Wednesday, March 24, 2010

Does Disneyland Paris Expect Competition?

Paramount Pictures has chosen Murcia in Spain as a home for the biggest theme park in the country. The theme park will also serve as the center for all Paramount productions in Europe. This project will create 20,000 jobs for the people in Spain and is expected to attract 3 million tourists to Spain. The entire project is expected to be completed within 2 years. http://tinyurl.com/yk4ex7d

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Underground Hotels Feel Like Gnome Sweet Gnome

Since 1988, the existence of underground hotels has attracted the biggest "Goth fanatics to people who want to know how it feels to live as a gnome. There are hotels in Australia, Sweden and New Zealand, although some hotels consist of just one room. Some hotels resemble a Hobbit Hole such as the Hobbit Underground Motel in Woodlyn Park New Zealand. You will be surprised as you enter the full-fledged room equipped with modern furniture. A much anticipated, 21-floor underground hotel is under construction near Shanghai. This underground marvel will include an artificial lake and a "ground" top garden. Are you feeling down to earth? Learn more at http://tynyurl.com/yl4sld3

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Priority Pass Announces Airport Lounge of the Year 2010

Rated by Priority Pass members as Lounge of the Year 2010, the USMAQ VIP Lounge, Jorge Chavez International Airport in Lima, Peru receives the award from the world's leading independent lounge program for a second time in two years. With over 30,000 member ratings this year, this is an impressive accolade. Other winners: Continental Presidents Club, Terminal E, George Bush Intercontinental, Houston, TX, in Nort America, Panorama Lounge, Terminal E, Zurich Switzerland in Europe, Kal Lounge, Concourse A, Incheon, Seoul, South Korea in Asia-Pacific and Dilmun Lounge, Bahrain Int'l, Bahrain in Middle East/Africa. There are also honorable mentions listed, did your favorite lounge make the list? See for yourself at http://tinyurl.com/yktz8gn

Monday, March 15, 2010

Meeting Sites Pro’s European Fact of the Day: Fact # 8

If you prefer to be near the center of it all while not being in the center of it all, this hotel is perfect for you. In Venice, the Hilton Molino Stucky is situated away from the hustle and bustle of San Marco square, but only a water taxi away from the city proper. The pool is located on the roof and the views are breathtaking. Roms are spacious and modern while the hotel offers top quality service. The hotel has over 10,000 square feet modern and flexible meeting space as well. Whatever the occasion; business or pleasure, this property is one of my favorites.

Friday, March 12, 2010

Meeting Sites Pro's European Fact of the Day: Fact # 7

You could be anywhere staying at the Hilton Florence; a corporate trendy spot located about 15 minutes from downtown Florence. The location is mostly residential with a cinema adjacent and only a couple options for pub like restaurants within walking distance. Most of the meeting space at this property (estimated at about 5,500 square feet) has natural light and is equipped with technology. While this property is good for meetings where you do not want to lose your attendees, it is does not make my top list of Florence hotels.

Thursday, March 11, 2010

Meeting Sites Pro’s European Fact of the Day: Fact # 6

Westin Excelsior in Florence is beautiful and offers a great location, services and product! My view is of the river and piazza. If you visit Florence, you must stay at this hotel!

Monday, March 8, 2010

Meeting Sites Pro's European Fact of the Day: Fact #5

DID YOU KNOW? Italians don't generally tip. In many establishments when you get the bill, there is not even the option to tip. A general recommendation in most of Italy is to tip only when you receive good service and not in the amounts we tip in the USA. Typically, a good tip in Italy ranges from 5 to 10%.

Friday, March 5, 2010

Meeting Sites Pro’s European Fact of the Day: Fact #4

In Rome there are many nice restaurants; one of the best for Roman cuisine is Ristorante Perilli. This restaurant has been owned and operated by the same Roman family for over 90 years. It is casual, relatively inexpensive, noisy and you must have a reservation as they sell out every night of the week. If you are seeking an authentic Rome experience and great cuisine, this spot is right on top.

Wednesday, March 3, 2010

Meeting Sites Pro’s European Fact of the Day: Fact #3

In Rome, one of my favorite spots for leisure or business meetings is the Hotel Majestic located in the heart of the city and on the famed Via Veneto. It is walking distance to the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, and much more. It is a boutique property with about 85 guest rooms and 4 smaller meeting rooms. The Majestic is definitely an experience you should not miss!

Tuesday, March 2, 2010

Meeting Sites Pro’s European Fact of the Day Fact #2

In Amsterdam, the Hotel Pulitzer spreads through 25 old adjoining canal houses dating from the 17th and 18th centuries. The multiplicity of buildings means sleeping rooms and meeting space have many different sizes, shapes, and locations. This Starwood hotel is ideally located in old city center and within walking distance to many popular attractions. The most unique to me was the “red light district”, product, service, and location are top notch!

Monday, March 1, 2010

Meeting Sites Pro's European Fact of the Day: Fact #1

In Paris, The Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel formerly a Hilton Hotel is located right next to the Eiffel Tower and boasts magnificent views and modern facilities. It has 461 guest rooms and some fantastic meeting facilities with great views. While this property is in a great location for site seeing and restaurants, the services levels are varied.