Visit Florida

Florida

Visit Florida Test Drives CYE Insurance

This past December, the 25th annual Florida Encounter, produced by VISIT FLORIDA, the official tourism market ing corporation for the state of Florida, was held at the Westin Diplomat Hotel in Hollywood, Fla. The temperature was balmy, and the breeze barely there. Hurricane Wilma had vacated the premises more than a month prior and hadn't left too much devastation along the strip between Miami and Ft. Lauderdale. The most visible signs of the storm were uprooted fica trees and palms stripped of their leaves. The damage incurred was primarily to vegetation, but VISIT FLORIDA also suffered a small setback since the storm crashed the original dates for the meeting (Oct. 29-Nov. 2). Luckily, the organization had Cover Your Event (CYE) insurance and the show was switched to December.

Florida is the only state that offers such insurance to meeting planners (including themselves), and pays for it. Despite the need to reschedule, the event attracted 86 suppliers from throughout the state, and 64 planners from 50 states, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

Handling a Hurricane
Bud Nocera, president and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA, explained how CYE, a supplemental business insurance introduced by VISIT FLORIDA early in 2005, works. Offered through Marsh Affinity Group, a service of Seaburn and Smith, for the months of August, September, and October, CYE is free to meeting planners. "We pay the premiums," explained Nocera. For example, the premium VISIT FLORIDA pays for a meeting of 100-300 booked rooms is around $900.

"We want meeting planners to be comfortable knowing that if their meeting has to be moved, they won't incur the costs of moving it," said Nocera, adding, "We only had two claims in 2005, and one of them was our own organization." An independent planner made the other claim with a banking organization.

Coverage is up to $200,000 and pays for room differential and the extra expense of rescheduling, such as printing new collateral, and incremental F&B costs. CYE does not include lost profits. To be eligible for coverage, a meeting must be rescheduled in Florida at the same or nearest available venue within 12 months. If the event is not rescheduled, there is no claim. Plus, it only covers losses due to named hurricanes. The sub-limit per insured event is $100,000 for 100-300 room nights; $150,000 for 301-500 room nights; and $200,000 for more than 500 room nights. (For more details visit www.cye.visitflorida.com.)

In the case of Florida Encounter, the insurance covered costs of reprinting the program book, the creation of a direct mail piece to advise planners of the new date, as well as updates to the Web site and appointment scheduling process. According to Paul Kayemba, VISIT FLORIDA's public relations representative, "The cost of all additional marketing efforts was covered. We did not have a room differential, but if we had, it would have covered this as well. We expect to claim between $25,000 and $30,000."

Kayemba also noted that last year, 110 meetings were covered. At press time 15 were insured for 2006 and no one had yet signed up for 2007. "We bought up all the available insurance we could, $15 million worth," noted Nocera, who explained that "hotels have been our best sales people, telling planners about it especially if they are wary of booking in those three months."

CYE insurance is not the same as straight cancellation insurance, and must be tied to losses due to named hurricanes only. "Large associations may already have cancellation insurance since their prime source of revenue typically comes from one annual meeting," noted Nocera.

One of the reasons CYE was introduced was to let planners know "how important their business is to us," said Nocera, noting that "$38 million has been generated from meetings over the past three years - Florida Encounter's ROI."

Emergency Preparedness
The message was positive, yet tempered. Nocera noted that there were 80 million visitors to Florida in 2005, even with four hurricanes. VISIT FLORIDA held 10 emergency preparedness seminars in the state and left hotels with a template to implement their own procedures. "Ninety-nine percent of hotels already have their own crisis plan," said Nocera, but added that the seminars served to "educate and unify" properties statewide. "I think visitors already know if a storm is coming they may have to relocate and VISIT FLORIDA has a number that they can call for alternate accommodations." He also noted that properties report to VISIT FLORIDA on how much damage they have sustained. "It's difficult in some instances, due to the human factor, to get the information as quickly as we'd like," he admitted.

Florida Encounter Matches Planners With Suppliers
Florida Encounter is a state-wide meeting planner trade show that connects corporate, association, government, and independent meeting planners and Florida hotels, resorts, destination marketing organizations, and other tourism industry suppliers of goods and services. Of the planners attending, 20 percent were from associations, 28 percent were corporate, 42 percent were independent, 5 percent were government, and 5 percent were SMERF. Both planners and vendors must apply to attend the event. A prerequisite for planners is to have the potential to book 600 room nights in a year. They need to have booked at least two past meetings in Florida and have three future meetings that could potentially be booked in the state. "From the profile the planner submits, we set up the meetings and 98 percent are perfect matches. We had an overall total of 1,850 appointments," said Tracy Vaughan-Dunaway, director of sales for VISIT FLORIDA.

The 2006 Florida Encounter will be held at the Naples Grande Resort & Club (formerly the Registry Resort) in Naples, Fla., Nov. 4-8. Registration for meeting planners takes place in early July. For more information visit www.encounter.visitflorida.org.

Amelia Island Plantation

Ample Beauty

Venue Offers Best of Both Worlds for Meetings

Want to bring your group to a secluded, yet easy-to-reach meeting venue? There's no better choice than Amelia Island Plantation. Situated just 29 miles northeast of Jacksonville International Airport, but a world away on Florida's northernmost island, this property offers the best of both worlds: an island sanctuary that's easily accessible from major U.S. and Canadian cities.

"Ample" is the word that best describes Amelia Island's conference and meeting facilities. The resort features more than 49,000 square feet of function space to accommodate functions for 20 to 1,000 people. Amelia's Island Plantation's two Executive Conference Center complexes are conveniently located under one roof, steps away from the 249-room Amelia Inn via a covered walkway. Designed for larger groups, as well as those that require multiple breakout rooms, the complexes boast a prefunction area for registration and breaks, plus a variety of meeting facilities with more than 30,000 square feet of space. For groups of up to 100 people, planners can book the Racquet Park Conference Center, a self-contained, 8,000-square-foot facility. The flexible, 100,000-square-foot Grand Pavilion is ideal for theme parties, exquisite ballroom affairs, and banquets receptions for up to 800 guests.

Want to meet outdoors? The Beach Club accommodates up to 600 delegates while Walker's Landing, situated among the marshes of the Intracoastal Waterway, handles groups of up to 150. Other outdoor meeting spots include: the Sandcastles pool deck, Eight Flags Patio, Sunrise Terrace, and Amelia Inn Conference Center patios.

But no matter where on the grounds it's held, every meeting at Amelia Island Plantation can become truly memorable. The talented, creative staff members of the resort's award-winning Special Events Department stand ready to put together a unique themed event, transform a traditional dinner into an entertaining evening performance, or liven up a day-long session. The Group Recreation Department can add pizzazz to meetings with one of its "Meetings Magic" programs, strategically planned breaks, or specially arranged activities.

Named by Golf Digest magazine as one of the "Top 75 Best Golf Resorts," the resort boasts 72 holes of championship golf on courses designed by Tom Fazio, Pete Dye, Tom Jackson, and Bobby Weed. Racquet Park, set under live oaks and recognized by Tennis Magazine as one of the "Top 50 American Tennis Resorts," has 23 clay courts and the top-notch Gunterman Tennis School.

The Spa at Amelia Island Plantation features 25 treatment rooms, a meditation garden, and sweeping views of lagoons and moss-draped oaks. The signature treatment is Watsu, a unique signature concept for rejuvenation and wellness; and the facility, Watsu Island, was designed exclusively for The Spa at Amelia Island Plantation.

Beach lovers can revel in the resort's three-and-one-half miles of uncrowded, shell-strewn sand. Delegates may want to enjoy more than seven miles of tree-canopied bike and jogging trails; participate in a naturalist tour; or exercise in the health and fitness center.

Amelia Island Plantation At A Glance

Meeting Facilities: More than 49,000 square feet of function space to accommodate functions for 20 to 1,000 people.
Accommodations: 249 rooms in the Amelia Inn; and 361 one-, two-,and three-bedroom villas, for a total of 610 rooms.
On-Site Amenities and Recreation: Full-service catering, business center, high-speed Internet access, 72 holes of championship golf, 23 championship clay tennis courts, luxury spa, three-and-a-half miles of beach, eight restaurants, seven miles of bicycle and nature trails, naturalist tours, Segway safari tours, and horseback riding nearby.
For more information: Call (866) 481-5056 or visit www.aipfl.com.

All-Suites Resort and Convention Center

Caribe Royale

Meetings Come Easy at Premier Property

Meeting in Orlando couldn't be easier, providing groups book the Caribe Royale Orlando All-Suites Resort and Convention Center, situated just 1.5 miles from Walt Disney World Resort and 16 miles from Orlando International Airport.  Because a meeting is only as good as the people behind it, service and personal attention have been, and always will be, the Caribe Royale Orlando's first and foremost priority. In fact, as an independently owned and operated hotel, the Caribe Royale Orlando is able to provide a standard of service and personal attention that's unavailable anywhere else. What's more, the property's veteran staff is made up of dedicated individuals who bring decades of invaluable hospitality experience to each and every event, and all decisions are made on site. The end result: Planners and attendees can feel free to ask for anything, anytime, and know that their requests will be handled immediately.

The meeting facilities at Caribe Royale Orlando are just as exceptional as its staff. With 150,000 square feet of meeting space, the property can comfortably accommodate groups of 10 to 4,400 people. The Grand Caribe Convention Center houses the 40,000-square-foot Grand Sierra Ballroom and the 26,000-square-foot Caribbean Ballroom, while the Reception Building features the 6,400-square-foot Martinique Ballroom. The Grand Sierra Ballroom can seat 4,400 people theater-style or 3,000 for banquets.

Each of the Caribe Royale's 31 breakout rooms provides at least 1,000 square feet of space, and three executive board rooms offer additional meeting sites. For a more scenic setting, there are 120 lakeside villas that can host breakout sessions of up to 14 people apiece. And only the latest audiovisual, sound, and lighting equipment - including a state-of-the-art system for spectacular lighting effects - is used throughout the meeting facilities. Business services available at the Caribe Royale include: a concierge, two business centers, in-house audiovisual services, videoconferencing, T1 lines, and wireless high-speed Internet access in meeting rooms.

If having a successful meeting comes easy at the Caribe Royale Orlando, relaxing afterwards comes even easier. Each and every guest will enjoy plenty of room to unwind, thanks to the property's 1,218 spacious one-bedroom suites. These comfortable "homes away from home" - which were completely renovated in 2004, along with the hotel lobby - boast separate work and bedroom areas, large bathrooms, two television sets per suite, and a host of other desirable amenities.

For larger parties, prepare to be wowed by the Caribe Royale Orlando's 120 fully furnished two-bedroom villas. With a uniquely elegant atmosphere, the villas will be completely updated with new carpet, draperies, and bedding by the fall of 2006. Guests will find master suites with whirlpool tubs, fully equipped kitchens, and living rooms, plus screened balconies that feature views of the property's serene lake and private pool. All suites and villas now include high-speed Internet access for guests' convenience.

"The Caribe Royale Orlando is a full-service meetings property, but we operate with a casual, resort feeling," said Kit McClelland, director of sales and marketing. "The fact that every guest room is a suite makes each visit special."

Attendees can also kick back in the Caribe Royale Orlando's recently opened two-story, 3,500-square-foot fitness center, which features more than 40 pieces of cardio- and strength-training equipment, as well as a separate area with free weights. The facility's Sci-Fit cardio equipment features "Fit Key" technology, allowing individual users to store and access their personal workout data on a small, key-sized chip. The fitness center also features 10 32-inch widescreen, flat-panel television sets with the "Broadcast Vision" system, so guests can view and listen to different channels via headphones while utilizing the cardio equipment.

"Our guests are always our highest priority, so their feedback really was the driving force behind adding a full-service, state-of-the-art fitness center to the property," said Eric Rosenbaum, the Caribe Royale Orlando's general manager.

The fitness center has already won high praise from meeting planners. "This is our fifth meeting here, and we love the friendliness of the staff and the flexibility of the meeting space," said Jeff Stachnik, conference coordinator, Florida Statewide Prevention Conference. "The addition of the fitness center is yet another incentive for our organization to meet at the Caribe Royale Orlando."

Of course, there are many other attractions to be found at this 45-acre tropical oasis. An array of dining and lounge options, a 250,000-gallon, free-form swimming pool with a 75-foot waterslide, and lighted tennis courts are all available on site. Golf and shopping may be found nearby. Complimentary scheduled shuttle service whisks guests to the four Disney theme parks, while SeaWorld Orlando and Universal Studios Florida lie 10 minutes away.

Dining is highlighted by The Venetian Room, a 92-seat restaurant awarded the AAA Four Diamond rating and serving dinner only. "Memorable dining is valued for business entertainment and for everyone's important occasions," said Hotel Executive Chef Vincent Posada. "The Venetian Room is truly a special place."

A more casual atmosphere is nearby at the newly renovated Tropicale, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Its menu selections reinforce the resort's Florida and Caribbean feeling. Also at the resort are Cafe Largo, a market-style eatery; Calypso's, for drinks and grilled selections poolside; and the Parrot Isle Lounge.

The Caribe Royale Orlando is a property of the Sierra Land Group of Glendale, Calif., which also owns the adjacent Buena Vista Suites Hotel. Combined, the two properties comprise Orlando's largest independently owned all-suite hotel combination. Buena Vista Suites features 280 suites and 3,000 square feet of flexible meeting space.

Caribe Royale All-Suites Resort and Convention Center At A Glance

Convention Facilities: 150,000 square feet of flexible meeting space; three ballrooms, including the 40,000-square-foot Grand Sierra Ballroom; 51 breakout meeting rooms; and three executive board rooms.

Guest Rooms: 1,218 newly renovated one-bedroom suites and 120 two-bedroom villas.

Recreation and Amenities: The Venetian Room (AAA Four Diamond restaurant);
complimentary fitness and exercise facilities; golf (off-site with course affiliation);
shopping nearby at Orlando Premium Outlet; and complimentary scheduled shuttle to the four Disney theme parks (five minutes away).
For More Information: Contact sales: (800) 823-8100 or (407) 238-8000; fax: (407) 238-8400; e-mail: sales@cariberoyale.com; Web site: www.cariberoyale.com.

Daytona Beach

Center Expands

Get to Know the New Daytona Beach

Cast away what you think you know and get to know the new Daytona Beach.  Best known for its 23 miles of sparkling beaches, the Daytona Beach area has, in recent years, also become well known for its growing inventory of quality accommodations and meeting facilities. "The Daytona Beach area is seeing new meeting and convention facilities open at a fairly rapid pace," said Sally Gardiner, director of convention sales for the Daytona Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. "Last February, the world-famous Daytona International Speedway unveiled its multimillion-dollar infield redesign, which features more than 230,000 square feet of new meeting space. In January 2006, the News-Journal Center opened, offering groups the option of a scenic riverfront meeting venue in our beautiful downtown historic district."

The News-Journal Center is designed to be a dramatic architectural landmark in Daytona Beach's historic downtown district. Situated alongside the picturesque Halifax River, the $29 million cultural center features an 850-seat traditional proscenium theater with an orchestra pit, as well as a 260-seat studio theater and conference rooms.

Leading Daytona Beach's transformation into a preferred meeting destination is the $63 million expansion of the Ocean Center Convention Complex. The expansion will add 100,000 square feet of exhibit space and 30,000 square feet of new meeting space, nearly tripling its size. Construction is scheduled to be complete in 2008, with conventions continuing uninterrupted throughout the remodeling period.

Other new or recently refurbished meeting facilities in the Daytona Beach area include: the Mary McLeod Bethune Performing Arts Center and Peabody Auditorium.

Renovations to Daytona Beach's historic Peabody Auditorium were completed in July 2005. The project was finished in time to host the London Symphony Orchestra during the city's acclaimed Florida International Festival.

Groups meeting in the Daytona Beach area will find accommodations to fit any budget. Several hotels have recently undergone multimillion-dollar refurbishment projects, including the 742-room Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort, The Plaza Resort & Spa, and The Shores Resort & Spa, a new, four-star resort.

In November 2005, The Shores Resort & Spa opened, featuring a fine dining restaurant and more than 17,000 square feet of meeting space. The Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort celebrated its grand opening in January after undergoing a $20 million refurbishment that made the beach setting an intrinsic part of the resort. And in February 2006, two new hotels opened on Daytona Beach's mainland close to Daytona International Speedway - Homewood Suites and Residence Inn.

The resort area's 23 miles of sparkling beaches are perfect for castle building, cycling, jogging, fishing, or just relaxing in the sun. A burgeoning golf destination, the area is home to several championship greens that make it an ideal spot for year-round golfing fun. Golf pros and novices will enjoy play on the area's acclaimed greens, which include courses at LPGA International, Halifax Plantation Golf Club, and the Golf Club at Cypress Head.

Unique shopping and dining spots can be found along Beach Street in historic downtown Daytona Beach. The area's newest shopping, dining, and entertainment complex, Ocean Walk Shoppes at Ocean Walk Village, is the perfect place to unwind. Enjoy the 10-cinema theater complex, restaurants, and plenty of apparel and gift stores all just steps away from the Atlantic Ocean.

Two new resort spas also await visitors - SpaTerre at The Shores Resort & Spa and the Vacation Therapy Spa at Ocean Walk Resort. They join Ocean Waters Spa at The Plaza Resort & Spa in offering a complete respite that rejuvenates the mind, body, and spirit.

Visitors can also choose to explore the area's museums and historic sites, enjoy an evening of live professional theater, or experience the excitement of NASCAR at Daytona USA. The area's newest family attraction is Daytona Lagoon water park and family entertainment center. Daytona Lagoon features 10 giant waterslides, a state-of-the-art arcade, meeting rooms, and more. Several sightseeing tours cruise the region's ecologically rich inland waterways, each providing their own unique glimpse of the Daytona Beach area. A breathtaking bird's-eye view of the area can be had from Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse in the town of Ponce Inlet, the southernmost point of the Daytona Beach area. Located beside the lighthouse is another popular attraction, the Marine Science Center.

 Conveniently located in Central East Florida, the Daytona Beach area is easy to reach via Interstate 95 and Interstate 4. Direct flights to Daytona Beach International Airport from Atlanta, Newark, Washington D.C., and Chicago are now available.

Daytona Beach At A Glance

Convention Facilities: The $63 million expansion of the Ocean Center Convention and Entertainment Complex in Daytona Beach is under way. The expansion will add 100,000 square feet of exhibit space and 30,000 square feet of new meeting space. The project also includes improvements to existing meeting rooms as well as work on the center's façade along State Road A1A (Atlantic Avenue). Construction is scheduled to be complete in 2008, with conventions continuing uninterrupted throughout the remodeling period. Visit www.oceancenter.com.

Accommodations: 13,000 guest rooms at more than 200 oceanfront and mainland
hotel properties.

Attractions: Historic Downtown Daytona Beach, Ocean Walk Shoppes, Daytona
USA/Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Lagoon, TrolleyBoats, Angell & Phelps Chocolate Factory, Tomoka State Park, Seaside Music Theater, LPGA International, Florida Tennis Center, Jackie Robinson Ballpark, Mary McLeod Bethune Home, Volusia Mall, Museum of Arts & Sciences, Daytona Beach Pier, Daytona Beach Boardwalk, Marine Science Center, Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse, A tiny Cruise Line, The Casements, Halifax Historical Museum, Ormond Memorial Art Museum, and The News-Journal Center.

For More Information: Daytona Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, 126 E. Orange Ave., Daytona Beach, FL 32114; phone: (386) 255-0415 or (800) 544-0415; fax: (386) 255-5478; Web site: meetings.daytonabeachcvb.org.

Greater Fort Lauderdale

Hotels Abuzz

Area's Meeting Profile Rises to New Heights

Record development in recent years, coupled with its status as one of the nation's finest Blue Wave beach destinations, have helped to earn Greater Fort Lauderdale a place on planners' roster of preferred meeting venues. And beating out more than 80 competitors that vied to host the Organization of American States General Assembly last fall has propelled its meeting profile to unprecedented heights.

"By successfully hosting such a massive event with so many moving parts … we opened up a lot of eyes," said Nicki Grossman, president of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau. "Meeting planners, international audiences, and even some here in the local community were impressed with the execution of the event. From the intense preparations and detailed logistical and security issues, to the work done on the ground during the event, everything was seamless. You can say that we gave the international community a taste of Greater Fort Lauderdale's 'SunSational' service."

However, Grossman added, Greater Fort Lauderdale isn't resting on its laurels in terms of attracting groups. Rather, it continues to be abuzz with development, particularly on the hotel front. Among the recent highlights:

• January of 2005 marked the debut of the Pelican Beach Resort, situated on 500 feet of prime Atlantic Ocean beachfront. The property features a waterfront casual dining restaurant, a poolside cocktail lounge, an old-fashioned ice cream parlor, and the only lazy water ride in Fort Lauderdale. Accommodations include 180 guest rooms, among them 117 oceanfront suites with private balconies.
• The Marriott Hollywood Beach hotel, a new oceanfront, full-service, non-smoking Marriott property, began welcoming guests this past summer. The Marriott Hollywood Beach offers 229 guest rooms with a fresh residential feel, flexible conference and social space, a restaurant, a spa, a tiki bar, and a five-story parking garage.
• Scheduled for completion in the summer of 2006 is the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach hotel, a 25-story property with a grand two-story lobby, 333 luxurious guest rooms, a gourmet restaurant, and a 2,700-square-foot ballroom.
• September 2006 has been set as the opening date of The St. Regis Resort, Fort Lauderdale, Florida's first St. Regis property. The $135 million complex will house 166 luxurious guest rooms, including 20 suites, plus 8,400 square feet of meeting space, a renowned gourmet restaurant, and the Remede Spa.
• Real estate mogul Donald Trump has two five-star condominium hotel developments planned on Fort Lauderdale Beach. The Trump International Hotel & Tower Fort Lauderdale will resemble a 1925 luxury cruise liner and feature 298 deluxe one- and two-bedroom suites, as well as a spa, pool, and fine dining establishment. The 95-room Trump Las Olas will be situated across from Bahia Mar Marina, between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway. Both properties are slated for completion in the spring of 2007.
• Starwood Hotels will open the $220 million W Fort Lauderdale Hotel and Residences, the first W Hotel in Florida, in 2007. The 346-room hotel and 171 luxury residences will occupy a four-and-one-half-acre site offering dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Intracoastal Waterway. Features will include more than 13,000 square feet of meeting space, along with a 10,000-square-foot spa and a restaurant.

Meanwhile, several other hotels in the Greater Fort Lauderdale area are actively seeking to accommodate meetings. These include: T

• The Bahia Mar Beach Resort, where groups will discover 18,000 square feet of meeting space as well as several unique outdoor function areas. Featuring 300 ocean- and marina-view rooms, the property boasts a 250-slip, mega-yacht marina that serves as home to the deep-sea fishing fleet, the Water Taxi, the Jungle Queen, Club Nautico, and more. Guests have exclusive access to Grande Oaks, the area's most prestigious golf club.
• Lago Mar Resort & Club, whose self-contained conference center has 12,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, including a 5,000-square-foot prefunction area, four meeting rooms, and 204 one- and two-bedroom suites and guest rooms. After hours, delegates can relax on the private beach, at the 9,000-square-foot swimming lagoon, in the Olympic-size pool, or on the tennis courts.
• The Harbor Beach Marriott Resort & Spa, which offers 30,000 square feet of meeting space, plus 20,000 square feet of outdoor terraces overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The secluded luxury resort has 637 rooms and suites. 
• The Hyatt Regency Pier Sixty-Six Resort & Spa, a 22-acre paradise renowned for its top level of service, cuisine, and style. Meeting and banquet space includes two ballrooms, nine meeting rooms, a business center, and outdoor venues for banquets. A full variety of recreational amenities range from a magnificent Raymond Floyd-designed golf course to waters sports facilities, including several types of boat rentals. Rooms and suites at the property total 380.
• The 457-room Sheraton Yankee Trader, home of the award-winning Shula's On The Beach restaurant. Five of the hotel's eight meeting rooms overlook the Atlantic Ocean. The 11,000-square-foot conference center is professionally staffed to service groups of up to 400 people for meetings, banquets, and special events.
• The Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa, a recipient of multiple awards, accommodates groups in an adjacent 209,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art convention center with a 50,000-square-foot Great Hall for exhibits, four ballrooms, and 39 individual breakout rooms. In addition to 1,000 guest rooms, the hotel features two unique beachfront pools, an 18-hole championship golf course, a tennis center, a full-service spa, a marina, restaurants, and on-site shopping.
• The Fort Lauderdale Marina Marriott, which was recently sold to Luxury Resorts, will soon change its name to one that had not been announced at press time. Premier outdoor facilities with panoramic water views distinguish this property, which features 20,000 square feet of indoor meeting space and 580 guest rooms.

Groups can also meet at the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center, which, following a $34 million and 230,000-square-foot expansion, features 600,000 gross square feet of space. Meeting planners booking events to be held at the facility between Aug. 1 and Sept. 30, 2006, Aug. 1 and Sept. 30, 2007, or Aug. 1 and Sept. 30, 2008, and contract a minimum of 600 peak-night hotel rooms will receive free rental of all floor space throughout the entire center. Attrition fees at contracted hotels will be waived as part of this special offer.

Greater Fort Lauderdale At A Glance

Convention Facilities: Following a recent expansion, the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center features 600,000 gross square feet of space.

Accommodations: 33,000 guest rooms in more than 610 properties.

Attractions: African-American Research Library and Cultural Center, Ah-Tah Thi-Ki Seminole Museum, Beach Place, Billie Swamp Safari, Broward Center For the Performing Arts, Butterfly World/Tradewinds Park, Everglades Holiday Park, Galleria Mall, IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame, Jungle Queen riverboat, Museum of Discovery & Science, Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District, Shops of Las Olas, Sawgrass Mills Mall, and Stranahan House.

Greater Miami and the Beaches

Prime

Why meet in Miami? Greater Miami and the Beaches has a formula for success few destinations can match. A sophisticated and exciting international city, Miami attracts visitors with top-rated hotels, spas, beaches, water sports, tennis, golf, great shopping, dining, and fabled nightlife perfect for celebrity spotting. What more could a planner want, except the time to put together a fantastic itinerary?

Located in close proximity of the area's fabulous beaches, historic Art Deco District, or the heart of downtown, Greater Miami's first-class facilities offer state-of-the-art technology and are equipped to provide elaborate exhibition displays, audiovisual setups, and United Nations-style simultaneous translations. All are convenient to area shopping, dining, and exciting nightlife. In short, this unique destination is the ultimate choice for all association meetings.

The Miami Beach Convention Center recently underwent a $13 million renovation, with nearly $3 million invested in a telecommunications infrastructure upgrade that placed it at the forefront of high-tech meeting facilities. With 1 million square feet of exhibition space, unlimited floor load capacity, 35-foot ceilings, and 68 adjacent, reconfigurable meeting rooms, the center continues to be among the nation's prime convention venues. The Miami Convention Center has 37 well-appointed meeting rooms (including a 444-seat auditorium and 117-seat lecture hall) and can accommodate up to 5,000 people in a variety of configurations. The Coconut Grove Expo Center provides a total of 150,000 square feet of contiguous space, plus state-of-the-art lighting, sound, and climate controls for maximum flexibility.

Greater Miami and the Beaches offers 486 hotels and motels, with more than 48,000 rooms for group and meeting business in properties that range from luxurious to budget-friendly. What's more, convenient downtown, beach, and airport locations; superb service; spectacular views; first-class recreational facilities; and award-winning dining are only part of the hotel amenities that attract millions of visitors annually. Some hotels and resorts specialize in down-filled pillows and in-room hot tubs; others sport world-famous golf courses, tennis courts, and health spas.

When meetings are finished for the day, recreational options are limited only by one's imagination. Greater Miami and the Beaches is replete with theaters, museums, and performing arts venues. The area also features a host of historic sites, nature parks, and attractions. Delegates may also want to enhance their stay with a pre- or post-meeting cruise - more than three million passengers pass through the Port of Miami annually.

Sizzling nightlife, more than 7,000 exceptional restaurants, and infinite shopping possibilities complete this first-class meeting package. Indeed, Greater Miami and the Beaches offers the best compromise between getting away from it all and being a part of it all.

Greater Miami and the Beaches At A Glance

Convention Facilities: The Miami Beach Convention Center offers 1 million square feet of exhibition space, unlimited floor load capacity, 35-foot ceilings, and 68 adjacent, reconfigurable meeting rooms. The Miami Convention Center features 37 meeting rooms and can accommodate up to 5,000 people in a variety of configurations. The Coconut Grove Expo Center provides a total of 150,000 square feet of contiguous space.

Hotel Rooms Area-wide: More than 48,000.

Attractions: Premier beaches, water sports, Art Deco Historic District, Biscayne National Park, Everglades National Park, Fairchild Tropical Gardens, Miami Metrozoo, Miami Seaquarium, Miccosukee Indian Village, Monkey Jungle, Parrot Jungle Island, Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, and Miami Museum of Science & Planetarium.

For More Information: Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau, convention sales department, 701 Brickell Ave., Suite 2700, Miami, FL 33131; phone: (800) 933-8448, ext. 3071; e-mail: meetingsinfo@miamimeetings.com; Web site: www.miamimeetings.com.

Rosen Plaza

High Standards

In a city known as a world-class destination, the award-winning Rosen Plaza establishes a spectacular standard of meeting quality. With its exceptional facilities, highly respected staff, and beautiful accommodations, the property satisfies virtually every meeting need of groups comprising 10 to 2,800 attendees. The Rosen Plaza is also ideally situated in the heart of everything fun on International Drive, in a convenient spot adjacent to Orlando's Orange County Convention Center (the second-largest convention center in the country), and only 10 minutes away from Orlando's hottest attractions, such as Universal Orlando, SeaWorld, and Walt Disney World.

Despite its "entertaining" location, Rosen Plaza takes business very seriously. Groups are accommodated in more than 60,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, including a 26,000-square-foot Grand Ballroom and 12,500-square-foot Ballroom Foyer area. The property also features 22 meeting rooms and two permanent registration desks with locking storage, allowing for a flexible yet flawless gathering, no matter what the size. Up-to-date technology, complete on-site audiovisual services, and an Ikon Business Center add a level of professionalism that guarantees the success of every event. Rosen Plaza's award-winning banquet and catering staff will add a special touch, and can serve superb banquets for up to 1,800 guests. Themed parties and custom-tailored events can always put the excitement into any gathering, and this creative staff will add the details that make each event a memorable one.

When it comes to luxury, this boutique hotel delivers. The Rosen Plaza offers 800 beautifully appointed rooms; of these, 32 are elegant suites and 10 are Executive King Suites with overstuffed recliners and board room-style seating for four.

Direct-dial telephones, high-speed Internet access, data ports, and voicemail will keep attendees connected.

Outside their rooms, guests can enjoy a variety of activities, including a heated tropical pool, a whirlpool spa, and a fitness center with "Life Fitness" equipment. Right across the street is Pointe Orlando, a 17-acre shopping and entertainment complex. Body and Sol Spa is available nearby, and championship, par 72 golf is only five minutes away at Shingle Creek Golf Club. Available to hotel guests is Baggage Airline Guest Services (BAGS), which allows for remote return flight check-in and baggage handling.

Finally, dining at the Rosen Plaza takes many faces, literally. Its signature restaurant, Jack's Place, is home to the world's largest compilation of autographed caricatures of stars and dignitaries. Voted one of the top two "Best Hotel Restaurants" by Orlando magazine 2004, Jack's provides fresh seafood, juicy steaks, and gracious service. For more casual dining, Café Matisse offers an elegant buffet, as well as menu selections. LiteBite is the perfect place for snacks and sandwiches and is open 24 hours a day. Rossini's Pizza serves great pizzas, made-to-order and piping hot. Backstage, International Drive's original nightclub, also offers dancing and nightly entertainment. Smoooth Java rounds out the list, proudly serving Starbucks coffee, and fruit smoothies.

Rosen Plaza At A Glance

Meeting Facilities: More than 60,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, including a 26,000-square-foot Grand Ballroom, 12,500-square-foot Ballroom Foyer area, and 22 meeting rooms.

Guest Rooms: 800, including 32 suites and 10 Executive King Suites.

On-Site Recreation and Amenities: Heated tropical pool, whirlpool spa, fitness
center with "Life Fitness" equipment, four restaurants, lobby lounge, nightclub, coffee bar, Baggage Airline Guest Services advanced check-in and baggage service. Par 72 golf is available five minutes away at the Shingle Creek Golf Club.

Contact Victoria Hall, director of sales and marketing; phone: (800) 366-9700 or (407) 996-9700; fax: (407) 996-9111; e-mail: vhall@rosenplaza.com; Web site: www.rosenplaza.com.

Tampa Bay

Help

Tampa Bay consistently receives industry awards for meeting and destination support, including the 2004 Gold Service Award from Meetings & Convention magazine. The Tampa Bay Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) is here to help you find the perfect place for your meeting, connect you to industry suppliers for business support, and work together with you to build excitement and attendance. Your success is our goal.

For those of you charged with planning meetings for your business, organization, or professional association, help is right here. The Tampa Bay CVB stands ready to assist you from start to finish, whether your meeting is large or small, simple or complex.

The sales department will give you everything you need to make an informed decision, including site selection of a convention center, hotel, or special event venue. Rely on your sales managers to send your leads or request for proposals only to qualified venues that match your event's specific criteria. The sales team will organize a custom proposal and bid book that addresses your specific needs and provides all the information you require in one convenient place.

Once you've selected Tampa Bay for your next meeting, the convention services department will help throughout all phases of your meeting, from the earliest planning to the departure of the last delegate. The following services are available for groups convening in Tampa Bay:

Attendance Builders: The CVB offers a wide variety of publications to help drive attendance for your upcoming meeting in Tampa. Map brochures are great for including in mailings to potential registrants. The official destination guide is a magazine-format publication that offers visitors plenty of information on what to do in Tampa Bay. We have a colorful Tampa Bay postcard available for mailing; the shell brochure is a tri-fold that tells the Tampa story on one side and is blank on the inside for you to print your message. This brochure also doubles as a program cover. There is also a great, fast-moving promotional video for you to utilize.

Attendee Discount Program: Some of Tampa's finest businesses and attractions extend a warm welcome and wish to offer special discounts to your attendees. This program couldn't be easier.

General Information on Tampa Bay: What restaurant would be right for your board dinner? Just ask. Where can you hold an event? Ask the CVB. What's the weather like in May? We know. How far is the airport from your hotel? We can tell you. When are special events coinciding with your meeting? We will find out.

Marketing Materials: We can assist you in creating enticing copy for your promotional materials. There are always new and exciting things happening here. Let us help you communicate these developments to your attendees.

Photo Library: We have a great selection of local area and attraction photos that will help you add some pizzazz to your promotional materials. We'll also send photos to you on a CD, or you may download them directly from our Web site. Ask us for logos and logo Web site links too.

Planning Assistance: Trying to think of something really special? Do you have a really big group that you need to plan for? We would be happy to help you plan something special for them.

Planning Site Coordination: We assist meeting planners to arrange planning sites. We'll transport you from the airport personally to visit all of the venues you need to see to make decisions.

Referrals for Services: Want to see all your options? Private room for a dinner for 35? Spouse tour ideas? Attendees have a free afternoon to spend at one of our attractions? Tell us what you're looking for and we will supply you with all of your options.

Services Leads: Need a destination management company or audiovisual supplier? Give us the details and we will send a lead to our supplier members and collect the proposals for you.

Passkey Housing Service: Tampa Bay is proud to be Passkey enabled. The CVB operates a central housing reservation service for convention groups using two or more hotels. This service is now powered by Passkey.com. Passkey.com's Internet software and our Convention Services Department offer the following housing benefits:

• one-stop solution for group housing
• total control of the process throughout the entire event's lifecycle
• connects all parties live to access and share data
• flexibility to transact online or by traditional means, including fax and mail
• real-time block and pick-up reports available, 24 hours a day/7 days a week
• secure environment for gathering, processing, and distributing critical data
• training and support for your staff
• tools to reduce hotel attrition and wash
• accurate room pick-up histories, giving greater negotiating power for your next event
• single system providing continuity from city-to-city.

Registration Staffing: The Tampa Bay CVB will provide a team of experienced and knowledgeable registration personnel to assist you on site. Our Ambassadors of Tampa have a reputation of being on time, efficient, hardworking, cheerful, and polite. Requests for registration personnel require a minimum 30 days advance notice.

Web Site for Meeting Planners: The Tampa Bay CVB is committed to providing meeting planners with the most useful and up-to-date information.

Log on to www.VisitTampaBay.com.

Tampa Bay At A Glance

Convention Facilities: Tampa Bay's beautiful downtown waterfront convention center offers a 200,000-square-foot exhibit hall, 36 breakout rooms, a 36,000-square-foot ballroom, and 84,000 square feet of prefunction space … plus incredible waterfront views.

Number of Rooms Area-wide: Tampa Bay can provide 10,000 rooms within 10 minutes of the Tampa Convention Center.

Attractions: Busch Gardens, Adventure Island, The Florida Aquarium, Lowry Park Zoo, The Museum of Science and Industry, Historic Ybor City, Channelside marketplace, Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, H.B. Plant Museum, Canoe Escape, and J.B Starkey's Flatwoods Adventure.

For More Information: Tampa Bay Convention & Visitors Bureau, 400 North Tampa St., Suite 2800, Tampa, FL 33602; phone: (813) 223-1111 or (800) 826-8358;Web site: www.VisitTampaBay.com.

Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin

Wellness Trend

New Spa Caters to Changing Attendee Needs

With origins in Bali and the South Pacific, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin's new, internationally acclaimed Mandara Spa began welcoming guests last year. With continued efforts to meet the ever-changing and expanding needs of the business traveler, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin's Mandara Spa offers several unique options for both meeting delegates and planners.

The name Mandara comes from an ancient Sanskrit legend about the gods' quest to find the elixir of immortality and eternal youth. Mandara Spa has embraced the legend with unique and exotic spa treatments that reflect the beauty, spirit, and traditions of those ancient times, as well as the soul and ritual of Asian culture. While the spa does not promise eternal youth, the Mandara Spa does offer meeting attendees a peaceful retreat and a full menu of ancient Balinese-inspired spa treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul. Among the wide variety of health and beauty services is Mandara's signature Balinese massage, an eclectic variation of the traditional Swedish massage that incorporates stretching, elements of shiatsu, and vigorous, yet relaxing movements. The spa also features notable body products, Elemis and La Therapie, both of which are highly regarded worldwide.

With today's increased focus on health and fitness, many professionals are adding spa services to their wellness regimens to help manage or reduce stress and for overall relaxation. The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin recognizes this trend and, as part of an ongoing commitment to meeting the needs of business travelers, has proactively incorporated a spa known as an international leader in wellness and beauty treatments, as well as facility design, into its amenities. As spouse programs are also among the growing interests for meetings and conventions delegates, the Mandara Spa offers special programs designed for travel companions.

"The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin is noted for offering groups a facility that provides a comprehensive meetings experience," said Erik Berger, general manager of the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin. "Our addition of the spa allows us to continue to meet our guests' needs in total, even after their meetings are completed. We also expect groups to use the spa as another creative feature to incorporate into their meeting programs."

In addition to offering meeting attendees a peaceful outlet for relaxation and stress reduction, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin's Mandara Spa offers meeting planners a retreat from ordinary venues. As a leader in guest service and facilities, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin now adds another dimension to the resort's meeting facilities. The spa's unique environment is perfect for VIP or small group events, themed events, or programs, and is ideal for incentive programs. The spa also provides alternative options to consider for speakers, entertainers, and other notable meeting program participants.

The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin has remained at the forefront of the industry, with 329,000 square feet of meeting space, 17 restaurants and lounges, and recent property enhancements. This includes the introduction of two new restaurants, adding to the resort's collection of spectacular on-site dining. Todd English's bluezoo is an upscale celebrity chef restaurant and the Fresh Mediterranean Market is an "open kitchen" breakfast and lunch venue featuring a variety of conveniences, such as tableside cart service and wireless Internet connections. The resort has also introduced expansive design and technological enhancements, such as a redesigned corridor to complement the new, "modern luxury," in-room décor and high-speed Internet access in all guest rooms.

Even among the many unique amenities the resort offers, including abundant meeting space, impeccable guest service, world-class amenities, and on-site dining, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin boasts a continued dedication to offering groups a variety of resources needed to make every meeting not only successful, but also magical.

Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin At A Glance

Convention Facilities: Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin offers more than 329,000 square feet of flexible meeting and convention space. The property has 84 eeting rooms, including two executive board rooms, four ballrooms, 110,500 square eet of contiguous convention/exhibit space, and two business centers.

Guest Rooms: 2,267 newly redesigned rooms.

Amenities/Services: 17 restaurants and lounges, Mandara Spa, five pools, two health clubs, five nearby championship Walt Disney World golf course, four lighted tennis courts, jogging trails, 36 holes of miniature golf at Disney's Fantasia Gardens Miniature Golf ourses, and supervised children's programs. The resort lies between EPCOT, Disney-MGM Studios, and Disney's BoardWalk entertainment district. Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park, Magic Kingdom Park, and other stellar dining, shopping, and entertainment choices in the Downtown Disney area are also nearby.

For More Information: Contact a Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin sales professional at (800) 524-4939, or visit www.swandolphinmeetings.com.

Walt Disney World Resort

New Attraction

'Happiest Celebration on Earth' Continues

There's never been a better time to bring a meeting to Disney's Coronado Springs Resort as the "Happiest Celebration on Earth" continues through 2006. The biggest celebration in Disney history commemorates 50 years of Theme Park magic and brings an exciting line-up of new attractions and entertainment to all four Walt Disney World Theme Parks.

Association groups have plenty to celebrate at Coronado Springs too, including the new 86,000-square-foot Veracruz Exhibit Hall that boosts the total function space at Disney's largest convention resort to more than 220,000 square feet. The space is contiguous and conveniently located on one level. This thoughtful design gives attendees convenient access to the hall from the nearby ballrooms and 45 breakout rooms - and that translates into higher traffic for exhibitors.

Complementing the new Veracruz Exhibit Hall are two exciting new services for trade shows and association meetings. Disney's Exhibitor Concierge is an exhibitor's single source for all trade-show needs - everything from in-booth food and beverage, to hospitality suites, to private networking events. Disney's Exhibitor Concierge is the source for the best tickets in town, including special Theme Park tickets created especially for meetings and convention attendees. Disney's Exhibitor Concierge can also help exhibitors secure signature entertainment, including world-famous Disney characters, and organize golf tournaments at any of Disney's five championship courses.

Disney's Magical Express is another benefit that's available only to groups staying at Coronado Springs or other Disney-owned resorts. This groundbreaking service provides attendees with complimentary airport transfers, luggage delivery, and advance airline check-in.

A chilling new adventure - Expedition Everest - roars to life next month at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park. This new, high-speed thrill ride will take your attendees to the peaks of excitement high atop the fabled mountain.

Expedition Everest offers more thrills when it becomes the dramatic centerpiece for private events. With the mountain as a towering backdrop, Disney brings together food, entertainment, and surprises to create an unforgettable event that captures the mystery, delight, and fun of a Far East adventure. The two-part event begins with a dinner of tempting eastern delicacies served in an exotic Asian village, followed by a lively procession of entertainment that leads attendees to desserts served at the base of "The Forbidden Mountain." This experience can accommodate groups of up to 800 people for sit-down functions or up to 1,000 for receptions.

Walt Disney World Resort At A Glance

Convention Facilities: Disney's Coronado Springs Resort (220,000-sq.-ft. convention ctr.); Disney's Contemporary Resort (90,000-sq.-ft. convention ctr.); Disney's Yacht and Beach Club Resorts (73,000-sq.-ft. convention ctr.); Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa (40,000-sq.-ft. convention ctr.) and Disney's BoardWalk Resort (20,000-sq.-ft.convention ctr.). Additional on-site function space brings Disney's grand total to more than 600,000 square feet.

Guest Rooms: 5,365 rooms in Disney's six convention resorts. Other Disney properties available for overflow.

On-Site Meeting Services: Disney Event Group provides full-service technical, entertainment, and production support.

Attractions/On-Site Recreation: Nighttime entertainment complexes; dozens of award-winning restaurants; five championship golf courses; European-style spas; four world-famous Theme Parks; Water Parks; full-service marinas; tennis; and Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex.

For More Information: Walt Disney World Resort, P.O. Box 10,000, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830-1000; phone: (321) 939-7107; fax: (321) 939-7173;
e-mail: meetings@disneyworld.com; Web site: www.disneymeetings.com/ce.