Aruba

An Idyllic Spot for Meetings

It starts with a combination of perfect weather and first-class meeting facilities. Spectacular weather is the rule in Aruba: Visitors enjoy sunshine, constant trade winds, magical sunsets, low rainfall, and a year-round temperate climate with an average temperature of 82 F (28 C). And from cozy to extravagant, Aruba's meeting facilities welcome meeting attendees. Top hotel brands and first-class properties line the island's picturesque coastline and offer as much as 22,000 square feet of indoor meeting space and 30,000 square feet of outdoor meeting and function space. No matter where meetings are held, visitors will be treated to warm hospitality - the pillar of Aruba's success and, in addition to the fact that the island is the safest destination in the region, the reason why a full 40 percent of its visitors return again and again.

What's more, Aruba's meeting facility technology exceeds that of nearby destinations and is comparable to that found in United States and Europe. The island boasts the highest penetration of Internet users in the Caribbean, thanks to WiFi connections throughout.

But this is just the beginning. Aruba operates under the umbrella of the Tax Information Exchange Agreement, which allows all meeting expenses to be tax deductible as they are in the United States. That means bringing groups to Aruba is just as cost-effective as booking a U.S. destination. Delegates can reach Aruba from almost anywhere in the world, with direct flights from North America, Latin America, and Europe and top-notch private jet facilities. Visitors from the United States clear U.S. customs and immigration in Aruba, providing for a faster return trip. Communication is just as easy: Arubans possess a wonderful aptitude for languages, and English, Dutch, Spanish, and Papiamento are widely spoken.

Additionally, when it comes to dining, adventure, and post-meeting recreation options, opportunities abound. Aruba's range and quality of island cuisine will appeal to even the savviest traveler. Delegates can unwind to the thrill of casino gaming, or enjoy one of the many guided tours on land (via Jeep) or by sea. Outdoor activities range from golf and tennis to sailing, snorkeling, deep sea fishing, and world-famous windsurfing - not to mention just soaking up the sun on one of the island's white sand beaches.

When the sun sets, Aruba's nightlife blends the sounds and flavors of the Caribbean. Beach bars share the sand with intimate candlelight diners, accompanied by the music of rolling waves. To find out more about activities in Aruba and for general information, visit www.aruba.com.

The Aruba Convention Bureau, the official group marketing division of the Aruba Hotel & Tourism Association, goes the extra mile to ensure that every meeting held in Aruba is a successful one. As such, it offers a host of professional meeting planner services, all at no charge.

The Aruba Convention Bureau (Meet Aruba) makes first-class meeting planning on the island of Aruba its business, so planners can focus on their own.

Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, Hynes Convention Center & Nearby Hotels

Come to Boston and Prepare to Be Impressed

For meeting planners, bringing an event to one of Boston's convention centers means having a world of hotel rooms and housing solutions at your fingertips. Both the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center and the John B. Hynes Veterans Memorial Convention Center are directly connected to outstanding first-class hotel properties - and just minutes away from more than 35,000 hotel rooms in the Boston metro area. That's a lot of "room" for any trade show, association event, or corporate meeting to be successful.

The Boston Convention & Exhibition Center (BCEC) is directly attached to The Westin Boston Waterfront. The 793-room Westin is the latest landmark on the burgeoning South Boston Waterfront that now includes the BCEC, the spectacular new Institute of Contemporary Art, and a host of retail, residential, and public park projects. In addition to the Westin Boston Waterfront, the BCEC is minutes from tens of thousands of other hotel rooms in properties that include the neighboring Seaport Hotel, with 426 rooms; the InterContinental Boston, with 424 rooms; and the newly opened Renaissance Boston Waterfront Hotel, with 471 rooms. With the BCEC at the center of it all, this historic stretch of Boston waterfront is rapidly becoming the most vibrant and exciting convention center neighborhood anywhere. With easy access to public transportation, the BCEC and surrounding hotels put attendees within minutes of all of Boston's historic sites and attractions. The BCEC is also just eight minutes from Logan Airport - easily accessible by taxi, bus, or water shuttle - and minutes from two major highways.

The Hynes Convention Center is connected to three great hotel properties. In fact, the Hynes is the centerpiece of what is known as the "Boston Convention Complex," which also encompasses two world-class shopping malls with hundreds of shops, restaurants, and more. The hotels joined to the Hynes include the 803-room Westin Copley Place, the 1,147-room Boston Marriott Copley Place, and the 1,216-room Sheraton Boston Hotel. All are connected via glass-enclosed pedestrian walkways. The Hynes is situated in the heart of Boston's world-famous Back Bay neighborhood, with its famed Newbury Street shopping, gas-lit avenues, and beautiful parks, including the Boston Common and the Boston Public Gardens. It is also within walking distance of more than 5,000 hotel rooms. No wonder the Hynes is considered the best all-inclusive convention center in the country.

Boston is the first city to establish a dedicated team to work directly with planners to find housing solutions that mirror their event needs. That includes helping secure your original room block, finding overflow solutions, and helping solve your most challenging housing needs. It's one point of contact, so planners save time and money and get connected to the best overall hotel package.

CONVENTION CENTER HIGHLIGHTS
Boston Convention & Exhibition Center
• Located closer to the airport and major transportation systems than any convention center in North America, the BCEC will attract more attendees to your Boston-based event.

John B. Hynes Veterans Memorial Convention Center
• Situated in the heart of Boston's finest shopping, dining, nightlife, and historic attractions, the Hynes is the best located all-inclusive convention center in the United States.
• The Hynes offers superior flexibility and services. Five unique exhibit halls include the Hynes auditorium, with built-in balcony and seating for more than 4,000 people. In addition, the facility has 41 dedicated meeting rooms, and a 25,000-square-foot ballroom, offering show producers and planners the flexibility and space options to configure any event.
• The Hynes is a compact facility with easy access to all meeting rooms, exhibit halls, and ballrooms in less than three minutes.
• The Hynes is within walking distance of more than 5,000 hotel rooms, and is connected to three hotels.

HOTEL HIGHLIGHTS
South Boston Waterfront District Hotels
• The Westin Boston Waterfront is directly connected to the BCEC, with guest amenities that include Starwood Turbo Net Laptop, Heavenly Bed and Shower/Bath, indoor pool, Westin Workout Powered by Reebok, and more.
• With beautiful views of Boston Harbor, the Seaport Hotel is just one block from the BCEC and is directly connected to the Seaport World Trade Center.
• New additions include the InterContinental Boston and the Renaissance Boston Waterfront (opened December 2007).
Boston Convention Complex Hotels
• The Westin Copley Place, Boston Marriott Copley Place, and Sheraton Boston Hotel are all connected via skybridge to the Hynes Convention Center and two upscale malls featuring more than 200 shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
• The hotels feature a total of 3,166 guest rooms, each offering high-speed Internet access, work space, and a variety of deluxe amenities.
• All properties feature a fitness facility, indoor pool, business
services, and outstanding dining choices.

Westin Boston Waterfront & Boston Convention & Exhibition Center

A Premier Destination for Corporate, Association Events

Since it opened in 2006, The Westin Boston Waterfront has been receiving many accolades for its new meeting spaces, intuitive services, and refreshing touches, continuing to solidify its reputation as the premier destination for corporate and association meetings and conventions in Boston.

With 793 rooms, the hotel offers unmatched amenities and convenience for meeting planners and business executives. In fact, The Westin Boston Waterfront recently announced that it is adding 25,000 square feet of meeting space, including five breakout rooms and an 8,500-square-foot ballroom - bringing the hotel's meeting space to a total of 85,000 square feet. The hotel will also be adding three new restaurants that will join Sauciety, its signature 130-seat restaurant; Birch Bar 80-seat lobby lounge; and a 30-seat Starbucks café.

Adding to the allure for meeting planners, The Westin Boston Waterfront is the only hotel in Boston connected (via glass enclosed walkway) to the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center (BCEC). In addition to the BCEC's 516,000 square feet of contiguous exhibit space, 160,000 square feet of additional meeting space, and its 40,000-square-foot ballroom, The Westin Boston Waterfront currently offers a total of 32,000 square feet of meeting space including two spacious ballrooms, one with an outdoor terrace. All meeting space offers double-insulated walls for the ultimate in privacy and sound-proofing.

Meeting attendees who need to attend to business while staying at The Westin Boston Waterfront have no difficulty completing important tasks. The property's business center offers computer and telecommunications equipment rentals, as well as desktop publishing and administrative services. All guest rooms, including 29 suites and two Presidential Suites, feature dual-line telephones with voice messaging, in-room data ports, and large work desks. Planners, too, appreciate how easy it is to put together and carry out meetings at The Westin Boston Waterfront: A STAR Meeting Concierge stands ready to handle groups' requirements, and complete audiovisual support is available.

The hotel's guest rooms and suites also take pampering to new levels with Westin's The Heavenly Bed and The Heavenly Bath concepts. The all-white Heavenly Bed consists of a custom-designed pillowtop mattress with 900 individual coils; three sheets, ranging in thread count from 180 to 250; a down blanket (three versions for three different climates); a comforter and crisp duvet; and five pillows. Westin's The Heavenly Bath experience features a custom-designed shower with a Speakman dual showerhead, a specially designed curved shower rod to allow for more elbow room in the shower, oversized combed cotton bath sheets, custom-designed bathrobes, and new spa amenities.

But the amenities don't stop there. Consistent with Westin's focus on satisfying guests' needs away from home, The Westin Boston Waterfront features a WestinWorkout Powered by Reebok custom-designed fitness facility. The sleek new fitness room is reminiscent of facilities found in upscale health clubs and is replete with treadmills, upright bikes, recumbent bikes, steppers, and elliptical trainers, as well as leg extension, leg curl, shoulder press, lat pull down, and chest machines; free weights, and Cardio Theater - personal viewing screens and sound systems on all cardiovascular workout equipment. Additionally, the room includes a Reebok Core Training Zone - a unique center created to improve strength, flexibility, balance, and aerobic conditioning and outfitted with such special Reebok equipment as Core Boards, medicine balls, stability balls, and resistance tubing.

What's more, with its own stop on Boston's "T" transportation system, The Westin Boston Waterfront puts attendees within easy reach of all of Boston's historic sites and attractions, including museums, galleries, theaters, and sporting events. The Financial District, Back Bay, North End, Faneuil Hall, and Fenway Park lie minutes away. The hotel is also situated less than 10 minutes and three miles from Logan International Airport - easily accessible by taxi, bus, or water shuttle - and minutes from I-90 and I-89.

CONVENTION CENTER HIGHLIGHTS
Boston Convention & Exhibition Center
• State-of-the-art, high-tech facility is the largest convention center in the Northeast
• Features 516,000 square feet of contiguous exhibit space, easily divided into 10 different configurations
• 160,000 square feet of flexible meeting space
• 40,020-square-foot, column-free Grand Ballroom
• More than 300,000 square feet of registration and function space
• Wi-Fi enabled Internet access and cell phone coverage throughout the building
• Tastes of Boston food court with seating capacity for 700 people
• Two private ring roads, 62-covered loading bays, and five "elephant" doors with exhibition floor access
• Features three contiguous exhibit halls divisible into 10 different configurations and 84 fully equipped meeting rooms with multiple set-up options
• The BCEC is also under a 10-minute trip from Logan Airport via
taxi, bus, or water shuttle - and minutes from two major
highways.

HOTEL HIGHLIGHTS
Westin Boston Waterfront
• Property is the only hotel connected to the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center (BCEC)
• 793 guest rooms
• 25,000 square feet of meeting space, including five breakout rooms and a 8,500-square-foot ballroom, now being added, bringing the hotel's meeting space to a total of 85,000 square feet
• Three additional restaurants are also being added.

Cincinnati USA Duke Energy Center & Nearby Hotels

Cincinnati USA Provides More Memorable Backdrop for Meetings

Cincinnati USA is bursting with the "wow" factor. With the recent $135 million expansion and renovation of the Duke Energy Center set against more than $2 billion in new infrastructure, meeting planners will come to find that they can Plan for More when meeting in Cincinnati USA.

Uniquely situated against rolling hills and the winding Ohio River, Cincinnati USA has a beauty all its own that engages visitors from the moment they see the skyline peeking out of the river valley. The topography of the region has created a compact downtown that is easy to navigate and easy to love, not to mention walkable. The compact downtown convention package offers four national-brand hotels with a combined 3,000 hotel rooms within a five-minute walk from the Duke Energy Center and surrounding retail stores and restaurants.

Enhancements to Cincinnati's hospitality product include the burst of development surrounding the new $43 million Fountain Square entertainment district, giving planners and attendees plenty to see and do. Dozens of shops and dining options located just steps away from the hotels and convention center make it easy for attendees to grab a quick bite to eat between sessions or to leisurely dine and relax when the day's meetings are over. World-class attractions, such as the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal, and Contemporary Arts Center, along with the Cincinnati Reds and Bengals games, will keep delegates on their toes and entertain families on the hunt for fun things to do.

Furthering the city's appeal is the newly expanded Duke Energy Center, offering planners even more space and flexibility to hold first-class events and meetings. The new center design allows for sweeping views of the city that are complemented by a vibrant interior color scheme that reflects the color of the water and green hillsides of the Ohio River valley. The Duke Energy Center boasts a total of 750,000 square feet of space and more than 100,000 square feet of meeting space, including 31 breakout rooms with planning flexibility to accommodate groups of 24 to 4,100 people. The center also offers a 17,472-square-foot Junior Ballroom and nearly 200,000 square feet of contiguous exhibit space.

At nearly 40,000 square feet in size, the Duke Energy Center's stunning Grand Ballroom is one of the largest ballrooms in the Midwest. High-speed and wireless Internet access points are available throughout the facility, and state-of-the-art fiber optic networking and a stable multi-segmented network ensure reliable service. Planners can rest easy knowing that on-site technical and audiovisual support staff is available at all events, leading to smooth presentations and a hassle-free setup.

Additionally, conveying messages to attendees at the Duke Energy Center is a snap with customized electronic signage. LED screens strategically mounted throughout the center project such pertinent information as room assignments, as well as fun facts and promotional videos. Welcome messages also are posted on a 24' x 42' high-resolution video screen atop the Macy's building on Fountain Square, giving groups an added presence in the community.

Midwest charm and first-class hospitality have given Cincinnati USA a reputation for friendly citizens and outstanding service from the hotels, convention center, and CVB. In fact, the nation is taking notice of Cincinnati USA's energy. Forbes.com included the city on its list of "Best Cities for Nightlife." USA?Today ran a laudable article with the headline, "Cincinnati Getting Top Marks for Travel." It was included among the list of "America's Most Livable Communities" of the decade whose innovations brought vitality and growth to their regions. And Esquire magazine named Cincinnati one of "10 Cities that Rock," based on the local music scene. Zagat Survey, AmericanStyle magazine, the American Automobile Association, and others continue to heap praise on the city's lodging, arts, entertainment, shopping, and dining options.

convention CENTER HIGHLIGHTS
Duke Energy Center
• More than 750,000 total square feet including prefunction and support space
• Nearly 200,000 square feet of contiguous exhibition space
• More than 100,000 square feet of meeting space, divisible into 31 deluxe meeting breakout rooms with planning flexibility to accommodate groups of 24 to 4,100 people
• A Grand Ballroom of nearly 40,000 square feet and a second ballroom of 17,472 square feet
• A new, multi-level main concourse, providing easy access to exhibit halls and meeting and ballroom levels above
• A full-service banquet kitchen that can serve up to 5,000 people in a single seating
• More than 5,000 adjacent parking spaces and 3,000 hotel rooms within walking distance
• Fully-equipped access for the handicapped and hearing-impaired
• Advanced electronic security and fire/safety systems

Grimaldi Forum Monaco & Nearby Hotels

Facility Turns Meetings Into Unique Experiences

Planners' choice of facility can make all the difference between a satisfactory meeting and a highly productive, truly memorable one. Choosing the Grimaldi Forum Monaco, in the Principality of Monaco, provides the latter experience.

A major venue for exhibitions, conferences, and conventions comprising 200 to more than 2,000 attendees, the Grimaldi Forum Monaco is the only European venue with an opera-style configuration as well as a wide variety of spaces that may be used separately or together. This combination of features means every meeting held there will not be just another event, but rather, a true experience.

Not surprisingly, the facility has already won many accolades, beginning with successfully organized events held over the past seven years, as well as confirmed future bookings for major international meetings and conferences expected to draw 800 to 2,500 delegates. In fact, in its short history, the Grimaldi Forum Monaco has been designated "Best Overseas Conference Center" (2003, 2004, 2005, and 2007) as part of the prestigious M&IT Awards. Its strong appeal to the U.S. market was proven when it welcomed the 2005 MPI-PEC Europe conference, attracting a record-breaking number of attendees.

Hosting stellar events is indeed no problem at Grimaldi Forum Monaco. This state-of-the-art facility includes an expansive 100,000 square feet of exhibit space, three auditoriums, and 11 breakout rooms. The main auditorium, the Salle des Princes, can be configured to hold 1,300 delegates theater-style or up to 1,900 delegates classroom-style, while the two smaller auditoriums may be used theater- or classroom-style for 200 to 800 attendees.

Additionally, nine of the facility's 11 breakout rooms, which boast a collective 1,200 seats - may be divided into as many as 23 breakout rooms using soundproofed partitions. Even the exhibit areas are divisible into individual areas, ranging from 6,000 square feet to the 45,000 square feet at the Espace Ravel. Two large loading bays yield external and internal access to the exhibit area, saving booth set-up and tear-down time.

Groups convening at the Grimaldi Forum Monaco also enjoy access to a host of flexible dining options, as well as to the cadre of technology critical to holding productive meetings in today's fast-paced business climate. The Karement tapas bar offers a unique design and a sweeping view of the Mediterranean Sea. Two other catering spaces, Le Guelfe and Le Genois, can each accommodate up to 500 guests at lunch time, and Espace Diaghilev holds 1,200 people for seated luncheons or dinners and up to 3,000 for cocktail receptions. The Espace Ravel accommodates 3,500 guests for cocktails or 2,000 for gala sit-down dinners, and the lobby bar has a maximum capacity of 1,000 people or 500 using round tables and the adjoining terrace.

Think Monaco itself is simply too costly and inconvenient a destination in which to hold an association meeting? Think again. While Monaco's reputation is that of a playground for Europe's elite, the Principality actually is an affordable venue that can exceed the expectations of all visitors - even those who arrive without having packed a tuxedo or backless ball gown.

Formal wear aside, reaching Monaco from the United States is simple. New direct flights from Atlanta in the summer, plus existing direct connections from New York City's John F. Kennedy International Airport to Nice International Airport, put the Principality at groups' doorstep. A 30-minute drive or seven-minute helicopter shuttle ride whisks attendees from the airport to Monaco itself, and with the entire Principality spanning no more than half the area of New York City's Central Park, accessing the Grimaldi Forum Monaco itself is equally easy.

Even better, nearly 1,500 hotel rooms are available within walking distance of the Grimaldi Forum Monaco. As of this year, the entire Principality will offer almost 3,000 rooms, rendering it ideal for large groups.

CONVENTION CENTER HIGHLIGHTS
Grimaldi Forum Monaco:
• Situated in the Principality of Monaco, which lies in the heart of Europe, on the Mediterranean coast between France and Italy
• Direct flights from the United States (New York City and Atlanta) are available.
• Nearly 1,500 rooms are available within a seven-minute walking distance.
• Three auditoriums (1,800, 800, and 400 seats), two interconnecting exhibition halls (86,000 sq ft), up to 23 breakouts (capacity of 15-400 people), two banqueting areas, and networking cocktail bar with an idyllic terrace overlooking the Mediterranean Sea

 Hartford & Nearby Hotels

Hartford, Conn., Is Top Choice of Growing Number of Meeting Planners

Convenience, location, affordability, and personal service are just some of the reasons that Hartford is the top choice for a growing number of conventions. Meeting planners are discovering that the Greater Hartford Convention & Visitors Bureau (GHCVB) and the region's hospitality professionals provide the kind of personal attention and care that larger cities may not be able to deliver.

A major reason for this growth is the 540,000-square-foot Connecticut Convention Center, which overlooks the beautiful Connecticut River and is the largest meeting venue anywhere between New York and Boston. Since opening in 2005, it has earned an impressive reputation. Next door is the $92 million Hartford Marriott Downtown. Just blocks away, a new retail and residential complex is being built at the XL Center (formerly Hartford Civic Center). Add to that the nearby Connecticut Expo Center, for a total of 740,000 square feet of high-tech facilities and amenities in one of the Northeast's most picturesque environs.

Greater Hartford's convenient access to more than 23 million people within a two-and-one-half hour drive is a major selling point for conventions, trade shows, and special events. Just 15 minutes away is Bradley International Airport, one of the nation's top boutique airports. Northwest Airlines recently inaugurated daily nonstop service between Hartford and Amsterdam, making it easier than ever for international conventioneers to come here. Hartford's Brainard Field is a favorite of private aircraft pilots, offering easy access and amenities. Amtrak and major bus lines travel through Hartford's historic Union Station. Once visitors arrive, they can explore the city with free rides on the Hartford Star Shuttle, stopping at major hotels and attractions.

Ranked in the top six percent of North American metropolitan areas for its abundance of art and culture, Greater Hartford offers entertainment, dining, and leisure activities for every taste. Top attractions include the Tony Award-winning Hartford Stage, the renowned Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, author Mark Twain's Victorian Gothic mansion, and memorable sunset river cruises. Meeting planners can choose from a variety of historic and arts venues for spouse tours and off-site entertainment.

More than 30 three- and four-star Hartford restaurants serve up every type of cuisine, with prices to fit any budget. At night, Hartford bars and clubs sizzle with some of the best jazz, blues, and rock in Southern New England.

The dazzling new Connecticut Science Center will open later this year, right next to the Connecticut Convention Center and Marriott Hotel Downtown. The state-of-the-art attraction will feature interactive galleries and hands-on laboratories, 3-D theater, and unique function room spaces.

All this … and less than an hour from the beaches of the Long Island Sound, ski slopes and hiking in the Berkshire Mountains, two of the world's largest casinos, and dozens of quaint Southern New England village greens.

CONVENTION CENTER HIGHLIGHTS
Connecticut Convention Center
• 540,000-square-foot building is anchor of Adriaen's Landing, to include a mix of retail, entertainment, and residential housing; within walking distance to jogging trails, parklands, and boating
• 140,000-square-foot exhibition hall has 20 loading docks, two drive-in bays, and drive-on exhibit floor.
• Bold architectural design incorporates a plaza and vaulted roof, tree-lined esplanade, and spectacular views of Hartford skyline and the Connecticut River.
HOTEL HIGHLIGHTS
Hartford Hotels
• Hartford offers 6,000-plus hotel rooms within a 30-mile city radius.
• Connected to the convention center, the Hartford Marriott Downtown features 409 guest rooms and suites, signature restaurant and cocktail lounge, Starbucks Cafe, and concierge services, along with rooftop swimming pool, fitness center, and luxury spa services.
• Homewood Suites by Hilton Hartford recently opened an all-suites hotel in walking distance to Connecticut Convention Center and XL Center (formerly Hartford Civic Center).
• The Goodwin Hotel is undergoing a multimillion-dollar renovation scheduled for completion later this year, and will feature high-definition LCD TVs through which guests can use laptops, iPods,
games, DVD, and personal electronics; high-speed Internet in all meeting and guest rooms, and new fitness center.
• Newly remodeled Hilton Hartford, an AAA Four-Diamond quality and service property, connected to the XL Center via a skywalk, gives guests access to shopping, sports, and consumer show events; more than 15,000 square feet of meeting space, including a 2,200-square-foot meeting room.
• Crowne Plaza Hartford Downtown completed total renovation of its lobby, all guest rooms and suites, including complete bathroom remodeling.
• Lots of hotel growth at Bradley International Airport and in Hartford's suburbs, from all-suite hotels to traditional New England bed and breakfasts

Los Angeles Convention Center & Nearby Hotels

Booming Downtown Ranks as Premier Meeting Destination

New advanced meeting space, breakthrough entertainment venues, hot night spots, celebrity chef restaurants, and new and newly renovated hotels are fast making Downtown Los Angeles one of the nation's premier destinations. Well known for such cultural attractions as the Walt Disney Concert Hall, Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Japanese American National Museum, and Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) - all of which are available for private events - the nation's second-largest city is being re-energized by more than $12 billion of investment.

NOKIA Theatre, the city's hottest new events and meetings venue, opened in October of 2007. The 7,100-seat, state-of-the-art facility boasts L.A.'s largest stage and features more than 235,000 square feet of hospitality and function space for large and small gatherings. The adjacent NOKIA Plaza is available for outdoor events into the thousands and includes catering facilities, giant LED screens, and a "red carpet" area for uniquely LA events.

NOKIA Plaza comprises only the first phase of the $4.5 billion L.A. LIVE project, which when completed in 2010 will include 14 many new restaurants, retail centers, concert spaces, outdoor plazas, and two new convention hotels: a JW Marriott and a Ritz-Carlton, located in a 1,001-room high-rise adjacent to the Los Angeles Convention Center (LACC). Long a centerpiece of the city's meetings package, the convention center offers 770,000 square feet of space, including two special event halls of 47,000 square feet each, as well as 64 meeting rooms. Other features include 108,500 square feet of meeting space on the second level, two other, carpeted special event halls of 21,000 and 26,000 square feet, a 300-seat presentation theater, facility-wide Wi-Fi access, and 5,500 parking spaces.

The LACC is also one of the nation's greenest convention centers. At 867,000 square feet, it is the largest solar-generating building in North America, with 3,400 solar panels that supply 15 percent of the energy needs of the expansive South Hall (enough to power 2,300 homes). Its environmental protection programs include recycling beverage containers, recycling 99 percent of used trade show materials, recycling food waste (into animal feed), recycling garden waste, and water conservation.

The Green West Expo/Conference - the first trade show devoted to bringing together the entire spectrum of green products and services under one roof -- will be held at the LACC in April. Diane O'Conner, president of event organizer Green Media Enterprises, said she chose L.A. because "it's one of the nation's most vibrant and forward-thinking green markets."

Meanwhile, L.A.'s sophisticated new and newly renovated hotels boast more than 3,500 committable rooms and meeting space, all within walking distance of Downtown's many attractions and the LACC. They include the upscale Marriott Los Angeles Downtown; the Millennium Biltmore Hotel; (site of the first Academy Awards); the Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza, with rooftop garden; the landmark Westin Bonaventure; and the elegant Wilshire Grand Los Angeles.

Downtown L.A. is near Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and LA/Ontario International Airport (ONT). LAX is the home of just about every major domestic carrier and a host of international carriers. LA/Ontario Airport is 35 miles east of Downtown L.A. and offers flights to most major U.S. cities.

LA INC., The Los Angeles Convention and Visitors Bureau - the meeting professional's one-stop resource - makes the most of everything the new Downtown offers. The LA INC. Web site, www.discoverLosAngeles.com, features everythingfrom caterers and DMCs to entertainment industry specialists and 24-hour RFPs. LA INC.'s seasoned professionals provide hands-on action to ensure that every program, from board meetings to international conventions and industry trade shows, will be the best ever.

CONVENTION CENTER HIGHLIGHTS
Los Angeles Convention Center
• Situated in vibrant Downtown Los Angeles
• Lies in close proximity to the $4.5 billion L.A. LIVE project, which when completed in 2010 will include 14 restaurants, retail centers, concert spaces, outdoor plazas, and two new convention hotels: a JW Marriott and a Ritz-Carlton
• Features 770,000 square feet of space, including two special event halls of 47,000 square feet each, as well as 64 meeting rooms; other features include 108,500 square feet of meeting space on second level, two other, carpeted special event halls of 21,000 and 26,000 square feet, a 300-seat presentation theater, facility-wide Wi-Fi access, and 5,500 parking spaces
• "Green" facility, which at 867,000 square feet, is largest solar-generating building in North America - has 3,400 solar panels (enough to power 2,300 homes); environmental protection programs include recycling beverage containers, recycling 99 percent of used trade show materials, recycling food waste (into animal feed), recycling garden waste, and water conservation

HOTEL HIGHLIGHTS
• More than 3,500 committable rooms Downtown
• Downtown hotels with committable rooms include Marriott Los Angeles Downtown, Millennium Biltmore Hotel, Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza, Westin Bonaventure; and Wilshire Grand Los Angeles.

Lake Lanier Islands Resort

Upgrades Add to Property's Strong Appeal

Holding a meeting in a large city has its benefits, but groups sometimes need a different type of event backdrop to recharge their productivity batteries. Lake Lanier Islands Resort provides such an environment - and much more.

Located just 45 minutes from northeast Atlanta, Lake Lanier Islands Resort lies on the shores of Lake Sidney Lanier and is Georgia's most visited lakeside resort destination. The 1,100-acre resort features a variety of amenities and services, including Legacy Lodge & Conference Center, 30 lakeside cottages, six luxury Lakeside Villas, award-winning golf, scenic horseback riding, luxury spa services, famed wine-tasting dinners, campsites, and boat rentals. Each year, the property's Beach & WaterPark is open during the summer months, while Magical Nights of Lights, the world's largest animated holiday light extravaganza, takes place mid-November until the end of December. Legacy Lodge & Conference Center is a member of the International Association of Conference Centers (IACC) and ranks among the most popular meeting venues in the South. Here, groups will find 21,000 square feet of flexible meeting space to accommodate five to 500 delegates. With a total of 23 meeting rooms, including two 4,400-square-foot ballrooms and an executive board room, there are a multitude of options from which to choose. What's more, all meeting rooms feature complimentary wireless Internet access, state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment, and complete sound and lighting capabilities. A fully equipped business center, offering the latest computer equipment, messaging, fax service, and wireless access, is available on site as well. Lake Lanier Islands Resort also boasts a number of alternative venues for a twist on the traditional meeting. An expansive outdoor area with a private swimming pool and bar distinguishes Summit House, which encompasses 1,900 square feet of outdoor space. The Island Princess, the 85-foot group excursion yacht, accommodates up to 149 passengers and features a luxurious enclosed cabin, buffet, and bar area, climate control, two restrooms, and an upper deck with additional seating and a bar. The 75-foot Island Queen hosts up to 65 passengers and features an elegant enclosed cabin, buffet and bar area, climate control, two restrooms, and seating on the upper deck. PineIsle Golf Club offers ideal settings for a golf tournament or group golf outing. Tournament packages include greens fees, cart fee, range balls, cart signs, proximity markers, scoring, and gate fees.

To make the planning process easier and maximize groups' time on site, each event held at Lake Lanier Islands Resort is assigned a professional conference services manager. Members of the property's conference services team stand ready to assist planners from the time programs are booked until the moment the last guest departs. In addition, the conference services staff will assist with tours, theme parties, and activities to fit groups' needs, tastes, and budgets.

Adding even more appeal, the property is now in the midst of a multimillion-dollar renovation. Guest rooms at the renamed Legacy Lodge & Conference Center have already been fully renovated with upgraded amenities that bring a taste of the city life to the great outdoors, including enlarged bathrooms with custom Italian tile, oil-rubbed bronze hardware and granite countertops; overstuffed sofas and chairs; luxurious linens with high thread counts; and flat-screen TVs and complimentary wireless Internet access.

Other completed Legacy Lodge renovations include a redesign of the exterior front entrance, as well as the addition of wood shake siding, copper rake flashing, wood timber trusses, and natural stone elements, including a rare African slate. Rustic lamp fixtures and accessories grace the exterior walls, entryways, and corridors.

Lake Lanier Islands Resort has also added to its luxury lodging six new six-room executive villas that span 4,500 square feet each and celebrate the wilderness of the natural Lake Lanier Islands landscape, while providing the comforts of a modern resort. Keeping the theme of the Great Lodges of America, each villa has two floors, with the bottom floor measuring just under 2,200 square feet.

Additionally, the resort's Bullfrogs restaurant has received a complete renovation of its outside patio and features an enlarged indoor dining area and upgraded, hi-tech kitchen facilities. Windows, the upscale restaurant located on the main floor of the hotel, features exquisite fine dining and famed wine-tasting dinners.

Also new at Lake Lanier Islands Resort is Tranquility Spa, offering a spectrum of unprecedented treatments, ranging from basic massage to stone therapy treatment, as well as European facials, aromatherapy body wraps, signature pedicures, manicures, and more. The luxurious, upscale spa also features highly sought- after products used by plastic surgeons all over the world.

lake lanier island Resort HIGHLIGHTS
• Full-service conference center with 21,000 square feet of
event space
• Wide variety of amenities, including award-winning golf, scenic horseback riding, full-service spa, fitness center, three restaurants, boat rentals, Beach & WaterPark (summer months only), heated pool, Magical Nights of Lights animated holiday light extravaganza

MEGACENTER

More of Everything … for Complete Meeting Success

Whatever your meeting, convention, incentive travel, or exposition needs, they can all be met under one spectacular roof at the MEGACENTER, which combines the amenities, services, and facilities of three renowned destinations - The Venetian, The Palazzo, and the Sands Expo and Convention Center.

With the MEGACENTER, bigger always means better. Here, you'll find the most business-friendly convention destination in the world, with a unique combination of outstanding facilities and services, superior restaurants, shopping, spa, and entertainment options at your fingertips. But, for the business-minded, perhaps the greatest thing about the MEGACENTER is what is called the "One Campus Concept." With all facilities consolidated into one area, convention planners find there is more interaction between attendees, making for the most productive working environment. The MEGACENTER will contribute to the success of your meeting.

It begins with more than 2.25 million square feet of meeting space - more than the entire cities of San Francisco, San Diego, and Phoenix - meaning that whether your group comprises 50 people or 50,000, you'll have a one-of-a-kind experience. A team of professional planners is with you every step of the way, offering expert advice born from years of hands-on experience.

Location also plays a big factor in the success of the MEGACENTER. Situated in Las Vegas, the MEGACENTER takes advantage of its proximity to U.S. national parks, like Zion National Park, Red Rock Canyon, and the Grand Canyon. Plus, the MEGACENTER is conveniently located on the Las Vegas Strip, just minutes from McCarran International Airport.

The parts that make up the MEGACENTER are just as big as the sum. The Palazzo, the most recent addition to the Las Vegas Strip, heralds a new era of unrivaled sophistication with its spacious suites, fine dining, shopping opportunities, and outstanding entertainment. The Palazzo takes one's breath away with its stately style and awe-inspiring open spaces. The Grand Lobby of The Palazzo boasts a 60-foot glass dome, multiple two-story fountains, imported marble, bronze case columns and special custom wall finishes. Guests will find themselves lost in the beauty of the palatial villas of Northern Italy at The Palazzo. There are 3,066 luxurious suites, including more than 375 concierge-level suites and six 11,000-square-foot private villas.

Connected to The Palazzo by the flowing Grand Canal is The Venetian, one of the crown jewels of Las Vegas. Like The Palazzo, The Venetian is a treat for the senses; grand architecture, relaxing water features, and elegant details transport the guest to a world of comfort.

The Venetian provides your event with exceptional after-hours entertainment, the best in fine dining, and uncompromising luxury. Attendees will delight in the exquisite offerings of the world's largest Five-Diamond resort, with all the special pampering such a property can provide. The Venetian is unrivaled as a meetings destination and it has numerous industry awards to its credit to back that up. These nominations are only given to properties that exhibit excellence in staff, meeting space, guest service, food and beverage, and reservations. The Venetian has long been lauded as one of the world's premier convention hosts. There's Emeril Lagasse's Delmonico Steakhouse or Mario Batali's B & B Ristorante. Experience the wonder of the Blue Man Group and the pageantry of Phantom - The Las Vegas Spectacular. When the work is done, the MEGACENTER gives you more options for relaxation than anywhere else.

At the MEGACENTER, not only is your business our pleasure, your pleasure is our business. 

hotel and CONVENTION CENTER HIGHLIGHTS
MEGACENTER
• With 298 meeting rooms and just more than 2.25 million square feet of meeting space, the MEGACENTER is able to accommodate any group size, be it 25 or 25,000 people.
• Located in Las Vegas, the MEGACENTER is just a few minutes from McCarran International Airport. Guests of the MEGACENTER will spend less time driving and more time being productive.
• Nearly unlimited shopping and entertainment options are available to guests of the MEGACENTER. Jersey Boys, Phantom - The Las Vegas Spectacular, Blue Man Group, and Wayne Brady are just a few of the diversions you'll find, along with such extraordinary retailers as Barneys New York, Kenneth Cole, and others.
• Our "One Campus Concept" means you'll have everything you need to make your meeting or convention under one roof.
• Guests of the MEGACENTER will find total relaxation just outside their door with Canyon Ranch SpaClub. Facials, saunas, exercise, and much more help relieve the tension of a busy day.
• Make your event a hit with advice from catering and conference experts with years of hands-on experience. 

Meydenbauer Convention Center, & Nearby Hotels 

A Perfect Destination for Groups of 30 to 3,000 

 Why settle for a "same old, same old" city in which to hold a meeting? A great alternative to downtown Seattle awaits groups in Bellevue, Wash. Located just nine miles east of Seattle and 20 minutes from Sea-Tac International Airport; Bellevue offers 1,000 committable hotel rooms available on peak and 48,000 square feet of flexible meeting space at the newly renovated Meydenbauer Convention Center, making it the perfect convention destination for groups of 30 to 3,000 delegates. Here, meeting attendees are surrounded by all of the amenities of a big city, including a thriving and walkable downtown, four-star restaurants, and seriously decadent shopping, as well as world-class golfing, hiking, boating, and wine tasting available within a short drive.

Recognized for quality, service, and value, Meydenbauer Convention Center features a 36,000-square-foot, column-free center hall that is ideal for large-scale events. Renovated in 2007, the space boasts a warm new color palette and permanent carpeting. Its copper mesh ceiling and artistic metal feature wall, paired with incandescent and LED lighting systems, creates a one-of-a-kind environment, while a sound-dampening retractable wall divides the hall to accommodate banquets and meetings in a variety of seating arrangements.

Meydenbauer Convention Center's 12,000 square feet of flexible meeting space houses nine meeting rooms. Guests can mingle on a nearby terrace that offers views of the city skyline and the summit of Mount Rainier. The center operates outside the traditional convention center model by providing the entire array of meeting services - event planning, catering, audiovisual equipment, electrical services, convention services, and security - with in-house industry professionals.

Bellevue is a vibrant city with a thriving business community anchored by technology firms, retail businesses, banking, services, and corporate headquarters offices. It's the metropolitan hub for leading high-tech companies in such sectors as software development, Internet and network services, multi- and digital media, and biotechnology. Its high-rise core offers office space to thousands of professionals. Microsoft Corporation and the University of Washington, one of the nation's largest public research institutions, are within close proximity.

Bellevue's booming downtown includes the Bellevue Collection, which is comprised of Lincoln Square, Bellevue Square, and Bellevue Place. This distinctive collection features 250 of the finest shops and nationally known retailers, an ever-growing restaurant district with 18 sit-down restaurants, a 42-table billiards and spirits lounge, an upscale bowling alley and lounge, a 16-screen luxury cinema, and 700 luxury hotel rooms. Another exciting mixed-use development, The Bravern, is currently under construction adjacent to Meydenbauer Center. The Bravern will feature office and residential towers as well as the Pacific Northwest's only Neiman Marcus and other upscale retail and restaurant offerings.

CONVENTION CENTER HIGHLIGHTS
Meydenbauer Convention Center
• 48,000 square feet of convention/meeting space
• Newly renovated 36,000-square-foot, column-free Center Hall provides more contiguous upscale event space than Seattle-area convention hotels offer.
• Fresh renovation includes new colors, copper mesh ceiling, and LED lighting systems.
• 12,000 square feet of flexible meeting space houses nine meeting rooms; adjacent lobby for registration and tabletop displays.
HOTEL HIGHLIGHTS
• Most of downtown Bellevue's 2,000-plus hotel rooms are within walking distance of the center.
• Silver Cloud Inn offers complimentary Signature Breakfast and an exercise facility.
• Bellevue Downtown Courtyard by Marriott, steps from the center, offers shopping and fine dining.
• Embassy Suites Hotel Seattle-Bellevue features a full-service restaurant, lounge.
• Hilton Bellevue offers newly updated guest rooms with high-speed Internet, new beds.
• Hyatt Regency Bellevue offers AAA Four Diamond accommodations. A new 20-story tower with 351 guest rooms is under construction.
• Red Lion Hotel Bellevue is beautifully landscaped.
• Sheraton Bellevue Hotel features 179 newly renovated guest rooms.
• Coast Bellevue Hotel has 176 tastefully appointed guest rooms.
• The Westin Bellevue is part of the prestigious Lincoln Square community. 

Myrtle Beach Convention Center & Nearby Hotels 

Break With Convention in a City With All the Ingredients for Successful Events 

Why settle for drab, boring meeting destinations? The Myrtle Beach Convention Center explodes with sunlight and anchors the luxurious 402-room Sheraton Myrtle Beach. At 250,000 square feet, this state-of-the-art convention center is one of the largest on the East Coast and accommodates more than 80 percent of all conventions and trade shows held in the United States. Just minutes away await pristine beaches, terrific shopping, championship golf courses, entertainment venues, and great food.

The 100,800-square-foot, column-free exhibit hall is divisible into three sections. Hall C features telescopic seating for more than 2,500 people and is ideal for general sessions and large assemblies. Thirty-five-foot ceilings in the exhibit hall can accommodate most any exhibit or production company's needs; 11 dedicated docks and drive-in access to each hall ensures that events move in and out on time.

Design and functionality mark the 17,000-square-foot ballroom, where elegant banquets for 1,000 or more guests are no problem. Additionally, there are 17 functional meeting rooms for theater-style seating at breakout sessions for up to 200 people. A 30,000-square-foot Events Plaza makes a unique setting for receptions, oyster roasts, barbecues, and other outdoor activities.

Why commute from hotels to your convention site? Everything is under one roof here. Just steps away from your convention activity, your attendees will enjoy the Sheraton Myrtle Beach Convention Center Hotel, offering 402 luxurious guest rooms. As a member of the Starwood family, the Sheraton welcomes Starwood Preferred Planners to experience its Break With Convention! As a planner, you will find our convention center and hotel to be your best choice on the Eastern Seaboard.

Why settle with tasteless food? Offer a superior food experience for your attendees. An 8,000-square-foot banquet kitchen can easily cater a gourmet meal for 5,000. The Sheraton chefs provide all the food and beverage services at the convention center. You won't be disappointed with their spectacular catered presentations, ranging from eye-opening breakfasts to a seven-course extravaganza of food and fun.

Why sacrifice much-needed amenities? Your needs will be met and exceeded with 1,400 complimentary on-site parking spaces for your attendees. Convention center security monitors and staff keep this facility safe 24 hours a day. South Carolina is a right-to-work state, eliminating unnecessary expenses.

Why settle for dial-up? This facility makes high-tech look easy. Modern meeting goers enjoy features including wireless Internet access, electricity, cable, telecommunications, and water every 30 feet throughout the exhibit halls. Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) lines can be provided throughout the facility. The Myrtle Beach Convention Center is the official Southeastern site for videoconferencing needs, both nationally and internationally.

Myrtle Beach offers great accessibility by interstate highways. Great accessibility, from just about anywhere, ensures your guests arrive ready to enjoy all Myrtle Beach has to offer.

Why select a destination that offers your attendees no nightlife or entertainment? Here, they're within a mile of 350 acres filled with specialty shopping, great dining, attractions, sizzling nightlife, and top-notch hotels. In the spring of 2008, Myrtle Beach will celebrate the grand opening of the Hard Rock Park located just minutes away from the convention center. The 140-acre park will boast more than 40 attractions, including amusement rides, restaurants, and specialty shops. There is even a baseball stadium: BB&T Coastal Field, home of the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, part of the Atlanta Braves system and a great night out for any convention or group to enjoy.

So go ahead, break with convention! Book your next meeting at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center. You'll be glad that you did!

CONVENTION CENTER HIGHLIGHTS
Myrtle Beach Convention Center
• One of the largest convention centers on the East Coast, with 250,000 square feet of flexible event space
• 100,800 square feet of column-free exhibit space, divisible into three halls; can hold 520 exhibit booths
• Exhibit hall capacity of 8,000 people for meetings and 6,000 for banquets
• Features a 16,890-square-foot ballroom, an arena that holds 10,000 people, and up to 22 breakout rooms
• Terrific shopping, sparkling entertainment, several championship golf courses, and many restaurants serving fine and Low Country cuisine located nearby
• Myrtle Beach International Airport - served by US Airways, ASA/Delta/Comair, Continental, Northwest, Spirit, United Express, and Myrtle Beach Direct - lies just three miles from the
convention center.
• Great accessibility via interstate highways

HOTEL HIGHLIGHTS
Myrtle Beach Convention Center Hotel
• Sheraton Myrtle Beach Convention Center hotel is conveniently attached to the Myrtle Beach Convention Center.
• In addition to 402 luxurious guest rooms and suites, guests of the property can enjoy dining in Vidalia's Restaurant and cocktails at M-Bar.

Qwest Center Omaha & Hilton Omaha

Convenience, Amenities Create Premier Meeting Destination

Qwest Center Omaha and Hilton Omaha offer meeting attendees the total package of convenience, entertainment, and comfort. Their partnership has brought Omaha to the forefront of premier group destinations.

Just ask meeting planners and executives, such as Chuck Zimkas, chief operating officer, Space Foundation. "When we moved our conference to Omaha, the attendance almost doubled," he said. "The positive feedback from the participants was overwhelming." Kevin Jetton, national collegiate conference director, Association for Information Technology Professionals, agreed. He noted that "Qwest Center Omaha is a superb facility, perfectly located. With the airport five minutes away and interstates even closer, Omaha is the central meeting destination."

If convenience is what groups seek, Omaha fits the bill. A glass-enclosed skywalk links Qwest Center Omaha to the Hilton Omaha, making it easy for delegates to travel from their rooms to meetings and back again without walking outdoors. Everything attendees need to make their experience enjoyable is available and in close proximity.

Qwest Center Omaha offers expansive facilities to suit the needs of virtually any group. The center boasts 194,000 square feet of contiguous exhibit space, a 30,500-square-foot grand ballroom, and 16 meeting rooms, for a total of more than 63,000 square feet of meeting space and more than 42,500 square feet of prefunction space. It also features unparalleled capabilities in the areas of voice and data communications, Internet access, CATV, video, and wired/wireless networking capabilities.

Well-appointed guest rooms, high-caliber meeting space, and amenities distinguish the Hilton Omaha hotel. Currently Nebraska's only AAA Four Diamond hotel, the property accommodates groups in 30,000 square feet of versatile function space, including a 10,000-square-foot ballroom, 15 additional meeting rooms, and 6,800 square feet of elegant foyer space that is ideal for breaks and social functions. High-speed wireless Internet access is available throughout the entire property, including all guest rooms, and an experienced staff and audiovisual team assist attendees' meeting-related and personal needs.

Meeting attendees staying in any of the hotel's 450 rooms will find themselves immersed in the best that Omaha has to offer - premium comfort with every feature needed for a restful night's stay. Hilton Omaha also features The Liberty Tavern Restaurant, serving exquisitely prepared fare in a casual yet elegant atmosphere. The Liberty Tavern Bar offers casual dining and beverages, while the hotel's coffee emporium provides another oasis of relaxation and refreshment. Beyond its rooms and restaurants, the Hilton Omaha pampers travelers with extended room service and a 24-hour business center. A full-service health club features an indoor pool, whirlpool, saunas, and spa/massage rooms. Hilton Omaha operates a complimentary shuttle to and from the nearby Omaha Airport, as well as to destinations within a three-mile radius of the property.

Omaha has been chosen to host a number of exciting top-notch events in 2008. Qwest Center Omaha recently served as an audition site for the hit television show "American Idol." Qwest Center Omaha and the city will also host the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championship First & Second Rounds, U.S. Olympic Team Trials for Swimming, and the NCAA Division I Women's Volleyball Championship in coming months. Qwest Center Omaha is also home to Berkshire Hathaway's Annual Shareholders Meeting each May.

Entertainment options abound in Omaha. The Qwest Center is one of the few convention centers connected to a top-selling arena. The arena seats 18,300 people and holds sellout shows by such performing artists as Paul McCartney, the Rolling Stones, Kenny Chesney, and U2. The Old Market entertainment and shopping district - offering the old and new in many storefronts and restaurants housed in renovated warehouse buildings - lies within walking distance of the hotel and convention center.

QWEST CENTER OMAHA HIGHLIGHTS
• Features more than 250,000 square feet of versatile exhibit and meeting space
• Connected to an 18,300-seat arena; linked via glass-enclosed skywalk to 450-room Hilton Omaha hotel
• The Old Market shopping and entertainment district lies within close proximity.
• Situated just five minutes from Omaha's airport, in the heart of the downtown business district and riverfront revitalization
HILTON OMAHA HIGHLIGHTS
• Nebraska's only AAA Four Diamond hotel
• Accommodates groups in 30,000 square feet of versatile function space, including a 10,000-square-foot ballroom, 15 additional meeting rooms, and 6,800 square feet of foyer space
• Connected to Qwest Center Omaha via glass-enclosed skywalk
• Liberty Tavern and its chef have been recognized regionally and nationally for service and menu selections.
• Complimentary airport transportation

Phoenix Convention Center & Sheraton Phoenix Downtown

Hotel to Anchor Revitalized Downtown

A cultural oasis situated in the middle of the Arizona landscape, downtown Phoenix has been totally reawakened and beckons visitors with its mix of spectacular sports venues, attractions, and shopping. Its cornerstone is the Sheraton Phoenix Downtown Hotel, opening in the fall of 2008 in the midst of the vibrant Copper Square District adjacent to the Phoenix Convention Center and just five miles from Sky Harbor International Airport.

The hotel will accommodate groups in more than 80,000 square feet of state-of-the-art function space, including an impressive 29,000-square-foot ballroom, 15,000-square-foot junior ballroom, 16 meeting rooms, two board rooms, and three beautiful outdoor function spaces. With natural stone, water features, warm wood, and soaring open spaces, the Sheraton Phoenix Downtown Hotel will represent the most contemporary incarnation of Sheraton yet. With its state-of-the-art audiovisual technology, StarMeeting Concierges, and an expert catering staff, the hotel will be the most sought-after event destination in the Southwest.

Each of the hotel's 1,000 guest rooms and suites will offer the ultimate in relaxation. Guests will enjoy luxurious Sweet Sleeper Beds, high-speed Internet access, large workspaces, thoughtful décor, and revitalizing amenities. After a long day of meetings, the upscale restaurant and lobby bar will provide the perfect place to regroup. A large fitness center will boast an expansive 4,000-square-foot outdoor pool with sundeck.

What's more, the property's convenient location will place attendees just steps from the city's best dining, entertainment, and sports venues. US Airways Center, Chase Field, Phoenix Museum of Art, Arizona Science Center, and Heard Museum all call the area home. For outstanding shopping, dining, and nightlife, guests can explore the revitalized downtown area.

Meanwhile, work on the new Phoenix Convention Center, a replacement for the original Phoenix Convention Center (portions of which remain open for previously scheduled meetings) is now under way. Slated for completion late this year, the facility will house a 190,000-square-foot exhibit hall, 90,000 square feet of meeting rooms, a 45,000-square-foot ballroom, and a second 310,000-square-foot exhibit hall on the lower level. When complete, the client-friendly convention center will also offer wireless Internet access, ergonomic seating, a "green build," Hummer-size freight elevators, and an open design.

The expansion will triple the size of the facility, propelling it from the 67th largest facility of its kind in the United States into the top 20 and positioning Phoenix as a top destination for 80 percent of all conventions held in the nation. More than 40 groups, including the National Utility Contractors Association, American Dental Education Asso- ciation, National Rifle Association, and the Green Building Council, have booked their meetings to be held in the facility beginning in 2009.

CONVENTION CENTER HIGHLIGHTS
Phoenix Convention Center
• The new facility, scheduled to open late this year, will be triple the size of its predecessor, ranking in the top 20 largest facilities of its kind in the United States.
• Features will include a 190,000-square-foot exhibit hall,
90,000 square feet of meeting rooms, a 45,000-square-foot
ballroom, and a second 310,000-square-foot exhibit hall.
• There will be wireless Internet access, ergononomic
seating, "green build," Hummer-size freight elevators, and an open design.
HOTEL HIGHLIGHTS
Sheraton Phoenix Downtown
• Situated in the heart of downtown Phoenix, the hotel is within easy walking distance of the city's best dining, entertainment, and sports venues.
• It has more than 80,000 square feet of function space, including two ballrooms, two board rooms, and 16 meeting rooms.
• More than 15,000 square feet of prefunction space is available.
• Three outdoor function spaces range from 2,000 square feet to 6,500 square feet.
• The hotel provides a 5,000-square-foot fitness center with 4,000-square-foot outdoor pool and sundeck.

Rhode Island Convention Center Complex & Nearby Hotels 

Where Urban Sophistication Meets Small-Town Charm 

 Providence, R.I. mixes the urban sophistication of a big city with the graceful charm of a small town. At the heart of Providence's bustling downtown is the Rhode Island Convention Center Complex, which includes the Rhode Island Convention Center (RICC) and the Dunkin' Donuts Center (DDC).

With a 100,000-square-foot exhibition hall, a 20,000-square-foot ballroom, the elegant Rotunda Room, 23 meeting rooms, and two adjacent garages, the RICC is committed to providing an exceptional event experience.

The adjacent 13,000-seat DDC arena is currently undergoing a three-year phased renovation, which will be completed in fall 2008. The project includes connecting the arena to the RICC via a pedestrian bridge. The DDC offers 31,000 square feet of arena space with a ceiling height of 86', a 25,000-square-foot concourse, a new 9,000-square-foot lobby, 20 new luxury suites, and five additional meeting/hospitality rooms.

There are 5,500 hotel rooms in the Greater Providence area, 2,100 of which are located within a half-mile of the RICC Complex. The Westin Providence Hotel recently opened a second tower, which increased its room count to 564, and the 274-room Holiday Inn Downtown has been renovated and re-branded as the Hilton Providence Hotel. The new Renaissance Providence Hotel features 272 rooms. Several additional hotel properties are in development, bringing more than 500 additional rooms to the city.

Providence is easily accessible by T.F. Green Airport, just 10 minutes away; by Amtrak's Acela regional and express trains along the Northeast corridor; and by Interstate 95, the main thoroughfare for the East Coast. Providence is also within 500 miles of the six New England states and New York City.

With a thriving arts district, a commitment to historical preservation, and a sophisticated nightlife, Providence offers a variety of entertainment options and unique venues, including The Bank of America Skating Center and Tony award-winning Trinity Repertory Company. One of Providence's most popular events is WaterFire, a multi-sensory art installation, highlighted by a series of bonfires installed on the three rivers of downtown Providence. Held mostly in the warm weather months, WaterFire has drawn tens of thousands of people in a single evening.

Providence, home to the world's largest culinary educator, Johnson & Wales University, offers a dazzling array of restaurants. A thriving downtown retail district, a large mall, many quaint shops, and Providence Place mall with more than 100 shopping, dining, and entertainment options make Providence a shopper's paradise.

Beautiful facilities, outstanding amenities and accessibility make the Providence/Warwick area a premium destination. The Wall Street Journal recently named Providence one of the "Top Ten Up and Coming Travel Destinations in the World," the only U.S. city so honored.

CONVENTION CENTER HIGHLIGHTS
Rhode Island Convention Center Complex
• Both facilities are within walking distance of a myriad
of restaurants, hotels, shops, art galleries, nightclubs,
and museums.
• Located right off Interstate 95, Complex is easy to reach - and hard to forget.
• Providence named one of the "Top Ten Up and Coming Travel Destinations in the World" according to The Wall Street Journal
• 10-minute drive from T.F. Green Airport, Warwick, R.I.
• One block from Amtrak/commuter rail station
• One-hour drive from Boston
• Three-hour drive from New York City
• 25 percent of U.S. population located within 500 miles

Puerto Rico Convention Center & Nearby Hotels

Premier Meeting Facility, Other Enhancements Create Prime Association Destination

With the second anniversary celebration of the Puerto Rico Convention Center, Puerto Rico has continued an aggressive transformation into a new era in its tourism history. With sell-out exhibitions, record convention attendees, and brisk convention bookings, the Puerto Rico Convention Center is serving as an impetus in growing the Commonwealth's economy as it is able to serve more and larger groups in the meetings and conventions arena.

"Meetings and conventions infuse more than $900 million into our local economy each year, which means big business for our island and a strong commitment within our local industry to ensure that our delegates are enjoying an outstanding convention experience," stated Ana María Viscasillas, president and CEO, Puerto Rico Convention Bureau. "In addition to adding the Puerto Rico Convention Center to our mix, Puerto Rico has also been undergoing a transformation of its infrastructure, with the addition of new hotels, significant property upgrades, increased airlift, and other improvements to ensure that our infrastructure is on par with that of our competitors."

The Puerto Rico Convention Center offers 580,000 square feet of space, making it the largest facility of its kind in the Caribbean. The state-of-the-art center accommodates groups of 2,500 to 10,000 attendees, enabling Puerto Rico to host 83 percent of all conventions currently held in the United States. Features include a 152,700-square-foot Exhibition Hall and 36,200 square feet of high-tech meeting space in 15 rooms (28 breakout rooms) on two levels. The ballroom is the largest of its kind in the Caribbean, encompassing a comfortable 39,500 square feet.

Meanwhile, more than $1 billion is being invested in hotel development and enhancement projects. The 500-room, $209 million Sheraton Puerto Rico Convention Center Hotel is slated to open in late 2009. The hotel will feature a casino and entertainment complex. Also part of the plan are two ballrooms, banquet and meeting rooms, a full-service spa, restaurants, shops, and parking space. A rooftop pool on the fourth floor will offer cabanas, tropical gardens, and harbor views. It is being designed to bring elements of the Caribbean into Puerto Rico's Convention Center District.

Other major convention and meeting hotel developments include the December 2007 opening of the 248-room Renaissance La Concha Hotel & Casino, which features 15,000 square feet of meeting and function space. Its sister property, the 300-room Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, is slated to open in late 2008 and will incorporate 20,000 square feet of meeting space.

Additionally, as part of its $400 million investment in Puerto Rico properties, LXR Resorts has invested $52 million to upgrade the El San Juan Hotel & Casino. A total of $65 million has also been invested at the Condado Plaza Hotel & Casino. LXR's El Conquistador Resort & Golden Door Spa has opened a new 21,090-square-foot Grand Atlantic Conference Center, making it the largest resort conference facility in the Caribbean. The Caribe Hilton continues its ongoing renovation project with renovations to the property's Garden Wing and Executive Tower, including upgrades to guest rooms, corridors, lobby, landscaping, public areas, dining, and meeting space. The property recently completed its Executive Floor lounge and 168 Condado Lagoon Villas, making the resort the largest in San Juan.

Puerto Rico has always been easily accessible: More than 1,300 weekly nonstop flights serve the island, and it is a hub for American Airlines service to the Caribbean. Upgrades at major airports include a $207 million renovation of the Luis Munoz Marin International Airport in San Juan expected to be complete in 2009 and a $33.5 million renovation of Rafael Hernandez Airport in Aguadilla slated for completion this year.

CONVENTION CENTER HIGHLIGHTS
Puerto Rico Convention Center
• Opened in November of 2005 and conveniently situated near Old San Juan and the Luis Munoz Marin International Airport, the new Puerto Rico Convention Center serves as the centerpiece of the Puerto Rico Convention Center District, a $415 million destination that is the largest waterfront development project in the history of the United States and its territories. Conceived as a bustling urban center, the 113-acre Puerto Rico Convention Center District features shops, restaurants, movie theaters, offices, residential units, hotels, and plazas.
• High-tech features encompass wireless communication, videoconferencing, and broadband capabilities.
HOTEL HIGHLIGHTS
• Puerto Rico currently boasts more than 1.2 million square feet of hotel meeting space.
• More than 13,300 hotel rooms offer an unprecedented range
of top-name hotel brand choices in a variety of prices to suit
any group.
• Ground has been broken for a 500-room headquarters hotel across the street from the Puerto Rico Convention Center. Scheduled to begin welcoming guests in 2009, the $209 million facility will be managed by Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, under its Sheraton banner.

America's Center & Edward Jones Dome & Nearby Hotels

St. Louis Serves Up Fresh Hospitality Product

St. Louis' hospitality industry is red hot. With fresh hotels, delectable restaurants, and spicy entertainment districts, this sophisticated, friendly Midwest destination has plenty to offer meeting planners and their delegates. Nowadays, construction cranes are a common sight on St. Louis' distinctive skyline. The Gateway Arch, iconic symbol of the city's role in the opening of the American West, overlooks more than $3.5 billion in development including shops, restaurants, hotels, and entertainment complexes surrounding the America's Center convention complex.

Enhancements to St. Louis' hospitality product and improvement in the overall quality of life in the community recently received international recognition. The World Leadership Forum honored the Gateway City with its World Leadership Award in the category of urban renewal. The award is given to cities whose leaders have shown exceptional imagination, foresight or resilience - especially cities that have reversed trends, shaken off traditional images, and served as an inspiration to others.

With new and renovated hotels now open, additions to the city's tasteful dining options, and new entertainment districts on the rise, St. Louis is a novel experience for attendees. In early 2008, the opening of the 200-room Four Seasons Hotel increases the total number of sleeping rooms near America's Center convention complex to 7,800. The luxurious Renaissance Grand and Renaissance Suites hotels' 1,083 rooms are also adjacent to America's Center.

The Hilton St. Louis Downtown and both Renaissance hotels - along with the Westin, Sheraton City Center, and Drury Plaza Hotel - are all renovated and expanded historic St. Louis buildings with the character and charm not often found in close proximity of a convention center. The St. Louis Hilton at the Ballpark has revived the former Marriott Pavilion hotel and now occupies an enviable space overlooking Busch Stadium. In 2008, one of St. Louis' largest hotels, The Adam's Mark, is expected to undergo a flag change. The landmark Chase Park Plaza has been transformed by a $35 million renovation. Located on the east side of historic Forest Park in St. Louis' elegant Central West End neighborhood, the historic hotel expanded its lodging inventory to a total of 250 suites. With its $12 million renovation, The Ritz-Carlton St. Louis has a fresh look for guest rooms and a new elegant lobby.

At the heart of the hospitality district, America's Center features 502,000 square feet of contiguous exhibit space, plus a 28,000-square-foot ballroom and 83 breakout rooms. The center includes the multi-purpose Edward Jones Dome, home of the NFL's Rams. It is the first facility in the nation designed primarily as a convention site and a sports stadium all in one. The dome connects directly to the five other America's Center exhibit halls, allowing for a seamless exhibit space.

Outside the convention complex, new entertainment districts are adding to the appeal of St. Louis. To the east of the Edward Jones Dome, the recently opened, $507 million Lumiere Place casino complex brings Missouri's first Four Seasons hotel, nightclubs, restaurants, and residential development to the Laclede's Landing historic district along the Mississippi River. Steps west of the convention center are new restaurants and retail shops of the Washington Avenue loft district. A few blocks south of America's Center stands the newest Busch Stadium, home to the Cardinals. Rising next to the World Champions' stadium is an exciting Ballpark Village development of shopping, attractions, restaurants, outdoor plazas, nightlife hotspots, and hotel and residential space.

Great venues, lodging and meeting establishments, and St. Louis' renowned attractions beckon beyond downtown, too. Properties convenient to Lambert-St. Louis International Airport and in suburban business centers represent even more opportunities. The St. Louis Convention & Visitors Commission has introduced an experienced, two-person corporate meetings and conference sales team to focus on meeting planners' every need. The duo has more than 35 years of experience in the field and can provide one-stop shopping for everything from hotel blocks to conference space to unique special event venues.

CONVENTION CENTER HIGHLIGHTS
America's Center
• Located in the heart of downtown St. Louis and steps away from area hotels and attractions, including the landmark Gateway Arch, America's Center also offers a light rail station connecting to both terminals at Lambert-St. Louis International Airport. The 2.7 million-square-foot America's Center complex offers 502,000 square feet of exhibition space in six contiguous halls.
• The Center's meeting space includes the 1,411-seat Ferrara Theatre with a permanent stage; a 28,000-square-foot ballroom with capacity for 2,200 people; 83 flexible meeting rooms; the St. Louis Executive Conference Center for private meetings of up to 100 people; and the 66,053-seat Edward Jones Dome.
• Area-wide, St. Louis offers 35,000 hotel sleeping rooms; more than 7,800 rooms within less than a mile of the center; 26 of the area's hotels offer 10,000+ square feet of meeting space each.

Edward Jones Dome
• The Edward Jones Dome is the first multipurpose facility in the nation designed primarily as a convention site. Its 162,000 square feet of prime exhibit space connects directly to the five other America's Center exhibit halls to create a seamless 502,000 square feet of exhibit space.
• Specially designed retractable lights, seats, and other engineering features allow the Dome to transform easily from general session or exhibit space to a football field or concert venue.

Santa Fe Convention Center & Nearby Hotels

New Convention Center Opens Doors for More Meetings

Santa Fe is one of the most charming cities and versatile meeting destinations in the United States. Its enduring heritage, compact size, and intriguing special event locations make it an inspired choice for small to mid-sized meetings, more of which the city will be able to accommodate when the new Santa Fe Convention Center opens late this year.

Intended as a replacement for the Sweeney Convention Center, the new facility will be extremely versatile and will have the capability to host simultaneous multiple meetings, large events that require exhibit space or theater seating, and banquets. It will offer a total of 72,500 square feet of space, with more than 40,000 square feet of event space. The center will be state-of-the-art, with high-speed data lines and wireless connectivity.

A location in the heart of downtown Santa Fe will place attendees in walking distance of some of the world's finest restaurants, museums, and shopping, as well as 1,500 hotel rooms. For those who choose to stay at one of the numerous other lodging options within a short driving distance, the Santa Fe Convention Center will include a 512-vehicle underground parking garage.

The overall design of the Santa Fe Convention Center melds with the atmosphere and appearance of historic downtown. For example, it will boast textured adobe-style walls with softly rounded corners, a bell tower, and courtyards. The interior will feature the work of local artists and artisans.

The Santa Fe Convention Center is also ideal for green meetings and events. Environmental responsibility has been a major focus since the facility's inception, with 88 percent of the materials from the Sweeney Convention Center salvaged and recycled; 75 percent of all waste generated during construction is being recycled as well. All exterior timber being used to construct the building is certified, meaning it was rescued from the Sierra Blanca forest fire. The City of Santa Fe is taking steps toward attaining silver LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification for the building. Once the building opens, recycling and the use of environmentally friendly products will remain a focus.

Previously scheduled meetings are being accommodated in the city's hotels. Future meetings are already being booked for the new center.

Meanwhile, such venues as world-renowned art galleries of every size, outdoor/indoor space on a new plaza surrounded by museums set next to Santa Fe's foothills, mountain retreats, historic compounds, Native American communities, and convenient downtown museums offer fascinating options for off-site functions. The city's many hotels provide customized service and space for meetings from 12 to 600 people, with more than 1,500 rooms located downtown within easy walking distance of all major facilities and most attractions. Santa Fe has combined meeting space in the city's hotels for up to 2,800 delegates.

Of course, there's far more to Santa Fe than its meeting facilities and hotels. Santa Fe is simply one of America's most original towns. Its weathered and rounded adobe buildings look like none others. Its history stretches beyond the city's founding nearly 400 years ago to a more ancient time. Its traditions are those of diverse and culturally rich societies. Yet, Santa Fe is alive with a thoroughly modern energy that is focused on tomorrow.

Home to 16 museums, 250 art galleries, and a colony of authors, scientists, musicians, and artists, Santa Fe has been designated one of the world's most creative cities by UNESCO, the United Nations Education, Scientific, and Cultural Organization. Santa Fe is also the second largest art market in the United States, with a celebrated reputation for performing arts and culinary sophistication.

CONVENTION CENTER HIGHLIGHTS
Santa Fe Convention Center
• Groups meeting in Santa Fe enjoy one of America's most distinctive travel destinations, a temperate climate at the base of the Rocky Mountains, professional meeting staff and support services, more than 200 restaurants, 16 museums, and 250 galleries.
• Offers 72,500 square feet of space, including more than 40,000 square feet of event space and 17,925-square-foot ballroom
• Parking available in 512-space underground garage
• Located in heart of downtown Santa Fe, near many fine restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues
• Environmentally friendly; being constructed of some recycled materials

HOTEL HIGHLIGHTS
• 1,500 rooms located downtown
• Combined meeting space for 2,800 meeting attendees
• 5,700 rooms citywide

San Jose McEnery Convention Center & Nearby Hotels

One-Stop Shopping Lets Planners Find Way to San Jose

Many cities offer great meeting experiences, but San Jose and the San Jose Convention & Visitors Bureau (SJCVB) offer the secret ingredient to the ultimate meeting: one-stop shopping for meeting planners. Meeting planners need make only one call to Team San Jose's service professionals to find help with everything from housing and customized menus to permits and technically savvy special events. No more frustration calling several government agencies, tourist offices, logistics planners, and food and beverage directors that offer your standard rubber chicken and stale rolls.

Four years ago, Team San Jose was created, a unique public-private partnership between the CVB (the business community), hotels, the arts community, and labor - all working together with the same goal of enhancing the client's experience. Aside from great service by design, San Jose offers a cleverly planned, compact downtown that's jam-packed with great restaurants, hotels, artistic performances, nightclubs, and shopping - just 10 minutes from the city's easy-to-manage, expanding airport. San Jose is often ranked as the safest big city in the nation, so meeting attendees can feel free to stroll its streets securely after dark. What's more, the city offers the best weather in northern California with lots of clear, sunny skies and comfortable temperatures year-round.

The San Jose McEnery Convention Center is the focal point of most meetings held in San Jose. Here, groups will find 143,000 square feet of column-free exhibit space, as well as plenty of room for 1,000 10' x 10' trade show booths. Other features include a 22,000-square-foot ballroom, 100,000 square feet of prefunction space, and up to 31 meeting rooms that hold 50 to 2,400 people in theater-style seating. Banquet seating and kitchen facilities accommodate 5,000 guests. Adjacent South Hall offers 80,000 square feet of additional exhibit space.

Group functions can be held in other nearby Team San Jose-run facilities and venues, such as the Center for the Performing Arts, California and Montgomery theaters, South Hall, and Parkside Hall. Together, these facilities offer 271,000 square feet of column-free exhibit and meeting space. Team San Jose also offers access to other unique venues, such as HP Pavilion, the Tech Museum of Innovation, and J. Lohr Winery and Tasting. Attached to the convention center are two top-notch convention hotels - San Jose Marriott and Hilton San Jose - offering 30,000 square feet of flexible meeting space. Other hotel options situated within a two-block radius are the historic St. Claire Hotel; world-class resorts, such as the Fairmont; newly renovated gems, like the Crowne Plaza; as well as hip boutique properties like the Montgomery Hotel and Hotel DeAnza. Together, these properties feature an additional 85,000 square feet of flexible meeting space.

Within walking distance of the convention center is an amazing array of cultural entertainment, nightlife, and top-notch hotels and restaurants. San Jose is laid out like a cultural campus, with facilities such as the Civic Center and California Theater, as well as the opera, ballet, Repertory Theater, Museum of Art, Tech Museum of Innovation, and Children's Discovery Museum, all within blocks of each other. The Mexican Heritage Plaza is a short cab ride away, and eclectic galleries lie a short walk away in the groovy SoFA District (South of First Area). SoFA also features diverse nightlife venues. Hip and casual restaurants, from sophisticated spots in boutique or convention hotels to bar-friendly bistros in San Pedro Square dot the area, as well as day spas, or major destination spas such as Tova at the Fairmont San Jose, one of downtown's premier convention hotels.

Just three miles west of downtown is the trendy Santana Row, a shopping and entertainment center featuring everything from designer boutiques to bookstores. Stroll the European-style streets and shop, enjoy cutting-edge cuisine al fresco, and music at several outdoor clubs. Shop-a-holics can walk across the street to enjoy the Westfield Valley Fair Mall. San Jose is smack in the middle of Santa Cruz wine country, featuring dozens of beautiful wineries and vineyards just minutes from the city. Wine connoisseurs can sip and enjoy a variety of vintages overlooking the vines or between meetings downtown.

CONVENTION CENTER HIGHLIGHTS
San Jose McEnery Convention Center
• features 143,000 square feet of column-free exhibit space
• three exhibit halls measure 50,000 square feet, 50,000 square feet, and 43,000 square feet
• can hold up to 1,000 10' x 10' trade show booths
• accommodates meetings in up to 31 meeting rooms.

San Jose One Connection

Silicon Valley's Single Largest Meeting Site Offers Seamless Connectivity

Unlike other "connection" properties that are not actually connected, San Jose One Connection is seamless in every sense. The San Jose Marriott and Hilton San Jose are physically connected to the San Jose McEnery Convention Center, with shared walls on two levels. There are no sky bridges over streets or tunnels underground. Equally seamless is San Jose One Connection's service. Meeting planners benefit from the expertise brought by two of the industry's top brand names, working together to present one point of contact through the entire sales and event planning process, including one proposal, one convention resume, and one facility-wide accounting system. And now planners will earn both Marriott Rewarding Events and Hilton HHonors points.

The San Jose One Connection is located in downtown San Jose, the global crossroads of high-tech movers and shakers, offering a world-class meeting venue for groups that require up to 800 peak night guest rooms and want the latest in meeting and presentation technology. San Jose One Connection's hotels are connected to the convention center on both street and exhibit/meeting space levels, with supporting breakout space in each facility on the same level.

"We offer a unique meeting solution in Silicon Valley," said Thor Kennedy, director of sales and marketing at the Hilton San Jose. "With our spacious, flexible meeting and exhibit space, exceptional catering services, and two upscale hotels, planners have so many options, all literally under one roof!"

The San Jose One Connection has 143,000 square feet of exhibit space and 70,000 square feet of contiguous meeting space, as well as 1,000 covered parking spaces and one high-speed Internet network. Hailey Eddy, director of sales and marketing for the San Jose Marriott, is enthusiastic about San Jose One Connection's state-of-the-art communications network. "This is Silicon Valley," she said. "Whatever our clients want for presentations and communications, we can deliver."

San Jose One Connection's service is as seamless as the facility. "'One' is the key word," said Clif Clark, general manager at the San Jose Marriott. "Planners have the convenience of one proposal, one contract process, and one convention resume. Plus, they'll have a great time in San Jose." Directly across the street from San Jose One Connection is the renowned Tech Museum of Innovation and IMAX Theater. Across the park is the San Jose Museum of Art. The heart of San Jose's restaurant, club, and entertainment district is just steps away.

Within three miles of San Jose One Connection are more attractions and great shopping. For an unforgettable outing, visit the world-famous Winchester Mystery House, the beautiful, but bizarre mansion built by the heiress to the Winchester Rifle fortune. And enjoy the upscale ambiance of Santana Row, San Jose's Euro-style retail and dining district.

Access to San Jose One Connection is another huge advantage. With Mineta San Jose International Airport only three miles from downtown and two additional international airports nearby, San Jose ensures some of the easiest airlift and access in the country. For those driving, three major interstate highways intersect downtown, making it easy for visitors to find their way to San Jose.

Finally, Silicon Valley's extensive Light Rail system runs right past the main entrance to San Jose One Connection. However, with San Jose's distinction as America's safest big city, more than 300 days of sunshine each year, including mild winters and summers, it's a great walking city.

CONVENTION CENTER HIGHLIGHTS
San Jose One Connection
• San Jose One Connection comprises the San Jose McEnery Convention Center, the Hilton San Jose, and the San Jose Marriott.
• All facilities are seamlessly connected on street, meeting, and underground parking levels.
• San Jose One Connection offers 800 guest rooms on peak nights. This includes 398 double/double guest rooms and 43 suites.
• Groups using San Jose One Connection have access to 70,000 square feet of meeting space, 143,000 square feet of exhibit space, 1,000 covered parking spaces, a single world-class high-speed Internet network, four restaurants, two fitness centers, two pools, and a Starbucks coffee outlet.

Hilton Scranton & Conference Center

Expansive Facilities, Multiple Amenities Await Groups

Old-fashioned hospitality meets modern technology at the Hilton Scranton & Conference Center, the newest, most luxurious place to convene in downtown Scranton. Centrally located in Pennsylvania's Northeast corner, the facility is situated within a short drive from many of the East Coast's metropolitan hubs and offers an exceptional services and amenities package.

When it comes to accommodating groups, the Hilton Scranton & Conference Center has space galore. The facility offers 26,000 square feet of meeting and prefunction space, including 19 meeting rooms, a 7,024-square-foot ballroom, and a 74-seat amphitheater. A dedicated conference support staff remains on hand at all times to assist with every need. Superior technology features include video and teleconferencing, Internet access, and a wide range of audiovisual equipment.

Post-meeting appetites are easy to appease at this facility. A continuous refreshment service boasts a 28-foot bar full of sweet treats and healthy choices alike, ensuring that delegates find something to satisfy their cravings and dietary needs. Guests can fuel up in the morning with a buffet of choices, ranging from muffins and Danish to fresh fruits and cereals. In the afternoon, there's a selection of sweets, including decadent brownies, home-baked cakes, and cookies as well as ice cream and candy bars. Freshly brewed coffee, an assortment of juices, spring water, and soft drinks are always available to whet delegates' whistle.

Three on-premise restaurants also offer a variety of dining options to suit any taste. Savory classic bistro fare with an old-world continental flavor and a taste of diversity tops the menu at Trolleys Bistro, which offers an extensive buffet for breakfast and lunch. Casey's Corner, serving dinner nightly, offers an extensive wine list as well as delectable dessert selections. Two private dining rooms, the Laurel Line, with 32 seats, and the Conductor's Room, with seats for up to 20 people, provide an ideal setting for intimate get-togethers.

For camaraderie and spirits, meeting attendees can unwind in the relaxing, warm PJ's 1910 Pub. The pub serves an assortment of classic snack items, from pizza and paninis to steaks and sandwich wraps.

Meanwhile, the property's 175 comfortable guest rooms make it easy for delegates to conduct business away from the office. All rooms have two speaker phones with voice mail and data ports, plus complimentary Internet access, large work desks, and work areas with ergonomic chairs. Other in-room amenities include irons, ironing boards, hair dryers, AM/FM alarm clock radios with MP3 jack, cable TV with HBO, Pay Per View movies, and video games. Jacuzzi suites are available.

For the ultimate in relaxation and exercise options, the Hilton Scranton & Conference Center's fitness facility boasts a 50-foot lap swimming pool and whirlpool. A full complement of fitness equipment includes elliptical machines, treadmills, fitness cycles, weight machines, and free weights. Men's and women's locker rooms add an element of convenience.

While guests will find everything they need and more at the property, there are also many attractions within walking distance. History buffs will enjoy a visit to the Steamtown National Historic Site and the Electric City Trolley Station & Museum. Shoppers will appreciate the Mall at Steamtown, with more than 100 stores, and the Scranton Cultural Center awaits culture-lovers. Day spas and an eight-screen Marquee Cinema Theatre are also within walking distance, and additional attractions are a short drive away.

CONVENTION CENTER HIGHLIGHTS
Hilton Scranton & Convention Center Complex
• Situated in downtown Scranton, at crossroads of Interstates 81, 80, 380, 476 (Pennsylvania Turnpike), and 84; the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport is seven miles away.
• Hotel features 175 guest rooms with two speaker phones, voice mail, and data ports; complimentary Internet access; large work desks; work areas with ergonomic chairs; irons; ironing boards; hair dryers; AM/FM alarm clock radios with MP3 jack; cable TV; HBO; Pay Per View movies; and video games.
• Hotel amenities include three restaurants, two private dining rooms, continuous refreshment bar, and fitness facility.
• The hotel has 26,000 square feet of meeting and prefunction space, including 19 meeting rooms, 7,024-square-foot ballroom, and a 74-seat amphitheater.
• Ballroom holds 464 people theater-style or
302 people classroom-style in ergonomic chairs;
872 people theater-style or
465 people classroom-style in traditional chairs;
170 people "hollow-square"-style in ergonomic chairs or
250 people "hollow-square"-style in traditional chairs;
302 people chevron-style in ergonomic chairs or
409 people chevron-style in traditional chairs;
774 people for receptions, and 500 people for banquets.
• A dedicated conference support staff and audiovisual technicians are on site at all times.
• Video and teleconferencing, Internet access, and a wide range of audiovisual equipment are available.
• A wide variety of attractions are within walking and driving distance.

Caesars Windsor

Caesars Comes to Canada With New Convention Center, Hotel, and Entertainment Complex

Casino Windsor is transforming into a luxurious resort destination with a $400 million construction project to be completed in June 2008. When the new expansion opens, the facility, to be renamed Caesars Windsor, a world-class brand known for its attentive service and luxury, will be the first of its kind in Canada.

A new 369-room hotel tower will complement the existing 389-room, Four-Diamond hotel with spectacular views of the Detroit riverfront. A multifunctional 5,000-seat entertainment center will spotlight world-class performers, and 100,000 square feet of convention space will set a new standard for resort destinations in the area.

Caesars Windsor offers an urban destination covering nearly 10 acres on an international waterfront, uniquely located on the doorstep of the Midwest market, only 45 minutes from Detroit Metro airport.

Caesars has set the global standard for premium entertainment since its founding in Las Vegas in 1966. Consistent with the world-renowned brand, Caesars Windsor will be a place of significance, providing an attractive alternative to any stand-­alone convention center. Guests will be treated to a contemporary and indulgent hospitality experience that includes elegant accommodations, an array of cuisines, world-class gaming, high-caliber entertainment, a state-of-the-art convention center, and an extraordinary level of attentive service.

The theater at Caesars Windsor can be used for large keynote addresses, general assembly workshops, or live entertainment at annual meetings. The 5,000 seats retract, transforming the venue into an exhibition hall with 39,500 square feet of column-free space. A 26,000-square-foot ballroom features subtle silver and gold tones against a neutral backdrop, creating a level of sophistication desired for a high-end function area. The new ballroom is the largest in the area and can be separated into four sections with soundproof dividers. Seven conference rooms are also available for smaller meetings. State-of-the-art multimedia equipment is provided, and a full-service business center will handle any task.

Building on the Four-Diamond tradition for superior service and amenities in the current hotel, all of the 758 rooms in the new hotel tower will meet the luxurious Caesars brand standards. Evoking a sense of grandeur and opulence, guests can enjoy a sumptuous retreat in a finely appointed room. Golden hues, combined with charcoal accents and soft walnut wood tones, will provide a warmth and comfort expected at a property of this caliber. Hotel guests are treated to valet service, 24-hour room service and concierge attention, an indoor pool, a health spa, and wireless high-speed Internet service.

At Caesars Windsor, business clients will be offered a wide array of indulgent catering selections to treat their guests to something truly unique. The creative talents of award-winning chefs will provide a specialized menu designed to exceed expectations. Moving beyond the conventional convention center, Caesars Windsor also offers a variety of entertainment and dining options for guests to explore. Renovations inside the resort have opened up several new restaurants and bars, an impressive six-story Rotunda, and an elegant gaming floor. The world-class Caesars theme is carried throughout the 100,000-square-foot gaming floor on two levels, with vibrant colors and rich finishes that create a refined atmosphere. More than 90 table games, 2,600 slot machines, and sports wagering provide non-stop excitement.

Drawing inspiration from the vitality of great Italian piazzas, the Rotunda acts as a town square with a six-story domed ceiling, soaring skylights, sparkling water features, Romanesque sculptures, marble columns, and gorgeous murals. Located on the main level, Cosmos Lounge offers a place to relax and socialize, while VU bar on the second floor is a funky escape with breathtaking views of the Detroit skyline.

On the restaurant front, Neros gourmet steakhouse, a signature Caesars Palace restaurant in Las Vegas, is now available at Casino Windsor. Enjoy the finest cuts of dry-aged, USDA prime beef and a wide variety of fresh seafood. Inside the wine cellar, featuring 200 world-renowned labels, is the chef's table, where a party of up to 14 can enjoy a customized menu. Offering a contemporary interpretation of a traditional steakhouse with rich finishes and warm decor, Neros also features beautiful views of the Detroit skyline.

An artist's loft comes to life in the Artist Café, a European bistro that marries slick contemporary style with world-class tradition. The extensive menu offers 24-hour dining with a patio located in the Rotunda for open-air ambiance.

Appealing to the senses, the 600-seat Market Buffet invites guests to be a part of a visually exciting market atmosphere. Dozens of chefs display their talents at seven serving stations, which perform double duty as kitchens with 95 percent of the dishes made fresh on the spot.

At the Legends Sports Lounge, guests can place a bet on various sports wagering games and grab a bite to eat. There are 36 video screens in this multi-level venue. Traditional stadium-style fare can be selected from a wide menu.