News
Industry Briefs
VISIT SEATTLE CELEBRATES 2024 VISITATION GROWTH, RELEASES NEW VISITOR PROFILES AT ANNUAL MEETING Visit Seattle , the official destination marketing organization for Seattle and King County, released new data at its Annual Meeting recently showing continued growth in visitor numbers. Held during National Travel and Tourism Week , over 500 members of the local hospitality community gathered downtown at the Seattle Convention Center’s Arch building to learn about the organization’s accomplishments in 2024 and plans for 2025, the year before the destination welcomes an estimated 750,000 visitors for the FIFA World Cup 2026™.
CHOOSE CHICAGO ANNOUNCES KRISTEN REYNOLDS AS NEW PRESIDENT & CEO Choose Chicago announced that Kristen Reynolds, a highly respected leader in the travel and tourism industry, will serve as the organization’s new President and Chief Executive Officer. Reynolds joins Choose Chicago after an impactful tenure as President and CEO of Discover Long Island, where she spearheaded transformative growth in the region’s visitor economy.
CARNIVAL CORPORATION REINFORCES CARIBBEAN COMMITMENT DURING SEATRADE CRUISE GLOBAL 2025 Carnival Corporation & plc , the world’s largest cruise company, concluded a successful week of engagement at Seatrade Cruise Global 2025, reinforcing its commitment to collaborative growth and long-term investment across the Caribbean. The company’s leadership was prominently featured in high-level panels and destination meetings throughout the week, with a strong emphasis on regional partnership, sustainable development and inclusive leadership.
DESTINATION DC ANNOUNCES RECORD VISITATION, FUELING DC’S ECONOMY More than 27 million people visited the nation’s capital in 2024 – a new record – Destination DC (DDC), the official destination marketing organization for Washington, DC, announced recently. The figure surpasses the previous benchmark, set in 2023, by 1.25 million visitors. The record-setting visitation resulted in record economic impact: $11.4 billion in visitor spending, $2.3 billion in tax revenue and 111,500 jobs supported. As a result, thanks to tourism, each DC household saves $3,608 in taxes.
TERI HELENESE URGES UNIFIED CARIBBEAN STRATEGY TO BOOST TOURISM AMID GLOBAL ECONOMIC UNCERTAINTY Teri Helenese , the U.S. Virgin Islands’ Director of State-Federal Relations and Washington Representative, is calling on Caribbean nations to unite with urgency and purpose to grow the region’s global tourism market share, which has long remained under three percent despite a strong post-pandemic recovery. Speaking against the backdrop of mounting global economic uncertainty, Helenese warned that continued growth cannot be taken for granted. “The U.S. Virgin Islands has outpaced pre-pandemic levels, and the wider Caribbean is seeing strong momentum, but we can’t afford to be complacent,” she said. “Now is the time to double down on strategic partnerships and regional cooperation.”
VISIT CINCY EXPANDS INCLUSIVE HOSPITALITY PROGRAM WITH NEW LEADERSHIP AND COMMUNITY-FOCUSED PARTNERSHIPS Visit Cincy has enhanced its strategy to become a national model for inclusive tourism through the expansion of its Inclusive Hospitality initiative. This expansion includes the newly established Visit Cincy Foundation for Hospitality Excellence, supplier diversity programs, community development outreach, workforce development, and more.
ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INCORPORATED® CONVENES OVER 4,000 ATTENDEES FOR THE 93RD SOUTH CENTRAL REGIONAL CONFERENCE IN LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS 93^rd South Central Regional Conference at the Statehouse Convention Center in Little Rock, Arkansas. Themed “A R.E.A.L. Diamond Adventure in the Natural State,” the conference brought over 4,000 members and guests from Arkansas, Texas, Louisiana and New Mexico to Little Rock, making a significant economic impact of more than $9 million to the central Arkansas community.
WE MUST STAND TOGETHER FOR WHAT IS RIGHT AND JUST In a troubling era when there are forces at work determined to erase and eliminate our Black History, it is incumbent upon us as African-Americans to come together and push back. This environment makes the Black Meetings & Tourism Apex Awards even more important than ever, as we acknowledge the contributions and accomplishments of our brothers, sisters and colleagues in the Travel/Tourism/Hospitality Industry. It is also equally important for us to show our support for industry icon Elliott Ferguson, president/CEO of Destination DC, who along with four others was fired from the board of directors of Brand USA.
MEETING IN DALLAS IS A PLANNER’S DREAM Dallas’ Arts District is buzzing with culture, vibrance, and life: the ideal destination for a meeting to remember. Skip the conference filled with forced agendas and tired attendees, and create a dynamic and inspiring experience that’ll make everyone want to stay for the encore. Named the #1 Arts District in America by USA Today, this walkable downtown hub for creativity spreads across 20 square blocks and encompasses 68 acres. Featuring art for all senses, it’s home to award-winning museums, performing arts venues, and restaurants and bars around every corner. Unleash your imagination and adopt the maverick mindset in Dallas. Think outside the conference room and use theaters, museums, galleries, and sculpture gardens as exciting and stimulating meeting venues.
Marketing Tips
Why The Summe Slump Is BS - Entrepreneur Tells All - 5 Ways To Beat It! It may be cold outside now, but before you know it, the temperature will be soaring to new heights.
Nine Types Of Clients You Should Cut Loose In 2016 Every Great Gardener Knows the Benefits That Winter Pruning Will Have Come Springtime.
Facebook....Or Face Time? Why Business Relationships Take More Than Texting, Friending, And "Online Cionnecting" Technology has yielded some great communication tools, but Barefoot Wines founder Michael Houlihan says they are not relationship builders.
Reunions
St. Louis Excels As An Ideal Family Reunions Destination When it’s time for your next family reunion, think St. Louis!
Sports Tourism
Pumping Up Meetings With Sporting Themes Planners can score big with meeting professionals thanks to crowd-pleasing, sports-themed activities and events that are veritable touchdowns regardless of the
Ski Free At Snowbasin Resort With Your Alaska Airlines Boarding Pass Based on the success of Alaska Airlines "Ski the West" campaign last winter, Snowbasin Resort has once again partnered with Alaska Airlines to offer ski enthusiasts the opportunity to "Fly Alaska, Ski Free".
The Copperhead Course Bites Back Salamander Hotels & Resorts Re-Opens Famed Innisbrook Course After Restorative Enhancements
PGA National Resort & Spa Announces New State-Of-The-Art Sports & Racquet Club PGA National Resort & Spa - South Florida's world-class golf, spa, vacation and meetings destination
Sawgrass Country Club Completes Major Golf Course Renovation Final Nine Opened On October 28, 2015
Travel Tips
Top 10 Tips For Yor Best Business Trip Corporate Veteran And Travel Expert Jan Kaplan Offers Advice It doesn't matter whether you are taking a trip for business or pleasure, traveling can be frustrating, uncomfortable and downright irritating.
New System Provides Innovative Ways To Avoid Missing Prescription Medication Medcenter System Features New Approach of Pill Stocking (With Days and Dates), Talking Alarms and Visual Aids
Weekend Getaways
Recognize, Relax, Rejuvenate - Celebrate Success At Marriott In our non-stop 24-7 world, we're always ready to tackle the next project, assignment or business deal before we've even had a chance to reflect on what has just been achieved.
Three Perfect Days In Pacifica, California Located just 15 minutes from San Francisco, the beautiful beachfront town of Pacifica is the perfect destination for a quick three-day getaway.
Jade Mountain Tops Most Romantic Holiday List London's Telegraph Media Group has recognized Jade Mountain in St. Lucia as the top of its Top 10 list of most romantic holidays in the Caribbean.
What's Happening
Plan A Valentine's Weekend Escape Or Date Night In Costa Mesa With Various Special Dining Menus And Packages, Costa Mesa Is a Romantiic Getaway OC's Costa Mesa has put together some great weekend deals to celebrate a romantic Valentine's Day. Beginning Friday
La Quinta Resort & Club, A Waldorf Astoria Resort Rolls Out The Red Carpet This Holiday Season With New "Chestnuts & Capra" Package In December, 201 Fourth Annual "It's a Wonderful Life" Celebration Salutes Frank Capra's Classic Film with Interactive Cooking Demos, Chestnuts Roasting by a Fire, Fudge Tastings and The Big Guy in Red
2nd Annual Black Celebration Awards Recap On Monday, September 21^st, BLACK STREET had their 2^nd Annual "Black Celebration" Awards ceremony at the Alvin Ailey Studios in New York City.
Area Guides
BALTIMORE: A CHANGING DESTINATION Baltimore is a city in flux with more than $11 billion in new and future developments changing the face of this attractive destination. The city offers more than 7,800 hotel rooms and counting, and there are plenty of delightful world-class attractions, museums, and dining experiences in the heart of the downtown. The city's newest and largest hotel is the Hilton Baltimore, neatly situated in the Inner Harbor. This is the only hotel connected to the Baltimore Convention Center fully enclosed, climate-controlled skybridge. Hilton Baltimore offers 757 spacious well-appointed rooms, including 20 suites. Guests enjoy premier restaurant dining, a fitness center, heated indoor pool, a 24-hour business center, and on-site parking. For your meeting needs the hotel also offers over 60,000 sq. ft. of flexible function space, including 46 meeting rooms, the 25,000-sq. ft. Key Ballroom, the 15,000-sq. ft. Holiday Ballroom, and two meeting planner suites.
MICHIGAN: LAKESIDE MEETINGS For business or pleasure, Michigan has what you are looking for. With thousands of miles of lakeshore beaches, visitors can discover all manner of water fun such as kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and sailing. Michigan's cities offer a variety of cultural experiences from museums and art galleries to historic sites and festivals. Modern meeting facilities and exceptional hotels only add to the allure of this great state.
NEVADA: THE SILVER STATE SHINES Nevada, the Silver State, is one of the largest states in the US, which means you will find plenty to do here. It's one of the only places you can ski world-class runs in the morning, then walk world-class greens in the afternoon. You can bike or hike the Tahoe Rim Trail, navigate a kayak on the Truckee River through downtown Reno, take an ATV up Sand Mountain near Fallon and snowmobile miles of wide-open terrain near Elko. And no one can forget the world-class gaming, dining, and hotels of Vegas!
PORTLAND: LAND OF UNSPOILED ENVIRONMENTALISM The rest of the world could take some cues from the city of Portland. Surrounded by the natural beauty of Mount Hood, the Oregon Coast, the Willamette Valley wine country, and the Columbia River Gorge, the people of Portland are obsessed with maintaining their pristine surroundings. Portlanders recycle 63 percent of their waste and most natives commute to work by bicycle or by public transportation. The city also has the most LEED certified buildings per capita in the country. It's no wonder that in these times of environmental concern that Portland has emerged as an attractive meetings destination.
THE CARIBBEAN: LESSER ANTILLES PART 1 The Caribbean Islands are a region of great beauty and diversity that extends from the coasts of Florida to the mountains of South America. The Lesser Antilles lie in the Southern region of the island chain, beginning just east of Puerto Rico. These islands are far enough away from the U.S to have retained much of their culture and many remain largely unaffected by the Western world at large. Pristine beaches and authentic experiences are common here. Let's take a look at the northern end of the Lesser Antilles.
FAM Report
TORONTO - A CULTURAL MOSAIC DESTINATION Toronto, Canada, "an international city of warmth, openness, energy and style, is enriched by the fusion of traditions, passions and perspectives on life of more than 100 cultures. It is one of the most popular choices for U.S. sponsored association meetings outside of the U.S. and it has the largest convention-center in Canada ranking it among the top 10 largest contiguous space facilities in North America" (city of Toronto agenda for Prosperity). This city is permeated with so much rich Black heritage, creating an ideal destination for convention and event planners, tour operations and weekend getaway savvy travelers.
From The Motherland
RAW AFRICA AT ITS WILDEST: Lugenda Wilderness Camp Opens for 2009 Season Rani Resorts' seasonal Lugenda Wilderness Camp in Northern Mozambique has opened for 2009. Lugenda Wilderness Camp is set in one of Africa's last wild places, only recently accessible to discerning safari enthusiasts.
In The News
HILTON'S JOE BERGER GREETS THE PRESIDENT AND FIRST LADY Hilton Hotels Americas VP Joe Berger and his wife Beth greet President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama at the White House Correspondents' Association dinner held at Hilton Washington in Washington, D.C. on Saturday, May 9, 2009. For more than 30 years, Hilton Washington has hosted the prestigious annual event which draws luminaries from politics, business, media, and Hollywood to raise money for journalism scholarships at educational institutions across the country. Other notables at the hotel attending the dinner included actors Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes, Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher, Colin Firth, Owen Wilson, Kevin Bacon and Natalie Portman; comedians Whoopi Goldberg, Mike Myers, Denis Leary and Chris Rock; television news media Barbara Walters, Brian Williams, George Stephanopoulos and Bill O'Reilly; and politicos RNC Chairman Michael Steele, former Chairman of the Federal Reserve Alan Greenspan, Congressman John Lewis who marched on Washington with Dr. King in 1963, and more.
Local Hero
TIM JAMES: BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS FOR VISIT ROCHESTER, NEW YORK For Tim James it's all about relationships. As director of Sales for VisitRochester, James finds gratification in developing lasting relationships with national SMERF organizations. He believes this is what has sustained Rochester as a meetings destination during these difficult economic times. "I find that relationships are the backbone of the success that Rochester has had over the years," asserts James. As sales manager at VisitRochester, prior to his current ten year stint as director, James, who started with the organization in 1990, honed his skills by getting to know his clients thoroughly to "understand their needs and wants." This practice serves him well to this day.
Open Forum
OPEN FORUM: THE DARKER THE NIGHT, THE BRIGHTER THE LIGHT If I were to leave the planet for two months and return from my outer space experience to catch up on news in the travel and tourism business, I might come to the quick realization that the industry will soon be eliminated and even that the world may shortly come to an end.
Pacesetters
GARVIN GARRISON Disney resort destinations are a dream come true; what better way to mix business and pleasure without leaving the comforts of the 'playground with a twist'. Flexibility with a touch of magic is the Disney difference. They pride themselves in creating an environment to help tap into a world of imagination and inspiration. With two world famous theme parks, three amazing hotels, spectacular dinning, entertainment, Mandara spa and shopping, The Disney Resort offers fun ways to spark excitement inside and outside of the boardroom. No one could agree more, than Garvin Garrison, senior sales manager at Disneyland. "Disney is an icon. No matter where you are in the world, everyone knows who Disney is, people want to come, be it conferences or for family entertainment."
Religious Review
Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life BOOKMARKS According to the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life, 69 percent of people who consider themselves people of faith also believe that there is more than one way to interpret the teachings of their religion. Alan Richards, author of the new novel *The Second Cycle* (Emerald Book Company), believes that this phenomenon is directly related to our continuing search for the true nature of God. "The simple truth is that most people are ignorant and blasé about the thing most important thing in life, that being the true nature of God," Richards said. "The Bible was written by men - holy men - but men, nonetheless, which makes literal, dogmatic interpretation of the Bible unpalatable to many people. It's not just about whether the teachings and dogma appeal to them or have a place in their lives or world view - it's about the difference between walking the walk and talking the talk." The Second Cycle, a fictional account of how a number of people come to terms with their individual search for the true meaning of God, is based on the true journey that lies before all of us.
Site Review
COMBINING BUSINESS AND PLEASURE IN THE PERFECT MEETING GETAWAY There are a great number of things for you and your family to do in Michigan City, nestled on the southern shores of Lake Michigan about an hour east of Chicago. With festivities year round, the city welcomes visitors with hospitality regardless of the season. It's the perfect destination to recharge, renew and refresh. From fantastic food, eclectic shopping and entertainment, to rich historical beauty and culture, it's the ideal departure from the ordinary every day. The eastern edge of the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore features Mount Baldy, a large wandering dune and is one of the tallest sand dunes on Lake Michigan. There are miles of pristine beaches for swimming, boating and enjoying nature. The Michigan City In-water Boat Show, the largest on the Great Lakes is celebrating its 30th year.
Speaking Of People
People The Phoenix Convention Center recently welcomed Cynthia Weaver as its new Communications Director. Weaver is responsible for media relations, internal and external communications, promoting environmental and sustainability programs and Web Content Management. Weaver came to the position from the city of Phoenix Public Information Office where she worked as a Public Information Officer since 2002. Weaver's experience includes managing Public Relations for several city programs and departments including Housing, Environmental Programs & Sustainability, Youth & Education and Phoenix Sister Cities among others. Weaver was the first PIO for Phoenix's Downtown Development Office (DDO) and spearheaded communication efforts for the establishment of that office.
Travel Data
RIU HOTELS & RESORTS RANKS HIGH IN CUSTOMER SATISFACTION Annual Market Metrix Hospitality Index Report Shows Travelers Happy wit Based on 35,000 customer interviews, the 2008 Annual Market Metrix Hospitality Index (MMHI) showed that RIU Hotels & Resorts ranked high with customer satisfaction, making the all-inclusive resort group the overall winner of the 2008 Annual MMHI for Upper Upscale Hotels. "It is quite an honor to be recognized by so many travelers for our customer service," stated Luis Riu, CEO of RIU Hotels & Resorts. "It truly is the people you meet and interact with that make a vacation wonderful. And we are so proud that our employees provide our guests with the vacation experience beyond their expectations." The MMHI revealed that in 2008 customer satisfaction was up for hotels (+0.9) and airlines (+1.5) and that RIU Hotels & Resorts ranked highest in customer satisfaction among Upper Upscale Hotels. The Market Metrix Hospitality Index™ (MMHI) is the largest and most in-depth measure of hospitality company performance available. For more information, visit www.marketmetrix.com. TAMPA BAY & COMPANY UNVEILS 2008 VISITOR
Vendor Spotlight
AUGUSTIN M. M. HOUEGBAN, PRESIDENT/CEO OF WORLD STAR PROTECTIVE SERVICES Augustin Houegban grew up in the Republic of Benin in West Africa. He ventured to the United States in 2002 and has since studied business, finance and organizational security management. After working in the security field for over 10 years, Houegban opened his own security service, World Star Protective Services. World Star Protective Services, based in the Los Angeles area and having started out with five full-time security guards, currently has over 50 full-time security guards in its employ. "I like being the one responsible for protecting people and their property," says Houegban. "Clients come to me with their needs and concerns after having invested a lot of time and money into their properties; it's my job to provide them with the necessary services to make them feel safe and keep them and their belongings protected. World Star Protective Services equips our customers with extra eyes and peace of mind. I enjoy the public relations side of the business the most; I like to know that my clients feel safe and secure when my team is on the premises." Although Houegban is the main one in charge of office planning and operations for World Star, he still enjoys putting on his uniform and presenting to job sites. Once at the location, Houegban finds comfort in being able to assess his team's presence at the site and in enforcing that sense of security and manpower. World Star Protective Services offers armed and unarmed security to commercial and residential buildings, hospitals, universities, financial institutions, malls, car dealerships, construction sites, churches and special events. They also offer bodyguards, corporate escorts and have a security training academy which provides the state required training for their security employees. World Star is California licensed (PPO # 16004), bonded and insured and all guards are put through an extensive background check, fingerprinted, instructed in The Power of Arrest, as well as Public Relations and the Laws & Regulations of a security guard.
In Your Own Words
How To Unlock The Hidden Genius In Your Organization Every organization has brilliant people who are "under the radar." They are the geniuses who may not look like everyone else,
3 Reasons It's Wise To Spend Time With Those Who Are Different From Us Americans may be living in an echo chamber.
Why Don't We Have The Politics Of The Possible Anymore? In 1954, when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled on Brown v. Board of Education, the Gross Domestic Product (GDP-the value of all goods and services produced in the United States)
Staycations
25 Free Things To Do This Winter In San Diego From traditional holiday parades and festivals to the migration of California gray whales along the Pacific coast, a visit to San Diego during the winter offers a wealth of free, fun and festive experiences.
West Hollywood Named The Most Walkable City In California West Hollywood is proud to announce that it has been ranked the most walkable city in the state of California by Walk Score®.
Summer Of Shangri-La Begins With A Splash! Ste. 700, The Courtyard And Ditch Day Fridays Make Their Debut At Hotel Shangri-La Sweeping Ocean Views, Summery Cocktails, and Courtyard & Rooftop Dining Make Tamie Adaya’s Hotel Shangri-La This Summer’s Nexus of Fun. The Summer of Shangri-La is off to an early start, as the iconic Santa Monica Hotel Shangri-La launches Suite 700, The Courtyard and Ditch Day Fridays.
Cruising
114-Guest M/V Sea Spirit To Introduce Splendors Of The Southern Ocean's Aquatic And Birdlife On Value-Packed Fall 2017 Poseidon Expeditions Reasons to venture toward Antarctica are many. Over 200 years ago uncharted waters, whales and the fur trade drew ships
Oceanwide Discounts Voyages To Celebrate Ross Sea Protection News Oceanwide Expeditions is celebrating the news that the Ross Sea will become the world's largest marine
Six Ne-For-2017 Cruise Itineraries Ecncompass Adventuresmith Explorations' Creativity Creativity is a hallmark of small ship cruise expert AdventureSmith Explorations as it applies to cruise routes, ports of call and destinations, choice of cruise vessel
Food Service Beat
Oceania Cruises Introduces New Evening Tapas Menus Flavors of Spain, Asia, and the World Come Alive Each Evening
Chef Michael's Popular Ravioli Tarfufo Is Available At Acoya After a long day at the beach, many travelers would prefer a leisurely, relaxing private dining experience within the confines
The Turks & Caicos Collection's Alexandria Resort Launches New Oceanfront Eatery Asú On the Beach Receives Rave Reviews Following November 1 Opening
Tools Of The Trade
The Power of "Old School" Service Four Reasons Your Business Should Bring it Back Companies are more tech-savvy than ever, but customers still crave old-fashioned service (albeit with a modern spin).
Seven Big Rules to Follow When Firing a Client Firing a client is one of the most difficult decisions a business owner will ever make. And when push comes to shove, few actually do the deed.
If You Can't Listen, You Will Become Irrelevant: Nine Career-Damaging Bad Listening Habits And What You Can Do About Them, Listening is the single most important job skill you can have in the 21st century. Ed Hess explains why.
Wellness Travel
Kickstart Your Healthy New Year's Resolutions On a Dominican Republic Fitness Gertaway From nature trekking to yoga retreats; vacationing in Dominican Republic will get your heart pumping
IHG Opens Flagship Even® Hotels Property In New York City, Quickly Expanmding Options For Wellness-Minded Travelers First Hotel Brand Dedicated to Wellness Opens Third Hotel in Growing Portfolio
Hotel Casa Del Mar & Shutters On The BEach Debut Custom Mindfulness-Inspired Offereings For Corporate Retreats & Group Travelers Guests Can Reconnect Body and Soul Through Group Sessions With Santa Monica's John Sahakian, a World-Renowned Meditation and Stress-Management Expert

News

Industry Briefs

VISIT SEATTLE CELEBRATES 2024 VISITATION GROWTH, RELEASES NEW VISITOR PROFILES AT ANNUAL MEETING

Visit Seattle , the official destination marketing organization for Seattle and King County, released new data at its Annual Meeting recently showing continued growth in visitor numbers. Held during National Travel and Tourism Week , over 500 members of the local hospitality community gathered downtown at the Seattle Convention Center’s Arch building to learn about the organization’s accomplishments in 2024 and plans for 2025, the year before the destination welcomes an estimated 750,000 visitors for the FIFA World Cup 2026™.

CHOOSE CHICAGO ANNOUNCES KRISTEN REYNOLDS AS NEW PRESIDENT & CEO

Choose Chicago announced that Kristen Reynolds, a highly respected leader in the travel and tourism industry, will serve as the organization’s new President and Chief Executive Officer. Reynolds joins Choose Chicago after an impactful tenure as President and CEO of Discover Long Island, where she spearheaded transformative growth in the region’s visitor economy.

CARNIVAL CORPORATION REINFORCES CARIBBEAN COMMITMENT DURING SEATRADE CRUISE GLOBAL 2025

Carnival Corporation & plc , the world’s largest cruise company, concluded a successful week of engagement at Seatrade Cruise Global 2025, reinforcing its commitment to collaborative growth and long-term investment across the Caribbean. The company’s leadership was prominently featured in high-level panels and destination meetings throughout the week, with a strong emphasis on regional partnership, sustainable development and inclusive leadership.

DESTINATION DC ANNOUNCES RECORD VISITATION, FUELING DC’S ECONOMY

More than 27 million people visited the nation’s capital in 2024 – a new record – Destination DC (DDC), the official destination marketing organization for Washington, DC, announced recently. The figure surpasses the previous benchmark, set in 2023, by 1.25 million visitors. The record-setting visitation resulted in record economic impact: $11.4 billion in visitor spending, $2.3 billion in tax revenue and 111,500 jobs supported. As a result, thanks to tourism, each DC household saves $3,608 in taxes.

TERI HELENESE URGES UNIFIED CARIBBEAN STRATEGY TO BOOST TOURISM AMID GLOBAL ECONOMIC UNCERTAINTY

Teri Helenese , the U.S. Virgin Islands’ Director of State-Federal Relations and Washington Representative, is calling on Caribbean nations to unite with urgency and purpose to grow the region’s global tourism market share, which has long remained under three percent despite a strong post-pandemic recovery.

Speaking against the backdrop of mounting global economic uncertainty, Helenese warned that continued growth cannot be taken for granted. “The U.S. Virgin Islands has outpaced pre-pandemic levels, and the wider Caribbean is seeing strong momentum, but we can’t afford to be complacent,” she said. “Now is the time to double down on strategic partnerships and regional cooperation.”

VISIT CINCY EXPANDS INCLUSIVE HOSPITALITY PROGRAM WITH NEW LEADERSHIP AND COMMUNITY-FOCUSED PARTNERSHIPS

Visit Cincy has enhanced its strategy to become a national model for inclusive tourism

through the expansion of its Inclusive Hospitality initiative. This expansion includes the newly established Visit Cincy Foundation for Hospitality Excellence, supplier diversity programs, community development outreach, workforce development, and more.

ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INCORPORATED® CONVENES OVER 4,000 ATTENDEES FOR THE 93RD SOUTH CENTRAL REGIONAL CONFERENCE IN LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS

93^rd South Central Regional Conference at the Statehouse Convention Center in Little Rock, Arkansas. Themed “A R.E.A.L. Diamond Adventure in the Natural State,” the conference brought over 4,000 members and guests from Arkansas, Texas, Louisiana and New Mexico to Little Rock, making a significant economic impact of more than $9 million to the central Arkansas community.

WE MUST STAND TOGETHER FOR WHAT IS RIGHT AND JUST

In a troubling era when there are forces at work determined to erase and eliminate our Black History, it is incumbent upon us as African-Americans to come together and push back. This environment makes the Black Meetings & Tourism Apex Awards even more important than ever, as we acknowledge the contributions and accomplishments of our brothers, sisters and colleagues in the Travel/Tourism/Hospitality Industry. It is also equally important for us to show our support for industry icon Elliott Ferguson, president/CEO of Destination DC, who along with four others was fired from the board of directors of Brand USA.

MEETING IN DALLAS IS A PLANNER’S DREAM

Dallas’ Arts District is buzzing with culture, vibrance, and life: the ideal destination for a meeting to remember. Skip the conference filled with forced agendas and tired attendees, and create a dynamic and inspiring experience that’ll make everyone want to stay for the encore.

Named the #1 Arts District in America by USA Today, this walkable downtown hub for creativity spreads across 20 square blocks and encompasses 68 acres. Featuring art for all senses, it’s home to award-winning museums, performing arts venues, and restaurants and bars around every corner. Unleash your imagination and adopt the maverick mindset in Dallas. Think outside the conference room and use theaters, museums, galleries, and sculpture gardens as exciting and stimulating meeting venues.

Marketing Tips

Why The Summe Slump Is BS - Entrepreneur Tells All - 5 Ways To Beat It!
It may be cold outside now, but before you know it, the temperature will be soaring to new heights.

Nine Types Of Clients You Should Cut Loose In 2016
Every Great Gardener Knows the Benefits That Winter Pruning Will Have Come Springtime.

Facebook....Or Face Time? Why Business Relationships Take More Than Texting, Friending, And "Online Cionnecting"
Technology has yielded some great communication tools, but Barefoot Wines founder Michael Houlihan says they are not relationship builders.

Reunions

St. Louis Excels As An Ideal Family Reunions Destination
When it’s time for your next family reunion, think St. Louis!

Sports Tourism

Pumping Up Meetings With Sporting Themes
Planners can score big with meeting professionals thanks to crowd-pleasing, sports-themed activities and events that are veritable touchdowns regardless of the

Ski Free At Snowbasin Resort With Your Alaska Airlines Boarding Pass
Based on the success of Alaska Airlines "Ski the West" campaign last winter, Snowbasin Resort has once again partnered with Alaska Airlines to offer ski enthusiasts the opportunity to "Fly Alaska, Ski Free".

The Copperhead Course Bites Back
Salamander Hotels & Resorts Re-Opens Famed Innisbrook Course After Restorative Enhancements

PGA National Resort & Spa Announces New State-Of-The-Art Sports & Racquet Club
PGA National Resort & Spa - South Florida's world-class golf, spa, vacation and meetings destination

Sawgrass Country Club Completes Major Golf Course Renovation
Final Nine Opened On October 28, 2015

Travel Tips

Top 10 Tips For Yor Best Business Trip Corporate Veteran And Travel Expert Jan Kaplan Offers Advice
It doesn't matter whether you are taking a trip for business or pleasure, traveling can be frustrating, uncomfortable and downright irritating.

New System Provides Innovative Ways To Avoid Missing Prescription Medication
Medcenter System Features New Approach of Pill Stocking (With Days and Dates), Talking Alarms and Visual Aids

Weekend Getaways

Recognize, Relax, Rejuvenate - Celebrate Success At Marriott
In our non-stop 24-7 world, we're always ready to tackle the next project, assignment or business deal before we've even had a chance to reflect on what has just been achieved.

Three Perfect Days In Pacifica, California
Located just 15 minutes from San Francisco, the beautiful beachfront town of Pacifica is the perfect destination for a quick three-day getaway.

Jade Mountain Tops Most Romantic Holiday List
London's Telegraph Media Group has recognized Jade Mountain in St. Lucia as the top of its Top 10 list of most romantic holidays in the Caribbean.

What's Happening

Plan A Valentine's Weekend Escape Or Date Night In Costa Mesa With Various Special Dining Menus And Packages, Costa Mesa Is a Romantiic Getaway
OC's Costa Mesa has put together some great weekend deals to celebrate a romantic Valentine's Day. Beginning Friday

La Quinta Resort & Club, A Waldorf Astoria Resort Rolls Out The Red Carpet This Holiday Season With New "Chestnuts & Capra" Package In December, 201
Fourth Annual "It's a Wonderful Life" Celebration Salutes Frank Capra's Classic Film with Interactive Cooking Demos, Chestnuts Roasting by a Fire, Fudge Tastings and The Big Guy in Red

2nd Annual Black Celebration Awards Recap
On Monday, September 21^st, BLACK STREET had their 2^nd Annual "Black Celebration" Awards ceremony at the Alvin Ailey Studios in New York City.

Area Guides

BALTIMORE: A CHANGING DESTINATION
Baltimore is a city in flux with more than $11 billion in new and future developments changing the face of this attractive destination. The city offers more than 7,800 hotel rooms and counting, and there are plenty of delightful world-class attractions, museums, and dining experiences in the heart of the downtown. The city's newest and largest hotel is the Hilton Baltimore, neatly situated in the Inner Harbor. This is the only hotel connected to the Baltimore Convention Center fully enclosed, climate-controlled skybridge. Hilton Baltimore offers 757 spacious well-appointed rooms, including 20 suites. Guests enjoy premier restaurant dining, a fitness center, heated indoor pool, a 24-hour business center, and on-site parking. For your meeting needs the hotel also offers over 60,000 sq. ft. of flexible function space, including 46 meeting rooms, the 25,000-sq. ft. Key Ballroom, the 15,000-sq. ft. Holiday Ballroom, and two meeting planner suites.

MICHIGAN: LAKESIDE MEETINGS
For business or pleasure, Michigan has what you are looking for. With thousands of miles of lakeshore beaches, visitors can discover all manner of water fun such as kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and sailing. Michigan's cities offer a variety of cultural experiences from museums and art galleries to historic sites and festivals. Modern meeting facilities and exceptional hotels only add to the allure of this great state.

NEVADA: THE SILVER STATE SHINES
Nevada, the Silver State, is one of the largest states in the US, which means you will find plenty to do here. It's one of the only places you can ski world-class runs in the morning, then walk world-class greens in the afternoon. You can bike or hike the Tahoe Rim Trail, navigate a kayak on the Truckee River through downtown Reno, take an ATV up Sand Mountain near Fallon and snowmobile miles of wide-open terrain near Elko. And no one can forget the world-class gaming, dining, and hotels of Vegas!

PORTLAND: LAND OF UNSPOILED ENVIRONMENTALISM
The rest of the world could take some cues from the city of Portland. Surrounded by the natural beauty of Mount Hood, the Oregon Coast, the Willamette Valley wine country, and the Columbia River Gorge, the people of Portland are obsessed with maintaining their pristine surroundings. Portlanders recycle 63 percent of their waste and most natives commute to work by bicycle or by public transportation. The city also has the most LEED certified buildings per capita in the country. It's no wonder that in these times of environmental concern that Portland has emerged as an attractive meetings destination.

THE CARIBBEAN: LESSER ANTILLES PART 1
The Caribbean Islands are a region of great beauty and diversity that extends from the coasts of Florida to the mountains of South America. The Lesser Antilles lie in the Southern region of the island chain, beginning just east of Puerto Rico. These islands are far enough away from the U.S to have retained much of their culture and many remain largely unaffected by the Western world at large. Pristine beaches and authentic experiences are common here. Let's take a look at the northern end of the Lesser Antilles.

FAM Report

TORONTO - A CULTURAL MOSAIC DESTINATION
Toronto, Canada, "an international city of warmth, openness, energy and style, is

enriched by the fusion of traditions, passions and perspectives on life of more than 100 cultures. It is one of the most popular choices for U.S. sponsored association meetings outside of the U.S. and it has the largest convention-center in Canada ranking it among the top 10 largest contiguous space facilities in North America" (city of Toronto agenda for Prosperity). This city is permeated with so much rich Black heritage, creating an ideal destination for convention and event planners, tour operations and weekend getaway savvy travelers.

From The Motherland

RAW AFRICA AT ITS WILDEST: Lugenda Wilderness Camp Opens for 2009 Season
Rani Resorts' seasonal Lugenda Wilderness Camp in Northern Mozambique has opened for 2009. Lugenda Wilderness Camp is set in one of Africa's last wild places, only recently accessible to discerning safari enthusiasts.

In The News

HILTON'S JOE BERGER GREETS THE PRESIDENT AND FIRST LADY

Hilton Hotels Americas VP Joe Berger and his wife Beth greet President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama at the White House Correspondents'

Association dinner held at Hilton Washington in Washington, D.C. on Saturday, May 9, 2009. For more than 30 years, Hilton Washington has hosted the prestigious annual event which draws luminaries from politics, business, media, and Hollywood to raise money for journalism scholarships at educational institutions across the country. Other notables at the hotel attending the dinner included actors Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes, Demi Moore and
Ashton Kutcher, Colin Firth, Owen Wilson, Kevin Bacon and Natalie Portman; comedians Whoopi Goldberg, Mike Myers, Denis Leary and Chris Rock; television news media Barbara Walters, Brian Williams, George Stephanopoulos and Bill O'Reilly; and politicos RNC Chairman Michael Steele, former Chairman of the Federal Reserve Alan Greenspan, Congressman John Lewis who marched on Washington with Dr. King in 1963, and more.

Local Hero

TIM JAMES: BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS FOR VISIT ROCHESTER, NEW YORK

For Tim James it's all about relationships. As director of Sales for VisitRochester, James finds gratification in developing lasting relationships with national SMERF organizations. He believes this is what has sustained Rochester as a meetings destination during these difficult economic times. "I find that relationships are the backbone of the success that Rochester has had over the years," asserts James. As sales manager at VisitRochester, prior to his current ten year stint as director, James, who started with the organization in 1990, honed his skills by getting to know his clients thoroughly to "understand their needs and wants." This practice serves him well to this day.

Open Forum

OPEN FORUM: THE DARKER THE NIGHT, THE BRIGHTER THE LIGHT
If I were to leave the planet for two months and return from my outer space experience to catch up on news in the travel and tourism business, I might come to the quick realization that the industry will soon be eliminated and even that the world may shortly come to an end.

Pacesetters

GARVIN GARRISON
Disney resort destinations are a dream come true; what better way to mix business

and pleasure without leaving the comforts of the 'playground with a twist'. Flexibility with a touch of magic is the Disney difference. They pride themselves in creating an environment to help tap into a world of imagination and inspiration. With two world famous theme parks, three amazing hotels, spectacular dinning, entertainment, Mandara spa and shopping, The Disney Resort offers fun ways to spark excitement inside and outside of the boardroom. No one could agree more, than Garvin Garrison, senior sales manager at Disneyland. "Disney is an icon. No matter where you are in the world, everyone knows who Disney is, people want to come, be it conferences or for family entertainment."

Religious Review

Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life

BOOKMARKS

According to the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life, 69 percent of people who consider themselves people of faith also believe that there is more than one way to

interpret the teachings of their religion. Alan Richards, author of the new novel The Second Cycle (Emerald Book Company), believes that this phenomenon is directly related to our continuing search for the true nature of God.

"The simple truth is that most people are ignorant and blasé about the thing most important thing in life, that being the true nature of God," Richards said. "The Bible was written by men - holy men - but men, nonetheless, which makes literal, dogmatic interpretation of the Bible unpalatable to many people. It's not just about whether the teachings and dogma appeal to them or have a place in their lives or world view - it's about the difference between walking the walk and talking the talk."

The Second Cycle, a fictional account of how a number of people come to terms with their individual search for the true meaning of God, is based on the true journey that lies before all of us.

Site Review

COMBINING BUSINESS AND PLEASURE IN THE PERFECT MEETING GETAWAY
There are a great number of things for you and your family to do in Michigan City, nestled on the southern shores of Lake Michigan about an hour east of Chicago. With

festivities year round, the city welcomes visitors with hospitality regardless of the season. It's the perfect destination to recharge, renew and refresh. From fantastic food, eclectic shopping and entertainment, to rich historical beauty and culture, it's the ideal departure from the ordinary every day.

The eastern edge of the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore features Mount Baldy, a large wandering dune and is one of the tallest sand dunes on Lake Michigan. There are miles of pristine beaches for swimming, boating and enjoying nature. The Michigan City In-water Boat Show, the largest on the Great Lakes is celebrating its 30th year.

Speaking Of People

People

The Phoenix Convention Center recently welcomed Cynthia Weaver as its new Communications Director. Weaver is responsible for media relations, internal and external communications, promoting environmental and sustainability programs and Web Content Management. Weaver came to the position from the city of Phoenix Public Information Office where she worked as a Public Information Officer since 2002.

Weaver's experience includes managing Public Relations for several city programs and departments including Housing, Environmental Programs & Sustainability, Youth & Education and Phoenix Sister Cities among others. Weaver was the first PIO for Phoenix's Downtown Development Office (DDO) and spearheaded communication efforts for the establishment of that office.

Travel Data

RIU HOTELS & RESORTS RANKS HIGH IN CUSTOMER SATISFACTION Annual Market Metrix Hospitality Index Report Shows Travelers Happy wit
Based on 35,000 customer interviews, the 2008 Annual Market Metrix Hospitality Index (MMHI) showed that RIU Hotels & Resorts ranked high with customer

satisfaction, making the all-inclusive resort group the overall winner of the 2008 Annual MMHI for Upper Upscale Hotels.

"It is quite an honor to be recognized by so many travelers for our customer service," stated Luis Riu, CEO of RIU Hotels & Resorts. "It truly is the people you meet and interact with that make a vacation wonderful. And we are so proud that our employees provide our guests with the vacation experience beyond their expectations."

The MMHI revealed that in 2008 customer satisfaction was up for hotels (+0.9) and airlines (+1.5) and that RIU Hotels & Resorts ranked highest in customer satisfaction among Upper Upscale Hotels. The Market Metrix Hospitality Index™ (MMHI) is the largest and most in-depth measure of hospitality company performance available. For more information, visit www.marketmetrix.com.

TAMPA BAY & COMPANY UNVEILS 2008 VISITOR

Vendor Spotlight

AUGUSTIN M. M. HOUEGBAN, PRESIDENT/CEO OF WORLD STAR PROTECTIVE SERVICES
Augustin Houegban grew up in the Republic of Benin in West Africa. He ventured to the United States in 2002 and has since studied business, finance and organizational

security management. After working in the security field for over 10 years, Houegban opened his own security service, World Star Protective Services. World Star Protective Services, based in the Los Angeles area and having started out with five full-time security guards, currently has over 50 full-time security guards in its employ.

"I like being the one responsible for protecting people and their property," says Houegban. "Clients come to me with their needs and concerns after having invested a lot of time and money into their properties; it's my job to provide them with the necessary services to make them feel safe and keep them and their belongings protected. World Star Protective Services equips our customers with extra eyes and peace of mind. I enjoy the public relations side of the business the most; I like to know that my clients feel safe and secure when my team is on the premises." Although Houegban is the main one in charge of office planning and operations for World Star, he still enjoys putting on his uniform and presenting to job sites. Once at the location, Houegban finds comfort in being able to assess his team's presence at the site and in enforcing that sense of security and manpower.

World Star Protective Services offers armed and unarmed security to commercial and residential buildings, hospitals, universities, financial institutions, malls, car dealerships, construction sites, churches and special events. They also offer bodyguards, corporate escorts and have a security training academy which provides the state required training for their security employees. World Star is California licensed (PPO # 16004), bonded and insured and all guards are put through an extensive background check, fingerprinted, instructed in The Power of Arrest, as well as Public Relations and the Laws & Regulations of a security guard.

In Your Own Words

How To Unlock The Hidden Genius In Your Organization
Every organization has brilliant people who are "under the radar." They are the geniuses who may not look like everyone else,

3 Reasons It's Wise To Spend Time With Those Who Are Different From Us
Americans may be living in an echo chamber.

Why Don't We Have The Politics Of The Possible Anymore?
In 1954, when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled on Brown v. Board of Education, the Gross Domestic Product (GDP-the value of all goods and services produced in the United States)

Staycations

25 Free Things To Do This Winter In San Diego
From traditional holiday parades and festivals to the migration of California gray whales along the Pacific coast, a visit to San Diego during the winter offers a wealth of free, fun and festive experiences.

West Hollywood Named The Most Walkable City In California
West Hollywood is proud to announce that it has been ranked the most walkable city in the state of California by Walk Score®.

Summer Of Shangri-La Begins With A Splash! Ste. 700, The Courtyard And Ditch Day Fridays Make Their Debut At Hotel Shangri-La

Sweeping Ocean Views, Summery Cocktails, and Courtyard & Rooftop Dining Make Tamie Adaya’s Hotel Shangri-La This Summer’s Nexus of Fun. The Summer of Shangri-La is off to an early start, as the iconic Santa Monica Hotel Shangri-La launches Suite 700, The Courtyard and Ditch Day Fridays.

Cruising

114-Guest M/V Sea Spirit To Introduce Splendors Of The Southern Ocean's Aquatic And Birdlife On Value-Packed Fall 2017 Poseidon Expeditions
Reasons to venture toward Antarctica are many. Over 200 years ago uncharted waters, whales and the fur trade drew ships

Oceanwide Discounts Voyages To Celebrate Ross Sea Protection News
Oceanwide Expeditions is celebrating the news that the Ross Sea will become the world's largest marine

Six Ne-For-2017 Cruise Itineraries Ecncompass Adventuresmith Explorations' Creativity
Creativity is a hallmark of small ship cruise expert AdventureSmith Explorations as it applies to cruise routes, ports of call and destinations, choice of cruise vessel

Food Service Beat

Oceania Cruises Introduces New Evening Tapas Menus
Flavors of Spain, Asia, and the World Come Alive Each Evening

Chef Michael's Popular Ravioli Tarfufo Is Available At Acoya
After a long day at the beach, many travelers would prefer a leisurely, relaxing private dining experience within the confines

The Turks & Caicos Collection's Alexandria Resort Launches New Oceanfront Eatery
Asú On the Beach Receives Rave Reviews Following November 1 Opening

Tools Of The Trade

The Power of "Old School" Service Four Reasons Your Business Should Bring it Back
Companies are more tech-savvy than ever, but customers still crave old-fashioned service (albeit with a modern spin).

Seven Big Rules to Follow When Firing a Client
Firing a client is one of the most difficult decisions a business owner will ever make. And when push comes to shove, few actually do the deed.

If You Can't Listen, You Will Become Irrelevant: Nine Career-Damaging Bad Listening Habits And What You Can Do About Them,
Listening is the single most important job skill you can have in the 21st century. Ed Hess explains why.

Wellness Travel

Kickstart Your Healthy New Year's Resolutions On a Dominican Republic Fitness Gertaway

From nature trekking to yoga retreats; vacationing in Dominican Republic
will get your heart pumping

IHG Opens Flagship Even® Hotels Property In New York City, Quickly Expanmding Options For Wellness-Minded Travelers
First Hotel Brand Dedicated to Wellness Opens Third Hotel in Growing Portfolio

Hotel Casa Del Mar & Shutters On The BEach Debut Custom Mindfulness-Inspired Offereings For Corporate Retreats & Group Travelers
Guests Can Reconnect Body and Soul Through Group Sessions With Santa Monica's John Sahakian, a World-Renowned Meditation and Stress-Management Expert