rainfall mainly benefits
the western region, where the
greatest tobacco plantations are
located. In addition, the rich and
fertile soil greatly contributes to
the success of the Cuban cigar.
Nightlife Cabaret Tropicana and Parisién in Havana are places you cannot miss. Music is playing
just about everywhere. The famous Bodeguita del Medio and Floridita are the best known
bars due to the personalities that have patronized, such as the famous American writer
Ernest Hemingway. Countless nightclubs can be found all over the place.
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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: IVIDMC2 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).”
How to Prepare the World Famous
Cuban Mojito Preparation:
In a large glass add the mint leaves,
sugar, and 3 lime wedges. Gently
crush with a muddler to release the
lime juice and mint oils. Pour in the
ice cubes. Add the white rum and the
Ingredients:
1 shot glass of white rum
Lime wedges (cut into quarters)
3 tsp sugar
10 peppermint leaves
1 cup of ice cubes
3 drops of Angostura
1/2 cup club soda
Fun Fact
Ernest Hemingway’s two favorite
drinks were daiquiris & mojitos.
Come see his signed quote: “My
mojito in the Bodeguita del Medio
and my daiquiri in the Floridita.”
3 drops of Angostura. Top
off each glass with the
club soda. Lightly stir,
garnish with the last lime
wedge, and enjoy!
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THANK YOU FOR READING
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.
Jose-Manuel GARCIA
Visionary, Founder, & Master Coach
IVIDMC²
The group was well programmed and carried out. It is always great working with you. IVIDMC
2 makes
everything easy!
Fabian Loso Sisel International
The Customer is Always Right
Destinations
• Mexico • Cuba • Dominican Republic • Guatemala • Costa Rica • Panama
• Colombia • Brazil • Argentina • Chile
This portal was created to assist Meeting Planners in easily locating ideal destina-tions, hotels, services, and activities within the group market in Latin America. On this site you will find a large collection of photo-graphs 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
May 2015
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 360
0 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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