Sandra Beckwith, "The Do(o)little Report" editor: Mr. Media Interview Classic

Originally Published February 3, 1997

If you've seen the NBC sitcom "Men Behaving Badly," Sandra Beckwith says you're already familiar with her field of study.

The editor of The Do(o)little Report, a bimonthly newsletter that answers the musical question, "Why can't a man be more like a woman?," says the TV show touches the same nerve as her newsletter's popular "Stupid Men Tricks" column.

"When the commercials for 'Men Behaving Badly' started running last summer, it reminded me of my 'Stupid Men Tricks,' " Beckwith says. "I can't tell you how many people have seen the show and asked if it was based on my newsletter. The trick where the man dries his underwear in a microwave oven? For all I know, the producer does this himself."

Coincidentally, Harvey Myman, an executive producer of "Men Behaving Badly," is a subscriber and fan of The Do(o)little Report. "I subscribed to it at the same time I was reading a lot of books on the subject," Myman says. "It speaks to the fact that both she and we speak to a matter of hard-wired male behavior."

As for the underwear in the microwave trick, that was only seen in a promo, not an actual episode and no, he hasn't tried it at home.

Beckwith has enjoyed a great deal of notoriety and visibility thanks to The Do(o)little Report, including stories in USA Today and The Wall Street Journal and an appearance on "The Montel Williams Show." The newsletter -- which boasts more than 5,000 subscribers -- also led to a 1995 book, Why Can't A Man Be More Like A Woman (Kensington).

The Do(o)little Report, now in its fourth year, is not a male-bashing circus or a sociological dissertation. Beckwith is a happily married, witty mother of two daughters, ages 9 and 6, who sees herself performing a public service. "One of the purposes of the newsletter is to show women the reasons men do the things they do," Beckwith explains. "If you understand the behavior, you'll become more tolerant."

She got started four years ago when she noticed that women were becoming more vocal about the things that bothered them in their relationships with men.

"Women are earning more money so they're no longer afraid of biting the hand that feeds them," she says. "The rent is no longer at stake if he doesn't like what she says. I didn't think the behavior of men is any worse today than 30 years ago -- we're just talking about it more."

The real hit of The Do(o)little Report -- which takes its name and joie de vie from My Fair Lady's Eliza Doolittle -- is the "Stupid Men Tricks" column. The following tricks from Beckwith's newsletter were fodder for a relay race she hosted on the syndicated talk show "Crook & Chase":

Wrapping a gift with foil instead of wrapping paper. (It eliminates tape because foil clings to a box.)

Repairing torn jeans with a stapler.

Preparing for a trip to the coin laundry by pouring detergent into the pockets of jeans. (So men don't have to carry a box of detergent.)

Enjoying whipped cream with pie by taking a bite of pie then squirting whipped cream directly in the man's mouth. (Saves time, right?)

Beckwith's favorite "Stupid Men Trick" of all-time was the guy who, rather than throw out a pair of socks that had a hole on the ankle, used a Magic Marker that matched his socks and colored in his ankle.

"I would never do that," she says. "But I'm a woman. Men call in these tricks with great pride. They want to see their tricks in print."

The Do(o)little Report transcends gender and generations, as Beckwith's older daughter demonstrated a few years ago.

"She came into my office," Beckwith recalls, "and said, 'I have an idea for your newsletter: Why do men spend so much time in the bathroom? Daddy goes in there with the newspaper and I don't think that he's ever going to come out!' "

Beckwith thinks her daughters will be better adjusted adults for the lessons they'll one day learn in The Do(o)little Report.

"Men and women are different," she says. "You have to understand the differences. And sometimes, the differences can really make you laugh."

© 2008 by Bob Andelman. All rights reserved.

Legs McNeil, PLEASE KILL ME, THE OTHER HOLLYWOOD author: Mr. Media Audio Interview

When Spin magazine started, its staff included two fascinating characters. First was Bob Guccione, Jr., the magazine’s founder and namesake son of the publisher of Penthouse.

And then there was Spin’s senior editor, Legs McNeil.

Legs McNeil!?!

What the hell kind of stupid name was that for a journalist? I mean, I grew up with kids named "Plinky," "Jiggs," and "Doine," but "Legs"?

Well, let me tell you, that guy Legs McNeil could write. Some months, the only copy worth reading in Spin was under his byline.

It wasn’t until years later that I learned that in the early 1970s, McNeil was a co-founder, with John Holmstrom and Ged Dunn, of Punk Magazine, which gave name to an entire musical generation.

McNeil has since written two remarkable non-fiction books, Please Kill Me: The Uncensored Oral History of Punk, and The Other Hollywood: The Uncensored Oral History of the Porn Film Industry He’s also involved in a new documentary series unspooling across VH1, Spike, and the Sundance Channel in May called "SEX: The Revolution."

Because of the nature of these topics, if you’re easily offended – or under 18 - stop listening now. Thank you.

You can LISTEN to this interview by clicking the BlogTalkRadio.com audio player below!

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© 2008 by Bob Andelman. All rights reserved.

Spotlight Paris (Incentives and Meetings International)

Originally published in 2005

By Bob Andelman

When it comes to seeing Paris, there are two kinds of tourist: the one that travels alone (or with family) and the one traveling with a group, particularly on an business incentive or corporate meeting. Each type will experience the City of Lights in dramatically different fashion because many more doors will magically open to business groups that the family traveler will ever know even exist. Only groups can visit landmarks, museums or attractions after closing time and enjoy a gala dinner in a famous museum such as Orsay or the Louvre or in the Eiffel Tower or in a venue such as Les Pavillons de Bercy. Exclusive venues and events can make a second or third visit to Paris - even for experienced business travellers - feel like the first time.

Which Paris is Right For Your Group?

Timeless Paris: The original historic center of the city around the Ile Saint-Louis and the Latin Quarter.

Hip Paris: The front line of fashion with the boutiques of the Marais and the exhibitions at the Musée d’Art Moderne.

Glamorous Paris: Exemplified by the elegance and style near the Palais Royal and the Madeleine.

Village Paris: The rustic charm of Montmartre and the up-and-coming trends of the Batignolles neighborhood.

Artists’ Paris: Located between Saint-Germain-des-Prés and Montparnasse, it is the cultural and academic heart of the city.

Monumental Paris: Referring to an area from the Invalides to Trocadéro, this is also “picture postcard” Paris.

Chic Paris: Auteuil, Passy, where gentility rhymes with tranquillity.

Mythical Paris: A magnificent perspective extending from the Louvre, across Concorde square to the Champs-Elysées.

Undiscovered Paris: A contrast between the last remaining craftsmen and young designers in the new districts of Bercy and Tolbiac.

People’s Paris: The northern part of the city, around the Canal Saint-Martin and Belleville: a melting pot of ethnic and cultural diversity.

Party Time Paris: Between Bastille and République, one lively neighborhood where your group can discover the capital until the sun comes up.

A Champagne Day Trip From Paris

Champagne Perrier Jouët, the 200-year-old house of one of the most celebrated Champagnes in the world – notably, the Perrier Jouët Fleur de Champagne or “Flower Bottle,” as it is referred to for the hand painted white anemones that adorn the bottle – is opening its private Art Nouveau inspired guest house Maison Belle Époque to the public for romantic-themed tours, tastings and dinners. The legendary guesthouse in Epernay, France has previously only been open for the enjoyment of private guests and industry personnel. Maison Belle Époque houses more than 200 celebrated Art Nouveau works and offers tours of the famous Cramant Vineyards and parting gifts of Perrier Jouet flutes for ladies and Champagne for gentlemen. Groups up to 10 are welcome by appointment only to this site 90 miles northeast of Paris.

Groups Only, S’il vu plait!

What else can your group do in Paris that it can’t do alone? Rent a national monument or private clubs (such as the Automobile Club de France, located on the prestigious Concorde Square) for gala evening events; hold a reception in official government buildings with members of the French government; or lunch at the Senate. KTS Incoming France offers an exclusive wine tasting experience for groups in a private home with an overview of the Eiffel Tower. The company also offers a “Paris Personal Art Tour,” guided and coached by a company expert.

Where to Stay?

Many returning guests believe the best accommodations in Paris can be found at the Four Seasons Georges V Hotel; with its incomparable service, it is consistently rated as one of the best hotels in the world.

But Paris is a city of great hotels and new ones pop up every year. Among the latest full service additions are the Hyatt Paris Vendôme; Radisson Boulogne; and Hilton Arc de Triomphe. The Novotel Eiffel Tower and Hotel Royal Monceau were recently renovated. The newest conference center hotel is the Méridien Etoile. New boutique hotels include: Hotel de Sers; Hotel Daniel; Hotel du Petit Moulin; Hotel de Sezz; And coming soon: Westin Paris Hotel; Méridien La Défense; Fouquet's Barriere Champs Elysées; and Novotel Montparnasse.

Special Events are a Speciality

“Working with a charity fund, we have a larger flexibility to develop special themed evenings,” says Cyril de Fontenay of La Fayette Travel. “Two we are working on for late 2005: the Versailles Palace annual dinner with a performance in the in-house Opera with Elton John; and an exceptional horse show with the National Guard, closing off the famous Vendôme Square followed by dinner for VIP guests in the salons located on first floor above the prestigious showrooms of the top jewelers of Paris.”

The entirely renovated Grand Palais and its spectacular glass dome re-opened to the public and can be used for exceptional events. For gala dinners, it can easily handle up to 3,000 people. Another favorite is the Stock Exchange, a beautiful building for gala dinners and meetings up to 500 people. And the Funfair Museum is a unique venue with 19th century games and roundabouts that can be used by guests during a gala evening. It can accommodate up to 2,000 guests.

Ride

The first portion of a new tramway that will eventually circle Paris opens in the south of Paris in 2006.

Dine

Apicius, rated two stars in the Michelin guide, has moved into a superb mansion just off the Champs-Elysées. Alain Ducasse, who recently took over the restaurant in the Plaza Athénée Palace Hotel, is the only chef running two three-star Michelin restaurants in France (the other one is located in Monaco).

When To Go?

U.S. incentive groups enjoy visiting Paris from April to June and September to November, during the mild and sunny months of the year.

For more information

Anouk Thiebaut

Manager USA

Meetings, Conferences & Incentive

French Government Tourist Office

Maison de la France

444 Madison Avenue

New York, NY 10022

Tel: 212 745 0960

Fax: 212 838 7855

E-mail : anouk.thiebaut@franceguide.com

www.franceguide.com


Corine Bernadou

Paris Convention & Visitors Bureau

US / UK Market Manager

Tél: + 33 1.49.52.53.96

Fax: +33 1.49.52.53.90

25, rue des Pyramides

75001 Paris

http://www.parisinfo.com

Hot Destinations in Tourism 2005 (Gulf Coast Business Reviews)

Originally published in 2005

By Bob Andelman

World events have a way of altering travel plans every year. In 2001, the 9-11 attacks on New York City and Washington, DC, brought air travel in the United States to a halt, drastically altering Americans’ attitude about flying overseas.

A train bombing Madrid affected the business and holiday plans of Europeans.

And the tsunami that washed over coastal Southeast Asia in the final days of 2003 cast a pall over what was a growing corporate and incentive travel destination.

With the tsunami tragedy still on the front pages of newspapers around the globe, Incentives & Meetings International turned to corporate travel experts in the U.S., United Kingdom and Europe to find out where the hottest and most popular destinations in 2005 will be. Because business will continue and the wanderlust of business travelers will, too, even though the places may change.

“People have come out of the period when they were afraid to go,” says David Hackett, UK chairman of BI. “They say to us, ‘The last time we traveled was pre-9-11. What’s new? We want to come back with a difference.”

Americans are slowly returning overseas, although in small numbers and to tested, popular places with lots of amenities. Major European cities offer this; in Spain, while Madrid may be avoided, the dollars are going to sunny coastal cities such as Marbella.


Mediterranean cruises – offered by at least a dozen lines – are popular for incentive trips because they typically offer multiple ports over an eight-day itinerary

In the South Pacific, Tahitian cruises are viewed as being safe, motivational, and working well as a great incentive for performance. The Tahitian islands conjure up a dreamy, exotic performance for many.

Hackett says that the hottest incentive and meeting destinations among his clientele in the coming year will be Dubai, Mauritius, India or Southern Africa.

“Those four destinations have become hot for us. Perhaps the most interesting is Dubai because with Emirates long distance, this is now a direct route from the US,” he says. “With the rapidly expanding choice of hotels, including some outstanding properties for both incentive and business meetings, I am sure that this will be a destination of choice for the future. It offers complete contrast to anything within the Americas.”

Dubai offers winter sunshine with heat. Safety remains an issue, of course. But Hackett credits Dubai tourism officials with accomplishing “a fantastic job to make people forget their location.” He points to the Kingdom’s $10 million fighting fund which was used to lure the global travel media to Dubai to see in person what all the fuss was about.

“They got so many column inches that people forgot where Dubai was,” he says. “Ten years ago it wasm’t on UK planners’ lists. Now every hotel is represented there. They have built incredible hotels, like Hawaii did. They built them to be themed and extraordinary, as Atlantis and Disney have done. Medinat Jumeirah is a complete destination in itself – 18 restaurants, bars, nightclub entertainment, a shopping plaza, enormous conference facilities, indoors and outdoors. It’s unrivaled. Unless you go to somewhere like Vegas, you won’t find a hotel as comprehensive and extraordinary.”

According to Hackett, Dubai’s Royal Mirage has the same visual impact on guests as the Bellagio or Venetian. And Burj al Arab is a huge hotel built in the shape of a spinnaker sail. Every suite – and it is suite-only – is 160 square meters, split level. One restaurant is subterranean; another is suspended off the side of the building.

“These are world-class hotels made for incentive programs,” Hackett says.

As for South Africa, Hackett acknowledges that the bombing of a Planet Hollywood in Capetown has diverted business travelers from that city. But he adds that Zambia, Botswana and Mauritius have been untouched by international politics.

“These are safe destinations,” according to Hackett. “We live in a world where, as a planner, I have to say, nowhere gives you perfect safety. How would have guessed at the bombings in Bali or Madrid? We’ve lived with terrorism for longer than Americans have. If you want to go in pursuit of somewhere different, there are considerations. Risk is still a factor. We all accept corporate responsibility when we plan these.”

Somewhat ironically, Hackett says that his audience wants incentive trips that offer adventure.

“They no longer want to do coach site-seeing,” he says. “You know: ‘On your left is a cathedral, on your right is an ancient monument.’ They’re looking for an experience. In Africa, we take them on the banks of the Zambisi – kayaking or white water rafting below Victoria Falls. These are exciting. From that base you can also go game viewing in Botswana. It’s a magnificent experience.”

Dennis Pinto knows East Africa and India. As managing director of New York-based Micato Safaris, a destination management company specializing in leading tours into those areas, he says they are rising in international esteem and attractiveness.

“We are seeing a tremendous amount of consumer demand for both Africa and India,” Pinto says. “For the first time in over a decade, corporate incentive groups are traveling to India. Virtually every incentive-caliber property in India is sold out for 2005 in spite of significant new building in the last two to three years.”

Pinto responds to increasing demand for incentives featuring a strong adventure component, whether it’s ballooning in East Africa, game ranger training in South Africa, or hiking in the foothills of the Himalayas in India. He attributes this to the increasing number of baby boomers now winning these trips.


Not that these trips are a snap.

“The first and greatest challenge is to choose the right DMC,” Pinto says. “Unlike domestic travel or even programs to the Caribbean and Europe, exotic destinations require a far greater reliance on a DMC. The right DMC has the connections to make things right when things inevitably go wrong. An inexperienced DMC can jeopardize the success of the trip.”

Other challenges include: securing sufficient air lift to the destinations, especially Africa and India, where there is a shortage of air capacity, and currency fluctuation. The right DMC can properly hedge dollar/local currency exposure and/or secure guaranteed rates in dollars to maximize value for program organizers.

Undiscovered gems in these areas include Kenya’s Lamu Springs, an island destination in the Indian Ocean that is blissfully small, devoid of cars, and life moves at the pace of the many donkeys that are used there. In Tanzania, Tarangire National Park is a 525-square miles of wild, unspoiled land with huge herds of elephants roaming the vast savannah. Pinto calls Botswana “one of Africa’s best-kept secrets. With its abundance of wildlife and scarcity of people, it is a natural paradise ‘discovered’ by the discerning traveler only about a decade ago.”

For Kenya, the Mara Safari Club and Kichwa Tembo camp in Maasai Mara are popular destinations. At the exclusive Mount Kenya Safari Club, visitors can walk in the footsteps of Sir Winston Churchill, Clark Gable and Mick Jagger and be given the celebrity treatment themselves. In Mozambique, an ideal program would combine bush and beach, such as Indigo Bay and Sabi Sabi.

Hackett has a bold, blunt assessment of India, an up-and-coming, exotic destination that many Americans may not feel is ready for primetime.

“India is a tough destination to go to by yourself. It’s smelly, it’s chaotic,” he says. “And if you go to India, you’re likely to get some stomach bug. All those prejudices are true. But if you go on a 5-star program with a group, you can minimize those. If you’re in top hotels, there are tight hygienic controls. The top issue is food and toilets. Is the food good to eat? And are the washrooms going to be acceptable? Going by yourself you won’t have that care factor, that detail. We just came back from a program in India for BMW dealers. These guys can go where they want in the world. When we launched India, there was a lot of hesitancy from the group. It took us a while to persuade them to embrace the idea. But the post-event feedback was that it was the best thing they’ve ever done. Yes, they confronted the harsh reality, the poverty, the many issues of India. But the reports were fantastic. If you book Bermuda, expectations are very high. When we booked India, expectations were very low. But their experiences of it were extraordinary.”

In years past planners couldn’t offer India for incentives. But government and business interests there believe that the world is prepared to pay a premium to see the wonders of the world and major investments are being made in modernization, renovation, facelifts and new hotel construction.

“Amarvilas – near the Taj Mahal –is absolutely beautiful,” Hackett says. “Fabulous gardens, swimming pool, reflecting pool, courtyards with fountains – it is something Europe cannot afford to build. Every single bedroom has direct sight of the Taj Mahal. One of the Seven Wonders of the World is a pretty good hook for an incentive program.”

Karen Newberry, an international destination specialist for Maritz Travel Company says that her clients are more willing to travel further from home than in recent years. “The problem in Europe is the exchange rate with the euro makes those destinations very expensive,” she says. Italy is really expensive, but I still have clients going there. We have clients who love doing the Tuscany area. But they’re getting away from Rome, Florence and Venice.”

The dollar stretches further in Switzerland, so places such as the Victoria-Jungfrau, which has a new spa, is drawing fresh eyes.

“Montreaux is like the French Riviera of Switzerland,” Newberry says. “It has different things you can get to quickly – mountain excursions, vineyards and wineries.”

Australia remains popular with Maritz clients.

“The biggest challenge is the airfare,” Newberry says. “A lot of clients like to put their people in business class, which means a much higher budget.”

Fijian cruises are also on the rise this year.

“Fiji is a destination that, in the past, has been limited to wealthy people with plenty of discretionary income,” Newberry says. “Over the past few years, a cluster of hotels has been built on the main island. There is a new Hilton and a Sofitel. There are also plans for a new Marriott. In the Coral Coast, the Shangri-la has gone through a renovation to be more Fijian in style. A brand new Inter-Continental Hotel will open in 2007 with a Vijay Singh golf course. You won’t meet friendlier people than the Fijians. They’re so service-oriented. They want to help and show you their country. Everything is clean and they are proud of their heritage.”

Destination Thailand (Incentives and Meetings International Magazine)

Originally published in 2005

By Bob Andelman

There are plenty of good reasons that a planner should consider bringing a meeting or incentive trip to Thailand:

It’s stunningly beautiful;

The peaceful people of this Buddhist country are warm and welcoming to Americans;

And the memories that participants bring home will be one of a kind.

“Bangkok is truly the Venice of the East,” says Adrian K. Mueller, general manager of the Shangri-La Hotel in Bangkok. “Golden temples, beautiful colonial buildings and bustling open markets provide a truly Asian experience to any visitor, be it on business or leisure. Bangkok is unique in many aspects, most of all for its heritage and the many amazing attractions it has to offer. Most of its attractions can be reached easily and in a very traditional or Thai way by boat on the water.”

American meetings and incentive business to Thailand is following the same trend here as in other overseas locales. “Business is on the upswing,” Mueller says. It fell way off following 9/11, but is now showing signs of new life. “We have some large business leads for mainly 2006 with approximately 10 to 15 groups coming to Phuket at different hotels,” says Laddawan Somniyam, director of sales for Hilton’s Phuket Arcadia Beach Resort.

“After almost 18 months of hibernation, we've seen very good business activities from the US market again,” says Simon Yip, director of sales and marketing at The Peninsula Bangkok in Klongsan. “It's very clear that Asia (especially Thailand) has become the ‘flavor of the month’ again.”

The country is aggressively courting American business with its “Amazing Thailand” showcases and FAM tour promotions coordinated by Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the Thailand Incentive and Convention Association (TICA). And TAT operates tourism offices in both New York and Los Angeles.

“Thailand is a desirable destination for shopping, tourism and cultural attractions, and it is cheaper in terms of accommodations and food,” according to Michael Herrmann of the Crowne Plaza Phuket.


Of course, flying to Thailand takes time — a minimum of 12 hours from the closest points in the US. “But the benefits are obvious,” Mueller says. “Once on the ground things take a different turn with attractive rates and prices and a level of unmatched hospitality.”

Typically, says Keith D. Blott, vice president of marketing and sales for Dusit Hotels & Resorts, “MICE business has a shorter time away than leisure groups, and the perception is still that Asia is a long way from USA. But as new long-range aircraft come into operation, this perception will be less and less significant. We see good potential in the future to win a greater share of the lucrative US market.”

New infrastructure developments either underway or in the works for Thailand include: the Phuket International Convention and Exhibition Center in Phuket (location undecided); expansion of Khao Lak as a new destination in the South; Phuket becoming a duty-free port; and the Bangkok BTS SkyTrain, which added underground operations this summer.

“Thailand is a safe place,” Yip says. “And with the help of the Skytrain & Metro underground system, it's fast, clean, fun and easy to get around Bangkok.”

Many hotels of potential interest to US meeting planners are closely located near one the two modern electric train systems - and so are several shopping centers and attractions such as the weekend market. The Queen Sirikit National Convention Center has a station entrance/exit located in the front of the venue.

“Thailand is more developed than what many people in the US imagine or think there is,” agrees Herrmann.

The new Bangkok International Airport should be operating sometime in 2005 so airport facilities that were a challenge in the past will no longer be an issue.

“With the growth of tourism to Thailand,” says Maria Kuhn, regional director of public relations for the Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok and Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, “several major airlines have increased their number of flights and/or launched new routes, which also means higher capacity for meeting and incentive groups. This not only applies to Bangkok but also to more regional areas such as Chiang Mai in the north and Phuket further south. For the incentive market, new high-end resort developments make a long haul destination more attractive.”

Sumate Sudasna, representing Creative Destination Management
in Phyathai, Bangkok, says Thailand is “trouble free in most aspects. Visa is not necessary for passport holders of most countries who can stay for 30 days. Customs regulations for individuals are reasonably relaxed while proper procedure should be followed, as for any other country, for corporate items or meeting materials. We believe many planners do not know how advanced Thailand is. They are surprised to learn that state-of-the-art equipment and facilities are available and prevalent. SITE’s Thailand chapter, although small, works closely with the TCEB, TAT and concerned authorities.”

Among the charms of the River of the King, the authenticity of contrasts in Bangkok City, the “City of Angel,” there is Thai hospitality, a shopping paradise and amazing sightseeing opportunities in many places:

• North: traditional “Lanna” architecture in the old Thai capital; ambiance and influence; a mountain resort; hill tribes; trekking; and native handicrafts;

• Northeast: homemade silks; fabulous Thai food;

• South: the beauty of the Andaman Sea in Phuket, Krabi and Phang Nga; (Phi Phi / James Bond); many island tour activities;

• Central: Thai cuisine; the elegance of the Grande Palace in Bangkok; and the River of the King.

Thailand sounds foreign and exotic… but planners who do their research will be pleased to learn that all the familiar global hospitality brands — Hilton, Starwood, JW Marriott, Hyatt, Regent, Four Seasons and Shangri-La — are well established with five-star hotels in Phuket, Bangkok and Chiang Mai.

High achievers from large medical, information technology and cosmetic companies such as HP, Cisco, Agilent, Biolase and NuSkin have all found their way here in years past.

If you go, here’s some good advice from someone who knows: “Always use a local DMC,” Mueller says. “These are the specialists who know how things work, know their way around town and can arrange for the best deals. There are a handful extremely professional DMCs, all of which have extensive experience handling US business.”

Finally, because of the length of travel time between the US and Thailand, be aware that Thailand is often used as a gateway for Indochinese countries, which could be a great inducement for pre- & post-event tours.



Sidebar

Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre

Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre (BITEC), host to both the 2002 World Congress of Gastroenterology and the 25th Annual Bangkok International Motor Show in 2004 (the latter drew 1.7 million visitors), is a custom-made exhibition and convention venue, with facilities and services matching world-class standards for the organization of international trade exhibitions and congresses. It is a privately owned facility, built in 1977, in recognition of the growing potential of the exhibition industry in Thailand.

“BITEC’s client profile is exhibition show organizers who rent our facility for trade shows they organize,” says BITEC Corporate Marketing Consultant Eunice Gan. “Our clientele also includes congress organizers who rent our meeting facilities for the conferences they organize. Each event attracts different overseas visitors/delegates who come to Thailand if they find that the trade show/congress is the right platform for their marketing and information update purposes.”

In September 2003, BITEC opened its interim expansion phase of 10,000 square meters, a 250 million baht, column-free multipurpose event hall. The new hall, which can be sub-divided into three separate halls, measures 64 by 120 meters and offers a clear ceiling height of 12 m. with a floor loading of 3,000 kg/sq.m., ideal for heavy exhibits.

“We are considering the expansion of our center due to a strong growth of the MICE industry with a change of size of the MICE events and the expanding needs of our customers,” says Prasarn Bhiraj Buri, managing director of BITEC. “There have been situations where we could not accommodate a requisition due to an unavailability of space resulting in a business loss both for the venue itself and the revenue generated to the country as a whole.”

Fast Facts

For more information: Tourism Authority of Thailand, 1600 New Phetchaburi Road, Makkasan, Ratchathewi , Bangkok 10400, Thailand; Tel: 6602 250 5500; Fax: 6602 250 5511; http://www.tourismthailand.org; E-mail: center@tat.or.th
Los Angeles Office, Tourism Authority of Thailand, 611 North Larchmont Boulevard, 1st Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90004, U.S.A.; Tel: 1-323- 461-9814; Fax: 1-323- 461-9834; E-mail: tatla@ix.netcom.com, tatla@tat.or.th; Mr. Sethapon Chindanon, Director; Miss Sobhana Sucharitakul, Assistant Director; Mr. Chalermkiat Suvanamas, Marketing Manager
New York Office; Tourism Authority of Thailand; 61 Broadway, Suite 2810 New York, N.Y. 10006; Tel: 1-212-432-0433; Fax: 1-212-269-2588; E-mail: info@tatny.com, tatny@tat.or.th; Mr. Sethaphan Buddhani, Director; Mrs. Numfhon Boonyawat, Assistant Director; JSA Network Marketing Co., Ltd., Marketing Manager
Currency: Thai Baht
Languages: Thai, English
Transportation: Thai Air
Culture and Attractions: Grand Palace; Chao Phraya River; Night Bazaars/Night Markets; Jim Thompson Silk; Songkran (traditional Thai New Year, April 13); Loy Krathong (Floating Candle Lighting Festival, full moon night of 12th lunar month); River Kwai Bridge; 30,000 Buddhist temples countrywide and some 400 in Bangkok alone; historical ruins; UNESCO World Heritage sites; hill tribes and elephant camps in the north; beaches, islands, and national parks.

Newswire Thailand

Phuket’s biggest hotel, the 695-room Arcadia on Karon Beach will be re-branded as the Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa in October. Virtually all public areas have been refurbished, including: the main lobby and lounge; 468 guest rooms; all meeting room facilities and food and beverage outlets; high speed Internet access was installed in all meeting rooms and guest rooms (wireless in meeting rooms); and a new spa building with 15 Thai Pavilions was added. The Arcadia opened three buildings in 2002 following a major injection of cash by the owning Narukatpichai family. This is the third deal struck by Hilton International since mid-June; the other two were for the Conrad Panwa Bay in Phuket and the Hilton Krabi Resort… Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok invested more than $23 million US over the past two years in a complete renovation… The Royal Orchid Sheraton in Bangkok re-opened its chic, six-room Royal Orchid Suite, the hotel's premier accommodation, located on the 28th Floor, after extensive refurbishment. It now offers contemporary Thai decor, glorious views of the Chao Phraya River and an exclusive spa treatment salon, provided by Royal Orchid Mandara Spa. The re-opening of the Royal Orchid Suite completes a top-to-bottom $7.5 million refurbishment of the Royal Orchid Sheraton's 740 guestrooms & suites, restaurants & bars, and all public areas complete with state-of-the-art ballroom and dedicated conference… The InterContinental Bangkok will have eight additional meeting rooms coming online in December 2004… The JW Marriott Phuket launched its “Survivor Phuket” teambuilding program in 2003 based on the popular television program. More than 1,000 people have been through the program.

Destination Paris (Incentives and Meetings International Magazine)

Originally published in 2004

By Bob Andelman

If American meeting and incentive planners want to lead their people somewhere that they will be truly valued, the place to go is… Paris.

Yes, Paris.

Absence truly does make the heart grow fonder, especially when it’s an absence of American dollars missing in action from the French tourism economy. In Paris, where hoteliers once took American meetings and incentives business for granted, the city wants it known that, politics be damned, Americans are both welcome and greatly desired.

“France was boycotted for a couple years. The market is ready to come back,” says Gilles Humeau, regional director of sales for InterContinental Hotels Group in Paris. “Differences over the war in Iraq were a big issue for the last two years. We had a lot of cancellations. Iraq is a big mess so everybody is starting to realize it’s not so obvious a political situation.”

Humeau says that Paris hotels shifted their emphasis to shorter European bookings over that period of time.


“The American business is important because they book 18 months to two years ahead,” he says. “What we will try to do in the years ahead is find a better way to keep both so there is a better base. Instead of having 50 percent of our business from the US, we might be more interested in 40 percent and keeping availabilities for short-term European business.”

And the American business is slowly returning. Each day brings more prospects. “We are seeing a trend,” Humeau says. “US business seems to be coming back. We have some confirmed incentive groups for April and May 2005. Even though the dollar is weak, the interest is coming back.”

Anouk Thiebaut, manager of USA meetings, conferences and incentives for Maison de la France, the French Government Tourist Office in New York, sees American business “definitely coming back after a difficult year. We noticed a large increase in the number of requests received by our department.”

For Americans who worry they will encounter lingering hard feelings, fear not.

“I was in the US recently and I didn’t see that at all,” Humeau says. “What we say in France is that we should not confuse American politicians – George Bush – with the American people. It’s two different things. There is a consciousness about this. Our guests that I have visited with in the city said they didn’t feel any bad feeling from the French people. There is a big difference between people and politics. French people don’t agree with American politics in Iraq, but this doesn’t mean we perceive American people badly.

“What we worry about,” he continues, “is that the planner of a company could be open to visiting France. And the CEO may be open to it. But the incentive winner might still be upset with France and say, ‘I don’t want to win a trip to France.’ But I think this is less and less the case.”

Post 9-11, Americans view Europe differently. Less well-known destinations such as Prague and St. Petersburg emerged as greater competitors for business travel dollars, forcing more traditional cities such as Paris to rethink their approach to the market.

The French no longer can say “Paris will always be Paris” and expect that will be enough for attracting the group market, says Virginie Angelier, direct of sales for Hotel du Louvre.

“Hotels had to get more and more competitive, not only between Parisian hotels but with new destinations such as Barcelona and Budapest,” Angelier says. “Most Parisian hotels undertook major renovations during the past few years, including the Hotel du Louvre, which was fully renovated. We enlarged our rooms especially to please the American market, reducing our inventory from 200 to 177 rooms. We also built a fitness and business center, essentially to attract American groups. Finally, we invested in the latest technology to be competitive, including plasma TVs and high-speed Internet connections.”

In December 2003, the Paris CVB moved from its Champs-Elysées offices to more centrally located offices in the Opera district. “The Paris CVB has made notable improvements in the way it handles international business, and is providing incentives aimed at American meeting planners,” says Corine Bernadou, USA conference and incentives manager for the Paris Convention Bureau. “Among them is the notable improvements of the Paris CVB to be closer to the US MICE market is the establishment of one key representative from the convention bureau for American clients planning an event.”

Other changes include a “massive” new Paris CVB website debuting this fall. Bernadou says it will be dedicated to providing meeting professionals with better tools and key information for organizing a Paris event. An upgraded Meeting Planner Guide is scheduled for December.

While the Americans were away, there have been a number of changes in the “City of Lights.” including 2,500 new hotel rooms built and WiFi access now as common as it is in the US.

“We have much more flexibility to do special events in landmarks,” Humeau says. “The Opera Garnier was always closed to private functions but now it’s available. Several museums and castles that used to be closed are now open for events. These monuments realized they could make money by opening their doors. It’s good for attracting tourists who have been already to Paris but are looking for something new to do. If you bring your group to Paris, we will offer something they could never do on a private basis. There is no chance to have dinner in the Opera House or a cocktail in the castle of Versailles.”

Other options for unique Paris meetings and incentive events might include:

• Paris Expo's Carrousel du Louvre Conference Center, which is directly connected to the Louvre Museum, is situated around the inverted pyramid. The 80,737 square feet accommodates 500 to 2,300 attendees and lends itself to conferences, conventions, product launches, gala evenings and fashion shows with catwalks. Facilities include three modular auditoriums, flexible breakout rooms and the mezzanine and foyer areas.

• The Kadrance Private Business Circle is in a fully renovated Art Deco building that brings back 1930s elegance while adding contemporary flair for meetings of up to 100 persons.


• The Wine Museum, formerly the cellars of Passy Monastery, is available for dinners, cocktails, and theme parties.

• A cocktail party on the River Seine. Le Quai is docked at the foot of the Musée d'Orsay. Its glassed-walled restaurant and terrace offer an exceptional panoramic view of the Louvre, the Seine and the Tuileries gardens. It can welcome up to 200 people for a cocktail reception.

• The Man Ray restaurant is just off the Champs-Elysées in a setting that mixes art deco and oriental influences. The modular space accommodates 50 to 400 people for everything from breakfast meetings to seminars.

• The Chalet des Iles, located on the island of the lake of Bois de Boulogne, was restored in 2001 and has three multipurpose reception halls, a restaurant and terraces.

• In the heart of Saint-Germain des Pres is the private salon of Café Procope. Once patronized by Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, John Paul Jones, it is the oldest café in Paris and perfect for small groups.

• The Hotel d'Evreux is located on the luxurious Place Vendome. It recently opened more than 2,300 sq. ft. of lounges, suitable for every type of event.

• L'Alcazar, a mythic cabaret in the 1970s, was redecorated by British designer Terence Conran. Under a glass roof, the restaurant can accommodate 500 people for cocktails.

• Finally, consider a scenic cruise on the river Seine with Les Bateaux Parisiens or Les Yachts de Paris.

Paris is not cheap, of course. But at the InterContinental Hotels, there was a promotion this year offering parity bookings between the dollar and euro for meetings and incentives. “One dollar equals one euro,” Humeau says. “This way we absorb the difference in pricing. The difference, at times, can be as much as 20 percent! That’s a lot. Everybody in Paris is suffering badly from the lack of American business. We cannot do much on the political issues so we fight with what we can.”

The Hotel Ambassador offered a variation on the parity campaign, guaranteeing dollar value for American meeting planners.

Service on the whole changed in Paris during the last few years, provoked by greater international competition. “Parisians now provide more personalized service and English speaking staff,” Angelier says, “focusing on creativity and flexibility, diversity and price.”

Maison de la France and its partners — including Air France, Rail Europe and OTC Paris — spent an estimated $1 million this year on an advertising campaign called “Let’s fall in love again” to lure Americans back to Paris. It even included a TV commercial featuring Woody Allen.

The French tourism minister encouraged Parisians to become more educated about and accepting of American culture. Hotels, DMCs and airlines organized more FAM trips aimed at bringing meeting planners back to Paris.

“We launched our first e-newsletter in June for the meetings and incentives market,” Thiebault says. “We will do three per year and send it to everyone in our database. We plan to attend ITME and most major tradeshows and organize sales calls to meet directly with some clients.”

Fast Facts

For more information: Anouk Thiebaut, Manager USA Meetings, Conferences & Incentives, French Government Tourist Office, Maison de la France, 444 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10022; Tel : 212 745 0960; Fax : 212 838 7855;

E-mail : anouk.thiebaut@franceguide.com

http://us.franceguide.com/

http://www.paris-touristoffice.com

Currency: Euro

Language: French

Transportation: Strategically positioned in the centre of Europe, Paris is served by two airports, Roissy-CDG (Charles de Gaulle) is 30 minutes from the city center and is served by more than 370 airlines flying to 134 countries with 5,000 flights a week. The CD1 terminal was recently renovated and WiFi is available.

A high-speed rail network serves the city with 16 round trips daily from London (2 hours, 35 minutes) and 28 from Brussels (1 hour, 20 minutes). Within the city there are 14 metro lines serving 375 stations, five urban train lines and 58 bus routes.

Culture: Paris boasts 149 museums, 30 monuments and 200 illuminated buildings.

Major Paris DMCs for the US Market: Allied Travel Europe; France Connection; La Fayette Travel; and Spectra Continental France

Newswire Paris

Entirely renovated in 2003, Novotel Paris Tour Eiffel (764 rooms), on the left bank of the River Seine added a retractable theater-style amphitheater that seats 600… The 477-room InterContinental Le Grand Hotel Paris reopened after a total, $150 million renovation. “We built a new conference center on the first floor with 13 meeting rooms,” says Gilles Humeau. “And we have the beautiful Opera Ballroom, which has been restored as well… Near the Tuileries, the brand new four-star deluxe Paris Plaza Vendome debuted with facilities designed for the 21st century guest. The hotel features a restaurant run by a two-star Michelin Chef, as well as the intimate Bar Chinois steeped in exotic ambiance… Located between the Place Vendome and The Tuileries Garden, The Jolly Hotel Lotti recently underwent extensive renovations to its 167 guest rooms and amenities and will introduce a high tech conference area next June… In May 2004, Hilton opened its fifth Paris property, the 512-room Hilton Arc de Triomphe. Close to the Champs-Elysées, The hotel's interior decor evokes the atmosphere of the transatlantic cruise liners of the 30s. It features 18,000 square feet of conference facilities… The Hotel Ambassador, one of seven Paris Concorde hotels, offers a new fitness center on the 8th floor, overlooking the city. Sister properties that have undergone fairly recent upgrades include the massive Hotel Concorde Lafayette, Hotel Concorde Saint-Lazarre with its historic Belle Epoque lobby, and the Hotel Lutetia on the left bank… In April 2004, the new four-star 289 rooms Dorint Novotel, situated in the hotel area of the International CDG Airport, opened. The hotel features 289 spacious bedrooms and a nearly 6,500 square foot relaxation and fitness center. It's close to the Convention Center Paris-Nord Villepinte, with its newly designed, adjustable auditorium for up to 1,500… Inaugurated amidst great fanfare to coincide with the international construction industry show, Batimat 2003, the new Hall 5 at Porte de Versailles, represents a further stage in the modernization of the site. It is the largest exhibition center in France and the fourth largest in Europe, with eight halls spread over 220,000 square meters. "We will continue to modernize the Porte de Versailles site, ensuring that we are able to meet the requirements of our customers, meeting planners, the exhibition organizers, exhibitors and visitors who come from France and beyond," says Anne Marie Narboni, head of the International Congress Division at Paris Expo. Amongst the headline projects on the forty-hectare Porte de Versailles site is the construction of a conference center and major hotel with at least 500 rooms… The area of Porte Maillot has Le Palais des Congrès de Paris, a meeting facility offering the latest fiber optic networks as well as WiFi technology. It recently introduced Le Club du Palais for VIP and prestige clients, a high-tech boardroom and private suite. Le Palais is close to the Meridien Etoile and Concorde Lafayette hotels (with a joint capacity of 2,000 bedrooms)… The Meridien Etoile itself is completing a $2.51 million renovation that will make its conference center one of the most sophisticated in the capital.

Destination Hawaii (Motivational Strategies Magazine)

Originally published in 2004

By Bob Andelman

Introduction
Anyone who wonders whether Hawaii could succeed as an incentive destination has obviously never seen Hawaii.

Extraordinary, luxurious tropical resorts, pristine white sandy beaches and lush green mountains… all available for incentive events year-round. And with more than 70,000 hotel accommodations, Hawaii’s lodging industry can work with any budget.

“Hawaii is extremely unique,” says Michael Murray, director of sales for corporate meetings and incentives at the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Center. “We’re a very rewarding destination. The appeal that we have helps build attendance. It motivates salespeople to win packages to come here. We have always been among the top incentive destinations in the world.”

Randall Tanaka, sales and marketing director of the Hawaii Convention Center in Honolulu, says there is a lot of revitalized resort product to be seen, particularly in Oahu. “JW Marriott acquired the Ko Olina development from Japan Airlines and they’re doing well there,” he says. “There has also been revitalization of vacation timeshares and the harbor has been redeveloped. On the North Shore of Oahu, Benchmark Hotels plowed a lot of money into the Turtle Bay Resort. They’re also the host of a PGA event that is revitalizing the destination.”

Pitch This
When is a 5-day incentive trip actually a 7- or 9-day incentive trip? When the destination is a place like Hawaii. “If the company is paying for the whole trip, we know we have unbeatable pre- and post-trip options,” Murray says. Because of the length of time it can take to fly to Hawaii and back, it’s a natural opportunity for participants to extend their stays.

International Appeal
Hawaii is part of the United States, of course, but its location in the Pacific gives it a truly international flair. Many planners are more comfortable running an event here than going abroad because it offers global encounters in both Hawaiian and Asian ethnicity, dining and culture – without language or currency issues.

Hawaii Airlines recently added direct flights to Sidney, Australia. “We had tremendous business out of that region even before the direct flights,” Murray says. “Mainland China isn’t there yet, but we are getting more business travelers. Korea and Taiwan are strong markets for us. We sit in the middle of two-thirds of the world’s buying power, between the Pacific Rim and American countries. The time zone is advantageous to doing business everywhere.

Size Matters
Honolulu is the 13th largest city in the US with 800,000 people. It has a varied arts culture, including many live theaters and more than 100 museums. “We are truly a multi-cultural cosmopolitan destination,” Murray says.

Sports of All Sorts
The NFL Pro Bowl has been played in Hawaii for the last 20 years (with six more to come), which is fine for fans, but did you know it is the league’s No. 1 incentive program? “We know that says a lot,” Murray says. It’s a motivator for league sponsors, but especially for players and their families. “You qualify by being a great player,” he says. “The NFL takes care of you and your whole family. They play a game, but players look forward to it.”

The PGA starts its season in Hawaii every January with the Mercedes Championships at The Plantation Course in Kapalua and the Sony Open at Waialae Country Club in Honolulu. The many PGA events held throughout the year here offer excellent incentive opportunities such as golf clinics with top pros and VIP seating. For non-aligned incentive programs, the state has a total of 85 golf courses.

Top Stays
Virtually all major resort hotels in Hawaii offer golf and spa facilities.

Oahu: Kahala Mandarin Oriental, Hawaii; JW Marriott Ihilani Resort & Spa; Halekulani; The Royal Hawaiian Hotel; Turtle Bay Resort; Sheraton Moana Surfrider

Maui: Grand Wailea Resort Hotel & Spa; The Four Seasons Maui; Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa; Ritz-Carlton Kapalua

Molokai: Lodge & Beach Villa at Molokai Ranch

Lanai: Manele Bay Hotel; The Lodge at Koele is 1,600 feet up the side of a mountain; “… very cool because of the elevation; guests can leave to go to off property and visit the beach via its sister resort, Manele Bay Hotel.”

Big Island: Fairmont Orchid; Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows; Four Seasons Resort Hualalai – “… the property is built around a crystal clear, natural lagoon and has swim-up bars.”

Kauai: Sheraton Kauai Resort; Hyatt Regency Kauai Resort & Spa

Events They’ll Remember
Kauai: Kilohana is a former plantation home now used for restaurants, banquets and special events from luaus to MASH parties; Na `Aina Kai Botanical Garden has 100-plus acres on the ocean and is a beautiful setting with exotic flowers and a hard wood forest; more adventurous groups might be inspired by the airborne Backcountry Zipline Adventure which takes riders down a mountainside.

Oahu: The Battleship Missouri Memorial at Pearl Harbor may seem an unlikely place for incentive events. But it is an extremely popular draw for both history buffs and the curious. The declaration to end World War II was signed at the bow and it is also the site of the memorial for the Arizona. “We have had VIP board meetings in the captain’s deck of 20 people, or groups of up to 4,000 taking over the entire ship,” Murray says. “The typical event is a 1940s swing dance party. It’s a lot of history. We can have people who were at the bombing who will walk you through the ship.”

Younger groups often run incentives and teambuilding events at Oahu’s Hawaiian Waters Adventures Park.

The JW Marriott Ihilani Resort and Spa hosted the MONY Group in March 2004. To accommodate this large group, MONY bought out the hotel and the hotel built the new open-air, covered Pavilion at Ihilani to accommodate the group's needs. The group's final night event, the Jacob W. Shoul Award evening, was held in the Pavilion at Ihilani and incorporated silk dancers hung from the high ceilings and dancing above guests’ heads.

Waikiki: Waikiki Aquarium can be a unique setting for elegant dinners and watching a thrilling sunset.

Maui: Charter whale watching or sunset cruises on larger boats or sailboats that accommodate 20 to 40 people. The Maui Ocean Center can be taken over in the evening and handles more than 1,000 people. For something more active, try a downhill bicycle tour starting from the top of a 10,000-foot inactive volcano, Haleakala. It’s a meandering, snaking road that takes four hours to negotiate with a tour leader. “A truly out-of-the-box experience,” Murray says.

Need more stimulation? The Haleakala Zipline Adventure goes over the rainforest along the volcano.

Big Island: Parker Ranch is the largest private ranch in the US. It epitomizes the native term “haw paniolo” – Hawaiian cowboy. Nestled in the side of a mountain, groups can sponsor theme events such as cowboy functions with Hawaiian flair, horseback riding, herding cattle, and native storytelling.

Long Live the King and Queen!
Iolani Palace in downtown Oahu is the only home to monarchy on American soil. The four-story palace once housed King Kalakaua and Queen Liliuokalani from 1882 to 1893 of Hawaii and is an incredibly picturesque treasure. Few people have ever seen it; the palace only recently opened for group events. Capable of handling10 to 600 attendees, it is its own theme.

Eat Here! Eat Here!
Kauai: Tidepools Restaurant; Duke’s Kauai

Oahu: Hoku's; Chef Mavro; Chai's Island Bistro; La Mer; Alan Wong's; L'Uraku; Indigo Eurasian Cuisine

Maui: Haliimaile General Store; Ferraro’s Bar e Ristorante

Big Island: Hualalai Grille by Alan Wong

Plan Ahead
It takes a minimum of several hours by air to visit the Hawaiian islands so Michael Murray offers incentive planners some simple advice for events: plan ahead. And use a native DMC. “They can plan for attractions, events and dine-arounds,” he says. “They have connections exclusives because they do a lot of volume.”

When To Go?
Not many places can claim to be a more year-round resort paradise than Hawaii, so don’t expect to book a trip in the “off” season. There isn’t one. The peak time is February through Easter and spring break. July and August are extremely busy with family travel. Thanksgiving and Christmas are popular times, from November 20 to 30, and December 20 to 31. “The whole state sells out,” Murray warns. “Everything in-between is when groups come.”

Gotta Work and Play?
The Hawaii Convention Center in Honolulu recently received a No. 1 overall ranking as the most attractive convention center and a No. 3 ranking for quality of food served among 40 major convention centers in North America according to a Metropoll X study by Gerard Murphy & Associates. There are 30,000 hotel rooms within walking distance of the Center and it is just a 20-minute ride from Honolulu International Airport.

“The meetings business we’ve gotten from the corporate market is a hybrid,” says Randall Tanaka, director of sales and marketing for the Center. “Japanese corporations are conservative in terms of letting funds out in salary increases and bonuses. They’re gravitating to incentive travel. What the Japanese do here is a banquet function and they pump it up. In the first half of 2003, 40 percent of our business was from Japan – in a down market. When the destination is tougher to get to, its value rises. So for the companies using travel as an incentive, Hawaii is a desirable destination. Travel as a motivating tool seems to have a stronger pull here.”

Destination: Thailand (Incentives and Meetings International Magazine)

Originally published in 2005

By Bob Andelman

Thailand is a big country. Unfortunately, many Americans knew nothing about its geography before a tsunami struck southern parts of the country on December 26, 2004. And everything they subsequently learned is all focused on one place.

The beachfront communities of Phuket were seriously impacted by the tremendous pounding it took from water and waves. But that’s just one area.

“Media reports in the US rarely distinguish between the different areas of Thailand,” says Robert O’Kennedy, director of marketing for the Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok. “A common misperception is the unrest in the deep south which is restricted to that area, or areas affected by last year's tsunami. Thailand offers quite a diverse number of destinations including the mountain regions, which are not that well known yet but beautiful in their own right.”

Bangkok, for example, was untouched by the tsunami. It’s business as usual there.

And Phuket, as hard hit as it was, has rebounded with incredible speed and spirit. Yet it’s anything but business as usual in Phuket, so far.

“The world knows that the people of Phuket are suffering due to the lack of tourists,” says Patom “Tom” S'prayoon, director of sales for JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa and the Renaissance Koh Samui Resort & Spa. “So many have shown concern and many verbally committed to support their favorite holiday island through this trying time! Phuket is very grateful for these words!”

Words are nice, but S'prayoon says Phuket needs the world’s MICE community to respond with action, respect and fairness.

“In reality, the true majority of the companies are still avoiding Phuket, hence the demand for MICE is still limited,” he says. “Thus, every hotel is eager to secure a piece of business regardless of what it takes and meeting planners know just how to take advantage of this situation. Many planners are demanding extremely low rates from suppliers, consequently encouraging a price war in the purchasing process!

“Unfortunately, the cheapest bid often wins!” S'prayoon continues. “Ask yourself, ‘Is this a fair rate? Is this the best way to help Phuket?’”

American Express got the message. This spring, the company relocated its International Consumer Card and Small Business Services division’s 2005 conference to Phuket as a way of showing real support for the resort community and to forcefully get out the message to its 700 attendees that the Laguna Complex was once more open for business. Participants also were encouraged to donate their time the day before the conference started on humanitarian aid projects in Phuket.

American business across Thailand declined precipitously in the wake of the tsunami and it is still a slow category to recover, despite a long demonstrated love affair between American planners and the tourist destination of Phuket in particular. The gap is one that requires aggressive and continuous public relations from the hoteliers and the Tourist Authority of Thailand. (In researching this story, I&MI found hotels eager to get word out of their recovery. But the TAT’s offices in the United States and Thailand did not respond to repeated requests for information.)

In press releases, the Tourism Authority of Thailand reports that despite the lingering effects of the tsunami, its arrivals targets for 2006 are 15.12 million international visitors and 79.33 million domestic trips, with those sectors generating estimated tourism revenues of 533 billion baht ($12.7 billion U.S.) and 380 billion baht ($9 billion U.S.) respectively.

The TAT is currently conducting significant PR and advertising campaigns abroad under the themes “Uniquely Thailand” and “Heaven on Earth.” Its main tourism promotion and marketing theme for 2006 will be “Thailand Happiness on Earth,” highlighting the traditional hospitality of Thai people and the kingdom’s unique cultural, historical, natural heritage. It is also increasing the number of FAM trips for press and meeting planners, in conjunction with new direct flights from the US. “Up until recently,” O’Kennedy says, “easy access, especially for shorter period meetings, was a challenge; however, this has now been rectified by the new non-stop flights from both East and West Coast of the US.”

By human nature, some facility executives don’t talk about the past, while others, such as the Dusit Laguna Resort in Phuket’s Cherngtalay District, tackles recovery from the tsunami head-on in its press materials:

• BEACH & GARDENS: “The beach has been cleared of debris since the end of December and is now restored back to its former, if not better, state. Beach decks are readily available for use. Fish and other marine creatures swimming on the beach is an indication that pollution has decreased markedly, and the waters are crystal clear like it used to be over 10 years ago. New grass has been laid on the gardens and the manicured lawns are beautiful again.”

• SWIMMING POOL & POOL BAR: “The swimming pool was cleaned and refilled with water and made usable since the end of December. Decorative plants around the pool have lushly grown back.”

• RESTAURANTS: “(Three of five) restaurants were not damaged by the tsunami and have always remained open for business.”

• GUESTS ACTIVITIES: “The kid’s club was part of the structure housing the Casuarina Hut and due to the inundation of sea water, all the toys and playthings were damaged. As such, the kid’s club, which is an integral part of Dusit Laguna’s facility for families, has been relocated to one of the function rooms and fully stocked with brand new toys and games.”

“All recreation center equipment was damaged by the water and will be replaced with new ones. The billiards and pool table will be replaced when repair work at the center is completed. Work commences in February and is expected to take several months. In the meantime, there are mountain bikes available, and nature tours available; i.e. walking tours, elephant rides, Laguna tours etc.”

In summary, Dusit Laguna Resort is almost fully operational, except for two restaurants, the sports and fitness center, and the guest activities center. Management is encouraging its guests to make use of other Laguna hotels’ food & beverage outlets in order to widen their choices of restaurants.

“After the tsunami, the Dusit Laguna Resort, Phuket, had the opportunity to refresh and refurbish certain areas, incorporating state-of-the-art and updating facilities to meet today’s requirements,” says General Manager Jan Verduyn. “For example, all rooms are now equipped with Wi-Fi. In addition, we have learned a lot about emergency procedures and are now better able to face any situation or emergency – though heaven forbid.”

Everything that made Phuket unique and desirable before the disaster is still true today, which is the message the hotels are trying to get out. Thailand in general “is a desirable location that is easy to get to, it offers excellent service at competitive prices,” says Meg Evans, cluster director of marketing for JW Marriott Bangkok. “While there are Asian/Thai influences throughout the country, it's also very Western, which makes it easy for people to adapt to.”

Someone who hasn’t visited Thailand would no doubt be surprised to learn how many four- and five-star hotels are based here – and at competitive prices in comparison with other world capitals. Bangkok, which is a historical and cultural city, offers an interesting mix between the old and the new yet with international standards. It is a popular add-on for combining meetings and incentives with extra vacation time.

Case Study: Miss Universe Comes to Thailand

When all else fails, there’s nothing like a beautiful woman to get the universe’s attention – especially is she’s a contender for the title of “Miss Universe.”

At a time in its history when Thailand needed all the positive attention it could muster, the final stage of the 2005 Miss Universe pageant was held in Bangkok on May 31. Organized by Donald Trump’s Trump Organization in New York, it attracted planeloads of participants, families, supporters and sponsors from around the globe who stayed in country at The Dusit Thani, Bangkok – official resort of the event – for anywhere from one week to almost a month. (Dusit Thani also hosted the Miss Universe pageant in Bangkok in 1992.)

And one day, the contestants even brought a stroke of glamour to tsunami-struck Phuket.

“They carried out some charity work for the tsunami victims and did some filming for the pageant telecast, as requested by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, to present to world viewers that Phuket is again the beautiful and pristine destination for travelers,” says Andrew Cornelio, director of sales and marketing for the Dusit Laguna Resort Phuket. “The importance of this event with the live telecast was such that Dusit resort had to ensure that everything went smoothly in order to properly showcase the property to viewers worldwide.”

Some in the West may have been concerned about the pageant being held in Thailand five months after the tsunami, but only because they didn’t understand that Bangkok was not affected by the natural disaster.

“There was no doubt here whatsoever that the pageant would go on as scheduled,” says Lalana Lauren Santos, director of corporate public relations and communications for Dusit Hotels & Resorts. “The people behind the entire event – the Miss Universe Organization, the local organizers, and Dusit – did a wonderful job of planning, coordinating, and executing the entire pageant. After the event, the Dusit Laguna Resort in Phuket noticed a sharp increase in inquiries from the local and overseas companies for meetings and seminars.”

“With a worldwide audience, the publicity on the hotel and Phuket as a destination was immense,” confirms Jan Verduyn, general manager of Dusit Laguna Resort. “To see a remarkable impact of only one event like this would seem somehow too optimistic. Many of these kinds of events need to be held before one can see a difference, yet many drops fill the bucket.”

Even the competition was pleased with the attention generated by Dusit in Phuket.

“The feedback was very positive because Thailand was promoted to the world that our country is beautiful, rich of culture, full of history, has unique sight-seeing spots, and is famous for its cuisine,” says Laddawan Somniyam, director of sales for the Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa. “I think Thailand would like to be the host country again for this pageant in the future.”

Fast Facts

For more information: Tourism Authority of Thailand, 1600 New Phetburi Road, Makkasan, Rajathewi, Bangkok 10400 Tel: (66) 2250 5500 Fax: (66) 2250 5511 Web: http://www.tourismthailand.org Email: center@tat.or.th

LOS ANGELES Tourism Authority of Thailand, 611 North Larchmont Boulevard, 1st Floor, Los Angeles, CA90004, U.S.A. Tel: 1-323-461-9814 Fax: 1-323-461-9834 Email: tatla@ix.netcom.com Area of Responsibility: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington, Wyoming, Guam Island and all Central and Southern America Countries, all West Canada: Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Northwest Territories,Saskatchewan and Yukon; Mr.Sethapon Chindanon, Director; Miss Sobhana Sucharitakul, Assistant Director; Mr.Chalermkiat Suvanamas, Marketing Manager

NEW YORK (Temporary office) Tourism Authority of Thailand, c/o world Publications, 304 Park Avenue South, 8th Floor, New York, N.Y.10010 Tel : 1-212-219-4655 Fax : 1-212-219-4697 Email: tatny@aol.com Area of Responsibility: Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, New York, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, Washington D.C., West Virginia, Wisconsin, Puerto Rico and the Bahamas, all East Canada: Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and New Foundland; Mr.Sethaphan Buddhani, Director; Mrs.Numfhon Boonyawat, Assistant Director; JSA Network Marketing Ltd., Marketing Manager

Currency: Thai baht

Language: Thai, English

Transportation: Thai Airways; The new international airport in Bangkok opens in early 2006 and the city’s new Skytrain was completed in 2004, although the extension to the new airport is still under construction… Recently launched direct flight from New York to Bangkok on Thai Airways. Thai Airways will also start a new non-stop service in Sept to Los Angeles.

Major meeting hotels for US meetings and incentives:

Bangkok: Shangrila; Royal Orchid Sheraton; Marriott Bangkok Resort & Spa

Phuket: Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa; Sheraton Grande Laguna Phuket; Le Meridien Phuket Resort & Spa

Pattaya, Chonburi: Royal Cliff (PEACH) Pattaya

Attractions: Weekend Market; shopping (handicrafts, silk, cotton, batik, pewterware, gemstones, Thai orchids, spices); spa/wellness centers; The River of the Kings; elephant safaris; Grand Palace in Bangkok; Jim Thompson Thai Silk; The Floating Market; Thai dancing; Chao Phraya River; Night Bazaars/Night Markets; Songkran (Thai New Year, April 13, 2006); Loy Krathong (floating candle festival, full moon of 12th lunar month); River Kwai Bridge; 30,000 Buddhist temples countrywide, including 400 in Bangkok; UNESCO World Heritage sites; hill tribes and elephant camps in the north; beaches, islands, national parks and historic ruins.

Newswire

Corporate teambuilding programs continue to increase in popularity at JW Marriott Phuket Resort and Spa. In addition to existing programs, including its extremely popular “Survivor Phuket” program, the resort has expanded its range of teambuilding options both on and off property to include a half day, speedboat sightseeing tour of Phang Nga Bay and an adventure Jeep safari into the highlands. The resort is undergoing an expansion program scheduled for completion by March 15, 2006. In addition to adding 84 two bedroom villas, the resort will add a third swimming pool, cooking school, a Thai Restaurant, and an extension of the existing pitch and putt golf range… Le Méridien Phuket Beach Resort reopened on August 15. During the closure, several refurbishment projects were undertaken that would normally not be possible in a functioning hotel. The hotel completely refurbished the reception area, main lobby, swimming pools and several restaurants. Public areas of the hotel now have a contemporary Thai style. All facilities are operational except for Le Spa, which is being extended and undergoing refurbishment and will open at the beginning of October. Massage rooms, however, will be available for use… The Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers, Bangkok upgraded its Royal Grand Ballroom, five function rooms and seven meeting rooms all situated on the hotel conference floor… Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok completed the first two phases of a US$7M refurbishment project with the upgrade of all guestrooms and suites in its Parichart Court and introduction of seven deluxe corner suites Each includes a 42-inch plasma screen TV and DVD/CD entertainment center plus high-speed Internet access… JW Marriott Bangkok has a new “Day at the Spa” Package... Marriott International, Inc. will introduce its Renaissance hotel brand to Thailand under a management agreement with The Erawan Group PLC for the conversion of the existing 78-unit Buriraya Resort & Spa in Koh Samui to the Renaissance Koh Samui Resort & Spa. The conversion is expected to occur by the end of 2005 following completion of a renovation of the resort… Marriott is introducing another of its brands to Bangkok in 2007, also under a management agreement with The Erawan Group PLC, when the 316-room Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok opens… Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok opened its new, 75,350-square-foot i.sawan Residential Spa & Club, designed by American interior designer, Tony Chi. The Grand Hyatt also introduced Bangkok's first residential style, multi-functional event facility on the Mezzanine level of the hotel in October 2004… Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi, Chiang Mai is a holistic hideaway nestled in 60 acres about ten minutes from Chiang Mai International Airport and the city centre. Partially opened in December 2004, the resort now operates with 64 pavilions and villas and 80 more suites will be completed in early 2006… Dusit Hotels & Resorts will open the first of its new brand of lifestyle hotels, D2Hotel, in Chiang Mai in late 2005. It will have 130 guest rooms, a spa and conference and meeting services and combine modern design with Thai accents… Dusit Resort Hua Hin (formerly called Dusit Resort and Polo Club) opened in mid-2005 boasting the biggest convention hall in Hua Hin/Cha-am. The 150 million baht facility covers an area of over 3000 sqm on 11.86 acres of the hotel’s garden area… Dusit Hotels & Resorts recently produced a free MICE Planner for easy reference for organizers interested in the chain’s Thailand properties, among others.

Destination: Hawaii (Motivation Strategies Magazine)

Originally published in 2005

By Bob Andelman

INTRODUCTION

Hawaii is an ideal incentive destination because it is still viewed as a dream vacation by almost everyone in the world. And as the meeting point between East and West, its appeal has been sustained through political changes, economic upheaval and cultural evolutions. Paradise is like that – in perception and reality.

Sales-oriented organizations use Hawaii for inspiring winners and as a great reward for outstanding performance. Corporations come here from all different segments of the world; the top incentive categories making the trip are medical/medical equipment/pharmacy, financial services, insurance and automotive.

Hawaii boasts more than 70,000 hotels statewide. That allows most groups to find lodging within their budget. The islands attract first-class, no-holds-barred organizations as well as a great deal of budget-conscious SMERF groups thanks to a huge island military presence. Many student programs also come to Hawaii. Remember: No matter where you stay, once you step outside your hotel room, you’re in Hawaii.

“Hawaii is a great return on the investment,” according to Mike Murray, director of sales for the Hawaii Visitor and Convention Bureau’s CMI division. “The appeal of Hawaii sets us apart. We’re part of the U.S. but we have an international flair. We’re also a testament to multiculturalism. Come to Hawaii and you feel you’re somewhere different but we’re part of America. That is comforting to U.S. companies who in the past have gone abroad but today want to be on U.S. territory.”

HOTEL & RESORT NEWS

Oahu: The 880-acre Turtle Bay Resort on the famed North Shore recently underwent a $60 million renovation, upgrading its 401-room hotel and 42 beach cottages… Doubletree Alana Hotel Waikiki unveiled a now look after a $2.9 million renovation… Hyatt Regency Waikiki Resort and Spa completed the first phase of a $14 million renovation… JW Marriott Ihilani Resort and Spa at Ko Olino invested $3.5 million in renovation and refurbishment… Ko Olina Resort & Marina announced a $1 billion interactive aquarium and 25-acre, 1,000-room resort… OHANA Hotels & Resorts finished a $5 million upgrade to the OHANA Waikiki West and another $5 million on the HANA East Hoel in Waikiki… Sheraton Moana Surfrider tower completed a $16.7 rejuvenation… Waikiki Parc Hotel upgraded its facilities in a $2.7 million refurbishment.

Molokai/Lanai/Maui: The Grand Wailea Resort Hotel & Spa on Maui completed a $2.3 million upgrade… Westin Kaanapali Resort Villas North on Maui is Hawaii’s newest resort and will open Spring 2007… Lanai’s Manele Bay Hotel completed a thorough renovation in June 2005.

Kauai: The 311-room Courtyard by Marriott Kauai at Waipouli Beach completed a multi-million dollar renovation… Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa is the new name of the former Hyatt Regency Kauai Resort, following extensive renovations.

GET LOST!

ABC-TV’s surprise hit “Lost” calls the North Shore home and some filming has been done on the grounds of the Turtle Bay Resort. There's a huge, beautiful banyan tree that provides a natural backdrop for outdoor partiers – “Lost” style. Waikiki’s Renaissance Ilikai Waikiki Hotel has also been seen on “Lost” and is famous for its role in the opening segment of another hit TV show: “Hawaii Five-O.” (808-586-2570, http://hawaiifilmoffice.blogspot.com/)

FORRRRRRE!

Why do golfers love Kauai? It could be the Technicolor hues that the lush mountains and sparkling beaches provide as backdrops. Even if you haven’t yet visited the island, you already know it well from the palette of films as different as South Pacific and Jurassic Park. Golf architects such as Robert Trent Jones Jr. and Jack Nicklaus have left their mark on the island, causing the game’s enthusiasts to seek it out. In 2004, Golf Digest magazine rated the Prince Course at Princeville Golf Club as the state’s best golf course, along with Kiele at Kauai Lagoons Golf Club #4, Princeville’s Makai #10, Wailua Golf Course #12 and Poipu Bay Golf Course #14. So within about an hour’s drive, you can play five of Hawaii’s top 15 courses. (http://www.worldgolf.com/courses/unitedstates/hawaii/kauai.html )

RIDE THE WAVES… OR FILL YOUR PLATE

Hawaiian Fire Inc., on the island of Oahu, offers a surf school taught by Honolulu firemen. It tailors programs in the “Sport of Hawaiian Kings” for incentive and convention groups looking for something out of the box – full- and half-day surf lessons. Those are followed by an open pit fire for cooking and topped off with the fireman telling local history stories. “It’s very cool,” Murray says, “with the Wainaie Mountain Range as your backdrop. It’s an experience you won’t encounter anywhere else.” (888-955-7873, http://www.hawaiianfire.com/ )

For the less adventurous group, Gourmet Cooking Hawaii has partnered with 15 top restaurants on Oahu – including Chai's Island Bistro, Chef Mavro and Sam Choy’s Diamond Head – for a special dining experience for up to 300 attendees. Each restaurant takes a group of 15 to 20 people and tailors a specific menu to the group – hands on. A premier chef will demonstrate three dishes as attendees themselves prepare and cook the food. During dinner, local wine companies talk about the wine being served and why it was selected. When it’s over, participants can receive a kit of food and wine and kitchen utensils as a takeaway. (808-735-7788 www.gourmetcookinghawaii.com)

WAIKIKI: EXTREME MAKEOVER

The revitalization of Waikiki continues unabated, with more than $1 billion in new construction and renovation projects underway. The Outrigger Hotel Corporation alone is spending $500 million to literally flatten some of its island properties and start over fresh. The entire Lewers-Kalia area is being redeveloped and will be completed in 2007. Waikiki Beach Walk will be energetic and inviting, eclectic and exciting, a leisure destination to play and to stay. An outdoor entertainment plaza, forty new retailers, four name brand restaurants, and four hotels will redefine the Waikiki experience. “When they do it, they do it right,” Murray says. “The dynamics of Hawaii has changed in terms of the clientele coming here. It’s a higher spending demographic and Outrigger is changing to meet that clientele.” ( http://www.waikikibeachwalk.com/ )

BIG ADVENTURE ISLAND

Hawaii's Big Island is an active adventure destination, one that offers excitement, diversity and Hawaiian culture. Home to Kilauea volcano in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the island has been adding new land for nearly 24 years. Its active “drive-in” volcano is the state's most popular natural attraction. Mauna Kea is the tallest mountain in the world, when measured from its base, and as home to 13 of the world’s most powerful telescopes, Mauna Kea is about as close as a traveler can get to the stars without leaving earth. Other tips for incentive planners include planning exclusive waterfall or crater hikes on private land or an exclusive snorkel trip to Kealakekua Bay. You can also book a fleet of helicopters, view Kilauea Volcano from above and explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on a personally guided tour. (808.985.6000, http://www.nps.gov/havo/ )

SPA OUT

Some of the spa treatments that are offered in Hawaii include Lomilomi Massage, Hawaiian Salt Glo Scrub, Plush Papaya Body Polish and Massage, Kahakai (Beach) Massage where guests can enjoy the tranquil, soothing sounds of the ocean waves as they experience a massage in a peaceful, relaxing beachside cabana setting. The ANARA Spa at the Hyatt Regency Kauai Resort and Spa, for example, offers a new Hawaiian-themed body treatment—the Polynesian Noni Wrap—an intense 80-minute treatment that combines a salt scrub, an herbal wrap, a Polynesian Noni Wrap and a 25-minute massage. Noni is a tropical fruit that is known as a natural anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory breathable sealant skin protector that lifts and tightens. (808-240-6440, http://www.anaraspa.com/packages.aspx )

LOCALLY FLAVORED GIFT BASKETS

Island Princess, a Hawaiian-based chocolate and macadamia nut company near Honolulu Airport, offers more than 50 different products for its customized corporate gift baskets. Signature gourmet items include: Mele Macs, roasted whole macadamia nuts coated in rich toffee and covered in milk chocolate with a sweet dusting of snowy powdered sugar; Macadamia Popcorn Crunch; Wasabi Macadamia Nuts: Chocolate Covered Coffee Beans; and Gourmet Flavored Macadamia Nuts such as Maui onion, sweet chili, curry, nori, honey roasted and lightly salted. (808-839-5222, http://islandprincesshawaii.com/)

GOTTA TRY A MAI-TAI!

It’s not the only exotic drink available in Hawaii, but the availability of fresh juices in the mix and incalculable variations on the theme keep the mai-tai in great demand. Some restaurants customize it with an unexpected twist of orange juice or passion fruit; others with a dollop of liqueur. (http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2005/May/11/il/il21a.html )

LUAUS ‘R’ US

Every group visiting Hawaii wants to experience a luau – especially those that are making return engagements. It may be hokey sounding but this is pure Hawaii; you can’t get a proper luau anywhere else. Expect imu pit cooking (underground), lots of high protein, starchy poi, rice and lomi-lomi chicken cooked over the fire with Hawaiian seasonings. And it’s not a great luau without an incredible hula show. It will all take you back to what Polynesians traditionally ate during a festival. (800-775-2683, http://www.paradisecove.com/ )

THE EVELYN WOOD GUIDE TO MAUI

Everything you need to know about planning a motivational trip to Maui follows: Top hotels include: Four Seasons Resort at Wailea, The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua, Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa, Grand Wailea Resort, Hotel & Spa, The Fairmont Kea Lani Maui, The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, The Lodge at Koele (on Lanai) and The Manele Bay Hotel (on Lanai)… Unique theme events: Aloha Beach Bash; Under the Hula Moon Luau; Hawaii Five O; Zen Party; Volcano Party; Paniolo (Hawaiian Cowboy)… What a planner can arrange that a tourist can’t: Have a CEO portray Hawaiian Royalty and be escorted by the King's Guard; Customize a performance of Ulalena (stage production by Arra-Montreal) as part of a group outing; Dine on stage in the 1,100-seat Castle Theatre located at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center… Top restaurants include: Sansei Seafood Restaurant & Sushi Bar; Nick's Fishmarket Maui; Hali'maile General Store; Roy's Kahana Bar & Grill; Roy's Kihei Bar & Grill; Waterfront; Pacific'o; Longhi's; Kincha; Gerrard's… Maui restaurants are sometimes challenged in accommodating large groups, so dine-around programs are often recommended… In an effort to protect and preserve the endangered Humpback whale, no thrill craft activities are permitted in Maui waters from December 20-May 20. This would include jet-ski, parasail and water skiing.

ONE YEAR-ROUND SEASON

There used to be shoulder seasons for Hawaii tourism and the six major islands when the hospitality industry dropped rates to lure bargain-oriented individuals and groups. That’s not so much the case any longer as the seasons have grown into each other. “There’s a huge demand for Hawaii because of its accessibility,” Murray says. “You can still find value in certain months but there aren’t the peaks and valleys we’ve had in the past.” Nineteen major airlines fly in, offering 600 weekly flights and more seats than ever before. (http://www.honoluluairport.com/ )

FOR MORE INFORMATION
Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau
2270 Kalakaua Avenue
Suite 801
Honolulu, Hawaii 96815
Telephone: 808-924-0290
Fax: 808-924-0290
info@hcvb.org
www.gohawaii.com

Association Management: Building Membership (Motivational Strategies Magazine)

Originally published in 2005

By Bob Andelman

Building membership is crucial to any association’s survival. But in tough economic times, proving the value of membership is a greater challenge than ever.

We spoke with membership officials about how they demonstrate their return on investment to members and, in the process, develop innovative ways of increasing association ranks.

“Membership is a struggle for most organizations, ever since 9-11,” says Ron McNally, vice president of marketing and member services for the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) in Washington, DC. “But we’re starting to see some changes in the trends.”

In part, McNally says that is happening at associations that drill down to member needs and benefits that help them do better in their respective jobs.

“Where once there was a philosophy of mass mailings and multiple mailings, now we’re strategic, looking for hot spots. What do they want to get from membership?” he says. “We hit a peak of 25,000 members a few years ago. We’re down to 23,000 now, but we’re starting to turn the tide by providing stronger professional content. Our value proposition is changing. We just did a huge needs assessment telling us what our members value. Hopefully that will get us in the right direction.”


ASAE is revitalizing its volunteer structure, publishing a members-only magazine, increasing web-based knowledge and resources (behind a members-only wall), developing a new research department, stressing the intangible value of association lobbying, and repositioning its old institutional attitude that the only way members could get value from the association was by coming to meetings, a concept McNally calls “passé.

“We have to meet so many more people online and virtually,” he says. “Distributing information is a challenge. It’s so broadly available as a commodity – what are you providing members that they can’t get freely on the web? What keeps us relevant? That’s the big word for us – relevance.”

Gabrielle Taylor joined the Washington, DC-based National Association of Home Builders in 2004 and immediately started shaking up the NAHB’s approach to attracting new members.

As manager of membership programs and promotions she brought new ideas and was granted “enough leash to be dangerous.”

This year’s Member/Get-a-Member Day, which kicked off with training sessions this January at NAHB’s annual convention in Orlando and culminates on May 23 – National Membership Day.

“We got an early start on getting people up to speed, getting their local campaigns ready to roll,” Taylor says. “As a pilot, we started small with 40 attendees receiving two-hour training sessions. The session was broken into three segments: planning for a smooth campaign; executing a smooth campaign; and the essential follow-up.”

Put another way, participants were guided through pre-campaign planning, what to do during the campaign and how to wrap it all up. Presenters included experts representing small, medium and large associations, because the campaign of a small association is different from a campaign for an association with 5,000 members.


The first goal for NAHB Membership Day is a participation increase among members. “We start planning by looking at what would be good motivations and incentives for our state associations to work with locals to get 100 percent participation in the drive,” Taylor explains.

Taylor joined the association in time to participate in the previous year’s Member/Get-a-Member drive, which netted 7,500 new members. That’s a huge number, obviously, and makes Taylor’s job of maintaining or increasing the rolls look even tougher.

“We have a program that rewards and recognizes members for recruiting peers into the organization,” she says. “It’s called the ‘Spike’ program. They’re award points based on their level of activity. We have tangible prizes given in a ceremony at local meetings. They include NAHB jackets, trophies, pins, clocks, even diamond rings. But the real recognition comes when we have national meetings. You are recognized with colored ribbons so peers see it.”

Another part of the program is the exclusive Spike party at the NAHB national convention. Only eligible, active Spikes who recruited at least one new member in the past 12 months are eligible to attend. “That’s a real strong motivator,” Taylor says. Four thousand people qualified for this year’s event in Orlando, which featured entertainment by Kool & the Gang.

Of course, without properly planning for absorbing thousands of new participants, even a really successful new member drive could backfire.

“We understand that an increase in membership creates a competition for resources and you need the capacity to serve an increase,” Taylor says. “We take that into consideration as we plan our campaigns. You have to be able to serve the members. Retention is the number one issue; we don’t want to recruit members we can’t serve.”

In the future, plans to develop an entire membership education track for deployment at the NAHB annual convention. “So far,” she says, “there are not a lot of educational opportunities for folks interested in membership development. This is the beginning of something that I think could turn into something bigger.”

Part of any good membership campaign starts with a good infrastructure, having a solid database in place with adequate processes so when a solid new member lead, staff can follow through with personalized marketing materials and a personal letter.

“If a member sends us the name of someone they have talked to,” says Judy Keel, executive vice president of the International Association for Association Management Companies (IAAMC) in Westmont, IL, “we generate a letter that includes the name of the individual who recommended them and copy the letter to that individual. We ask that they please follow up, closing the loop, answering questions and making the sell. The timeliness of that process, the closing of the loop, the peer-to-peer, has been real successful for our group.”

IAAMC also instituted an ambassador program for its two main meetings in winter and summer. Each new member or first-time attendee is paired up with an ambassador, someone who has been a member for a while. The ambassador and newbie get acquainted before the meeting and then the ambassador is responsible for introducing the newbie around.

New members also receive a special electronic invitation to a meeting with the association president and board of directors in the president’s suite.

“All that outreach and networking helps get people in and keep them happy,” Keel says. “Our membership has been very stable. Our retention rate is very good because we’re small and can meet the needs of members on a dime. We listen and respond quickly.


Sidebar

Tips From the National Home Builders Association’s National Membership Day Drive

Relationships are key in every part of your industry and association:

• Don't just bring a new member in to increase your membership totals - focus on building a lasting relationship.

• Remember - do business with a member!

• Recognize and thank your association’s long-time and new volunteers and sponsors.

• Take a different approach to marketing the benefits and services of membership to renewing members.