Universal Orlando

One of the benefits of living in Florida, besides the beaches and endless summers of course is the fact that the happiest place on earth is only but a few hours away. Because my youngest two just 6 and 7, we haven’t spent much time at the other major theme park, Universal Studios, which is also just a few hours away. The park is fantastic, but generally geared towards an older crowd. Last year however, Universal upped the competition by adding the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Since all of my kids absolutely love Harry Potter, (as I do) the prospect of visiting a real life rendition of this fantastically fictitious world outweighed my apprehensions of the park’s age appropriateness.
We were delighted to be able to meet up with my sister and her family at the fantastic Wyndham Grand Orlando resort. Staying in one of their bunk suites absolutely turned out to be the best decision we made. With my youngest two tucked snugly away in their own bunk bed alcove, my daughter got to stretch out in her own full bed and my husband and I actually got to watch the news in peace!
On to Universal. It really was amazing. Having purchased our tickets ahead of time, we were able to stroll right into the park. Using the advice of attending to the most popular ride at Harry Potter first, we made a beeline to the back of the park, noting of course the many rides and areas we would visit shortly. We found ourselves winding through the seemingly classic theme park lines, until we passed through the gates of Hogwarts. Each step was brilliantly designed to give the impression that one was actually entering the grounds. The only snag was the bag check/locker area that was not exactly the easiest to maneuver. I will not spill any secrets, but Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey is so so so worth any wait you might have!
Surprisingly enough, it was not only the Wizarding World of Harry Potter that entertained. Both the Jurassic Park area as well as Dr. Suess, were thoroughly enjoyed by all. While I will always love the Mouse, Universal has definitely earned a place in our hearts, and we will definitely be back soon.

Happy Holidays!

During this holiday week, Earth and Moon Services would like to wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah!
Earth and Moon Services is based out of the oldest city in the United States, St. Augustine, Florida. If you have yet to visit this amazing city, I would highly recommend it. From the incredible history, the amazing structures, and of course the wonderful people, St. Augustine is certainly a crowning jewel in the sunshine state.
Most recently, we were awarded a very high honor from none other than National Geographic, one of the top 10 places in the world to see Christmas lights! Now, we could have told you that, but it truly is something to witness in person. The entire city, including Flagler College, the Bridge of Lions, and the Historical Fort are set aglow from the weekend after Thanksgiving through the New Year.
So check out the story and make your plans to come visit us in 2012!

To Meet-or-Not To Meet

In an environment of layoffs, pay cuts and a continued unstable economy, isn’t it foolish to even consider hosting an offsite meeting or incentives for your employees? With an average unemployment rate at 8.6%, and 1 in 579 homes in foreclosure, wouldn’t it be more prudent to forego the meeting and just hand the cash over to your employees. Or better yet, save the money and use it to cushion your bottom line. Certainly, if you should continue to meet you would gain nothing more than a tarnished public image.
Unfortunately taking that point of view not only is incredibly wrong, but could do you, and your business significantly more harm than good. Historically, during tough economic times, two major industries continue to thrive; the entertainment industry and the liquor industry. People are trying to disassociate themselves from the reality around them. If your employees are working in an environment where they fear job loss and they see benefits are being cut, certainly their productivity will likewise decline. Firsthand experience, from retail jobs to Corporate America, has taught me that employee valuation has a direct correlation to employee productivity. If your employees feel as though they are valuable to the company they will continue to work hard, when they feel that they are disposable, they will stop trying. Even in a tough economy, there has to be a way to show your employees they are valued. One of the ways to effectively do this is through meetings and incentives. And, if you use an organization like Earth and Moon Services, you can also do so efficiently.
When the managers or team members come together not only for meeting, but incentive based programs, they are doing so much more than learning. They are creating and developing and network of colleagues, teammates, and sometimes more importantly friends. They understand that because their company is taking the time and resources to create something for them, they in fact, are adding value, and will now work even harder to do well for not only “the company,” but their own network/team of colleagues. It is these intangibles that you would never be able to buy, for you cannot purchase a good work ethic. But you can definitely build one.
When you are ready plan your next meeting or incentive program, contact us at Earth and Moon Services at info@earthandmoonservices.com to receive the best service at the best rates.

Cruises, Meetings and Incentives

Cruise ships are quickly becoming the sought after venue for both meeting and incentive programs. Long favored by honeymooners or those taking family vacations, the cruise industry has completely transformed itself to promote and support our technologically based world. Cruises have maintained popularity over the years by offering a cost effective, secure and convenient option for travelers to experience various locations without the trouble of securing travel and room for each port of call. By transforming their vessels to accommodate the needs of business travelers, cruise lines are making themselves not only a desirable, but a feasible option for meetings and events.
Dedicated conference centers, state of the art AV some even ship-wide Wi-Fi are just a few of the enhancements multiple of which cruise lines have equipped their vessels. Large conference centers have never been an issue with cruise lines; however, smaller break out areas has not been as readily available. Listening to their customers, newer ships have been designed with this in mind. Further, the addition of ports throughout the US offers more opportunity to reduce costs by enabling clients to drive to their port of call as opposed to flying. Ships are also building bigger and better, offering amenities and options that might not be available in such a concise space at a land based venue. Finally, because the trips are generally all inclusive, there is a significantly larger assortment of dining options.
One can enjoy all of the luxuries of the sea, with the conveniences of land based venues. Because of high demand, cruise incentives and meetings are booking a year-plus out, so to get started on your next meeting, wedding, or perhaps a graduation celebration, contact us at info@earthandmoonservices.com to ensure the highest quality service at the best available rate.