DESTINATION NEWS FROM OUR DMCs - The Americas                    Back to Front Page



Canada                                  Boston                         New Orleans                                 

Costa Rica                              New York                     San Francisco

Mexico                                   Hawaii                         Argentina

United States of America          Las Vegas                    Brazil  

            

 
         

        Canada - Cantrav Services Inc.

Cantrav Services is proud of its recent expansion into the Calgary market. Calgary, located in Alberta, is a thriving business centre that is experiencing exponential growth. The city encapsulates brash and bold Western Canadian charm.

Cantrav Services has also recently expanded its dedicated Leisure Services Team.  Through this division, Cantrav are able to book pre and post incentive extensions and tours, as well as any individual and group travel/ adventure experiences in the Pacific Northwest. As a fully integrated company, their goal is to serve client’s needs with ease and efficiency.

Take the opportunity to view the Green Apple Café, an interactive newsletter accessed on Cantrav’s website www.cantrav.com. The newsletter provides destination information and also the latest tips and tricks from the world of event planning.

New Direct Air Services
And of course the BEST news for incentive groups wanting to travel to Canada is the brilliant new air services:

  • December 2007 - Air Canada will introduce a daily non-stop flight between Sydney and Vancouver, with the new long range Boeing 777 Aircraft. 
  • November 2007 – Air New Zealand will commence direct flights between Auckland and Vancouver three times a week.
  • Qantas Airways also offers seasonal non-stop flights between San Francisco and Vancouver, connecting with the flights between Australia and San Francisco. 

To contact Cantrav for more information on how they can assist you in planning your next program to Canada please click here.

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        Costa Rica - IBEROservice Incentives

IBEROservice Caribbean Incentive Expeditions

Costa Rica, named by Christopher Columbus and literally meaning rich coast, is a small country in Central America with high plateaus in the centre of the country and 212km of coastline along the Caribbean.

Meseta Central
To suit the more adventurous incentive groups, IBEROservice can arrange trips to Meseta Central or Central Valley, which is surrounded by the Cordillera Central (mountains) to the north and east and the Cordillera de Talamanca to the south.  The Meseta Central is between 1000 and 1500 metres above sea level and contains some of Costa Rica’s largest cities, including the capital San Jose.

The Caribbean and Pacific Coasts
For those seeking a luxurious Caribbean experience, IBEROservice can organise the ultimate escape along the coastline.  On either side of the volcanic central highlands lie the coastal lowlands with its smooth Caribbean coastline characterised year round by tropical weather and beautiful sandy beaches.

The north is bordered by tropical dry forests, while the Peninsula de Osa on the southern coast features the Corcovado National Park, one of Costa Rica’s most amazing protected rainforests.

To contact IBEROservice for more information on how they can assist you in planning your next program to Costa Rica please click here.

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        Mexico - Tropical Incentives

Exceptional destinations with Tropical Incentives DMC
Bring your next incentive group to exotic destinations such as Cancun and Riviera Maya, Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta. Let Tropical Incentives impress you with the professionalism and creativity of their team with some of their exciting programs.

Tropical Incentives DMC specialises in incentives, meetings, conventions and congresses. They are experts in the destination and work with the many varying needs of their clients, not only by creating innovative and creative programs, but also by coordinating the logistics and movements of worry-free travel.

Update on Hurricane Dean
Cancun and Riviera Maya did not suffer major damage from Hurricane Dean and the area is 100% operational.

Cancun and Riviera Maya
These destinations offer a combination of natural beauty, theme parks, islands, ecological reser
ves and white sandy beaches. Additionally, a variety of water activities are available including diving, snorkelling and fishing. For extreme sport enthusiasts, enjoy tours that take you to explore large caves in hidden oases.  Hike or bike along nearly invisible jungle trails, zip-line over the treetops or rappel down into amazing cenotes which are freshwater-filled limestone sinkholes.

Chichen Itza
A visit to this sacred Mayan city is one of the magical options that Tropical Incentives offers its groups.  Recently, Kukulkan's Pyramid, considered to be the most impressive building in Chichen Itza, was chosen from a list of 21 finalists as one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. 

Los Cabos
Located on the western tip of Mexico's Baja California, this region offers amazing views of the Sierra de la Laguna mountain range as well as hundreds of miles of golden beach, blue water and dramatic red cliffs. Cacti, palm trees and landscaped gardens dot this unique desert landscape.

Puerto Vallarta, located on the attractive Bahia de Banderas bay, is a combination of the old and the new with its classical red Spanish-tile roofs and cobblestone streets and five-star modern hotels. The destination offers a variety of different activities to choose from – whether it is relaxing on pristine beaches, taking a boat tour or horseback riding through the Sierra Madre Mountains.

To contact Tropical Incentives DMC for more information on how they can assist you in planning your next program to Mexico please click here.

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        Boston, Massachusetts - NXTevent

Bustling Boston
Let your delegates explore America’s Walking City in a different way – participate in a high tech City Scavenger Hunt! NXTevent will facilitate a customised scavenger hunt ideal for seeing Boston’s historic sites.  

Guests will split up into groups and given handheld GPS devices to navigate around the city.  The groups will solve riddles and crack codes while at the same time learn about Boston. At the end of the scavenger hunt, the answers to the clues will solve a word puzzle, which can relay any message you like.  This is a great team building activity and at the same time guaranteed to bring out some friendly competition.

In any world class city, an incentive program dining experience can be costly.  However in Boston, NXTevent has worked diligently to make dine-around programs sophisticated and upscale, while keeping the program as affordable as possible.  This is a result of their strong relationships with unique and exclusive restaurants and ability to negotiate the best rates within your program budget. 

To contact NXTevent for more information on how they can assist you in planning your next program to Boston please click here.

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        New York, New York - Shackman Associates New York

The city of New York welcomed over 44 million tourists and guests last year, breaking all previous records for travel and tourism to New York.

And some of the most popular visitors to the Big Apple were Australians and New Zealanders, emphasising just how much these two nations enjoy the sights, sounds and sensations of New York.

So, what’s cooking now in the city that never sleeps?

The Ultimate Experience: Everyone is looking for something different and new to bring to their New York programs. Shackman can do just the thing - from encouraging your delegates inner Hip-Hop genius with a workshop at the DJ Academy or even helping them unleash an inner Ali with a private sparring match at a world-class boxing gym.

A Foodie’s Delight: New York is a world-class dining destination, and we love to showcase everything that makes the city a culinary must-see. One great way to see the city is to let your tastebuds be your guide with a Food Tour through the city’s ethnic and historic neighbourhoods. 

If you prefer a more exclusive activity, there is the option of a Chef’s Table Dine-around.  Dining certainly takes on a whole new meaning when you are indulging in a menu customised for your group by a Michelin Guide-rated chef. Bon Appetite!

Hot New ‘Neighbourhood’: Once lined by tenements and pushcarts, the Lower East Side’s (LES) historic streets are now home to some of New York’s most eclectic and energetic boutiques, restaurants and lounges. And, you can still get some of the best pickles and pastrami sandwiches around! The vibe of the LES is attracting the interest of commercial and residential developers including new hotel properties. The perfect spot to take young and energetic groups, the LES is the epitome of hip and now.

To contact Shackman Associates New York for more information on how they can assist you in planning your next program to New York please click here.

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        Hawaii - USA Hosts Destination Services

Experience Heavenly Hawaii

USA Hosts can arrange an array of activities and excursions for your next incentive group to the tropical islands of Hawaii.

(i)  Magical Maui
What makes Maui, the second largest of the Hawaiian islands, the treasure she is? A few reasons include her famous crystal blue waters and the friendly and hospitable nature of the local people.

For a close look at Maui’s ocean life, there is an option to stop at the Maui Ocean Centre, a spectacular tropical aquarium at Ma’alaea Harbour. Come face to fin with tiger and grey sharks and other amazing species found in the deep channels surrounding the Islands. Finish the day with a scenic drive to Maui’s magnificent mountains and enjoy the spectacular views of the knife-edge ridges and lush vegetation of historic ‘Iao Valley.

Hana and Haleakala Helicopter Adventure - Fly like a tropical bird above two of the most famous sites on Maui – Haleakala Crater and Hana.  Cruise over the alien vista of Mt. Haleakala, also known as the “House of the Sun”, and see the terrain change right before your eyes. The top of the crater resembles a lunar landscape of barren, hardened lava, but gives way to lush open pastures and colourful tropical plants.

Hana is home to over 100 cascading waterfalls, lush rainforests and dramatic coastlines. There is also the opportunity to view the beautiful pools of Oheo and the rustic setting of Hana Town along the way.

(ii) Lana’i

Lana’i Wild Dolphin & Snorkel Eco-Adventure – Lana’i is Hawaii's sixth largest island and offers mile upon mile of secluded beaches.  Travel to Lana’i with The Pacific Whale Foundation for an unforgettable adventure aboard the Ocean Quest (a 65 foot double deck catamaran), and look out for the playful spinner and bottlenose dolphins. Your adventure will also include snorkelling and a fresh BBQ grill lunch fresh.

To contact USA Hosts Destination Services for more information on how they can assist you in planning your next program to Hawaii please click here.

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        Las Vegas, Nevada - USA Hosts Destination Services

The Divine Miss M, Bette Midler
On 20 February 2008, the remarkable entertainer Bette Midler will replace Celine Dion as resident performer at the Las Vegas' Colosseum at Caesars Palace. Ms Midler’s show will be performed five nights a week and a minimum of 100 concerts a year for at least two years have been scheduled. Tickets are already on sale for $95 t
o $250.

Take Las Vegas Fine Dining to Extraordinary New Heights
Prepare yourself for a one-of-a-kind dining experience in a restaurant designed for the 21st century - an encounter in which art and food become one!

If Van Gogh expressed himself with paint and Beethoven shared his brilliance with the world through the piano, then chef extraordinaire Guy Savoy’s canvas is your plate.  With each culinary creation, Guy bares his soul and the result is a festive, fresh and delicious cuisine.  His namesake restaurant, Guy Savoy, is located on the second floor of the Augustus Tower of the Caesars Palace and affords an enviable view of the classically-inspired architecture of the Roman Plaza.  Reservations are already coveted for this intimate dining venue destined to become one of America’s most celebrated gourmet rooms

To contact USA Hosts Destination Services for more information on how they can assist you in planning your next program to Las Vegas please click here.

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        New Orleans, Louisiana - USA Hosts Destination Services

Celebrate the Rebirth of New Orleans

The most celebrated and historic core of the city – includes the Faubourg Marigny, French Quarter, Central Business District, Warehouse and Arts District, Magazine Street, Garden District, Audubon Park and Zoo and St. Charles Avenue – not only remains intact, both physically and spiritually, but is thriving. 

The cultural riches, sensual indulgences and unparalleled service that define the New Orleans experience continue to flourish and the city is ready and eager to welcome back visitors.  By visiting the city, incentive groups can partake in a historic event - celebrating the Rebirth of New Orleans!

To contact USA Hosts Destination Services for more information on how they can assist you in planning your next program to New Orleans please click here.

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        San Francisco, California - USA Hosts Destination Services

Superb San Francisco
Come to San Francisco for an experience like nowhere else. There are options galore - sail the bay, experience gourmet dining with celebrity chefs, bike across the Golden Gate Bridge, ride an exclusive cable car, enjoy fresh Dungeness crab and Sourdough bread at Fisherman’s Wharf, indulge in perfect pasta at North Beach and chow down on Dim Sums at Chinatown.  Top off your evening with a premium Scotch or Tequila tasting at one of the city’s exclusive bars where entry is by invitation only. USA Hosts/Key Events will make sure you are on the VIP list!

On day two, drive a convertible to the wine country to experience the finest vintages while enjoying the spectacular vineyard views. USA Hosts/Key Events will design a tour with visits to private wineries and arrange tastings by acclaimed winemakers. In the evening, head back to San Francisco for a sumptuous dinner and a show such as San Francisco’s own Beach Blanket Babylon.

For shoppers looking to cash in on the favourable exchange rate, a must is the new Bloomingdales and 170 new stores at the Westfield San Francisco Centre. In the fall of 2007, join us for the grand opening of the iconic store, Barney’s, on Union Square.

To contact USA Hosts Destination Services/Key Events for more information on how they can assist you in planning your next program to San Francisco please click here.

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        Argentina - City Service Travel Agency S.A

Polo in Argentina
Argentina is renowned for their polo prowess and have been world champions of the sport since 1949. City Service Travel Agency can organise your group to take part in this long standing tradition by organising a match at a top Argentinean Polo Club or Ranch.

Two teams compete against each other with top handicap players and some of the best polo ponies in the world. One of the teams would represent the ‘client’ and the other would be a local team.  A marquee is set up close to the polo grounds for guests to enjoy cocktails and the nearby main clubhouse is an ideal venue for lunch or dinner.  

Polo matches can be booked all year round, but as major polo championship events such as the Argentine Open, take place in October and November, it is advised tickets are booked in advance.

Follow the path of Argentinean traditions
Another incentive group option is to participate in an “Argentinean Traditions Tour” which allows visitors a closer look at the history and traditions of cart horses and cattle herding - a part of daily life for centuries. A gaucho, or Argentinean “Cowboy” will be on hand to demonstrate.

To contact City Service Travel Agency S.A. for more information on how they can assist you in planning your next program to Argentina please click here.

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        Brazil - Walpax Brazil Travel Partners

“Flash Back” in Rio
Put a retro spin into your incentive group and get them to relive the 70’s where it was all about Rock and Roll and the hippie movement.  WALPAX now offers exciting new incentives in Rio de Janeiro using classic Volkswagen Beetles and Kombis to transport your clients back in time to the magical flower power period.

The Volkswagen Beetle and Kombi Tour can cater for groups of 20-30 people and the following options are available:

  1. Beetle rally - Exciting rally through Rio with a road block and team-building activities along the way.
     
  1. Treasure hunt – Participants are at the wheel of the Beetles and participate in a treasure hunt along the famous Copacabana beach.
     
  1. Kombi Carioca Beach Day – Located just outside Rio, visit several stunning beaches and participate in team-building activities.
     
  1. Hippy FairIn 70’s style clothing and wigs, participants build their own hippy fair and travel by Kombi. 
     
  1. Progressive dinner – Each course of dinner is eaten at different restaurants and transport is by Hippy VW Kombi.

Pink Fleet – It will make Rio even more marvellous!
The Pink Fleet is an innovative cruising concept that has combined style, comfort and safety.   A ride in the Pink Fleet is a unique experience which allows participants to view some of the most beautiful landscapes in Rio.

The Pink Fleet can provide:

  • Day and night tours/parties and closed events
  • Restaurants and bars
  • “Happy Hour”
  • Sunday brunch
  • Dinner with live music

To contact Walpax for more information on how they can assist you in planning your next program to Brazil please click here.

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