November 2007

British Airways sees profits rise One of Europe’s biggest carriers, British Airways PLC

(BA), posted a 52 percent increase on its profits for thefirst half on Nov. 2, but lowered its full year forecastbecause of continuing weakness in the U.S. dollar.

The airline company cited cost-cutting measures anddemand for premium tickets for the profits increase.

BA reported net income of $996 million in the sixmonths ended Sept. 30, compared with $656 million lastyear. Interestingly, overall revenues were down to $9.29billion from $9.35 billion a year earlier.

“Profits are up and costs are down, building on the stepswe took last year,” chief executive officer Willie Walsh said.

BA makes a large portion of its profits from businessand first-class customers traveling to and from the UnitedStates. Overcrowding caused by tighter security restric-tions at Heathrow, limiting passengers to one carry-onbag, has affected its business. Walsh said the airlineexpected those restrictions to be lifted soon.

In related news, BA is bracing for the Open SkiesTreaty to open up the airport to other airlines in April,2008. Air France-KLM and Delta Air Lines Inc. recentlyannounced a joint venture to offer flights from Heathrow.

On the Web: www.britishairways.com.

Cruise lines add fuel surchargesThree cruise companies, Oceania, Carnival Corp. and

Regent Seven Seas Cruises, will be adding fuel surchargesto their pricing. Oceania Cruises will tack on $7 per guest,per day, for all reservations not paid in full by Dec. 1, andall reservations made thereafter for published sailingsthrough April 2009.

Carnival Corp. will begin charging an extra $5 per person, per day, on all bookings of cruises departing onor after Feb. 1, 2008, on Carnival Cruise Lines, CostaCruises, Cunard Line, Holland America Line, PrincessCruises and Yachts of Seabourn. The charge will onlyapply to the first and second passengers of each stateroom and will not exceed $70 per voyage.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises will charge $7.50 per passenger,per day, for all 2008 cruises not paid in full by Dec. 1.

In other cruise news...Celebrity Cruises rolled out a new kit Tuesday to help

planners book their next meeting or incentive cruise. Thekit includes a guide to Celebrity’s fleet, with specs onmeeting space, dining choices, accommodations and spaoptions, as well as an overview of corporate amenities andcharter programs.

Contact Ron Gulaskey at [email protected]. for more info.

• • •

November 07 3 THEPLANNER

> Industry News

We crave to be appreciated…

Constant Craving, the memorable song byCanadian singer k.d. lang, might not have

been about being appreciated, but craving to be accepted andappreciated is a constant human principal. That’s why this monthwe have tried to cover a bit of ground with our incentive articles.Each employee adds or subtracts from the team’s work and worth.What gives employees incentive to give their best? Recognition ofcourse. This innate need for appreciation is not selfish, it is anauthentic desire to be deemed worthy when giving one’s best. Not just praise, but being valued and appreciated.

From a simple compliment to elaborate recognition sayingthank you, it is one of the most common ways of acknowledgingcultural values. What we choose to recognize and reward is anexpression of a company’s culture. What is done for one personis elevated for appreciation by the masses. In recognition, ceremonies or incentive travel or even with the Christmas parties,we express first hand an organization’s values.

We hope you will enjoy and get ideas from these articles, andas usual please share your experiences with us. And as we arequickly approaching that time of the year remember to share inyour good fortune by giving to those less fortunate. It’s a way ofsaying “Thank you for everything I have” by sharing your goodfortune with those of lesser means. As the next edition of ThePlanner will be mailed during the holidays, I would like to take thisopportunity to wish you and your family health and prosperity in thecoming New Year.

—Leo Gervais

4 November 07 THEPLANNER

> Ed. Note T H E I N T E R N A T I O N A L E D I T I O N

In th is Issue6>

10>

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THEPLANNEREDITOR AND PUBLISHER Leo Gervais [email protected] EDITORS Nathalie Caron [email protected]

Jyl Ashton Cunningham [email protected] Lay [email protected]

GRAPHIC ARTIST Matt RiopelSALES James Paulson [email protected] Tania Joanis, Patricia LemusCONTRIBUTORS Mike Auctor, Anne Biarritz, Jim Clemmer, John Felice,

Savika Fowsar, Assunta Gazzerro, Pierre Geoffroy, Stacey Hanke, Barry Siskind, Sandra Wood, Sharon Worsley

2105 de la Montagne, suite 100Montreal, Quebec H3G 1Z8

Telephone: (514) 849-6841 ext. 333 Fax: (514) 284-2282We welcome your comments: [email protected]

The Planner is a monthly publication distributed to professional meeting and event planners across Canada.

The Planner uses 30% recycled post-consumer paper.Poste-publication No. 40934013

Greener pasturesLots of planners pay lip service to greeningtheir business. Sandra Wood provides ampleadvice and direction on how to produce agreen event as a planner and then measureyour success properly.

Luggage There is a vast selection of luggage outthere, but choosing what works for you isdependent on a few key factors. Thisinformative article examines the best way toshop for luggage and laptop bags to makeyou a first-class traveler.

Making bloopersStacey Hanke coaches individuals how tochange and improve their communicationbehavior, but observes that most peopledon’t realize how unaware they are. We don’t know what we don’t know!

Show managersKnowing the ins and outs of working withshow managers can be invaluable. BarrySiskind provides some insight on what toexpect and ask for when dealing with theseimportant suppliers, and how to get whatyou need for your show.

Pandemic influenzaIn this third installment, Dr. Pierre Geoffroyexamines how knowledge is power for the traveler in the quest to being prepared for theworst case scenarios. Asking lots of questionswill help you understand your options.

Why training failsJim Clemmer is an expert when it comes totraining people. He provides ample evi-dence why “spray and pray” lectures donot usually meet expectations and tells ushow to train people better.

Nothing but The BestJyl Ashton Cunningham has worked onmany incentive programs and with dozensof companies. Our savvy associate editorexplains what the real key is to makingincentive programs work.

BY SANDRA WOOD, CMP

You’ve just been given the “thumbs up” to green upyour event, so where do you start?

First of all, I apologize for my use of the word“green.” There are many more politically correct buzz-words like “ecological footprint,” “zero waste,” “carbonneutral” and “environmentally responsible.” Don’t letthese terms confuse you, they all have specific meaning.When in doubt—Google them! “Green” is a friendlyway of saying many things, so for the purposes of thisarticle I’m sticking with “green” and I hope you willbear with me.

To get started, take a look at the current goals and objec-tives for your event and prepare additional ones to reflectwhat you’re trying to accom-plish by going green. This isimportant and ensures thatyou and your employer/clientare on the same page. Setshort- and long-term goals tokeep you focused.

Build a strong relation-ship with your venuebecause you need their sup-port. Send them your “greenwish list” of what you’d like to do and go through itwith them. Find out what’s doable because venues areat various levels of being green due to existing infra-structure, potential costs in making changes, city bylawsand provincial laws that govern. For example, somevenues still cannot donate leftover food due to citybylaws. So talk to your venue.

USE CREDIBLE SOURCESPrepare guidelines that align with your goals and

objectives. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel. Youprobably will write some guidelines yourself, but thereare great sample guidelines already available. Take alook at Chapter 30 of the PCMA Professional MeetingManagement Book on Comprehensive Strategies forMeetings, Conventions and Events, Fifth Edition, theCIC Green Meeting Report and Environment Canada’sGreen Meeting Guide. Ask your colleagues to share anythey may have developed as well.

Use credible sources to substantiate the guidelines youprepare. Remember, there are few standards or regula-tions in existence for much of this so it’s up to you to pres-ent your findings and substantiate them. That’s why I rec-ommend you join the Green Meetings Industry Council.

The GMIC can direct you to credible sources and saveyou a lot of time. This will give you greater confidencewhen putting forth your ideas.

Be flexible in implementing your guidelines, thereare compromises to be made! For example, choosingmenu items for your banquet that are locally grown ver-sus organic produce flown in from out of province orcountry is something you’ll need to ponder. Restassured that every step you take, no matter how smallit might seem, is a step in the right direction.

Set your budget to account for areas where you willsave money such as less water bottles, less printing dueto electronic media, reduced amounts of shipping. Youalso need to account for areas that will cost more like sup-porting a carbon offset program, using 30 percent more

expensive post-consumercontent paper and bio-dieselbuses that can cost double.

Communicate your effortsto your attendees! This is soimportant and they want tosee your sincere efforts.Project a list of what youhave achieved on screen inyour plenary and on yourconference web page. Have

your speaker announce some of the things you achieveeach day. Your employer/client needs to pat itself on theback for the efforts it’s making and needs to thank theattendees for their support. This way, everyone feelsgood, everyone is engaged.

KEEP THE MOMENTUM GOINGFinally, measurable! Do a post-conference green

report. Did you meet your goals and objectives? Maybeyou even exceeded them. How much did you consume(your carbon footprint)? How much did it cost, wheredid you save money? Can you do better next year andwhat steps will you take? Keep the momentum going.

The move to greener pastures is filled with excitingchallenges. As “green” becomes the norm it gets easi-er. For more information, register for the PCMA CanadaEast Workshop on “Green Your Meetings – FromTheory to Reality,” November 30, 2007 at the ChateauLaurier in Ottawa. I look forward to seeing you thereand wish you great success with greening your event!

On the Web: www.greenmeetings.info.Sandra Wood is the Annual Meeting Manager for the Canadian

Medical Association in Ottawa, Ontario. She can be reached at: san-

[email protected].


It’s time to move to greener pastures

Only speak when you connect with your

listener’s eyes.

November 07 7THEPLANNER


On a cruise, attendees bond through shared experiences

Guests especially appreciate being free from most ofthe added expenses of a hotel. Lobster anyone?

During the planning stages, the cruise line will assigna dedicated specialist to work with the meeting plannerand their travel agent to coordinate all of the require-ments of the group. During the event, the ship’sonboard coordinator acts as liaison for the client andthe ship’s hotel staff to ensure every need is taken careof, from audiovisual to refreshments.

In terms of networking, teambuilding and fun, acruise is uniquely positioned to make it happen seam-lessly. Guests naturally mingle during social events suchas dining or cocktail parties and connect with eachother in a variety of other places. Whether it is at thedisco, casino, and poolside or at an organized groupevent during a stop in port, attendees bond throughshared experiences.

Out to sea does not mean out of touch either.Internet access is available at the onboard Internet Caféor wirelessly in various “hot spots.” Many ships haveintroduced cellular service as well, but you will want tocheck on roaming charges with your provider beforedeciding to flip open your phone.

You can now choose to cruise from more NorthAmerican departure ports then ever, including NewYork, New Orleans, Los Angeles, Vancouver and more.The date and length of your event will help narrow yourchoices. From there, it’s a matter of determining yourgroup’s requirements and finding the cruise line andship that will best suit your needs.

John Felice is Vice President, Marketing for Expedia

CruiseShipCenters. He has taken over 35 cruises and been part of

more than a dozen conferences at sea. He can be contacted at:

[email protected].

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Did you know...54% of people in small companies* like their jobs

a lot, vs. 44% of people in big** companies.

* Fewer than 50 employees** 1,000 or more employees

Source: Businessweek

November 07 9 THEPLANNER

GST/HST rebate continues for foreign conventions,HAC praises Tory government for its initiatives

Foreign conventions continue to be exempt from the GST/HST as prescribed in the recent federal budget. Tour packages are also eligiblefor a GST/HST rebate. This segment of the travel and tourism businessgenerates more than $1.28 billion annually, a significant factor in Canada’seconomy.

Last year, hotels had revenues of $17.9 billion, generated value-addedof $16.2 billion in all sectors and employed 378,000 people with wagesand benefits totalling $8.6 billion.

The Hotel Association of Canada (HAC) congratulated ConservativeFinance Minister Jim Flaherty on his recognition of the importance of hotelsin the budget and applauded other industry-related initiatives, including:• $50.5 million over two years to improve the Temporary Foreign WorkersProgram • $30 million a year to support local arts and heritage festivals • $17.6 billion in gas tax and funds for municipalities • $8.8 billion for the national highway system and infrastructure • $1.5 billion for projects cutting air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions• $2.1 billion for borders/gateways including funding for Windsor –Detroit.

The HAC is a federation of provincial and territorial hotel associations,hotel chains, and suppliers with a mandate to represent members nation-ally and internationally and to provide cost effective services which stim-ulate and encourage a free market accommodation industry.

On the Web: www.hotelassociation.ca

> Industry News Did you know...that people with large numbers ofmoles on their body may age moreslowly than expected, researchers

at King’s College London saidrecently. A study of 1,800 twinsfound that very moley skin waslinked to an indicator of slower

biological ageing.


Carrying the load has neverbeen easier for business travelersToday’s luggagechoices vary in size,style and material

Ed. Note: We wanted to provideour readers with practical informa-tion about luggage. Who better toinform planners than The Bay, oneof Canada’s largest and most trustedretailers? We hope the following article is useful to you.

With the vast selection andvariety of luggage availablethese days, it is hard to

know where to start when setting outto make a purchase. A good place tostart is to ask yourself, “What am Iusing this luggage for?” and “Howmuch am I willing to spend?”

“As a luggage expert, I tend tolook for the materials that the lug-gage is made of and then at itsdesign or look,” says Krista Haigh,The Bay’s luggage buyer. “If youfocus on what materials you wantyour bag to be made of, you canstart to narrow down your search.”

As one of Canada’s leading lug-gage retailers, The Bay carries abroad selection of luggage. From ahard-sided case, to a semi-soft or softcase, Haigh explains that each offersunique benefits and durability.

“I am finding that smaller, hard-sided cases are increasing in popu-larity,” says Haigh, “especially asmore light-weight models come outlike the newest models from Heys.”

When looking at hard-sidedcases, which give maximum protec-tion to the contents, they are eithermade of molten plastic, (usuallypolypropylene) which is extremely

durable, or vinyl, a moderately pricedplastic material that comes in a vari-ety of colours. While these cases tendto be more cumbersome, they pro-vide peace of mind when it comes tosafeguarding your belongings.

Semi-soft and soft cases, whichgenerally expand with the help of

extendable tops and bottoms, canbe constructed out of a variety ofmaterials. Most common are nylonand vinyl. Nylon can be coated, sothe bag maintains its appearance,and consumers should check for adurable product with a denier of 400or more.

Usage and price are two major factors when deciding what type of luggage to buy.

Laptop bags have become a necessity, in either fabric or leatherFor those willing to spend a little more, ballistic

nylon is a durable tear-resistant fabric used in moreexpensive luggage such as Delsey Helium Breeze.

“Our customers have told us they love this productfor its strength, but also because it’s a bit more flexiblethan a hard case,” says Haigh.

The other choice is leather, which comes in twoforms: genuine and split. Genuine leather is the outer-most layer of skin, desirable because of its durability,strength and ability to take finish. Split leather consistsof the under layers of the skin, which is cheaper, andcan be processed to look like any type of leather.

Finally, Haigh points out that the hardware used inthe construction of the bag can be very important. Someof the most notable features are the zipper, the handleand wheels. The two most durable zippers are polyestercoil, and continuous molded zippers. These two areboth very durable and polyester zippers can be rezonedand “healed” should they pop open. The handle is veryimportant to look at when purchasing luggage. Themost durable handle—mounted using metal or metal-reinforced bases with a number of rivets, screws, orprongs attached to the frame of the case itself—increas-es the load-bearing area, allowing for easier maneuver-ing. It is best to look at two and four wheeled pieces thatwill have improved handling and stability.

For the business traveler, laptop bags have become anecessity. One of the first choices to make is fabric orleather. Leather is durable and formal but fabric comesin a variety of styles and colours for a more personal-ized feel. Another key consideration is how the laptopshould be carried. A tote style with two handles keepsthe laptop right under the arm for good control but canfeel awkward if something else is carried on the shoul-der. Across-the-body styles make it easier for travel.Backpacks are too casual for some but provide bothcontrol and ease of carrying.

Being informed about these key luggage areas shouldgive you a leg up when faced with the big bag decision.With this information under your belt, purchasing qual-ity luggage should be a breeze. Now the only questionis “What to pack?”

If you’re considering luggage or travel related acces-sories for corporate gifting this holiday season, or lap-top carrying cases for your mobile employees, contactthe Hbc Business Development team at 1-866-461-2323.

This article was submitted by The Bay.

On the Web: www.hbc.com/bay



Communication bloopers happen!

Isound like my mother when I say,“Where has the year gone?”Thank you for being with me in

2007. I was trying to figure out whatI should share with you for one last

time this year. And then it hit me: Why not share thecommunication bloopers I’ve seen and heard from myclients throughout the year?

Every year as I travel across the U.S. coaching indi-viduals how to change and improve their communica-tion behavior, I realize how unaware we are. We don’tknow what we don’t know. We have a mystery abouthow we look and soundwhen we communicate.Until we see and hear forourselves what others seeand hear, we create a lot ofmisinterpretations. Yet per-ceptions are reality. I’verealized that what individu-als feel when they communi-cate, nine out of ten times, isdifferent than what their lis-teners see.

I’ve had many laughs with individuals when theyfinally realize what their behaviors communicate. Nowwhen I say laughs, it is the type of laughter that both Iand my clients learn from. Since we learn the mostvaluable lessons in life from each other, I wanted toshare the top four bloopers of 2007.

Top Four Bloopers1. I was working with a CEO of a Fortune 500Company, helping him to improve his communicationwhen presenting to large audiences. He had more ener-gy than a two-year-old child. He distributed this ener-gy by rocking back and forth. At the end of our six-hour coaching session I asked him to try one more timeto deliver his message standing still for at least two min-utes. (Remember, when you are trying to change abehavior you want to train to the extreme. In this caseI knew if I could get the CEO to stand for a longer peri-od of time than he really would in front of an audience,he would be more likely to create a new habit of notrocking back and forth). If you are rocking back andforth, pacing or shifting your weight from side –to side,thinking on your feet is going to be very difficult.

This is exactly what was happening to my client.Standing tall with his arms relaxed at his sides, he saidto me with confidence, “I can do this. I promise not torock anymore.” As he started to talk, he found the sideseams on his pant legs. He continued to pull both pantlegs up as he delivered his message to me. I finallystopped him when he had his pant legs pulled up to hisknees and I said, “Take a look down.” He glanceddown, then slowly looked up at me and burst intolaughter. When we finally wiped the last tear from ourface after buckling over with laughter, he asked me, “Idon’t understand, how can I do an action and not real-ize I’m doing it?” Until you become aware of yourbehaviors, you will continue to use them and walkaround not knowing what you don’t know.

2. I have shared numerousarticles with you on the topicof “How to Interact withVisual Aids.” This topic con-tinues to be a challenge formany individuals. One indi-vidual in particular wasattending my two-day work-shop. His assignment on day

two was to deliver a five-minute presentation using avisual aid. In this situation, his visual aid was a presen-tation board explaining a new marketing campaign. Ashe began his presentation, within seconds he held up thepresentation board in front of his face. He suddenly dis-appeared and all you could see was the board with amuffled voice coming out from behind it. When hedecided to set the board off to the side, he turned to theboard and started talking to it. It was the oddest sight tosee him having a relationship with his board. As a result,he disconnected with everyone and the energy in theroom died as listeners either stared at the board or drift-ed into space. I stopped his presentation and asked:“Who are you talking to?” He smiled, began to laugh andsaid, “I’m having a relationship with my board, aren’t I?”

The lesson learned: Stop talking to objects. Onlyspeak when you connect with your listeners’ eyes. Whenyou refer to your visual aid (notes, PowerPoint, market-ing pieces, etc.) pause, gather your thoughts and giveyour listeners time to read and understand the visual.

3. Do you know anyone who talks with their hands?You would be surprised by the number of individuals Iwork with who never stop moving their hands and armswhen they speak.

Only speak when you connect with your

listener’s eyes.

BY STACEY HANKE


I was working with a Vice President of Marketing. Her goalwas to improve her face-to-face conversations with peers andclients. She agreed to be videotaped during the coaching ses-sion. The power of videotaping is the best investment you willever have in your development, because the video camera doesnot lie; it allows you to see and hear what others see and hear.

During her first videotaped exercise, she gave me an updateon her monthly meetings that she has with her team. At first Iwasn’t sure what she was trying to do with her hands. All ofher gestures looked the same; her elbows were velcroed to hersides and her arms and hands would not stop moving. I want-ed to duck and take a step back to make sure she didn’t hit mein the face. At the end of every gesture she would let her handsdrop down from her wrist like a dog begging for food.

I knew she needed to see what her hands were doing. Aswe began to watch the tape she immediately stopped the tapeand asked, “Why didn’t anyone tell me I look like a dog?”

Gestures lose their impact – to create emphasis around yourwords – when you talk with your hands. It is all about bal-ance and variety. Bring your arms up from your sides whenyou want to make a point or add emphasis. When the gestureis complete, relax your arms back at your sides. To add vari-ety, use one arm to make a small gesture and add a bigger ges-ture when you need to give your message more impact.

4. We all have energy when we communicate. The key is tochannel the energy to make sure it does not become a distrac-tion rather than an enhancement to your message. I was work-ing with medical sales representatives whose clients were doc-tors. To better understand their job responsibilities, I spent aday observing their sales calls. One particular sales represen-tative loved to grip her pen when she talked to doctors. Shehad high energy, which came through in the fidgeting of herpen. One day I was observing her conversation with a doctorand watching her rapid gestures while gripping the pen. Asshe leaned into the doctor to make her point, her pen startedto look like a weapon in her right hand. Just as the doctor start-ed to lean away from her, the pen slipped out of her hand andhit the doctor smack-dab in the middle of his forehead. Youcan imagine the look on his face. He grabbed his clipboardwithout saying a word and walked away. After consoling thesales representative we began to work on the how-to’s ofaddressing a doctor and using a pen only when necessary.

Pay attention to how you are using your energy during con-versations. Is it a distraction or are you able to channel yourenergy to enhance your message? When in doubt, less is more.

I hope these stories have brought some laughter into yourday and I wish you continued success!

Stacey Hanke is an executive consultant, author, coach and speaker with 1st

Impression Consulting, Inc. in Chicago, Ill. Contact her at:

[email protected] or (773) 209-5970.

Is your energy a distraction?


Improving your relationship withshow management is invaluable

Show managers aremore professional now

One vehicle to achieve outstandingsuccess is found in your working

relationship with the show manager.Stephen Hacker, president of the International

Association of Exhibits and Events (IAEE) states “Theshow manager should be a facilitator, not a realtor.” Butmaking the transition for many has been slow andpainful.

All companies whether they sell products or servicesknow that customer loyalty is earned. It comes withtime, energy and resources. As an exhibitor you are theshow manager’s customer and through your relationshipyou can glean many ideas.

Yet, traditionally exhibitors have shied away fromrevealing too much to their show manager. Perhaps it isa lack of understanding of the show management’s roleor a general mistrust.

During the past decade, show mangers have devel-oped a new level of professionalism. Such professionalaccreditation as CEM (Certified in ExhibitionManagement) which is offered by the IAEE as well asdedicated programs offered by many colleges and uni-versities are responsible for this new breed of showmanagers.

What does this mean to exhibitors? When you have ashow manager who understands the long-term implica-tions of running their shows and fairs and having solidrelationships with their exhibitors then the opportuni-ties for you are immense. j13

As an exhibitor, here are some of the things youshould expect from your show manager:

1) Exhibit tools and technologiesYour show manager should be prepared to help you

get a positive return on your investment with such toolsas a show lead retrieval system, access to marketingresources such as media lists, pre-registration namesand co-op advertising opportunities and successfulexhibitor tips.

2) Honest advice on the appropriateness of invest-ing in the show

Not all shows offer equal opportunities. Some aremore appropriate for your objectives than others. Priorto sending a deposit you should have a conversationwith the show manager to discuss your objectives. Youshould expect honest feedback on whether the show isthe right one for you.

3) A road map for the myriad rules and regulationsAlthough show managers make this information

available, rarely will an exhibitor take the time to thor-oughly understand the rules and restrictions of a showand the facility. Throwing up their hands, show man-agers may say, “Exhibitors don’t read all the stuff Isend,” and leave it at that. Be proactive and work withyour show manager or volunteer for a show committeeto develop ways of disseminating information that willbe read and understood by all exhibitors.

4) Feedback on your performanceAsk the show manager to visit your booth during the

show to give you feedback on your performance suchas how you compare to the competition, what youcould do to improve and how effective were your boothstaff. Ask the show manager to report back to you afterthe show so you can incorporate their comments intoyour future plans.

5) Networking opportunities with other exhibitors,association representatives, delegates and the media

There is more to a show than what can be accomplishedat your booth. Your show manager should help facilitateyour need to meet as many people at the show as possible.

Ask if the show manager is using any networkingsoftware to match delegates and exhibitors. Work close-ly with your show manager to find ways of extendingyour reach throughout the show.

It’s no longer a we and them scenario at trade shows.In order for everyone to win both sides need to makethe effort to let each other know what they need and tocreatively find solutions so that they both succeed.

• • •

Visit www.siskindtraining.com/product_free.php to hear BarrySiskind's program Double Your Trade Show Results Guaranteed

BY BARRY SISKIND


Knowledge is power, so beinformed about potential risksBY DR. PIERRE GEOFFROY

It is very unlikely that a pandemic will suddenly arisein the midst of your travels or attending a business

meeting. Thus it is unnecessary to carry an evacuationplan in your pocket at all times – or is it? A pandemic isone type of emergency. What if you were in New YorkCity when 9/11 occurred? New Orleans when the hurri-cane hit? Or most recently, in Pakistan, when the polit-ical turmoil broke out? Sure, a plan in case of a pandem-ic is good to have but perhaps it should be a little moregeneric – like “What do I do if all hell breaks loose inor close to where I am traveling?” In fact, have you everthought of what you’d do if you or someone accompa-nying you were seriously sick?

In my clinic people commonly ask about getting avaccine for hepatitis or yellow fever. That’s it. That’stheir plan. They haven’t even considered what theyshould do to avoid hepatitis in the first place. Theynever have a plan in case they should get sick. By theway, what is the most common infectious disease peo-ple get while traveling?

1. Hepatitis A2. Influenza (seasonal)3. Yellow Fever4. Cholera5. Malaria

Influenza! That’s right it is happening somewhere atsometime in the world. So get your influenza vaccine.That is a great start to protecting yourself.

Getting back to a pandemic, hopefully you wouldn’t setout on international travel once the WHO has moved toPhase 4 of its alert system (See part 2 for explanation ofWHO alert system). In fact, I would try to avoid traveloverseas once there is documented sustained human-to-human transmission. So the first part of an emergencytravel plan is to get information prior to leaving – do yourhomework – check out CDC as I explained in Part 2.Discover which diseases are endemic to the area you aregoing to and what necessary precautions you should

make. Next, imagine something bad happening while youare traveling: For instance, you are in Bangkok andauthorities in Indonesia report the worst cluster ofhuman-to-human spread of pandemic influenza. WHOchanges its alert system to Phase 4. You are the principleorganizer of a large international meeting. On seeing theheadlines in the newspaper, guests at the meeting want toknow if they should leave? Some are perhaps even pan-icky. What do you do?

1. Ask if they have travel insurance?2. Ask if they got their flu shot?3. Advise them to wear a mask4. Explain the significance of Phase 4

Remember: Knowledge is power. Be informed.Explaining clearly the significance of phase 4 and itsimmediate dangers is going to help prevent a panic andallow the meeting participants to continue their meetingeffectively while, behind the scenes, you are contactinglocal authorities or CDC.org to find out more. The pointis this: The most important part of any plan is beinginformed and knowing where to get more up-to-dateinformation. Before leaving on an international trip youshould know:

1. Contact numbers for your consulate2. Where to get up-to-date information fast3. What the risks are (in this instance of a change in thealert phase)4. Where or how to get emergency funds?5. All of the above?

I hope you get the plan: be informed. There are toomany possible disasters that can occur to have a planfor each one. Being informed, knowing where to getup-to-date information, having a handle on the risks,and knowing what you’ll need now is going to put youahead. Arm yourself with knowledge before you leave.That will give you the power to make the difference andsave the meeting!

• • •

Pierre Geoffroy is a family physician practicing near Toronto.

In addition to his clinical activities, he is involved in medicines research

and development. You can contact him at: [email protected].

Avian and pandemic influenza: What the traveler should know, Pt. 3


Trendy gifts abound for the holidays and 2008BY NATHALIE CARON

While attending The Motivation Show inChicago from September 25 to 27, I inquiredabout hot items to suggest as corporate gifts

for the holidays and what would be trendy for 2008. As an event planner, it is often a headache finding theright corporate gifts for the holidays or for a corporateevent. Here are some suggestions that will accommodateeither a small or large budget:

BAGS, CASES AND MAPS Many designers are proposing notebook bags for

ladies or cell phone cases in an array of color and mate-rial. Some companies specialize in packaging your special items e.g. a bag in the form of a jewel case. Theyare very creative and can help you create a unique pack-age for your gift. Picnics are trendy this season andmany medium- to high-end outdoor products areoffered to make these gathering a fun experience. For the holidays, you can find picnic or wine totes, cool-er bags or martini totes as well as tailgating items orfully-insulated and collapsible coolers.

You could also have Michelin maps & guides customized for your group with the name of your program, company or event on the cover page. Anotherinteresting gift, good for any type of occasion or event,is a gift card. There is a wide selection for an almostunlimited amount of items. You can choose from gas,books or music, clothing, outdoor gear or home renova-tions or decoration, just to name few. Some companieswill also give you a discount on the amount you purchase.

Crystal items are interesting items to consider. If youneed a trophy or a special item to mark an event, youcan find smaller customized items like paper weights orthemed items with the name of your group or eventengraved into it.

When you think of food as a gift, gift baskets are thefirst thing that comes to mind because everybody seemsto receive them during the holidays. Have you everthought of sending edible arrangements? This could bea bouquet of flowers made of fruit. You could also lookinto green products like what some ranches are propos-ing: Very high quality grass fed beef with no fertilizer orinsecticide.

Candy bars can show-case colorful, unique, hip,and sophisticated packag-ing with high-end qualityproducts.

If you are thinkingabout clothing, perform-ance wear is still popularin 2008.

You could also work with a high-end sunglasses com-pany during your event: They display their wares andyour delegates or guests can make their free selectionaccording to the shape of their face and the look theyprefer. This saves you time, everyone gets a great giftand all the guests leave happy.

ELECTRONIC GADGETSIf electronic gifts or gadgets tickle your fancy, here

are some ideas for you: Digital picture books or keychains that can hold 15 pictures or more depending onthe resolution you choose. You might also consider alaptop essential kit with a gooseneck light, four-portUSB hub, numeric key pad and connector cable, high-speed Internet cable, optical mini mouse and earbudswith a microphone.

For sport fans, a wireless sportcaster will keep youup to date with the latest scores of your favorite teams.You could also have customized USB keys with aunique shape and look. Another item which I foundinteresting is the new HP digital camera with a touchscreen that you can pair with a photosmart printer.

André Boutin, the owner of a corporate gift companyin Sainte-Adèle, says only your imagination can limityour gift giving. He suggested an incense and scentedcandle kit to take an aromatherapy break from the dailystress, a wine aerator which will maximize the taste ofyour favorite wine without having to spend a fortune ona decanter. For sudoku fans, he mentioned an electronicsudoku that you can carry with you. His last suggestionwas a small toiletry travel kit.

Here is my final idea for you: If you have clients inCanada, the U.S.A. or in Europe, avoid spending a fortune in customs and shipping fees by using a supplierin the country or area you are shipping to.

Happy shopping for the holiday season!Nathalie Caron is an associate editor at The Planner.


Most training fails so we need to learn ways to make it succeedBY JIM CLEMMER

Most organizations use their training investmentsabout as strategically as they deploy their office sup-

plies spending. And the impact on customer satisfaction,cost containment or quality improvement is just as useless.

One of the biggest causes of wasted training dollarsis ineffective methods. Too often, companies rely onlectures (“spray and pray”), inspirational speeches orvideos, discussion groups and simulation exercises.

While these methods may get high marks from par-ticipants, research (ignored by many training profes-sionals) shows they rarely change behavior on the job.Knowing isn't the same as doing; good intentions aretoo easily crushed by old habits. Theoretical or inspira-tional training approaches are where the rubber meetsthe sky.

Another way of wasting dollars is failing to link train-ing with organizational strategies and day-to-day man-agement behavior. What happens in the classroom andwhat happens back on the job are often worlds apart.

Trainees learn which hoops to jump through, pledgealliance to the current management fad, give theirenthusiastic “commitment” to building “the new cul-ture” get their diploma—and then go back to work.

Here are a few steps to using training as a key strate-gic tool:

• Use training technologies that build how-to skillsthat are highly relevant and immediately applicable.Research clearly shows far more people act themselvesinto a new way of thinking than think themselves into anew way of acting. Training that produces tangibleresults starts by changing behavior, which ultimatelychanges attitudes. Most executives and many profession-al trainers (who should know better) get this backward.

• Follow-up on training sessions with on-the-jobcoaching and support from managers. A Motorola Inc.study has found that those plants where qualityimprovement training was reinforced by senior manage-ment got a $33 return on every dollar invested. Plantsproviding the same training with no top managementfollow-up produced a negative return on investment.

An earlier Xerox Inc. study showed trainees retaineda paltry 13 percent of skills six months after training ifmanagers failed to provide coaching and support as theskills were being applied.

And Western Gas Marketing Ltd. of Calgary uses its

performance appraisal system to hold managersaccountable for applying the principles that have beentaught to them.

• Build training around organizational objectives andstrategies. Trainees should immediately see the connec-tion between their new skills and where the organiza-tion is going. This makes training more relevant andgets everyone focused on applying their new skills tothe organization's key priorities and goals.

• Another key principle is practiced by Vancouver-based Finning Ltd., the world’s largest Caterpillar dealer.Chief executive James Shepard and his executives are notonly first in line for service and quality training, but theyare also the trainers delivering sessions to their people.

This trend to “cascade” training down from seniormanagement snaps everyone to attention. Trainingattendance problems disappear. Results-oriented execu-tives jettison all the nice-to-do, but irrelevant training.Trainees don’t cross their arms and ask “Is the organi-zation really serious about this stuff?”

In addition, managers achieve a deeper level of skilldevelopment when they teach others and are put on thespot to practice what they are now preaching.

Naturalist William Henry Hudson once observed:“You cannot fly like an eagle with the wings of a wren.”Most training efforts never get off the ground becausethe methods don’t change behavior or the training ispoorly delivered and integrated by the organization.

The waste of money is tragic for such a vital invest-ment in competitiveness—and ultimately Canada’s—standard of living.

• • •

Jim Clemmer is a bestselling author and internationally acclaimed

keynote speaker, workshop/retreat leader, and management team devel-

oper on leadership, change, customer focus, culture, teams, and

personal growth. For more than 25 years he has delivered over 2.000

customized keynote presentations, workshops, and retreats. Jim’s five

international bestselling books include The VIP Strategy, Firing on All

Cylinders, Pathways to Performance, Growing the Distance and The

Leader's Digest. His website is: www.clemmer.net.

On the Web: www.theplanner.ca


LEVEL: EASY Solution, page 33.

LEVEL: INTERMEDIATE Solution, page 33

Fill each square with a number from 1 to 9 so that everynumber appears only once in each row, column and cell.

Have fun!

SOME SUDOKU RESOURCES ON THE WEB:• www.websudoku.com •www.sudoweb.com•www.dailysudoku.com •www.sudokupuzz.com

Sudoku How did the Christmas seals begin?Christmas seals were the brainchild of postal clerk

Einar HolbØll of Denmark, who had become dismayedat the number of children dying from tuberculosis.Seeing the large volume of mail coming through hisplace of work each day, he came up with the idea ofselling seals to raise money to help eradicate the disease. The postmaster agreed, and the first Christmasseals were produced in 1904. Within a few years, theidea caught hold in the United States, where its causewas championed by Emily Bissell.

Why are notes taken at a businessmeeting called “minutes”?

The reason the written records of a meeting arecalled the minutes is because, in order to keep up, theminute-taker wrote in a shorthand or abbreviation. Theword used to describe this condensed writing was minute(my-noot), meaning “small,” and because the spelling isthe same, the minutes (my-noots) became minutes. Thesame circumstances apply to Frederick Chopin’s MinuteWaltz: It’s really his small or minute (my-noot) waltz.

Why are dining rooms called “restaurants”?

Up until 1765, diners were offered only whatinnkeepers chose to serve. But then, a Paris chef namedBoulanger began offering a choice of nourishing soupsto passersby and on a board hanging over the door hepainted the word “Restaurant,” meaning “to restore.”Boulanger was so successful that throughout the worlddining rooms still display his original sign, “Restaurant,”a promise to restore energy.

2008 Olympic Games and carnet useInformation on The Customs and Freight Manual for the

2008 Beijing Olympic and Paralympic Games is availablefrom the Canadian Chamber of Commerce as well as infor-mation concerning the acceptance by Chinese Customs ofthe use of ATA Carnets for the 2008 Olympic Games.

If you wish to receive a copy and be kept current asinformation is received by the Canadian Chamber ofCommerce, e-mail your request to [email protected] name and coordinates will be included on yourmailing list. More detailed information will be circulatedby the International Chamber of Commerce as soon asthey receive some clarifications from the NationalGuaranteeing Organization of China.

> F.Y.I.


Located less than 100kms from Quebec City,

the Charlevoix region is adestination to consider foran incentive. The beauty ofits landscape, the qualityof its attractions, the heart-warming welcome of thehoteliers and innkeepers,its regional gastronomy aswell as the variety of itsoutdoor activities will giveyou plenty to choose from.

Part of the UNESCOWorld Network ofBiosphere Reserves,Charlevoix covers an areaof 6,000 km2. Its two major urban areas are La Malbaieand Baie-Saint-Paul. One part of the former has just beendesignated a National Historic Site of Canada, and the lat-ter was nominated Cultural Capital of Canada in 2007 inthe under 50,000 population category. Cirque du Soleiloriginated in Baie-Saint-Paul in the early 1980s. Today,art galleries, museums,workshop museums, his-toric sites, workshopsand craft boutiquesexpanding from Baie-Saint-Paul throughout theregion.

From Quebec City,you access the region viaHighway 138. To discov-er its quaint villages, twotouristic roads are suggested. The first one,the Shore Road, linksBaie-Saint-Paul to LaMalbaie. This road follows the majestic St.Lawrence River shoreline, offering endless views ofbeautiful Isle-aux-Coudres and the mountains as theycascade down to the sea. Saint-Joseph-de-la-Rive, lesÉboulements, Cap-aux-Oies, Saint-Irénée et Pointe-au-Pic are some of the charming municipalities you willencounter as you drive along.

In 2007, the Mountain Road was added to enable thevisitors to discover the mountainous landscape ofCharlevoix and appreciate its beauty. The major attrac-tions of this road include two national parks recognized

as genuine gems in theParcs Québec network.Easy-to-recognize desti-nation signs mark theroad, and along thesetwo roads you will dis-cover local craft work-shops, agro-touristicfarms and outdoor activ-ity providers.

There are other routesto take to explore thisbeautiful region, includ-ing the Charlevoix FlavorTrail. Besides having agreat gastronomical expe-rience, you can discover

the secrets of farming and processing and get to sampleregional flavors at the tables of fine restaurants, hotels and inns.

OUTDOOR SPORTS ABOUND IN THE REGIONWe should also mention that the region is ideal for

outdoor activities like bik-ing, hiking, kayaking, fish-ing, whale cruising, sailingand golfing, just to name afew. In winter, snowshoe-ing, cross-country skiing,downhill skiing, toboggan-ing, skating, dogsledding,snowmobiling and manyothers will allow you todiscover stunning siteswhile taking in the freshair. Let’s not forget LeMassif and Mont Grands-Fonds, a famous pair of favourite destinations formany skiers.

ACCOMMODATIONS FOR ALL BUDGETSFor accommodations, you will find bed and break-

fasts to the Fairmont Manoir Richelieu to outfitters andnumerous cottages and more — there really is some-thing for everyone. And don’t forget the CharlevoixCasino, which offers hours of evening fun in an intimatesetting with European flair.

On the Web: www.charlevoixtourism.com/en/

Charlevoix has plenty for planners

Sunrise at Le Massif in Charlevoix: A skiers dream come true.Photo Marc Archambault

Outdoor activities are one of the main draws to the region.Photo Marc Archambault

BY ASSUNTA GAZZERRO

Summer is now over and winter is upon us. Yourskin needs some basic care in order to get ready

for the harsher weather. Because it is exposed daily tothe elements like dryness, the cold and the sun, it isimportant to follow some basic tips to help protectyour skin and make you look great. The followingsteps are good for both men and women (with a fewnoted exceptions) and can be done at home, provid-ing you purchase the right products for your type ofskin. You could also make an appointment with youresthetician, sit back in a chair, relax and enjoy theexperience of being pampered by a professional.

THE COMPLETE TREATMENTThe steps below are a complete treatment, so it is

recommended to do it on a weekend or a day off. I will also mention what should be done daily andweekly.

When fall arrives, you should start thinking aboutmoisturizing your skin to give it a boost following thesummer months of daily sun exposure and to prepareit for the cold weather and the dryness of variousheating systems.

You should start using cleansing milk daily to cleanyour skin as it will remove the impurities, the makeup,the dust and sebum. It is recommended that you exfoli-ate once a week to remove the dry cells and for a deep-er cleaning of your pores. Then, you can apply a toninglotion (also daily after the cleansing milk if you do notneed to exfoliate) with a small cotton pad to remove theleftover milk, exfoliating product and other impuritiesleft behind. The lotion will prepare your skin to maxi-mize the benefits of other skin care products.

Next step will be the mask, applied once a week forregular skin and twice a week for oily skin. You applya small layer and keep it on for at least 15 minutes.You remove it with warm water and then rinse yourskin with cool water to close the pores.

If you do your treatment in the morning, it is recommended to apply a serum, which can be donedaily or when you need it to revitalize your skin andgive it a boost.


Other activities are available

A further consideration is travel convenience. Bymaking the journey as stress-free as possible, the rest ofthe event will run far more smoothly as a result. The lastthing any planner wants to hear as delegates arrive istheir tales of a horrendous inbound journey, as theexperience is almost guaranteed to stay with the trav-ellers until they are heading home. If the journeyinvolves a long drive or second flight after the flightarrives at a hub point, consider offering an optionalovernight or significant (four-hour minimum) rest stopin a comfortable hotel, for delegates to freshen up, sleepor have a proper meal. Offering entertainment en routeis not always a good idea, as people may be tired or justwant to look at the passing scenery. Smaller executivestyle coaches or stretch SUVs are becoming increasinglypopular among groups coming in from multiple destina-tions, as they can be transferred more efficiently withouthaving to wait for other flights to arrive.

Although lack of snow at ski resorts is not as big anissue in Canada as it has recently been in Europe, it isalways worth checking on the snow conditions a yearahead by doing the site inspection in the same monththat the event will be held. Also, check overseas vacation times, as they might be different to Canada(especially school breaks) to avoid any surprises.

Some exciting new developments for ski destinationsare taking place in the airline industry. As MontTremblant continues to develop its airport as arguablythe only direct access ski resort (fixed wing) airport inthe country, Continental Airlines is now offering a dailydirect flight between Newark and Mont Tremblant. Atthe time of writing, the cost during the Christmas andNew Year period was just over $300. Porter Airlinesalso operates a flight that leaves Toronto Island on aSaturday and returns from Mont Tremblant on aSunday. The cost was about $350 including taxes forthe same time period. Porter is the rising star in theCanadian airline industry, and we look forward to hear-ing more about their future development.

On the Web: www.flyporter.com

GOOD MEETING FACILITES ARE AVAILABLEResorts are regularly customizing existing or building

new conference and meeting facilities to meet the grow-ing demand for Meet and Recreation-style conferencesand events. Fairmont Lake Louise in Alberta recentlycompleted a new 36,000 sq. ft. conference and meetingspace, The Mount Temple Wing, which will greatlyenhance the services offered at the property.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18

*

Winter skin care tipsfor men and women

CONTINUED ON PAGE 34


Check to see if cellular or Blackberry reception is availableDeerhurst Resort in Ontario was one of the resorts to

spearhead mixing business with pleasure when they com-pletely revamped their property in 2000. It continues to beone of the most popular Ontario resorts for year-round meet-ings, combining ski or golf options with business events.

Whistler Blackcomb (CSPEP’s Annual Conference isbeing held there), has a wealth of wonderful propertieswithin easy walking distance of the state of the art TelusWhistler Conference Centre including the Hilton, PanPacific, Four Seasons, Starwood and Fairmont chains, allof which have their own meeting facilities in Whistlerfor varying sizes of group.

Fitting recreation time effectively around a Meet andSki program can be a challenge in itself, as only a hand-ful of ski resorts offer skiing at night, typically when meet-ings are over. Extending the stay would be the obvioussolution, however for some groups this may not be eco-nomically viable. The following options have been triedand tested by various planners with good results:• Start the meetings after lunch rather than after break-fast, at least three times during the conference. Delegatesthen have a chance to hit the slopes in the morning.• Start the meeting very early in the morning, and finish by 1 p.m., leaving the rest of the day free.• Look at options of having one or two ski runs openedprior to the usual time by the resort. Some will do thisfor a large enough group.• Save valuable ski time by pre-ordering any lift ticketsor required equipment and have them delivered to eachdelegate’s room on arrival. Black Tie Skis, a custom skirental and delivery service, has just recently openedtheir first franchise in Canada at Whistler.

On the Web: www.blacktieskis.com

• Look for resorts that offer night skiing (Mont Saint-Anne, Mont Saint-Sauveur, Bromont, Blue Mountain andKelowna to name some of the larger ones).• Provide more time during the day for recreation by contin-uing meetings into the evening, with a light dinner included.

While skiing is generally the most popular winter resortactivity, not everyone yearns for the great outdoors, so planfor other recreational options to be available that are fairlyconsistent both in length of time and experience value. “Testdrive” all the activities ahead of time, to avoid any surprises.

The Planner was told of a recent event experiencewhere guests had been promised a cooking class withan expert chef but which ended up being a slicing anddicing exercise with all the vegetables that the restau-rant needed for the day – they were even shouted at fornot doing it correctly or fast enough!

As always, make sure everyone has sufficient liability

insurance for their chosen activity, as having a delegatesign a waiver may not necessarily release the client or theplanner from responsibility in case of injury. As medicalinsurance varies across Canada, confirm that each delegatehas medical coverage for at least $10,000, especially if theyare coming in from the U.S. or overseas. Each delegateshould declare pre-existing medical conditions if any dan-gerous or high-altitude activity is being considered.

Ski Resorts may not always have the best mobile orBlackberry reception. Check to see whether this is the case,and then let the delegates know ahead of time so they canplan accordingly. A good idea is to offer calling cards todelegates, or negotiate free Internet services with the resorton their behalf. Check that the business centre has a rea-sonable number of computers for delegate use, or providefor additional ones in the budget for a customized office.

With the Canadian dollar currently being so strongagainst the U.S. greenback, the urge to head south thiswinter is very tempting. However, by buying intoCanada, you are helping our tourism and the Canadianeconomy, keeping Canadian people employed and hav-ing a wonderful “At Home” experience into the bargain.

Also, it’s really hard to ski on a hot, sandy beach. Jyl Ashton Cunningham, CMP is an independent meeting and spe-

cial event planner based in Oakville, Ontario, and Associate Editor of

The Planner, Ontario. She can be reached at [email protected].


Incentive: The expectation ofreward that induces action ormotivates effort

What company has not thought of,or searched for, ways by which to motivate its staff togreater performance or motivate its customers to buymore of its products or services?

A growing number of companies are rewarding or moti-vating their staff and customers with travel instead of money.

More and more studies show that monetary incen-tives are not the best key to gaining loyalty with staff orcustomers, but instead devising some type of travelreward either as a group or for individual departures isbecoming common practice.

Almost every month some report is published citinghow many North American workers do not enjoy theirjob and many are working well below their full poten-tial while customers are proving that loyalty is almost athing of the past.

WHY TRAVEL INSTEAD OF CASH?In a 2006 survey by Incentive Magazine, 75 percent

of respondents found travel incentives a successful toolin motivation, with 53 percent identifying it as very orextremely effective. Another study conducted by SITE(Society of Incentive & Travel Executives) highlighted intheir study of Incentives, Motivation & WorkplacePerformance, that incentive programs can boostemployee performance from 25 percent to 44 percent.

Additionally, the 2005 Incentive Federation Studyfound that travel is remembered much longer than cash.

As a former product manager and meeting planner

for a large Canadian third party meeting planning com-pany, I have had the pleasure to work on a variety ofincentive trips ranging from 12 to 1,000 participants todestinations such as New York, Scottsdale, London,Paris, Puerto Rico and the Cook Islands.

Some were complex with renting private aircraft andinvolving many travel suppliers to the simpler programsbought through tour operators. Each one was designed tothank the staff or customer for their efforts and loyalty.

I also recall my father, who was a buyer for a dutyfree store in Sydney, Australia being invited on severalincentive trips including Singapore and Fiji as a result ofthe amount of product purchased for his company,through different suppliers. It was something that heand my mother always looked forward to each year.

BUT WHO TO REWARD?The list is almost endless, with a few mentioned below:

• Top performers• Customer incentives to purchase products/services• Customer appreciation/recognition• Sales incentives – to both staff and customers• Part of bonus plans• Outstanding customer service

WHERE TO GO AND FOR HOW LONG?Just use your imagination as to the possible destina-

tions, and as for length the typical incentives can rangefrom as little as three nights to seven days.

Part of determining the destination will be the budg-et allotted. Maybe your budget will only extend to a 3-night package to Las Vegas for 20 top producers but ifthe budget is larger then maybe you can consider aseven-night trip to London for 150 of your best cus-tomers or staff.

BY SHARON WORSLEY

Using incentives to motivate your staff

*


WHAT IS THE ROI (RETURN ON INVESTMENT)?Many companies are pleased to receive a return on the

investment they make in a travel program with increasesin productivity from staff and/or increase in sales vol-ume. A well thought out travel incentive program can beself funded in that the return in productivity and increasein sales contributes to the overall cost outlay.

The challenge often becomes getting management tosee and believe that this is a possibility rather than anadditional expense to their bottom line.

HOW TO GET STARTED?Here are some items to consider:• What is the objective of setting up a travel incentive?What do you hope to gain as a result?• What is the budget available? This will determine thepossible destinations and how long the trip will be.• Who will be invited? Again this will depend on yourbudget to determine how many people will be participants.• What destination will you choose and when will theprogram take place? • Who can help? Remember you don’t have to do thison your own. There are many companies and profes-sionals available to assist in whatever area you require.• What next?• Program kick off – Have a plan to launch the programso that everyone knows what is involved to qualify.• Promotional material–this will serve to motivate staffand customers to participate. • Advising the winners – Will there be a big announce-ment or discreet letters sent to the individuals?• The details – You will want to ensure that everyoneknows what is involved, costs covered and next steps.• Running the program for maximum effect – Don’trush putting together a program as you want it to be a quality experience.

• Don’t skimp on the details–if you don’t have a bigbudget for the extras then consider changing the desti-nation or reducing the total number of nights.• Make it a lasting experience–remember why you wantto run the incentive and the results you wish to obtain.Ultimately you will want the participants to feel thatwhatever they did to be part of the trip was totallyworthwhile.

MANY COMPANIES SPECIALIZE IN INCENTIVESAn incentive program is an excellent way for an

employer to demonstrate their appreciation to their stafffor going the extra mile, great customer service and possibly sales achieved.

As a reward to customers, a company can show itsappreciation for business given in a climate where thereis much competition and little long-term loyalty. This isan excellent way to recognize such loyalty while solidi-fying the relationship for years to come.

A growing number of companies are now rewardingtheir key customers or staff with exceptional experi-ences traveling to amazing destinations.

This has increased so much that now, more than ever,companies who specialize in putting together the pro-gram for companies—from its inception to invitationsand promotion right down to the intricate travel plans—include having their staff onsite at the destination tomake the whole event seamless.

• • •

Sharon Worsley, CEO of Live With Intent, is a personal leadership

coach and motivational speaker. Her signature keynote ‘Live By

Choice, Not By Chance’ assists individuals and organizations

to become clear on how they can ensure the quality of their life or

organization. Sharon can be reached at [email protected].

Incentive program can be for customers too


Cell phone underwater

www.wikihow.com/save-a-wet-cell-phone

It’s hard not to go wild when your cell phone gets wet.

The best thing to do (aside from remaining calm) is taking

the battery out and drying the phone. But if you’re the type

that usually gets their phone wet, consider buying a water-

resistant one. Makers of the Fujitsu Fe703i claim this phone

can last underwater for up to 30 minutes! But it was launched

in Japan and isn’t offered in North America. Some models

sold here that can survive getting wet include Nextel’s i580

made by Motorola and UTStarcom’s G’zOne offered by

Verizon Wireless.

If you need tips on how to save your cell phone after its

been dropped underwater, you can checkout WikiHow’s

seven-step guide at the site.

Virtual PC

www.microsoft.com/windows/products/winfamily/virtualpc

Having problems with your Window’s Vista? Check out

this site where you can get Microsoft Virtual PC. The program

is free, and with it you can operate and go to and from differ-

ent windows as well as files between various Windows pro-

grams. The application does this by making virtual machines

on your computer. In addition to this, the program allows you

to use various operating systems at the same time like Vista

and XP. Previous Windows programs like Windows NT, 2000,

98, and OS/2 can also be used on Virtual PC. If you’re think-

ing about changing the Windows program used at your office

and want to be cautious, you can install the version of your

choice and do various trials with it on Virtual PC.

If you have a Website you think planners might finduseful, send us a note at: [email protected].

DD AATTEEBBOOOOKK Websites of interest

Upcoming Events

November 27-29European Incentive & Business Travel Meetings Exhibition,Fira Gran Via, Montjuic 2, Barcelona, Spain. Contact: EIBTM,(011) 44-20-8910-7870, www.eibtm.com.

November 28-December 2National Coalition of Black Meeting Planners, FallConference, Hyatt Regency Miami. Contact: (202) 628-3952,www.ncbmp.com.

December 3-6International Luxury Market, ILTM 2007, Palais desFestivals et des Congrès, Cannes, France. Contact: (011)44-208-910-7917, www.site-intl.org.

December 6-9Society of Incentive & Travel Executives, InternationalConference, Hyatt Regency, Monterey, Calif. Contact:(312) 673-4713, www.site-intl.org.

December 10-12International Association of Exhibitions and Events,EXPO! EXPO!, Mandalay Bay Convention Centre, LasVegas, Nev. Contact: (972) 458-8002, www.iaee.com.

January 6-8, 2008Financial & Insurance Conference Planners, NortheastChapter Winter Meeting, Marriott Downtown, Hartford,Conn. Contact: (312) 245-1023, www.iaee.ficpnet.

Have an event? E-mail us at [email protected].

Ice wine has become a digestif ofchoice for many discerning winedrinkers. But there is another choice people should consider for theirpalates—ice cider. The following issome background and facts aboutcider, made from apples, and its icecider offshoot.

According to HistoriansCider is one of the world’s oldest

alcoholic beverages. Saint Jérômewrote that the Hebrews drank“Shekar” while Diodore of Sicilytalked about the Greeks’ “Sikera”and the Romans’ “Sicera.”

Those darned Sulpicians!In 1650, the Sulpicians planted the

first apple orchard and built the firstcider press on the slopes of MountRoyal on the island of Montreal. By1705, they produced around 30 bar-rels every year for their personal useand to be sold to other congregationsand individuals. In the 1850s, theLemoyne family on Île Ste-Hélèneand Charles Penner in Lasalle wereproducing large quantities of ciderthat were shipped to Ontario, New-England and even the Caribbean!

Illegal!Around 1921, the provincial gov-

ernment established the liquor com-mission and forgot to include ciderin its legislation which made it ille-gal until 1970! Although its produc-tion was illegal, cider was alwayspopular among Quebecers who dis-creetly found ways to get theirhands on the forbidden fruit.

Euphoria and Decline!From 1970 to 1974, when cider

was first reborn, it got so popularthat producers, unable to meet thedemand, started marketing industri-al ciders that were somewhat acidicbecause of the product’s lack of

maturity. A dark era for cider inQuebec was starting.

A True Revival!Thanks to the courage, hard work,

and relentlessness of proud artisans,Quebec ciders came back to life in1988 when the first artisanal permitswere granted. These products areproof of Quebec’s cider producers’know-how, focused on excellence.Cider from Quebec has reclaimed itsplace in Quebecers’ hearts.

The Golden Age!Cider’s new popularity has grown

even more since 2000 with thearrival of new, original productssuch as mistelles and ice ciders. Theunique taste, roundness, and per-sonality of Quebec’s artisanal cidersmake them irresistible. Theydeserve to be our preferred choiceamong Quebec products. Recently,Quebec ciders have earned theirstay on the shelves of the Sociétédes Alcools du Québec.

Moreover, ice cider is currentlytaking its first steps to be marketedabroad and experts predict signifi-cant opportunities in the near future.

Ice CiderThis product, invented in Quebec,

is unique to the region since the cli-mate is the only one favourable to itsproduction. This makes Quebec apioneer in ice cider production.

The most significant distinction ofice cider is the presence of residualsugar which makes it an ample-bod-ied product that tests between 11%and 20% alcohol. It also keeps well.

Ice cider is a sweet cider producedfrom the concentrated must of applespicked late in the season. The juice isconcentrated through a naturalprocess before the product goes intofermentation. Just as with an ice wine,the fruits destined to produce ice ciderare frozen naturally. No sugar noradditives are added to ice cider.

On the Web:www.cidreduquebec.com.


Quebec’s ice cider making strides


Incentives: Nothing but The Best

Afew years ago I was pitching onan incentive trip with a large but

struggling IT company, designed toreward the top sales associates in thecompany. The Marketing Director

was fairly new and anxious to make her mark. Beforewe even began our presentation, she gave a stifled yawnand in front of several top executives said, “You realizethat this group has seen and done it all, travelled wide-ly - experienced real excitement in their lives. They aretotally jaded and need something that will truly wowthem.” Before I could stop myself, I replied, very polite-ly, “Perhaps it isn’t the events that are jading them, haveyou considered it might be the products you are givingthem to sell, or the hours they spend selling them”.

Needless to say, I didn’t get the contract and the com-pany went under a short while later, however it got methinking about how people are rewarded these days fora job well done. It used to be a bonus at the end ofthe year, a discreet envelope with a hand written ThankYou card from the boss and a nice fat cheque.Nowadays high achieving groups are cannon balledacross the globe once or twice a year, to experiencethings most people can only dream about, often in fivedays or less. The only drawback might be that thosesame people are potentially so drained from workingcrazy hours that they don’t have the energy to fullyappreciate the time and effort spent on making surethey have a fabulous junket designed to refuel their bat-teries for the next long series of 80 hour weeks that theytypically put in. Then another incentive trip as a rewardfor working so hard, and so it goes on.

REWARDS ARE APPRECIATEDDespite any of the above challenges though, it seems

that such rewards are greatly appreciated, as one top ITsales person told me. “An incentive trip whether inCanada or abroad is an unmatched opportunity to justlose myself with my spouse, to truly let go and relax,whilst experiencing the best the world has to offer me andnot have to think about anything except putting myclothes on in the morning. For four days I am the Kingof my world, and I’ve worked hard to earn that right”.He continued by explaining that he earns so muchmoney, that a bonus would just be swallowed up bytaxes, and because some minor business components areincluded in the trip, it could (at least for him, not hisspouse) be written off by the company as a tax deduction.

(Speaking of tax deductions, check out the newimproved rules on GST rebates for overseas visitorsattending conferences and trade shows in Canada.http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/E/pub/gi/gi-028/gi-028-e.pdf,or simply Google FCTIP).

If we are to believe the Marketing Director whoclaims it is impossible to impress anyone anymore, whatcan be done to improve the incentive experience? Thetop of any incentive planner’s list would be to expectabsolutely impeccable service from start to finish, andthe next thing would be to know and understand theclient fully, especially any cultural differences betweenvisitor and country that may need to be addressed, thenmake sure that all the event partners are fully educatedon the group demographics. This can be more easilysaid than done, as even the most prestigious venues andexperiences get it wrong sometimes, through no otherfault than lack of knowledge about their guests. I wasrecently met by a friendly enough greeter at the airport,whilst on a very high-end trip, whose opening remarkas I approached him was, “I was looking out for aman!”. Not the best welcome I have ever had and witha correctly prepared manifest he would have knownthat he was actually meeting a woman. The mistakecontinued throughout the trip, with several hotel recep-tionists being most apologetic for assuming I was malebecause “You spell your name funny”.

MEET ALL OF YOUR SUPPLIERSWhen carrying out a site inspection, make sure to

meet all the suppliers, even if they are highly recom-mended and contracted by the DMC, from the Meet andGreet personnel to the housekeeping staff. Interviewthe tour guides and make sure their personalities fit thegroup demographic – strong accents or strange sensesof humour can frustrate and even offend people. If nec-essary, stay a couple of extra days and do a full run-through of how the event will unfold, experiencingeverything that the guests will experience. This mightsound like common sense, but how many times haveplanners booked helicopter rides or guided tours upvolcanos, for example, without test running them forthemselves to see what their group will see? Whenbeing shown around the beautiful bedrooms or suitesthat your delegates will be using, check that electricaloutlets are located near mirrors – something taken forgranted here in North America, however not so com-mon in Europe, where electrical outlets are not permit-ted in bathrooms, which is really annoying when run-ning round trying to plug in a hair dryer.

BY JYL ASHTON CUNNINGHAM, CMP

*


Sandals Resorts caters to the incentive marketIt is equally important to educate the delegates them-

selves on the type of places they are going to be visit-ing. For example, Americans visiting Britain might notrealize that jeans and golf shirts are not suitable dressfor dinner in certain venues, especially golf resorts(ironically) and private clubs, although it is perfectlyacceptable attire in the United States. One idea toenhance the Nothing But The Best experience might beto bring in a representative from the country to be vis-ited, or to take the group to a Consulate for an introduc-tion to the customs and culture (assuming the group isall travelling from the same city). The host country rep-resentative could also be an actor, for example anEnglish butler or valet who could hand deliver the ini-tial invitation, then give advice “à la Jeeves” on the typeof clothing needed for each part of the incentive expe-rience. Perhaps a teaser gift of a tie for a gentleman andan evening bag for a lady, could be presented, to dropa gentle hint that dressing for dinner is expected. Theimportant thing is to educate without offending, sobringing humour into the mix is often the best tactic.

On knowing what to include in a Nothing But TheBest incentive, the list is endless. Exquisite food andwines are a given, however the way they are served canalways be enhanced by the surprise factor. I was oncetold of an Australian venue, The Open Werribee Zoo,where a banking group from London were being enter-tained with pre-dinner drinks and hors d’oeuvre. Afteran hour or so, the lights went down and the windowdrapes were drawn back to reveal French doors open-ing onto a clearing in what was essentially a jungle, allbeautifully lit by torches, with a barbecue meal andAboriginal musicians and dancers to complete the stun-ning effect. In Europe, renovated castles and statelyhomes have become “The” venues to hold incentives,with the old traditions of grand balls and dances, andstately dinners being revived as entertainment.

CRUISES ARE ALWAYS POPULARLuxury island cruises are still among the most popu-

lar ways of rewarding an employee for a job well doneand Caribbean and Central American resorts rise to theoccasion beautifully, with customized programs for anyrespectable budget. A new resort in the DominicanRepublic, The Sivory Punta Cana, is the ultimate in lux-ury, with private outdoor plunge pools and idyllic viewsfrom gorgeous suites. www.emamarketing.com

Many companies like Sandals Resorts have designedtheir properties specifically to meet the incentive mar-ket demand, with a self contained experience where tip-ping is forbidden and close to perfect service.

The all-inclusive price, although generally very high, holdsno hidden surprises, which makes budgeting a breeze.

As each part of the globe becomes exhausted by theincreasingly discerning traveller, venues become moreincredible. In Dubai for example, a second indoor arti-ficial ski slope is being built, even bigger than the 400foot one constructed two years ago - the Dubai SunnyMountain Ski Dome in Dubailand which is due to openin 2008. It will provide a “great attraction, featuring arevolving ski slope, an artificial mountain range, an icebridge, a cable lift, a snow maze, an ice slide, polarbears, cold water-aquaria and special sound and lighteffects.”

On the Web: www.skidubai.com.

CANADA IS A POPULAR INCENTIVE DESTINATIONBringing incentive groups to Canada used to be some-what of an anomaly, however we now rise to the occa-sion with the best of them. Tigh Na Mara, a resort onVancouver Island, British Columbia, for example,retains the log cabin appeal of how the world mightenvisage life in Canada to be, whilst offering luxury andpampering in fabulous surroundings. An incrediblyauthentic looking grotto, which is actually man-made,houses a huge spa area, and a restaurant built on stiltsgives the effect of eating in the treetops. Combinedwith the ability to do group beach parties, and outstand-ing accommodations, an incentive trip here would beanyone’s idea of heaven.

Canadian cuisine is becoming famous throughout theworld, with Canadian game meat being marketed as ahealthy entrée option, buffalo and caribou being consid-erably lower in cholesterol than beef. West coast can-died salmon is a rare treat, and east coast scallops andlobster sought after worldwide. Incentives to Canadainevitably and rightly embrace our cosmopolitan cul-ture, although the “True North” is fast becoming a des-tination in itself, at a hefty price.

Canada denotes adventure, the great outdoors andwildlife, and incentive travel here is only limited by theimagination of the person designing the experience.Fortunately we have vivid imaginations here and bring-ing groups to our beautiful cities, coasts and country-side should be a regular occurrence. With Arctic cruis-es operating out of Vancouver, whale watching cruisesand fall colour cruises out of Quebec and Nova Scotia,Canadians have the ability to combine gastronomicpleasures with some of the most magnificent scenery onthe planet.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 34


SAVOY HOTEL TO BEREFURBISHED BY 2009It is the place where the dish

Peach Melba was created. Oscar Wilde entertained hisgay lover there and sex siren Marlene Dietrich claimedto have a lover on every floor of the hotel.

Built on the site of a former palace, the five-starSavoy Hotel was opened by Richard D’Oyly Carte in1889 and was regarded as the most modern hotel in theworld, the first to boast hot and cold running water andelectric lighting throughout.

Following the purchase of the world-famous hotel byCanadian company Fairmont Hotels in 2005, the WestEnd landmark—which can cost between $500 and$1,000 for a room - is to undergo a major programme ofrefurbishment, including some of the 263 guest rooms,bars, restaurants and the Savoy court.

Architect Pierre-Yves Rochon, who is well known forhis work on the Four Seasons Georges V in Paris and the L’Hermitage in La Baule, will complete thework in 2009.

“It is going to be a new chapter in the Savoy’s grandhistory,” says Kiaran Macdonald who has been thehotel’s manager for just over a year. “It’s not the end ofthe book just yet.

“All the plans and drawings for the new look areunder wraps but when we do close on December 14 theplan is to hold on to much of the Edwardian and ArtDeco that has made the Savoy famous. We just want tospruce it up. We want to keep a consistency in thetheme so when we do reopen people will once againgasp ‘Ah, The Savoy.’”

“Of course we are going to lose a lot of money dur-ing the closure but if it's something worth doing, it isworth doing it well. We would not want our guests stay-ing and having to put up with noise and workmeneverywhere.

“It is behind the scenes that needs the work. Thebuilding is 118 years old and things like infrastructureand plumbing need work. We don't have the best at themoment and this is what we want,” concluded Kiaran.

Along with the staff, much of the luxury furniture,including lighting, mirrors and art will also be findingalternative homes when Bonhams holds an auction inDecember. A number of items will have “no reserve,”meaning they could go for as little as $40.

Kiaran added: “The auction will be a chance for us toshare some of our past with collectors, loyal guests andanyone who has strong memories of the Savoy.”

The three-day sale is expected to raise more than $2million, with lots from 215 bedrooms and suites.

There will also be selected items from The SavoyHotel's public areas including The Lobby, The UpperThames Foyer, The Thames Foyer, The Beaufort Room,The River Restaurant, The Manhattan and Parlour Barsand The Abraham Lincoln Room.

HAMPTON HOTELS TURNS UP ITS NOSE ATSCENT TREND

The current lodging rage for signature scents hasn’tmoved Hampton Hotels to jump aboard the bandwagon.In fact the company, which includes Hampton Inns andHampton Inn and Suites, has announced a chain-wide“Non-Scents” program based on research that guests wanttheir rooms to smell fresh and clean rather than retain theodour of cleaning products, perfume or cigarette smoke.

A recent Hampton-commissioned survey of 1,000 peo-ple who had stayed in hotels found that 76% of respon-dents noticed a distinctive scent during their hotel stay,that cigarettes are the most hated smell and that more thanhalf want their room to be odour free. Two thirds ofrespondents in a room with a bad smell complained, askedfor a discount or refund, or cancelled their reservation.

Hampton housekeepers now use Febreeze Linen & Skyfabric refreshers or air fresheners to neutralize odours.

MAKING A CLEAN THROWAWAYHave you ever wondered what hotels do with those sliv-ers of soap that are left over in their room? At theFairmont Queen Elizabeth in Montreal, those slivers ofsoap are turned over to a local company calledLaboratoire Dermoderm, which mixes them with volcanic stone to make a cream that removes substancessuch as paint, grease, tar and ink from the hands ofartists, gardeners and mechanics.

Hotel News London’s Savoy Hotel has beenfrequented by many celebritiesover the years including TheBeatles, Marilyn Monroe andpainter Claude Monet.

Photo courtesy of Fairmont Hotels

AT THE SAVOY HOTEL... KASPAR, A 3-FOOT HIGH BLACK SCULPTED

ALABASTER CAT, IS USED AS AN EXTRA

GUEST WHEN THIRTEEN DINE, TO STAVE OFF BAD LUCK.

HE IS GIVEN A FULL PLACE SETTING.


357 guestrooms and suites18 meeting and function rooms that can

accommodate up to 350 peopleConnected to the Montreal Convention Centre

Inquire about Meeting Options™ reward program... extras that you deserve.

360 St-Antoine Street WestMontreal, Quebec

H2Y 3X4514-987-9900

www.montreal.intercontinental.com

IT’S A BIRD, IT’S A PLANE IT’S…SUPERFOODS!

As part of Westin’s ongoing commitment to personalrenewal they are teaming up with SuperFoods PartnersLLC, owners of the SuperFoodsRx brand to become thefirst hotel brand to create a SuperFoods focused menufor their guests.

Superfoods, known for being health-enhancing andrich in antioxidants and phyto-nutrients, will be themain ingredient in Westin signature dishes such asbanana oatmeal brulé, green-tea-infused salmon andmolten dark chocolate cake.

The initiative, which is currently rolling out in 25Westin hotels in the U.S. and Canada, will go global in2008 with the introduction of the Westin SignatureBreakfast, a SuperFoods breakfast selection that will beoffered at all Westin properties.

To kick off the launch in Asia Pacific, all the 23Westin hotels in the region will start to introduceSuperFoods items in their in-room dining menus.

In addition to incorporating the SuperFoodsRxtheme, Westin’s new menu features enhanced designincluding crisp imagery and improved readability.

The menu is the latest in a string of initiatives rolledout recently with a focus on personal renewal, includ-ing the recent formation of the Westin Renewal Council,a panel of six lifestyle expertswho advise the brand onwellness initiatives.

The council provides a full range of advice to helpguests and non-guests alike lead happier, more fulfillinglives via a newly launched website.

On the Web: www.findrenewal.com.

PIERRE NEW YORK CLOSING ITS DOORSThe 200-room Pierre New York, operated by Taj HotelsResorts and Palaces, will close its guest rooms on Jan. 1to begin the second phase of renovations. All guestrooms, corridors, public spaces, the hotel bar and CafePierre will be upgraded, at an estimated cost of $100million. January 2007 saw completion of the first phase,which included a revamp to the Grand Ballroom, theCotillion Room and foyer. All banquet facilities, whichtotal more than 18,000 square feet of space, will remainopen during the renovation. The property will begintaking reservations for the newly renovated rooms inlate 2008, and the hotel will reopen in early 2009.On the Web: www.tajhotels.com/pierre

ACCOR LOOKS TO UPGRADE 120 SOFITELPROPERTIES TO LUXURY CATEGORYFrench hotel group Accor will upgrade 120 of its Sofitelproperties from upmarket to the luxury category, andseven properties will fall under its new Sofitel Legendsbanner. Launching in 2009 will be a boutique-stylebrand called So by Sofitel. In December, 35 Sofitel prop-erties will be rebranded under Accor’s new Pullmanbrand (a rebirth of an old name once used by Accor),which is aimed mainly at business travelers.

On the Web: www.sofitel.com

Hotel News

ANSWER EASYSUDOKU FROM PAGE 22

ANSWER MEDIUM SUDOKU FROM PAGE 22


For something with a little more excitement and iftime is not a limiting factor, work with a company likeAdventure Canada. The 20 year old Port Credit(Mississauga) based business is among an exciting fleetof entrepreneurs wooing the traveller that is, quote,“eager to set sail for remote, spectacular venues —places too expensive and/or difficult for most adventureseekers to get to on their own.”

On the Web: www.adventurecanada.com. For overland experiences, head for The Rocky

Mountaineer, the only passenger train to operatethrough the Rockies during daylight hours, and travelGold Leaf Service of course.

On the Web: www.rockymountaineer.com.

Nothing but The Best. It doesn’t get much betterthan this.

Jyl Ashton Cunningham, CMP is an independent meeting and

special event planner based in Oakville, Ontario, and Associate Editor

of The Planner, Ontario. Jyl welcomes your comments and can be

reached at [email protected] or [email protected].

Wired for conferences

You could use it if you have an excess sebum or ifyour skin is much dryer than usual or if your skin isaging. Then, finish with your daily cream.

In the evening, using a night cream after removingyour makeup is recommended. It will nurture your skinand allow it to regenerate.

Here’s a special treatment for your lips due the coldweather and the dryness of your house: Use a good lipbalm for your lips. Some balms have a SPF and theycould also help prevent wrinkles if you start being concerned with those. You could use it every day if youwant to have luscious lips at all times.

FOR MEN ONLYYou could do all of the above except instead of using

a cleansing milk, you might prefer to look for a foam-ing gel. Your skin is also exposed daily and you shouldtake good care of it.

Assunta Gazzerro is a seasoned esthetician and the owner of Ciao

Bella and will gladly provide you with advice and recommendations.

You can reach her at: [email protected] or at (514) 335-2007.

For more information visit www.institutciaobella.com.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31

The Rocky Mountaineer isan overland experience

Nurture your skinwith night cream

At its annual conference, the International Association of

Conference Centers revealed the first results of an ongoing

survey of its 300 members conducted by Fairfax, Va.-based Bare

International. This report found the following characteristics at

139 conference centers studied.

Centers equipped with T-1 Lines 88%

Provide high-speed Internet access 93%

Book meetings for groups of 75 or fewer 95%

Source: International Association of Conference Centerswww.iacconline.org

Have wireless Internet access 91%

Offer in-house audiovisual services 95%

Have conference planners on staff 100%

November 2007

Documents

Transcript of November 2007