President and Founder of Incentive Travel Solutions, Kevin Devanney, was interviewed by Corporate & Incentive Travel Magazine for their January 2012 edition. (article below)
By Karen Brost
The impressive view from the Mandarin Oriental, Prague, a former monastery,includes the historic Prague Castle.
When planning meetings and incentive programs in Europe, it sure helps to know the territory. “About 90 percent of what we do is in Europe,” says Kevin Devanney, president and founder of Incentive Travel Solutions in Charlotte, NC, “so we’re pretty familiar with the market.”
Devanney explains how the current financial situation in Europe is impacting meetings and incentives. “The dollar has strengthened in 2011 just slightly, and it’s helped a little bit with business to Europe,” he says. “That’s certainly a positive for us and for Europeans in the incentive travel business. I think Europeans like a strong euro, however it really helps them when the dollar strengthens because they certainly see an uptick in business. The hotels and DMCs all survive primarily off the U.S. business.
“Spain, Italy, England and France are the big four incentive destinations in Europe,” he continues. “Meetings-wise, you can throw Germany into the mix, because there’s so much commerce and business taking place there. If you’re including meetings, Germany raises the bar a little bit. We do a little more in Germany for that fact.”
Spain
Devanney says that Barcelona was a popular destination for a lot of American companies in 2011. He explains why: “No 1, they have great restaurants over there. The influence of Gaudi on the city of Barcelona (also) has a big impact. You see that through the entire city.” Antoni Gaudi was a celebrated Spanish architect in the late 1800s and early 1900s whose innovative designs continue to capture the interest and imagination of visitors to the city today.
A few of Gaudi’s most famous works can be found near the 98-room Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona, which opened in late 2009. The hotel is located on the city’s prestigious Passeig deGràcia in an area filled with fashionable boutiques and restaurants.
One of the Barcelona hotels Devanney likes is El Palace, a 125-room luxury property set in the heart of the city. “It’s a five-star property that has some meeting space and is in a fantastic location. It was recently renovated, and it’s a great location for incentives,” he says. The building was constructed in 1919 at the height of the city’s cultural renaissance, and the hotel continues to reflect an air of Old World elegance.
Enthusiastic attendees arrive at the Barcelona airport on a recent incentive trip arranged by Incentive Travel Solutions.
England
“London is very strong right now,” Devanney comments, citing Prince William and Kate Middleton’s wedding, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee upcoming in June as well as the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. “In 2012 we’ve got some interest from our clients for all of those reasons,” he says. “It’s not necessarily for the Jubilee or for the Olympics, but because the city will be really decked out and highly decorated through the year in anticipation (of these events). It’s really a great location.
“They’re doing a lot of building,” he continues, “but some of the old hotels like the Grosvenor House and Claridge’s are still fantastic hotels. There’s a brand new InterContinental and Four Seasons. All of the hotels along Hyde Park have recently renovated, like the Hilton and the Sheraton. That location is great for both meetings and incentives.”
The 420-room Grosvenor House, A JW Marriott Hotel, has been hosting royalty, celebrities and business leaders since 1929. “It has a 19th century ice rink that was incorporated into the hotel,” Devanny says. The ice rink was converted into what is now known as the Great Room, billed by Marriott as the “largest hotel banqueting space in Europe” with nearly 20,000 sf of space. In total, the hotel offers more than 60,000 sf of meeting space including 31 meeting rooms.
Claridge’s, which has a heritage dating back to the 1850s, is one of London’s most iconic hotels. Of its 203 guest rooms, 67 are suites. Half of the hotel’s accommodations are decorated in an art deco style, and the rest are Victorian. As proof of just how chic this historic hotel is, it features a series of rooms and suites designed by Diane Von Furstenberg.
The Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane opened in early 2011. Located in the heart of the city’s prestigious Mayfair area, it features 147 guest rooms, 46 suites, and more than 8,500 sf of meeting space, including the Heritage Travel Group based in Angels Camp, CA. His company is currently in the process of planning several European sales incentive trips, one of which will be held in St. Moritz. “Sometimes people play down Switzerland as being too predictable, and they’re usually mistaken,” he says. “This is going to be a fun mix of the summertime in the Alps and the heritage of the Olympic Games there.” One of the group’s stops will be to see the historic bobsled tracks that have been used for Olympic events.
Tichenor noted that Switzerland also has a heritage of group travel. “It began with Thomas Cook taking groups to St. Moritz,” mountain range in the Swiss Alps, is being developed into a year-round destination. The expansion project calls for the construction of six four- to five-star hotels, including The Chedi Andermatt, a 50-room, five-star property expected to open in time for the 2013 winter season.
Kevin Devanney President & Founder of Incentive Travel Solutions, Charlotte, NC
“For companies that really want to raise the bar and continue to raise the bar for their top performers, they understand that Europe is a destination that is worth the increasing cost.”
Europe Is a Top Choice
The German Convention Bureau reports that Europe is the most important foreign destination for U.S. planners, and that approximately 50 percent of all foreign events staged by U.S. planners take place in Europe.
For Devanney’s company, the percentage is much higher. “We will probably have about 90 percent of our incentive business going to Europe this year,” he notes. “I think it’s great. I think the dollar has strengthened and at the same time, people are recognizing that it’s not fluctuating that much. It’s just something that we live with now. For companies that really want to raise the bar and continue to raise the bar for their top performers, they understand that Europe is a destination that is worth the increasing cost to keep their top performers motivated and coming back for next year.”
Provence, France: An Incentive Travel Solutions Featured Destination
/in Featured DestinationsHistory
Original settlers consisted of various farming cultures, the Celts, the Greeks, and the Romans. Germans invaded the territory between the fifth and ninth centuries before the Middle Ages. As the Middle Age era surfaced, three dynasties paved the way to what is now modern Provence. Historical takeovers remained prominent through post Middle Ages with the region being incorporated as part of France in approximately 1486. A plague in the 1700’s led to a large diminishing of the population; however, artistic industries such as pottery became prevalent shortly after. The violent French Revolution caused extensive turmoil that was only subsided when Napoleon seized power in the later portion of the seventeenth century. Today, residents enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere where the original beauty that attracted a vast array of rulers has been preciously preserved.
Landscapes
Provence is known for its widespread contrasting landscapes with a few specifically increasing the popularity of this travel destination. The Rhone river can be found on the western portion as one of Frances commerce connections to the Mediterranean. It divides prior to reaching the sea with sections being referred to as the Grand Rhone and the Petit Rhone. The Alps reside northwest of this region to form the border between France and Italy. A series of inlets, referred to as the Calanques, are an ancient cultural remnant considered to be a famous coastal feature of this region.
Culture
Painters, writers, and film makers have all attempted to portray the beauty this destination has to offer. Louis Brea, a painter during the fifteenth century, created works in several churches of the region. Pierre Paul Puget was a prominent religious and portrait painter a century later. His famous sculpture creations can be found in the Louvre, Toulon Cathedral, and the additional structures. Additional artists of the area include Adolphe Monticelli, Vincent Van Gogh, Auguste Renoir, Pablo Picasso, and Claude Monet. Visitors can see numerous works created by these individuals in various museums. Provence, also the site of some of the earliest produced motion pictures, has been depicted in many modern films. The cuisine of Provence consists of a few main ingredients: olive oil, garlic, seafood, lamb, goat, and local fruits. Food is limited due to the locations poor terrain; however, visitors are still able to try several exquisite dishes from local cultures. Modern practices have greatly improved both the food and beverages one can try when visiting.
Campania, Italy: An Incentive Travel Solutions Featured Destination
/in Featured DestinationsCampania History, Culture, and Landscaping
Campania is known for immense culture and history, but also visited by many for its delivered beauty. Famous historical figures comprise of Parmenides, Zeno, Aristotle, Virgilius, Giotto, and Augustus. An abundant list of artists, philosophers, and scientists exists for this area during it natural historical progression. Culture has continued to be an active part of the regions development with individuals like Andy Warhol being included in the lineup. Numerous films have been centered on the tourist paradise or on famous individuals from the area. Quite a few popular dishes can be found throughout the country and Naples is specifically noted for the first pizzas. Spaghetti, cheeses, wines, and deserts are other divine creations of Campania. The area offers beautiful landscapes combined with a spring climate making it an ideal location to get away from the busyness of everyday life. Items that attracted Romans long ago can still be seen by visitors making their way through the region today.
What to Do in Campania, Italy
Tourists have the opportunity to experience area nature, take artistic tours, try out tantalizing food, or view historical sites. Archeological digs resulted in the unearthing of Roman monuments that are a must see for those interested in early architecture. Naples is an artistic city offering various theatres, museums, monuments, coffee shops, and eateries. It is a lively location every individual must visit at least once to gain the complete Italian experience. Nature attractions comprise of famous landmarks such as the Positano, Ravello, Capri, and Ischia.
The Tyrrhenian Sea is combined with small romantic towns to provide the perfect laid back atmosphere. A nature tour is recommended to see the region and individuals can spend a day at the Punta Campanella Nature Reserve or visit the Emerald Grotto. Additional recommended activities consist of bus tours in Naples, shopping in Sorrento, dining on fine cuisine, visiting the museums, relaxing on the beach, or taking some time to learn about the locations rich history. Campania offers years of culture combined with more modern marvels. It is the perfect destination for an individual to relax, learn, and try something new.
Guanacaste, Costa Rica: An Incentive Travel Solutions Featured Destination
/in Featured DestinationsThe province can be found in the northwestern portion of Costa Rica along the Pacific Ocean coast. Nicaragua, Alajuela Province, and Puntarenas Province can be found bordering the region. Of all Costa Rican provinces, Guanacaste has the lightest population count making it an ideal location for a fun filled beach vacation. The territory was annexed to Costa Rica between 1824 and 1825 as a decision of local inhabitants. Today Guanacaste is recognized as the capital of this particular province but has since been renamed to Liberia.
Guanacaste Geography and Climate
Guanacaste Province includes various amounts of natural scenery including an eastern set of foliage covered volcanoes, the ocean, mountains, rivers, and rolling flatlands. Rivers flowing from the mountains create a deposit rich plain that empties into swampy wetlands in the area. Some portions of this destination are heavily forested while others have modernized atmospheres such as the capital city. November through April offers minimal rainfall with consistent heat whereas May to October supplies daily showers along with more moderate temperature spans. Guanacaste is one of the warmer provinces due to the region resting at a higher elevation.
Guanacaste Local Economy
This particular Costa Rican province has a heritage based upon cattle ranching due to land conditions restricting other types of agricultural economic ventures. The land is ridden by patches of rain forest, trees, and pastures of coarse grass which works better for beef than any other type of animal produced product. Cattle ranching activities have started to decline in the area partly due to natural changes as well as declining beef demands. Sugar cane, cotton, rice, and tourism are other prominent economical products within the territory.
Guanacaste Area Activities
Boredom is not an option at this unique beach oriented getaway destination because it offers plenty of activities to meet the varying interests of any group. Tours are provided to those visitors who want to experience the city from a local perspective. Surfing is a very popular activity since the beaches provide some of the best opportunities in regards to the sport. Lessons, shops, tours, and rentals are all part of the Guanacaste surfing experience. The Nosara Wildlife Rescue, a facility created to rescue animals for rehabilitation, provides vast information on local wildlife. Hiking, swinging bridges, zip line traveling, fishing, and horseback riding can add increased adventure to when visiting this destination. Visitors may lounge on the beach, receive massages, or enjoy several cultural dishes as well. Whatever the interests, Guanacaste has something to match each individuals idea of a good time with the perks of an incredible setting.
Florence, Italy: An Incentive Travel Solutions Featured Destination
/in Featured DestinationsAn Overview of Florence History
Florence history begins long before it became an important focal point of the Renaissance period. Historians have dated the regions founding to approximately 59 B.C. with its start being as a Roman settlement location used to house retired soldiers. It suffered numerous attacks over the Dark Ages time period but grew enough in the twelfth century to become a city state. Over the next two centuries both the Guelph’s and Ghibellines fought to rule the territory. Florence rose as an important European location between the fourteenth and sixteenth centuries when the Medici family attracted contemporary artists and architects to perform work in the city. Florence, Italy is definitely a sight to see for historical or artistic oriented visitors. Of course, these are not the only high points of this stunningly beautiful Tuscan location.
Visual Attractions in Florence
Florence is a top notch destination often referred to as the “cradle of the Renaissance.” The city offers an abundance of monuments, churches, museums, and nationally recognized landmarks. A very significant landmark known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore or Duomo holds a dome originally built by Filippo Brunelleschi. The famous structure consists of a Gothic architectural style with polychrome marble panels decorating the facing of the building. It is Italy’s largest church with the included dome being the most massive brick based design ever built. Visitors can find medieval walls throughout the cities centre that have remained in existence since the fourteenth century. Piazza Della Signoria, the Fountain of Neptune, and Palazzo Vecchio serve as additional architectural and artistic drawing points of Florence.
What to Do in Florence
Florence is a culture filled as well as architectural dream location which offers various experiences year round. While some activities are seasonal, a vast majority of the destination can be explored at all times of the year. The Piazzale Michelangelo allows visitors to see a one of kind view of the area from above. Visitors can also make their way to the top of the Duomo for a different view of the skyline. Boboli Gardens offers its own set of adventures for those who enjoy walking amidst plant life. Wine tasting is a common area activity which can be partaken in during any time of the year. Tuscan oriented foods, some of the best wine in the world, famous artistic creations, and much more may be found in Florence, Italy. Visitors may walk through this enchanted location without having much difficulty finding amazing scenery and plenty to do.
Europe: Good Values, Great Destinations
/in Press and NewsPresident and Founder of Incentive Travel Solutions, Kevin Devanney, was interviewed by Corporate & Incentive Travel Magazine for their January 2012 edition. (article below)
By Karen Brost
The impressive view from the Mandarin Oriental, Prague, a former monastery,includes the historic Prague Castle.
When planning meetings and incentive programs in Europe, it sure helps to know the territory. “About 90 percent of what we do is in Europe,” says Kevin Devanney, president and founder of Incentive Travel Solutions in Charlotte, NC, “so we’re pretty familiar with the market.”
Devanney explains how the current financial situation in Europe is impacting meetings and incentives. “The dollar has strengthened in 2011 just slightly, and it’s helped a little bit with business to Europe,” he says. “That’s certainly a positive for us and for Europeans in the incentive travel business. I think Europeans like a strong euro, however it really helps them when the dollar strengthens because they certainly see an uptick in business. The hotels and DMCs all survive primarily off the U.S. business.
“Spain, Italy, England and France are the big four incentive destinations in Europe,” he continues. “Meetings-wise, you can throw Germany into the mix, because there’s so much commerce and business taking place there. If you’re including meetings, Germany raises the bar a little bit. We do a little more in Germany for that fact.”
Spain
Devanney says that Barcelona was a popular destination for a lot of American companies in 2011. He explains why: “No 1, they have great restaurants over there. The influence of Gaudi on the city of Barcelona (also) has a big impact. You see that through the entire city.” Antoni Gaudi was a celebrated Spanish architect in the late 1800s and early 1900s whose innovative designs continue to capture the interest and imagination of visitors to the city today.
A few of Gaudi’s most famous works can be found near the 98-room Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona, which opened in late 2009. The hotel is located on the city’s prestigious Passeig deGràcia in an area filled with fashionable boutiques and restaurants.
One of the Barcelona hotels Devanney likes is El Palace, a 125-room luxury property set in the heart of the city. “It’s a five-star property that has some meeting space and is in a fantastic location. It was recently renovated, and it’s a great location for incentives,” he says. The building was constructed in 1919 at the height of the city’s cultural renaissance, and the hotel continues to reflect an air of Old World elegance.
Enthusiastic attendees arrive at the Barcelona airport on a recent incentive trip arranged by Incentive Travel Solutions.
England
“London is very strong right now,” Devanney comments, citing Prince William and Kate Middleton’s wedding, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee upcoming in June as well as the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. “In 2012 we’ve got some interest from our clients for all of those reasons,” he says. “It’s not necessarily for the Jubilee or for the Olympics, but because the city will be really decked out and highly decorated through the year in anticipation (of these events). It’s really a great location.
“They’re doing a lot of building,” he continues, “but some of the old hotels like the Grosvenor House and Claridge’s are still fantastic hotels. There’s a brand new InterContinental and Four Seasons. All of the hotels along Hyde Park have recently renovated, like the Hilton and the Sheraton. That location is great for both meetings and incentives.”
The 420-room Grosvenor House, A JW Marriott Hotel, has been hosting royalty, celebrities and business leaders since 1929. “It has a 19th century ice rink that was incorporated into the hotel,” Devanny says. The ice rink was converted into what is now known as the Great Room, billed by Marriott as the “largest hotel banqueting space in Europe” with nearly 20,000 sf of space. In total, the hotel offers more than 60,000 sf of meeting space including 31 meeting rooms.
Claridge’s, which has a heritage dating back to the 1850s, is one of London’s most iconic hotels. Of its 203 guest rooms, 67 are suites. Half of the hotel’s accommodations are decorated in an art deco style, and the rest are Victorian. As proof of just how chic this historic hotel is, it features a series of rooms and suites designed by Diane Von Furstenberg.
The Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane opened in early 2011. Located in the heart of the city’s prestigious Mayfair area, it features 147 guest rooms, 46 suites, and more than 8,500 sf of meeting space, including the Heritage Travel Group based in Angels Camp, CA. His company is currently in the process of planning several European sales incentive trips, one of which will be held in St. Moritz. “Sometimes people play down Switzerland as being too predictable, and they’re usually mistaken,” he says. “This is going to be a fun mix of the summertime in the Alps and the heritage of the Olympic Games there.” One of the group’s stops will be to see the historic bobsled tracks that have been used for Olympic events.
Tichenor noted that Switzerland also has a heritage of group travel. “It began with Thomas Cook taking groups to St. Moritz,” mountain range in the Swiss Alps, is being developed into a year-round destination. The expansion project calls for the construction of six four- to five-star hotels, including The Chedi Andermatt, a 50-room, five-star property expected to open in time for the 2013 winter season.
Kevin Devanney President & Founder of Incentive Travel Solutions, Charlotte, NC
“For companies that really want to raise the bar and continue to raise the bar for their top performers, they understand that Europe is a destination that is worth the increasing cost.”
Europe Is a Top Choice
The German Convention Bureau reports that Europe is the most important foreign destination for U.S. planners, and that approximately 50 percent of all foreign events staged by U.S. planners take place in Europe.
For Devanney’s company, the percentage is much higher. “We will probably have about 90 percent of our incentive business going to Europe this year,” he notes. “I think it’s great. I think the dollar has strengthened and at the same time, people are recognizing that it’s not fluctuating that much. It’s just something that we live with now. For companies that really want to raise the bar and continue to raise the bar for their top performers, they understand that Europe is a destination that is worth the increasing cost to keep their top performers motivated and coming back for next year.”