Cancun, Mexico – Place to Remember!

238In April I had the opportunity to travel to Cancun, Mexico.  It is located on the northeast coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in the Mexican State of Quintana Roo. I had a few new clients who were looking to bring groups to Cancun.  As their meeting planner part of my job was to make sure that the destination would adequately meet all of their requirements. I must say I was pleasantly surprised.  New hotel brands in the area, like the Grand Residences by Royal Resorts, and recent renovations made my visit a real pleasure. The properties along what I refer to as hotel row have a good sense of security which is always important personally and for my groups.

099246Cancun is a gorgeous destination with stunning beaches, aqua blue water and lots of sunshine. I am partial to properties located on the Caribbean Sea.  Many groups especially those incentive ones would definitely fall in love with the destination. 

I left my office in California traveling on Aero Mexico Airlines. We connected through Mexico City and enjoyed on time, pleasant travels. Upon my arrival my pre-arranged ground transportation was awaiting. My driver knew which hotel I was staying which came in handy when I had to track down where I left my camera which managed to fall out of my tote bag. I notified the Concierge Desk and they immediately called the taxi service. I was so happy to have my camera returned.  You all know how distressing it is when something like this happens.  And, you always remember the photos that got away. This helped sell me on Cancun as a destination!

 

By: Lenise Fourcault

St. John’s Newfoundland and Labrador

NF-Colorful RowhousesNF Houses-MoreNF HomesRecently I had the distinct pleasure of visiting a place I had never been to before. The purpose of my trip was to locate a destination for an incentive group. Some place that would have an overwhelming appeal. The mission was to identify a place with a feel of the great outdoors, lots of water sporting activities, museums, several team building options, good food and lots of fun. Personally I wanted it to be stimulating, rugged, charming, and possess a compelling story.

The destination is Newfoundland and Labrador, it had all of the above, and more. The narrow colorful row homes seen above with the small doors and windows were seen all throughout St. John’s and the surrounding towns.

Lighthouse-NFSignal Hill-NFMy explorations started in the small town of St. John’s. I found the residents to be friendly, energetic, and spirited. They showed a deep concern and interest in visitors. I had the feeling I had been there before but I think it was because St. John’s is the kind of place that reminds you of so many other places. So far up in the North Atlantic Ocean, I even had the feeling I was in the Caribbean. Mind you my visit was during the summer! With the bright sunny days and clear blue skies it was not difficult visualizing the Caribbean.

Newfoundland and Labrador is a destination appreciated with pictures. What a beautiful coastline, small islands, icebergs and as much ocean as the eyes can see.  You will probably feel like I did, it is many destinations in one destination. I found what I was looking for!

As for the compelling stories there are many. Some told in legends and others put to music. They even have their own dog named after the country, the Newfoundland.  He is a large strong working dog used to pull nets for fisherman and haul wood from the forest.  He is well suited to work on land or water, known to be a good swimmer and equally strong “pack horse.” Sweet-natured and responsive, he makes a wonderful family companion as well.  The Labrador Retriever also hails from this area of Canada.

Oh almost forgot, tradition has it that before you depart St. John’s you must kiss the cod.  That’s a long story, but I kept with tradition!

  Friendly Horse-MeNewfoundland Dog

By Rosa L. McArthur