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.

Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas

This past October, during the IMEX convention, Earth and Moon Services was thrilled to spend some time getting to know some of the newer Las Vegas hotels. One in particular, the AAA Five Diamond rated, and Forbes Five-Star awarded Mandarin Oriental, was absolutely a site to behold. Located in the heart of the strip at the entrance of the brand new CityCenter, lays this incredible oasis from the glittering lights of Las Vegas. From inspired dining to the most exclusive and technologically advanced meeting and sleeping space, this extraordinary location also boasts one of the top 20 spas in the world.
Every Mandarin Oriental Hotel is uniquely designed and the Las Vegas destination does not disappoint! One of the five fantastic dining experiences offered is the Sky Lobby and Mandarin Bar. Not only are the drinks and food absolutely wonderful (try the champagne mojito-it was delicious and I am not usually a fan of the mojito) but the view is unmatched. The Mandarin Bar is surrounded on three sides by floor to ceiling windows that overlook the strip. Day or night-the view in amazing.
Another stunning feature to the Mandarin Las Vegas is the 27,000 square foot, Forbes Five Star The Spa at Mandarin Oriental. A sampling of what they offer includes 17 treatment rooms, a Hammam, a Lacomium (dry spa) and vitality pool overlooking the strip, there is no reason to not leave entirely refreshed.
From Mandarin service to Mandarin design, absolutely nothing has been overlooked in this impeccably created venue. Whether you are in need of a location for meetings, incentive or weddings, Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas is definitely one to consider. When you are ready to plan your Las Vegas event contact us at info@earthandmoonservices.com to start planning.

Time to Play!

If an unsurpassed Mexican vacation is your goal, Playa del Carmen La Perla, or La Esmerelda should be the destination. Satiated tranquility-what a phenomenal way to describe such an exquisite resort. Open as of November 15th the all-inclusive Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Perla, and by the end of the month La Esmerelda, these sister resorts are in close proximity to both stunning beaches and near world famous Mayan archeological sites.

Whether traveling with your family or if you prefer an adults only venue, these sister resorts are sure to amaze. La Perla, adults only resort features 394 suites, of which 60 are swim up suites. La Esmerelda features 512 suites of which 52 are swim up suites. These unbelievably beautiful locations share a 20,000 square foot spa and health club, 25,000 square feet of flexible meeting space and dramatic free form pools and artful landscapes. Be sure to contact Earth and Moon Services to begin planning your meeting or event.

Warmest Thanksgiving wishes from our families to yours,
Earth and Moon Services

Barcelona 2011

Excuse the tardiness of this week’s news, life has been crazy for just about everyone at Earth and Moon! In just two short weeks Earth and Moon Services will be attending the leading global event for the meeting and events industry; EIBTM, in Barcelona Spain.

This artistic, athletic and culturally rich city, located on the Iberian Peninsula, is one of the world’s leading tourist and trade show destinations. It therefore offers the perfect platform for such an event.
EIBTM is a three day, education and networking packed event that offers a unique resource for Earth and Moon Services with access to over 14,000 industry professionals, over 3300 of whom are exhibitors. With the ability to pre-plan meetings with these exhibitors, such as we did with IMEX America last month, Earth and Moon services is able to ensure meetings with those venues we are in the process of booking or anticipate booking in the near future. Further, their education program has been meticulously tailored to address issues and information with specific target audiences.

In a continually challenging global market, providing the highest quality services with greatest cost effectiveness is of the utmost importance. Maintaining industry relationships is the key to achieving these results. EIBTM has proven historically to provide a tool for maintaining and acquiring these relationships and we look forward to the prospect this year brings. Look forward to our update in the coming weeks.

Hesperia Tower, Barcelona

107 meters above the extraordinarily beautiful city of Barcelona stands a superb example of the capabilities in excellence that is associated with the world renowned NH hotels. Hesperia Tower, inaugurated in 2006, was the brainchild of renowned architect Richard Rogers in collaboration with Alonso & Balaguer. From standard rooms to the presidential suite, there is superior space to suite every travelers needs.

Strategically designed to be multi-functionally adaptable, the meeting spaces of Hesperia Tower can be reconfigured to adapt to any occasion. All spaces are equipped with the most modern and up to date audio visual equipment. Further, outdoor terraces are accessible to each venue space, offering a unique location for break-out sessions, coffee breaks, or cocktail hours.

The crowning jewel of Hesperia Tower is Evo Restaurant. Sitting atop the tower, and accessible by a glass enclosed staircase, this unique glass dome eating experience pairs its exquisite menu with panoramic views of Barcelona. Join the team at Evo for lunch or dinner and find out why it is described as a gastronomic evolution.

Hesperia Tower is certainly a sight to behold, and an experience to be had. If you are considering Barcelona for either incentive or meeting, please contact us at info@earthandmoonservices to arrange an extraordinary experience.

Hilton Gdansk

In the historically rich city of Gdansk, Poland on the banks of the Motlawa River, lays the Hilton Gdansk hotel. Centrally located in the heart of Old Town, one finds themselves surrounded by architecture that was rebuilt to be reminiscent of an idealized pre-1793 Poland, and literally steps away from some of the most incredible sites and museums of Gdansk. With magnificent views over Old Town, or from the Deluxe Room a view of the Motlawa River, the large windows of the Hilton Gdansk offer an open invitation to this beautiful city.

A range of leisure activities are just minutes away from the Hilton Gdansk including horseback riding, golf, kayaking, shopping, and cycling. Onsite one can enjoy the sauna and spa or bask in the sun at the incredible rooftop pool and the unique luxury rooftop Urban Beach. Complete the experience by enjoying cocktails and appetizers at the High 5 Terrace Bar. Offering striking views of Gdansk’s landmarks with its open-air deck terrace, the High 5 Terrace Bar is not to be missed. Families can also take advantage of these amenities as the Hilton Gdansk offers such family services as babysitting service, children’s menus, cribs and high chairs.

Located just 10 minutes from the Gdansk Lech Walesa Airport, the Hilton Gdansk is also the perfect location for business travel and meetings. As one of the largest meeting and event spaces in Gdansk, the Hilton offers 5 flexible meeting rooms with space for up to 500 people. Access to video conferencing and WIFI along with a 24 hour business center and secretarial services will ensure the success of your next event.

Contact Earth and Moon Services to schedule your next event in this amazing city at info@earthandmoonservices.com

A Little Slice of Heaven in the Middle of Orlando

As a parent of three and a frequent visitor of the Disney World/Universal attractions, I am constantly on the lookout for not only family friendly, but parent friendly hotels. We have stayed on site and off, at time shares, hotels and suites. The problem I have frequently run into is finding a place that is close enough, (or on site) with enough space, that is family friendly enough without being too juvenile (VERY important with a teenager in tow.)

During IMEX America I was thrilled to meet with a particular location that happened to fit all of my needs, The Wyndham Grand Bonnet Creek. Not only do they have beautiful traditional rooms, presidential suites and a junior presidential suite that are common, they have also debuted their upgraded Deluxe and Grand Deluxe Bunk Concierge suites. The great part about these Bunk Suites is that in addition to either the pillow top king or the double pillow top queens, the rooms are fitted with an alcove that contains a bunk bed with its own flat screen television. What a great way to give parents some privacy while the little ones relax in their own private area. In fact, the Epcot fireworks are visible from the hotel each evening.
The site offers free shuttle service to four of the Walt Disney World Resorts and reduced service to Universal resorts. If the family decides to take a break from the park, there is also a spa or lagoon style pirate pool, kids club, golf and more.

With 25,000 of conference room space, The Wyndham Grand Bonnet Creek can also accommodate meetings from 10-800 people. Medium sized events, such as weddings or family reunions can easily be accommodated with their lovely indoor and/or outdoor facilities.
Because The Wyndham Grand Bonnet Creek just opened October 1st of this year, they are running some amazing promotions. Contact us for great deals on group reservations or your next event meeting at www.earthandmoonservices.com

IMEX America 2011 Wrap-up

What an amazingly productive week we had at IMEX America last week! But wow, technology certainly took center stage this year, and not because of any specific exhibitor. Nearly every presentation was made on an iPad or through digital media, while the IMEX hosted buyer app kept us all organized. This particular app made it extremely convenient to navigate the show keeping not only the floor plan and catalog right at our fingertips, but kept us right on time as the app regularly updated with our own scheduled appointments. Of course, as with any technology, we were not totally without some drama. Right smack in the middle of the show many experienced firsthand Blackberry Meltdown 2011 (thank goodness for Android's and iPads!) It was such an amazing representation of just how far we have come as an industry in just a few short months.

As one of nearly 2000 hosted buyers, Earth and Moon Services was treated to some incredible presentations from all over the globe. Even scheduling events back to back, we still didn't get to meet with everyone we wanted to! I will give a brief summary here, but keep a lookout for our newsletter which will highlight some of our favorite new hotels and destinations. There seems to be an increase in interest in the utilization of shipboard venues. Being in a coastal town with numerous cruise ports nearby, cruising isn't necessarily a new idea for us. However, with only 20 percent of the population having gone on a cruise, this is definitely an opportunity to provide our clients with something new!

While the trip was mostly business, it was Las Vegas so we of course incorporated a little fun! One of our first receptions took place at the Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas. An absolutely stunning location at the entrance of City Center, the Sky Lobby at Mandarin Oriental overlooks the Las Vegas skyline. We also had the opportunity to see the incredibly talented Blue Man Group (thanks Kris!) .

As far as the first annual IMEX America, it appears to have been a huge success. Everyone we spoke with, hotels and buyers alike, seemed pleased with the event (well, despite some curious numbering) and are looking forward to next year! If you didn't make it this year, I definitely recommend it. Book soon though as I suspect word will get out and spaces will fill up.

IMEX Las Vegas 2011

Earth and Moon Services is extremely busy this week as we prepare to visit Las Vegas for the First Annual IMEX America; and what a perfect time to launch our new blog. We invite you to join us as we blog about our experiences while we attend this historic event. Our mission has always been to obtain and utilize as much knowledge as possible, combine that with industry relationships, and proven methodologies to provide our customers with the best venue, at the best price anywhere in the world. This opportunity will provide us the ability to continue doing just that.

IMEX is THE industry leader, meeting the needs of those in the meeting, incentive travel and events industry. Using the success of IMEX in Frankfurt, IMEX America has been meticulously designed to meet the needs of our industry leaders that are either insufficiently or not currently provided by existing America based trade shows.

As part of 2000 hosted buyers, Earth and Moon Services with have the ability to meet with our choice of over 1800 confirmed exhibitors who are representative of over 100 countries. With over 90 educational events available, and extremely easy to navigate scheduling tools, we currently have set aside time at over 20 educational events as well as with over 50 separate hotels and venues. This is all in an effort to connect with those who support the destination localities of some of our top clients.

While the challenging economy has persisted, businesses and individuals continue to seek out the best deals; and the hotel and events industry is doing its part to make sure their customers are thoroughly satisfied. We are extremely excited to be getting a firsthand look at what industry leaders are proposing and making available for our current and future clients.

Stay tuned…

Amy