KONGRES MAGAZINE

www.kongres-magazine.eu

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ENGAGEEXPERIENCEEDUCATIONEMOTIONS

ENERGY ENTERTAINMENT

6th EXHIBITION FOR MEETINGS, EVENTS & INCENTIVE TRAVEL

CONVENTA =

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www.slovenia.info#ifeelslovenia

I FEEL INSPIRED BY WHERE WE MEETAt the crossroads of Europe we come together to do business. Accessible, affordable with fine Slovenian hospitality, all you need to do is provide the people.

SLOVENIA. Green. Active. Healthy.

spirit_london_2013_kongresni_turizem.indd 1 14. 01. 14 14:10

kOngrES MagazInE IS MEdIa partnEr Of

CONVENTA SELECTION

page 6COnVEnta 6E 2014 the 6th Conventa highlights Experience, Engagement, Education, Emotions, Energy and Entertainment

page 12-13COnVEnta a-z - a-d: Conventa participants - E-I: adding value to your services - J-M: networking opportunities - n-Q: Educational opportunities- U-r: Exploring the region - V-z: Enriching the experience

page 14-15pOSItIVE COnVEnta EnErgY Interview andrea Leitner, CEO fincentive Interview timo Heinaro, Manager, Conventionland karnten

page 20-30MEEtIngS Star aWard 2013 - tOp meeting destinations - tOp convention centre - tOp city meeting hotels - tOp resort meeting hotels

page 34-35InSIdE aWardgeoffrey waiter of the 21 century

page 42-84COnVEnta CataLOgUE Conventa programme / floor plan / List of exhibitors /

page 100-105InSIdE HOtEL the Secret life of grand Hotel UnionExclusive reportage from backstage of famous Ljubljana hotel

page 106 - 112WHO IS WHO at COnVEnta

MARJAN HRIBAR

General Director of the Directorate for Tourism and Internationalisation

ZORAN JANKOVIČ

Mayor of the City of Ljubljana

KARMEN NOVARLIČ

Head of Slovenian Tourist Board

MERI MATEŠIČ

Director of Croatian National Tourist Board

MARK ANŽUR

CEO of Adria Airways

CONVENTA ORGANISERS

MIHA KOVAČIČ

Miha Kovačič is known as a highly profes-sional and motivated, zealous, positive, hearty and constructive colleague. Under his management, the Slovenian Convention Bureau became an important connect-ing point and an efficient marketing and promotional institution of the Slovenian meetings industry, which currently unites over 60 of the most important Slovenian providers of congress services.

GORAZD ČAD

Editor of Kongres Magazine has united his professional education and love of discovering new, lesser-known meetings destinations with a love and passion for the meetings industry. His special love is Conventa: “Conventa is simple, heartfelt, warm and attractive. Conventa brand invites you to a personal meeting for coffee and this sums up the essence and atmosphere of the project - hospitality. Through the brand we are trying to convince congress organisers what the DNA of the region in which we operate is like.”

CONVENTA SPECIAL ISSUE CONTRIBUTORS

@kongresmagazine

G www.facebook.com/kongres.magazine

Editor in Chief Gorazd ČadAssistant to the Editor in Chief

Ines Klopčič, Danaja Besnard, Špela JerucEditor of Croatia Addendum daniela kos

Editor of Kongres Telescope robert Cotter

Editorial Board Renata Balažic, Gorazd Čad, Anuša Gaši,

Miha Kovačič, Viljam Kvalić, Srečo Peterlič, Tatjana Radovič, Maja Vidergar

Design nenad Cizldtp and prepress Premedia, Andrej Juvan

Translation Danaja Besnard

Printing Schwarz, LjubljanaCirculation 6000 copies

ISSN Number 1855-8615

the kongres magazine is entered into the media register under sequence number 1423.

Magazine issued in January; March; May; July;

September; november

Publisher, Production and Marketing toleranca Marketing d.o.o.,

Štihova 4, SI-1000 Ljubljana,t: +386 (0)1 430 51 03 f: +386 (0)1 430 51 04

v e: [email protected]

Issue dateJanuary 2014

for the content reproduction it is required to get the written editorial consigment.

Official magazine of the Slovenian Convention Bureau

Member of

I S S N 1 8 5 5 - 8 6 1 5

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The moto of the 6th Conventa are 6 E. You will ask yourself is this another marketing trick of the successul show? It is not just a marketing

campaign it is the main frame of the 6th edition of the meetings show of the region of South East Europe that this years welcomes also the countries of Central and Eastern Europe.

6 E = Engagement, Experience, Education, Emotion, Energy, Entertainment

Each E presents number activities aimed to maxim-ise the tradeshow experience and to bring participant highest possible return on investment.

If you follow them success is inevitable.

Studying the Conventa programme you will realise that the show will feature many novelties with the aim to bring more value to hosted buyers and exhibitors but also media and partners.

Conventa 2014 thanks to ist strategic, regional and local partners for the partnership and their involve-ment to make 6th Conventa another success. These partners understand the true value of live marketing and opportunity to host such a prestigious group of clients from all over Europe and suppliers from the region on one place.

Success of every meetings show is measured by number and the quality of hosted buyers. Conventa team has invested much more ressources to bring Conventa to a higher level. First analyses have proved that we have achieved this. True results will be done after the show by the feedback of exhibitors and hosted buyers.

I again will repeat the last part from my last year’s welcome.

We’ve invested all of our knowledge, positive energy and passion to make this Conventa another success. Enjoy the moment and enrich Conventa 2014 with your energy. You can only really get it if you share it!

Dobrodošli! (Welcome)

PERSONAL

Which event do you think marked the year 2013?At major events I enjoy the moment when they are held otherwise I’m focused on the future.

About what would talk a book that you would write?Benefactors. From simple to large ones. The world can be so beautiful. Let’s try to make it even more beautiful.

Who are your role models and inspiration? Those who are honest and willing to share their knowl-edge and experience and have a positive view on the world and change.

Where will be the congress Silicon Valley of the region?The region of Southeast Europe has wonderful opportunities, but only the region knows whether it will be able to change into Silicon Valley.

ENGAGEMENTEXPERINCEEDUCATIONEMOTIONENERGYENTERTAINMENT

6E

IF YOU FOLLOW 6E’S SUCCESS IS INEVITABLEMIHA KOVAČIČ, Chief organizer of the Conventa

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Start experience

text by Polona Simšič

Before us lies the sixth Conventa and for the edito-rial we talked to Gorazd Čad, who, together with Miha Kovačič, forms a part of the duo that have

envisioned and executed all of the previous Conventa shows.Over the course of just a few years Conventa has developed from a small local trade show into a strong brand that is now replicated in many other places in Europe. These other shows themselves say that they are a boutique trade show, which builds on the advantages of its specific energy, which for us is today recognised by our 1,205 invited guests coming from 36 countries.“The trade show is a living project that always emerges from an analysis of the needs of exhibitors and the invited guests, with at its heart the high quality meetings and year-round contextual marketing,” responded Gorazd Čad to the question of how to organise the trade show so that it does not lose its reputation, attractiveness and accessibility. “Through the measurement of results, a survey of participants and personal meetings with our partners we provide for annual quality improvement, which strengthens the trade show’s reputation and the loyalty of its partners.”Precisely because of these reasons Conventa is achiev-ing outstanding results in terms of quality. The average satisfaction rating of exhibitors after five years was 4,23, with the average satisfaction rating of invited guests even higher at 4.44.Conventa has in its five years achieved tremendous growth and development and has become a reputable brand that, between hosted buyers and exhibitors, enjoys a high reputation and credibility. “We are trusted by global trade shows IMEX, EIBTM and Meetings Show UK, ICCA, MPI and SITE and all major convention bureaus in the region,” agreed Čad. “Moreover, the largest congress players have been with us since the beginning. The loyalty rate is extremely high, because from the beginning we have been trusted by 98% of the exhibitors to whom each year new ones are joining, which ensures the growth of the project.”Conventa is also a communication machine that has notably helped put the entire region on the conven-tion destinations map. The success of the project is in many places even more recognisable than some desti-

nations own largely contributed and precisely content marketing. “It would be good to adapt the well known statement ‘I communicate, therefore I am’ to convention desti-nations,” said Čad . “Every year we are expanding our range of year-round communication activities, which are based on one of the best databases of buyers in Europe, with over 39,816 contacts.”For exhibitors, the optimal added value of the trade show is in saving time and money. Exhibitors have on average 22 pre-scheduled appointments, for the organ-isation of which they would otherwise have to spend a lot of time. “For the average organisation of a sales meeting you would have to devote at least 60 minutes, without includ-ing time invested in market research and other time in-vested in finding customers,” explained Čad. “According to the Conventa survey we save you on average at least 60 hours of valuable time that would otherwise be spent searching for contacts and on the organisation of meetings.”At trade shows of this boutique-type small and large exhibitors are treated equally, which is much harder to achieve at the larger trade shows, where a restriction is already in the size of the exhibition space. “The registration fee for Conventa has no hidden costs and includes a fully equipped stand on the principle come, meet, win,” stated Čad. “Moreover, within two days of the event as one of the few trade shows we completely take care of the food for the participants, which is fully included in the registration fee.”Exhibitors can also take advantage of the various op-portunities for communication with selected buyers that will be offered in 2014 through the various forms of socialising to enable exhibitors to learn about and build bridges with the greatest possible number of invited guests.“Conventa addresses invited guests and exhibitors equivalently, therefore, all social events form an inte-gral part of the Conventa project and are free of charge for exhibitors, as they are an integral part of achieving ROI for exhibitors,” said Čad.Organisers have been working hard to ensure that Conventa 2014 will be yet another to get into your heart and to justify your trust in us.

PERSONAL:

Which event do you think marked the year 2013?Surely the fifth anniversary of Conventa and challenges of stra-tegic renovation of the project for a new five-year plan to 2018.

About what would talk a book that you would write?The book has actually been pre-pared and will talk about the connection between rock’n’roll and the meetings industry.

Who are your role models and inspiration?All congress organisers, who understand that we are here to satisfy congress participants. Because of them we absolute-ly exist and to them we are devoting.

Where will be the congress Silicon Valley of the region?I personally believe that Alps-Adria will be the new congress epicentre of Europe, which will grow strongly and fast in the coming years. In addition, I believe in many fresh destina-tions of the New Europe.

ALPE ADRIA REGION WILL BE THE NEW CONGRESS EPICENTRE OF EUROPEGORAZD ČAD, Chief organizer of the Conventa

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Energy

THE 6TH CONVENTA HIGHLIGHTS ExPERIENCE, ENGAGEmENT, EDUCATION, EmOTIONS, ENERGY AND ENTERTAINmENT

ExpErIEncE – A nEw trAdE show ExpErIEncEConventa is not only a trade show offering pro-viders a business-oriented platform to develop individual business relationships with targeted meeting industry audiences in a cost and time efficient manner, but it is also a South East Europe meeting point full of energy, warmth and South East European hospitality. It is a place where personal experience is what matters most, where business is flourishing, where knowledge is acquired and where a good time is guaranteed. All in all it is a whole new trade show experience!

EngAgEmEnt – It’s All About tEAm work!When it comes to the satisfaction of hosted buyer and exhibitor needs, you can expect nothing less than the maximum engagement of the Conventa team. Best value for money and the satisfaction of Conventa participants have always been the top priorities of Conventa and a lot of effort has been put into making the 6th Conventa the best show yet.The trade show is built on a partnership model of creating synergies with official, regional, in-ternational and media partners. Their engage-ment also plays a crucial role in the success and development of the trade show and consequently also in the development of the meeting industry

in the South East Europe region. But it is not only about the engagement of the organisers and partners; each year Conventa participants also help shape the show with their feedback, suggestions and, last but not least, by coming to Conventa, conducting meetings and being a part of the Conventa magic!

EducAtIon – ExpAndIng thE pool of knowlEdgEConventa offers numerous opportunities to gain in-depth knowledge and best practice examples throughout the entire event. The guiding prin-ciple is to share knowledge and experience that has been developed through years of tradition and professional practice with those that are and will be shaping the future of the meeting in-dustry. The sixth edition has enriched the edu-cational programme by upgrading the Conventa Academy, introducing Conventa morning energy sessions tailor-made for exhibitors and/or hosted buyers needs, and with the brand new Conventa Experts Corner, where short and more intimate sessions will be loaded with expertise and advice.

EmotIons – don’t bE AfrAId to show thEm!People from the South East European region are well known for their temper and for their love of life. Conventa tries to capture these different

emotions, history, culture and tradition, tries to connect people and represent South East Europe as one home. The show captures the joy, it elicits interest, it evokes hope and it leaves Conventa participants with many happy memories and a wish to return for the next edition of the show.

EnErgy – thInk posItIvE!It’s all about the positive energy and positive energy is contagious! Notice the smiles on Conventa team members, the warm hospitality and the energy in the air. Soak it up, smile and make a positive impression on the potential busi-ness partners you meet at Conventa. Your busi-ness meetings will definitely be more fruitful.

EntErtAInmEnt – Enjoy thE show!Hard work followed by a good time is what Conventa is all about. Imagine a place filled with your industry colleagues, a great atmos-phere, live entertainment, good food and a fine glass of wine. Conventa turns this dream into a reality. The welcome reception will be trans-formed into a black and white masquerade ball; the red carpet will await you at the official re-ception and your dance moves will be tested at the Five-star after party hosted by Kongres mag-azine. Yes, we will certainly be mixing business with pleasure!


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Energy

mARjAN HRIBAR, mSC., DG FOR TOURISm AND INTERNATIONALISATIONSlovenia - sustainable-oriented meetings and incentive destination

Q: What is your vision for the development of Slovenian tourism?Our vision is enshrined in the Strategy for the Development of Slovenian tourism 2012 – 2016 »Partnership for Sustainable Development« and is: In 2016, the tourism in Slovenia will be based on sustaina-ble development and will be a very successful econom-ic sector of the national economy that will contribute to the social well-being and reputation of our country throughout the world. We want to develop Slovenia into a sustainable-oriented congress and »incentive« destination with an attractive offer, professional staff and with support at both the local and national level.

Q: Will 2014 see any changes in the field of organ-isation of Slovenian Tourism?Slovenian tourism should regain its agency – the Slovenian Tourist Board – for the specific promotion of national tourism. It will therefore be necessary to make certain changes in the law…until then, the pro-gramme of work, which has already been adopted, will be fully implemented in collaboration with the public agency SPIRIT.

Q: In your opinion, how important is integration in South-Eastern and Central Europe?

To be competitive on the global tourism map, coop-eration and integration of South-Eastern and Central Europe is very important. It is necessary to create at-

tractive joint tourist products, offer attractive tourist programmes, implement joint promotion, particularly in remote markets, and exchange expertise. A very suc-cessful example of such integration and cooperation in the region is the Conventa Trade Show of South East Europe, which is this year celebrating 6 years of suc-cessful operation.

Q: How do you assess the role and importance of Conventa for Slovenian and regional tourism?I believe that the traditional implementation of this trade show in Ljubljana is an excellent promotion of Slovenia as a congress and »incentive« destination. I am particularly pleased that Ljubljana was at one of the preceding Conventa events proclaimed as the best congress destination in South East Europe and was awarded with the »Star of Congress«.At Conventa, an event regularly recorded in the cal-endars of many event organisers and congress service providers, participants from across the region ex-change experiences, expertise and commonly promote the region as an attractive convention destination. In being this, Ljubljana is similar to other successful con-gress destinations and I sincerely congratulate the or-ganisers for the excellent preparation and wish them a successful execution of this year’s Conventa, which will undoubtedly attract suppliers and buyers of con-gress services from wider Europe and the world and has already set guidelines for the following years.

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ZORAN jANKOVIĆ, mAYOR OF THE CITY OF LjUBLjANA The Conventa trade show is very important in promoting and strenghtening the image of Ljubljana and Slovenia

Q: What most impresses conference guests when they come to Ljubljana?The best answer I believe the guests themselves can give. After a few days staying in Ljubljana they say that they are fascinated by our city. It is a combina-tion of factors, among which are the architectural ap-pearance, an attractive old town, the short distance between key places, which can be reached by foot, the tidy docks of the Ljubljanica river with extensive areas closed to traffic and a strong sense of security for which we are proud to say we have received an award in Barcelona.They are also impressed with the city’s pleasant and lively atmosphere, which comes about through a number of events, a rich gastronomic offer and by our friendly citizens with their good knowledge of foreign languages.

Q: Congress tourism is one of the development pri-orities of tourism in Ljubljana. What do you see the role of Conventa as being?The Conventa Trade show is very important to promote and strengthen the image of Ljubljana and Slovenia also as a congress destination. Since its in-ception Conventa has become an integral part of the marketing of tourism projects in Ljubljana. The

Municipality of Ljubljana with Ljubljana Tourism as a strategic partner supports the further development of Conventa with the desire that this event maintains its domicile in Ljubljana.

Q: Which is your favourite special venue in Ljubljana?The jewel in the crown for the city is undoubtedly Ljubljana Castle, which in recent years has shined es-pecially brightly in its renovated image and with many new features. It is also one of the most popular tourist spots in Slovenia, which recorded over a million vis-itors last year alone. The multipurpose rooms and a spacious courtyard enable the implementation of many types of events. All that and and the beautiful unique view of the city is what really stays in the memory.We also have to mention the famous Križanke and a renewed Congress Square, which has become the center of many cultural and social events and togeth-er with the archaeological park revitalization project won an international architectural prize Gubbio. Many renovated streets and squares contain attractive special venues in the city center, which often surprise the foreign organizers.

Q: As mayor how can you help the organisers of major international congresses?I show my support from the very beginning at the stage of preparation of nomination and personally invite international associations to bring their event to Ljubljana. At the same time I highlight the key at-tributes that speak in our favour. I also gladly meet congress participants at the official opening, invite them to the City Hall, where together with our experts, who have helped bid for interna-tional Congresses, can exchange experiences and im-pressions. I am at all times committed that congress participants learn about our wonderful Ljubljana and experience all of its beauty, feel comfortable here and return home filled with new experiences. Many because of the warm welcome like returning to Ljubljana, which is for me the most beautiful city in the world.

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Engage

KARmEN NOVARLIČ, HEAD OF SLOVENIAN TOURIST BOARDCompetitive advantage is in professionalism and hospitality of staff

Q: In your opinion what will congress year 2014 be like?Given the current indicators in Slovenian tourism in the year 2014 awaits us another year where we will work within the frames of inten-sified competition in the European and global market and within the frames of difficult eco-nomic conditions and falling purchasing power of households in the domestic market. Despite these harsh economic frameworks, I believe that ahead of us for the product of Slovenian busi-ness and congress tourism is a successful year. Ljubljana for example, is this year hosting some important events or large business conferences, which will no doubt also positively contribute to the overall balance of arrivals and nights of our capital city. Period ahead of the Slovenian business and congress tourism is also a period of many opportunities. Finally, current trends in the field of business and congress tourism speak in favour of what constitutes a competitive ad-vantage of the Slovenian tourism: a positive re-lationship between price and quality offered, the demand for nearby convention destinations, new “non-traditional” offer, often associated with outdoor events, etc. According to the fore-cast for Europe this important and increasingly

important segment of tourism awaits a year of many events taking slight decrease in the total consumption and the number of participants in events.

Q: To where will the attention of the Slovenian Tourist Board be focused? Division for Tourism SPIRIT Slovenia will also in 2014 seek to maintain or rather improve the competitive position of Slovenian tourism at European and international map, and to achieve goals we have set for ourselves in the programme of work of SPIRIT Slovenia in the field of tourism: growth in the number of arriv-als and overnight stays by foreign tourists in the amount of at least one to two percent, growth or at least maintenance of the number of arrivals of domestic tourists. We are going to approach marketing and promotion projects innovative-ly and intensify and upgrade partnership both at home and abroad. We are going to compete with successful and established destinations with a single and targeted performance in col-laboration with the Slovenian tourism industry and other key partners of the Slovenian tourism. We will strive to maintain the share we have achieved over the years in key neighbouring tourism markets, the key to these efforts will correct positioning of tourism products. At the same time we will focus on global markets, par-ticularly Eastern ones, showing high growth po-tential, such as the Russian Federation, Ukraine, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and to over-seas markets such as Japan, Taiwan, China and Korea.

Q: What are the key opportunities and chal-lenges of the regional meetings industry?The regional meetings industry is distinguished with several advantages, among them I would highlight good balance between price and quality, flexible and innovative offer, offer of services that are distinguished by high added value and professionalism of implemented events and congresses. A special competitive advantage over other destinations is in profes-sionalism and hospitality of staff, which will continue to be at the forefront of our continuing efforts in the field of human resource develop-ment as one of the key competitive advantages of the Slovenian tourism. Opportunities and chal-

lenges are reflected in the further development and strengthening of the relevant air and other transport connections and further strengthen-ing of the position of this important segment of Slovenian tourism in the region and beyond.

Q: How important is for the Slovenian meet-ings industry trade show CONVENTA?CONVENTA for Slovenian tourism is of great importance, as it ranks among the top profes-sionally implemented business events. This year the event is going to host more than 170 foreign participants from 25 countries and prove once again that quality made events each year are at-tracting the most important players of business and congress tourism in the region and beyond. The event with direct meetings between provid-ers and buyers interested in the field of business and congress tourism in one place represents an excellent opportunity to consolidate existing and establish new business connections.

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mERI mATEŠIČ, DIRECTOR, CROATIAN NATIONAL TOURIST BOARDIn 2014 the identity of Croatian tourism will be reinvented

Q: What differentiates Croatia and makes it attractive to the meetings market?The MICE segment is one that presents many challenges to the modern tourism industry – in addition to excellent accommodation and com-petent and friendly staff, organizers and par-ticipants expect top notch congress facilities, equipped with high-tech gadgets, a variety of activities related to leisure, from team building to sightseeing across breathtaking nature and interesting cultural and historical sites, and easy and fast access. Croatia is proud to be able to offer all that. The Croatian National Tourist Board recognizes congress tourism as an impor-tant part of overall Croatian offer and continues to provide support to potential hosts through the so-called Ambassador program focused on mobilization of Croatian representatives in international associations and through partici-pation at specialized fairs. Promotion, partner-ships and cooperation with all local, regional and international stakeholders in attracting as-sociations and companies interested in organ-izing their gatherings in our country are also a part of CNTB’s activities.

Q: What challenges are you currently facing in Croatia?Croatia has been widely recognized as a top des-tination for years and its identity as one of the last well-preserved parts of the Mediterranean has been stable. Now we are facing the chal-lenge of rebranding – the 2014 will be the year in which the identity of Croatian tourism will be reinvented, striving to attract not only those who already know us well, but to present our-selves and to be interesting to tourists who search new experiences, preferably not only in high-season. We plan on achieving this through identification and promotion of our premium experiences and destinations attractive in the period of pre- and post-season, but also through implementation of a rebranding strategy which will be launched at the WTM in London. As far as the MICE segment is concerned, new investments in hotel and congress infrastruc-ture are encouraged and expected, in order to make Croatia even more appealing.

Q: What large events are coming to Croatia in near future?We are proud that several international asso-ciations have chosen Croatia to be the venue of their meetings in 2014 – Zadar will host the gathering of the ADAC (Allgemeiner Deutscher Automobil-Club e.V.), Europe’s largest automo-bile club; representatives of the ADFC (General German Bicycle Club) will come on a study trip; while the EANA conference (the European Alliance of Press Agencies) will take place in Split, to name just a few.

Q: What positive trend do you see in our region (SEE Europe)?We can expect the MICE sector to register re-covery and growth after recession, even though our region may be slower in manifesting that re-covery. As a consequence of increasing demand by companies, competition will be fiercer than ever, which should benefit high quality desti-nations and facilities, as well as encourage new investments. This could prove to be a growth engine for the entire region, if we successfully face the challenges of global competition.

Q: Where are you positioning your market-ing efforts this year and next?Our objectives are clear and straightforward: Croatia traditionally attracts tourists for its beautiful sea and summer offer. We wish to raise the awareness of additional elements of Croatian offer, thus contribute to shift that demand towards our inland region and in periods of pre- and post-season. In order to achieve that, we will focus our integrated communication and PR strategy to convey messages related to our future brand values and the PPS-concept through all available communication channels, while DMOs and DMCs will be responsible for identification and development of high quality products and offers.

Q: Where do you see Croatia meetings indus-try in five years’ time?With an increased number of investments and consequently of top venues and rich additional offer, Croatian meetings industry should be a strong contributor to our national strategic goal of becoming one of the 20 tourist most competi-tive countries by the year 2020. Q: What is the best part of your job?. It may seem predictable, but when your job is to promote a product which you strongly believe to be excellent, then receiving confirmation of that excellence from numerous satisfied and de-lighted visitors to Croatia is the most fulfilling part of what I do.

Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world for a month, where would you go and why?I would like to travel along the famous Route 66 to discover the USA as it once was. My second destination of choice would be Australia. I must admit it’s hard to imagine a whole month at only one place.

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A-d: convEntA pArtIcIpAntsExhibitorsConventa exhibitors range from convention bureaux, tourist boards, PCOs and DMCs to congress centres, convention hotels, special venues, event agencies, airline companies and more. Exhibiting companies from Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, Montenegro, Republic of Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Austria, Italy, Hungary, Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and the Czech Republic can present their meetings industry services to carefully selected buyers at the Conventa show.

Hosted buyersHosted buyers are carefully selected meeting planners from associations, corporations and event agencies. They organise, influence or make budgetary decisions for international meetings, incentive travel, conferences, product launches, staff training initiatives and events. Hosted buyers have a unique opportunity to personally meet the suppliers to the meetings industry of South East Europe under one roof, thus establishing new and maintaining existing business partnerships.

Invited buyersInvited buyers are meeting planners from the corporate, government and association seg-ments with an interest in South East Europe as a meeting and incentive travel destination. From the hosted buyer programme they enjoy free en-trance to the Conventa trade show and access to the social events.

Trade visitorsTrade visitors are meeting industry profes-sionals who attend the Conventa trade show to network with their colleagues and business partners. They are welcomed to the trade show and its social events, without the facility of ar-ranging individual appointments.

mediaMedia representatives visit the Conventa trade show to report on its highlights, exhibitors’ in-novative products, the latest news and the devel-opment of the regional meeting industry market. The media can therefore raise the profile of the trade show, its exhibitors and the meeting in-dustry as a whole.

GuestsConventa guests are political, economic and dip-lomatic representatives with influence over the strategic development of the meeting industry, the tourism sector and/or the economy.

E-I: AddIng vAluE to your sErvIcEsmeetings Services SpotProviders of information technologies and systems, technical equipment, congress and promotional materials and marketing and event production can present their offer to their po-tential business partners at Conventa’s Meetings Services spot. The ‘Meetings Services’ spot gives providers of technology and event solutions a unique opportunity to reach and develop per-sonal relations with new clients from South East Europe’s meetings industry.

Conventa wild cardThe Conventa wild card programme aims to help new or emerging meeting industry pro-viders to enter the global market and thus increase the competitiveness of the entire region. The Conventa free wild card grants the meeting industry providers coming from a South East European country with lower trade per capita, who had never before exhibited at Conventa, an opportunity to present their offer at the Conventa trade show free of-charge. The winners of the Conventa wild card programme 2014 are Avaz doo Radon Plaza hotel from Bosnia and Herzegovina and Tourist Organisation of Subotica from Serbia.

Conventa E-magazineConventa E-Magazine, published as a part of the popular meetings industry magazine and Conventa media partner - Kongres magazine, presents the potential for meetings, congresses, events and incentives in South East Europe. The aim of the magazine is to get meeting planners excited about the region and advise them about the diverse meetings offer available. Meeting planners reading the magazine are able to explore, engage and experience the region through Conventa 2014 exhibitor’s stories.

j-m: nEtworkIng opportunItIEsConventa social and networking eventsIn addition to providing a business platform for prescheduled one-to-one appointments, Conventa offers a wide range of social and net-working events. On 21 January 2014, Conventa invites the participants to attend the Welcome reception held in Grand Hotel Union. We will upgrade last year’s Black and white reduta, the traditional masquerade ball that was one of the most exclusive events in Ljubljana at the beginning of the 20th century. The winners of Meeting Star awards will be celebrated. Join us in creating a carnival atmosphere and don’t forget to come dressed in black and white!

The Official reception will be held on the evening of 22 January 2014 at GR - Ljubljana exhibition and Convention Centre. Guests will include distinguished representatives of the political and economic society in South East Europe. Opening speeches and the award cer-emony will be accompanied by music, exqui-site food and a good glass of wine. The evening festivities will continue at Kongres magazine’s Five-star after party. Bring your dancing shoes!

Hosted buyer ‘Chefs challenge’Spice up your Conventa experience by joining the ‘Chefs Challenge’! Cookery courses and cu-linary workshops are the right choice for all who want to learn about the little secrets of master chefs. Join us on Wednesday, 22 January at 4pm and Thursday, 23 January at 2 pm.A kitchen surroundings will be created with all necessary appliances and ingredients. Selected number of participants will be divided into two groups and be assigned to one of the chefs. Teams will compete in making delicious culi-nary delights and be judged by the Conventa participants.You can register for Hosted buyer ‘Chefs chal-lenge’ at SORA Catering stand (No 19) and Vivo catering stand (No 24). SORA Catering chefs and VIVO Catering chefs await for you!

n-Q: EducAtIonAl opportunItIEsProfessional educationConventa has always followed the meeting in-dustry trends and has dedicated a great deal of attention to professional education and trying to transfer new knowledge to meeting profes-sionals. The sixth Conventa offers a fresher, stronger educational programme tailor made for exhibitors and hosted buyers. On the first day of Conventa, 21 January 2014, participants will be able to attend the traditional Conventa Academy. Exhibitors will also be able to listen to the “Leisure to MICE” forum. They will be joined by hosted buyers to learn about meeting design and brand design.Morning energy sessions with workshop on branding, energy in leadership and creativity in business will be held during the trade show days (22 -23 January 2014). The sessions will be followed by Conventa Experts Corner, short one-to-one sessions hosted by experts covering different meeting industry fields.

ImEx-mPI-mCI Future Leaders ForumThe IMEX-MPI-MCI Future Leaders Forum that encourages the best and brightest students to develop successful careers in the meetings

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Explore

and events industry will be held on 21 January 2014. The Forum presents a great opportunity for students from South East Europe to listen to top international speakers, learn about the meeting industry and meet industry leaders. Over 100 forums have taken place globally since 2003 with more than 6,000 students participat-ing in the forums to date.

u-r: ExplorIng thE rEgIonConventa fam tripsFinding something new and different to offer to clients is easy at Conventa. Fam trips offer the opportunity for first-hand experience of the destination and a chance for hosted buyers to verify that the presentations given at one-to-one meetings are indeed accurate. Hosted buyers are invited to attend fam trips to the following destinations of the South East European region: Ljubljana, Bled, Zagreb, Carinthia, Trieste/Friuli Venezia Giulia, Opatija and Portorož.

v-Z: EnrIchIng thE ExpErIEncEConventa TVDuring the Conventa trade show the programme will be enriched with updated videos, high-lights, informative interviews with meeting industry professionals, personal presentations of destinations, meeting industry suppliers and planners from the South East Europe region and much, much more. We invite you to follow us and watch Conventa TV, available on Conventa’s official web site www.conventa.info.

Conventa sustainable management Conventa is fully committed to reduce the nega-tive environmental impacts of the trade show by implementing sustainable practices that benefit all participants and the local community. Winning the Sustainable Stand Award at EIBTM 2011, a global meetings & events exhibition, Conventa therefore considers this as a special honour. The participants are again invited to take part in our sustainable endeavours and participate in the Conventa sustainability pro-gramme. It doesn’t take a lot - participants can return their badges and lanyards at the end of the trade show to be re-cycled, use the recycling bins... just follow our lead!

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POSITIVE ENERGY: INTERVIEW WITH ANDREA LEITNER, CONVENTIONLAND KARNTEN EXPERIENCE PURE NATURE: People behind the scenes make Conventa so successful

Text by Ines Klopčič

Q: Can you tell us a little bit about your back-ground? How did you get into the meetings industry?I started my career at the Four Seasons New York (3 years) followed by the Kempinski Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten in Munich, where I started working as a Conference & Banqueting manager. After 3 years I had the great opportunity to be part of the pre-opening team of the Rocco Forte Collection, The Charles Hotel in Munich. I was in charge of the entire Banqueting Sales and Catering Team. Next stop on my CV was the Intercontinental Hotel in Cairo, but unfortu-nately only 4 months due to the political issues in Egypt at that time. So I moved to Vienna to be Business Development Director for le Meridien Vienna and after over 10 years working in the Conference & Banqueting Hotel-industry I chose to change sites. I decided on being the head of the Carinthia Convention bureau, which I’ve done since June 2011.

Q: Why do you think Kärnten is a great place for meetings and incentives?For me Carinthia is a so called Jewel-Destination. Here you have the possibility to get in contact with the people themselves. As a guest you are not ‘just a tourist’ - during your stay you will be overwhelmed by the charming Carinthian people and you will be part of the Alpe-Adria-spirit. During your meetings and incentives you will experience pure nature. The combination of our 200 lakes and our mountains makes your stay unforgettable.

Q: What do you personally love about your destination? I love the quality of life here. People are still greeting each other in the supermarkets and if you decide to go for a hike, a bike tour, skiing or swimming everything is just around the corner.

Q: What is on your list of “can’t miss” events and trade shows? My favourite trade show is Conventa, followed, of course, by the Austrian trade show ACCESS.

Q: What do you think made Conventa so successful? The people behind the scenes. I can only con-gratulate Miha for his wonderful team. They are really organised and you can feel their spirit!

Q: What for you are the benefits of attending Conventa?Meeting the high quality of hosted buyers.

Q: How can Conventa set itself apart from the other trade shows? The organisation of Conventa is already very special, very personal. What I like is also the set up and the character of appointments. Everything is very simple and easy to work with. The main focus is on business and networking – that makes Conventa so successful.

Q: What do you think is the biggest challenge for people in the meetings industry today? For the hotels and the convention bureaus the biggest challenge is to arrange comparable prices and packages. Lots of companies started to organise their meetings in their own confer-ence spaces or stay in their own area. The com-petition is huge and they all also have great pro-posals and possibilities. You have to be creative and engaged with your business to be at the top!

Q: What was the key highlight for you or your business in 2013? ATB Experience

Q: The most memorable event for you? The congress of plastic surgery in Velden, Carinthia. Being part of the organisation team.

Q: Favourite European meetings city?Vienna and Munich.

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POSITIVE ENERGY: INTERVIEW WITH TImO HEINARO, FINCENTIVE WALKING THE TALK: Southeast Europe is an answer to the call for authenticity

POSITIVE ENERGY: INTERVIEW WITH ANDREA LEITNER, CONVENTIONLAND KARNTEN EXPERIENCE PURE NATURE: People behind the scenes make Conventa so successful

Text by Ines Klopčič

Q: How did you get into the mICE industry? Believe it or not but everything started because of what happened in Tianmen Square in 1989. I was stuck in Hong Kong trying to get to Beijing and met guys who had just evacuated them-selves from there. They told me about having established an adventure travel company and needing a person to start running it. So, once back in Finland I found myself in the reins of the company – right when the previous reces-sion started. Very soon we realised adventure travel lays no golden eggs and moved to the cor-porate side and, ever since, that’s where we have stayed. First it was outdoor team building, then extraordinary participative corporate events, pi-oneering in event marketing and soon delivering very special travel programs. Then I moved to run full-service incentive house operations. In the meantime I also spent a very interesting year in Russia developing top-of-industry DMC op-erations before returning to the present MICE business in, from and to Finland.

Q: What qualities make a great corporate event, meeting or travel planner?To start with: do you do things from the heart or by heart? You need to be passionate about putting yourself into the game. Can you create something truly unique or just recycle from off-the-shelf? Civilised creativity, being able to create and maintain versatile, quality networks, being reliable makes all the difference.

Q: What do you think is the number one way to earn clients in our industry?Walking the talk. See answer to the previous question.

Q: What frustrates you about the industry?Disloyalty. Clients unnecessarily shopping around wasting everybody’s resources (includ-ing theirs). Moreover, hotel inspections on FAM trips can be a real waste of time and, even more importantly, losing a good opportunity to leave a positive, memorable mark of a destination.

Q: The most memorable event for you?I feel blessed to have a lot of dreams-come-true during the past twenty years. Creating a Lapland Village on an outdoor museum island in Helsinki with Aurora Borealis projected to the skyline, opening the historic fountains on a first drum beat by a navy orchestra in front of Peterhof (the Summer Palace of Peter the Great), walking with wild rhinos and travelling onboard a steam train in the dark African night like in a time machine, are all probably on the top of the list. But I never forget organising a Yugoslav-themed Party-Party dinner at Vila Bled, the former summer residence of President Tito. That was very special. Also building a bee-house for a handicap care centre during the IMEX Challenge in Slovenia is something to cherish for the rest of my life.

Q: How do you find unusual mICE venues? Keeping my eyes and ears open. Taking part in trade shows, post-tours and FAM trips. Also travelling around and visiting new destinations, even when on my holidays. Thinking out of the box. I have found a fantastic venue solution even from a Lonely Planet guidebook, which turned a near disaster into one of the best events I have organized.

Q: Where do you think incentives will be in the next five years?Knowing that a new generation is entering the work world I believe ever more so in authentic-ity and adventure. Or, no matter what the age group, people appreciate the most real, unique, genuine, memorable experiences anyway. Instead of six star restaurants they may leave a lot happier from a million star meal by the camp-fire under the starry sky. Still luxury, but more than whatever amount of money can buy. Much bigger emphasis on special themes, adventure spirit, hands-on participation. Hopefully also more and more CSR elements

Q: What have been some of your more chal-lenging assignments?My first group to Russia amidst the economic chaos there in 1998. I could (and should) have written a book on what kind of obstacles, bu-reaucracy and last-minute surprises we had to overcome. All went extremely well, however, and we even got rewarded with the SITE Crystal Award, but boy it took a week to recover from it all!

Q: What positive trend do you see in our region (SEE Europe)?South-East Europe is an answer to the call for authenticity. You have an amazing pot-pourri of history, an abundance of cultural heritage, ex-cellent and even exotic local cuisines and great outdoors. Right now it is also one of the polit-ically most correct destinations. If a client has redundancies, the Caribbean is out of question but South-East Europe is absolutely the oppo-site. As time remains a constraint I trust at least that European companies should look for new destinations closer-by and not waste their time, money and biorhythm in trying to impress the target groups with long-haul destinations.

Q: What are your challenges and hopes for 2014?Making the iron hot again! We are introducing totally new incentive products to our markets and teaming up even more globally, so these will surely keep me away from mischief. Or, maybe not…

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miha KovačičExhibition [email protected]

How did you get into the meetings industry? When working 15 years ago for the largest tour operator in the country, the M&IT department head invited me to join the team and I haven’t left the industry since

then, despite a few years later changing to the convention hotel and eight years ago to the national convention bureau. A challenging but rewarding experience contributing to the development of the industry.What is the most positive thing about Conventa? It is difficult, almost impossible, to name the ‘most’ positive one. There are so many and they are connected to each other. Conventa is also a development project, so things are changing every year. One of them is definitely positioning Slovenia and South East Europe on the international meet-ings map. The next one could be uniting the meetings indus-try of the region and developing its product, its potential, but also demonstrating its value and contribution to national economies.Career high: I am in the middle of my professional career. The first half has been great, looking forward now to the second half. As Gandhi said: “Be the change you want to see in the world.”

Gorazd ČadHead of [email protected]

How did you get into the meet-ings industry? For the meetings industry I was first inspired at Cankarjev dom, where I worked as a student. It was then virtually the only convention centre and PCO in

Slovenia, which has given me a lot of knowledge and connec-tions. It was a long time infection that lasts to this day. In the meantime, I also tried my hand as a hotelier, but my passion for the meetings industry and organisation has led me to my own company in which in addition to other projects we are also co-creating Conventa.What is the most positive thing about Conventa? Definitely a special energy that we have managed to create at the event and for which much larger congress organisers envy us. Energy is the result of Conventa being prepared by highly experienced organisers who are trying to understand buyers’ needs as well as those of exhibitors. At the same time the whole event is conceived as a boutique experience.Career high: In the long career there have been a lot of events that could be described as peaks, depending on the period. Among congresses the highlight was definitely the largest congress in Slovenia’s history, the Apimondia Congress, which was organised in 2003 in Cankarjev dom. Today, the biggest challenge and at the same time satisfac-

tion is managing my private firm and I am especially excited by changes in the field of content marketing, which we are trying to promote through the production of the Kongres magazine.

Natalija Bah ČadExhibition [email protected]

How did you get into the meet-ings industry? During my study at the Faculty of Arts I was working as a hostess in Cankarjev dom, the Congress and Cultural Centre in

Ljubljana.At that time I first had a chance to get in contact with con-gress participants. It was a very interesting experience. When there was an opportunity to start working in the PCO department, I knew that this is what I want to do. And I stayed there for 10 years….What is the most positive thing about Conventa? I was involved in the organisation of the biggest congresses held in Ljubljana with very complex logistics. But Conventa is special. First, because we did it from scratch. And every year it is a challenge how to make it even more effective for pro-viders and hosted buyers.Career high: After 17 years in the meetings industry, I still see a lot of challenges. For sure I will continue my work as a congress organiser and share my experiences with younger colleagues that would like to work in the meetings industry as well.

Špela jerucHosted Buyer [email protected]

How did you get into the meetings industry? It was pure luck. I got into the meetings industry through an internship and stayed because I love the team I’m working with. I’m

studying management of tourist destinations, so I always knew that I was going to work with people. I especially wanted to work in the process of the organisation. How can anything be more interesting than that? I’m definitely staying in this business. What is the most positive thing about Conventa? I per-sonally think the evaluation of Hosted Buyers. The Conventa team is always trying to get better and better buyers for ex-hibitors. Conventa puts so much effort into finding the right people from SEE, which you can’t see on other trade shows. We are very strict in the field of reviewing. At the end this means satisfied exhibitors and organisers.Career high: Well…because I’m so young I would have to say working for the company Toleranca marketing is my career high. They gave me an opportunity to show them what I’m

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capable of. Our team is small but very effective and pas-sionate about every project. I especially enjoy working for Kongres Magazine. I think it is the most stylish magazine for the congress industry with great content.

jasna FlisHosted Buyer [email protected]

How did you get into the meetings industry? I must say that it was somehow ‘by chance’ (although I’m convinced that everything happens for a reason). However, it has been

quite a long way. After University I started my career at the Ministry working in the field of regional development. I continued at another public agency to then realise that the private sector must be much more challenging and exciting. After several years in Italy, where I used to work in the field of sales for different international companies, my way took me through a luxury real estate project to an experience in the hospitality industry, which has always been one of my ‘curiosities’. As ‘one door opens another’, now I’m a proud member of the Conventa team and a new entry in the (I can already say) fascinating meetings industry.What is the most positive thing about Conventa? I can say that “it’s all about people”, we are a young, enthusiastic and dedicated team with a nothing-can-stop-us spirit. I’m sure that with this positive approach we can overcome any limits and obstacles and make the 6th Conventa a unique and unforgettable experience!Career high: Every single experience has its small (or big) high, but the peak for me is definitely the recent start of my independent working path.

Polona SimšičContent [email protected]

How did you get into the meet-ings industry? Actually it was Conventa that first introduced me to the meetings industry. Three years ago organisers needed someone to help out with on-location press and

Conventa TV, so I stepped in at the last minute. Agreeing to work on the project I did not know what to expect, but obvi-ously I was pleasantly surprised, so I have been working on and for Conventa ever since ☺What is the most positive thing about Conventa? I think the idea of connecting people in the SEE region. The business model might look complicated on the outside, but it is actually quite simple and works very well. Another thing I would say is the opportunity to mix serious business with pleasure.Career high: That’s a tough one. I am interested in so many things and you never know where life will take you. If I would have to pick one thing from the past that I hope to continue

working on I would choose the Intercontinental Advertising CUP – The CUP. I love the feed of creativity which I believe we are often lacking in life.

Tanja SmrzlićFinancial [email protected]

How did you get into the meet-ings industry? It was completely unplanned - I had an opportunity for a job interview and here I am working in the meetings industry for 8 months.

What is the most positive thing about Conventa? Conventa is a large event, recognised in business tourism. I think that just mentioning the name Conventa is a synonym for an important event for exhibitors and hosted buyers from around the SEE region. The city of Ljubljana has the honour to host such an event each year.Career high: In a few years time I see myself as business analyst, financial advisor for large projects such as this one. Conventa is a large project and I shall take the opportunity and learn from the project as much as possible.

Ines KlopčičContent Marketing [email protected]

How did you get into the meetingsindustry? I would say purely by chance. Conventa team needed some help with organization of Conventa 2014 and I was prepared to help them. So far, I simply like

this job and I cannot wait for Conventa to start.What is the most positive thing about Conventa? For me, the most positive thing about Conventa is definitely meeting & networking with people from all around SEE. Happy faces of exhibitors and hosted buyers at the end of Conventa trade show will repay us for all effort and time we put into the event.Career high: My career high is at the moment definitely being a part of Conventa Team. Organising & planning events is something I love to do and is something I will definitely continue to do in the future.

CONVENTA SUSTAINABLE mANAGEmENT

Conventa is fully committed to reduce the negative environmental impacts of the trade show by implementing sustainable practices that add value to all participants and the local community. Winning the Sustainable Stand Award at EIBTM 2011, global meetings & events exhibition, Conventa therefore considers as a special honour.

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Sustainable commitment

In line with implementing of a number of energy efficient measures, Cankarjev dom commits to reduce energy consumption by encouraging Conventa participants to use stairs instead of taking the elevator.

Sustainable performance indicator

Cankarjev dom undertakes to report on energy savings by participants taking stairs.

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commitmentWith its own cogenerated electricity Hotel Mons reduces water consumption by 15% and gas consumption by 15% in 2012. By providing hotel toiletries in refillable dispens-ers, Hotel Mons reduces their costs by 15 %.


Hotel mons is to report on water and gas consumption savings during the Con-venta trade show. Hotel mons undertakes to report on cost savings on hotel toi-letries.

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Austria Trend Hotel, built in line with sustainable principles, commits to provide for digital signage in 50 % and use signage made from recyclable materials in other 50 %.


Austria Trend Hotel undertakes to report on the number of digital and paper signage and thus related costs and savings.

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Vivo Catering aims to establish a traceability system of food products, especially those from the local area.


Vivo undertakes to measure the food miles of products and their ingredients travelling from their source before reaching the Conventa venue.

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Printed materials are designed and written in a generic way instead of specific way (not including the event date), to allow them to be reused for future editions of the trade show.


Go.mice is the report on the number of printed materials to be reused for future trade shows and the number of materials to be donated to the cultural-ecological fellowship Smet Umet that, combining art, ecology, design, creates new products from waste.

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In addition to providing standard participant communication, Go.Mice prepared sus-tainable guidelines for exhibitors and for hosted buyers to help them understand how to integrate sustainable actions into their exhibit and travel arrangements.


In the Conveneta evaluation form, participants are asked to give their opinion concerning the sustainable initiatives within the show programme. The outcome of the survey and the feedback obtained are evaluated and used for the quality assurance of the following trade shows.

At Conventa 2014, a further step is made in implementing and assessing sustainable practices, among them:

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ADRIA AIRWAYS BECOmING A HYBRID BETWEEN LOW-COST AND NATIONAL CARRIERS MARK ANŽUR, CEO, Adria Airways

Aircraft accessibility is crucial for the development of congress destinations. In Slovenia we are monitoring develop-

ments with the national airline Adria Airways, which is also a long-standing partner of Conventa Trade Show, with great interest. The CEO of Adria Airways told us what they’re planning in the Slovenian airline for 2014: Q: In what condition is Adria Airways a year after you took over its management?The aviation industry is a very complex activity. That is why it is a great challenge to lead this company and make a turn inside the company. The company is in a better position than a year ago; we managed to achieve most of the objec-tives that we set ourselves last year. In 2013, the total number of flights decreased by 7% com-pared to 2012, but the number of passengers has

increased by 4% compared to 2012. Thus, we have increased the occupancy of the aircraft by 6% and reduced costs. Last year we transported 1,026,839 passengers. Q: What are the short and medium term plans of Adria Airways? Can you reveal more to us about? Adria Airways becoming a hybrid between low-cost and national carriers?To a certain extent we will approach the busi-ness model of low-cost carriers, therefore we will lower the fares and in this way increase the number of tourist passengers. To these we will offer the lowest possible price and the option to develop travel to their preferences with the purchase of additional billable travel services. Of course, we intend to maintain the segment of business travellers and passengers travelling

on connecting flights. We plan to enable a wider range of benefits for business travellers.

Q: What innovations and which new lines can be expected in 2014?In April we will begin to fly to Prague and Warsaw and connect Ljubljana with direct flights to Tirana and Frankfurt. Q: You have collaborated with Conventa since the very beginning. Has the trade show justified your expectations so far?I can only praise our cooperation. I always em-phasize that the players in tourism have to act together, because this is the only way that we can do the most for the recognition of Slovenia as a tourist destination.

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PRAGUE SLAVIC PARIS

Congress tourism is highly positioned in Prague and according to the Prague Convention Bureau data it generates between 20 to 25% of the total tourist traffic. The President of the Prague Convention

Bureau, Sanjiv Suri, is a charismatic Czech entrepreneur of Indian descent. The head of the largest catering company in Prague is also an interesting character, who surprises with his positive life philosophy that he transmits to the whole city meetings industry. The CVB is excellently organised and implements all key promotional functions, among other things the ambas-sador programme, which is also supported by the Mayor, Bohuslav Svoboda.

The spirit of Central Europe is best captured in this beautiful city, which is an excellent convention destination because of its cosmopolitanism, multi-culturalism, liveliness and a tireless nightlife. What is the secret of Prague congress tourism? What are they doing differently? Well, it’s a combi-nation of circumstances and wise development policies. Elegantly and sustainably they are working towards being among the top ten European congress cities.

destination grade: ExcEllEnt mEEtIngs dEstInAtIon

Grades: 5 excellent meetings destination4 quality meetings destination3 recommendable meetings destination 2 average meetings destination 1 so so

IndIvIduAl grAdEs: natural and cultural factors 4.4

Prague’s historic districts, Staro mesto (the Old Town), Novo mesto (the New Town), the Jewish Quarter, Hradcany and the Little Quarter form the core of an outstanding experiential diversity of the city, which for many years has been attracting a number of tourists. The city has devel-oped on seven hills by the river Vltava. ‘Golden Prague’ is special because of its extreme concentration of architectural and historical sights in com-bination with landscape diversity, culture and the arts.

general and transport infrastructure 4.2

Safety, excellent infrastructure, professional environment with an edu-cated workforce, affordability, tradition and high quality of life are the main attributes of the general infrastructure of Prague. Also important for the development of congress tourism are the solid airline availability and regulation of the Vaclav Havel airport ,with a new Terminal 2 that is becoming an important aviation hub of the region.

tourist infrastructure 4.7

The Czech capital has in recent years established itself as one of the most visited European tourist destinations. In the city everything is there-fore subordinate to tourists with an almost pilgrimage-like surge in high season. However, the city retains its charm and offers a diverse and mainly high quality tourist infrastructure. Prague is a room with a view.

meetings infrastructure 4.6

A complex and comprehensive offer, in which a remarkable number of world-class historic congress venues stand out. It is the first meeting point of the East European meetings industry that with further development is mixing it up with such first category destinations as Vienna, Berlin and Barcelona. It is the city in which conference participants will feel good.

subjective grade 4.6

The city with its rich cultural heritage, friendliness of locals and countless congress options anchors deep in the heart. Every street and house tells its own story, which gives the city a special touch. Prague maintains and builds on its high-quality romantic reputation.

comparison with the region: Prague has for a long time not been an Eastern European gem, but a true European tourist metropolis with a diverse and comprehensive offer, luxury hotels and sometimes too high prices. The story is reminiscent of Škoda, of which the Czechs are very proud and is one of the oldest auto-motive brands in Europe. Reputable, solid and reliable pre-war limousines were after the war changed by cars that were behind the times. Today, Škoda shines again and again puts the Czech manufacturer where it once was. The same can be said for the meetings industry, where Prague began to seriously falter against the locations top of the European league. If we look at the position of Prague regionally, Prague will not take primacy in the region over Vienna, but it certainly has all the conditions to remain for a long time the first congress destination among East European capitals.

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DUBROVNIKPEARL OF THE ADRIATIC

Dubrovnik is a city growing and developing, a large part of this due to the meetings industry. It will be a big part of the industry future for the entire region, primarily as the most successful Croatian and

regional brand on the global meetings market. Without any exaggeration it can be claimed that the destination brand of the entire region will hang on Dubrovnik. It will lead the region as the primary destination where interna-tional and local hotel chains are opening convention centres and perform-ing intensive co-branding. The results of this are the numerous incentives of international corporations booking up the season and convention centre openings one after the next. I personally believe the meeting industry will change the image of Dubrovnik. It is possible that new investments in the industry will change the socio-economic profile of tourists. I have to also add that the key question for the destination is always its vision and knowl-edge that the infrastructure will be successfully marketed.

The wonderful setting of Dubrovnik is only a part of the story; the meeting industry is largely a logical industry for Dubrovnik. It is only missing the important investment in general and meeting infrastructure.Meeting organisers can learn much from Dubrovnik, particularly the inscription on the door to the Duke’s Palace: “Obliti privatorum publica curate” or “Forget your own gains and take care of the common ones”. LIBERTAS!

destination grade: QuAlIty mEEtIngs dEstInAtIon


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A Stone Palace, which hides many stories, will greet you in all its splendour as it has for centuries greeted travellers from around the world. The mag-nificent city is one of the tourist icons of the Adriatic and justifiably the most painted tourist skyline, with unprecedented experiential diversity for conference guests.


Among Croatian destinations Dubrovnik depends the most on flight avail-ability, hence this year’s forecasted record number of flights is gratifying for conference organisers. The city is safe, as is backed up by website Trip Advisor analysis. Logistically the city is solidly regulated, so it is only necessary to avoid the largest tourist crowds in the middle of the season.


Dubrovnik is once again well established on the world tourist map as a leading tourist destination in the region. Given the extensive tourist infra-structure locals would want to stretch the summer crowds on for the rest of the year. In addition to legendary and iconic hotels like the Excelsior, the city offers a variety of hotel accommodation and is lively day and night with a plentiful supply of restaurants and entertainment.


To have convention completeness Dubrovnik is only missing a modern, multifunctional convention centre, which has been in the planning for a long time. So far, it is successfully catered for by modern and well-equipped centres at hotels such as the Dubrovnik Palace, Excelsior, Bellevue, Grand Villa Argentina, Importanne Resort, Dubrovnik President, Valamar Lacroma and Radisson Blu. The entire conference infrastructure, in-cluding destination management and the creative agency scene, is well developed.


This world destination is again attracting well-known names and world class events. It is the strongest brand of the region for the meeting indus-try, which hardly disappoints or leaves one feeling indifferent. Dubrovnik lights up love at first sight.

comparison with the region:Dubrovnik is the flagship of regional tourism and is the first association of meetings organisers we meet daily. It has still not reached its full poten-tial, but is closest in the region to the renowned Mediterranean conven-tion destinations of Cannes and Monte Carlo. It has the biggest potential in the area of corporate and other incentives; with the completion of the convention centre it will also benefit in the area of international associ-ation conventions.

World-famous cream with caramel.

21

Energy

BUDAPESTCONGRESS QUEEN OF THE DANUBE

The second largest city of the former Austro-Hungarian Monarchy is one of my favourite European capitals, where I feel at home. Even in times of gray it seemd to me colourful, cheerful and full of power

of life. Through numerous visits I observed the transition of the city into today’s modern congress metropolis.

Budapest has always belonged to the tradition and culture of the West and the forced stay in the Eastern Europe is already quite a faded memory. Specific added value give the city extremely professional and positive professionals who because of their Finno-Ugric linguistic connection are reminiscent of their Scandinavian relatives. Once you agree all the details everything will work like clockwork and without unnecessary problems. It’s no wonder that it is always attracting congress organisers.

destination grade: ExcEllEnt mEEtIngs dEstInAtIon



One of a few cities in the world that literally lies on thermal springs and to which specific experiential value gives the Danube River. In the city there is just no end of cultural and historical attractions, which positions Budapest among experientially the most attractive tourist cities of Europe.


Budapest enjoys a very favourable position in Europe, at the crossroads between the East and the West. Moreover, even according to Mercer’s scale of quality of life it is among the first ones in Eastern Europe with a strong multicultural character. Accessibility of the city is excellent, as all roads in Hungary are leading to the capital. Excellently arranged is also public transport, which is known as reliable and the city as a safe convention destination.


The rich legacy of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy in combination with sights of the socrealist period and affordability are the formula for an exceptional tourist popularity of the city and a good occupancy of 22.000 hotel rooms. If we add to this an excellent hotel infrastructure and attrac-tions such as spas, gastronomy and a rich nightlife we get a top tourist destination.


The winning combination of world-class convention hotels, additional incentive offer and good prices. Behind its main competitors Vienna and Prague Budapest lags in destination management and has a little worse image. We are missing a more proactive city convention bureau.


Best value for money. According to the research of Magyar Turizmus 1 EUR spent in Vienna in the congress industry is worth 2 in Budapest. At the same time Budapest is still a fresh and new destination compared to some competitors who are in the market for quite tired.

comparison with the regionIf put congress destinations of the New Europe in a football perspective, then in the first league dominates Vienna, which is immediately followed by Prague and Budapest. This has also shown on our scale on which Budapest among larger cities ranked third. The city has no shortage of picturesque special venues nor the most luxurious hotels and crazy and diverse incentive locations. If Prague and Dubrovnik are a love at first sight, then Budapest is love in the long run. In addition to the selection of 16 five-star hotels from Intercontinental to Kempinski and 61 hotels with four-stars it impresses with a unique specialty historic spa resorts. All this has been for many years an excellent and well-established MICE destina-tion and well-oiled congress machinery. In addition, Budapest unlike its rivals is also a very pocket friendly congress destination.

4.53

Energy

Meetings star award

Best Meeting

destinatiOns 2014

22

… dare to be di�erent …

with your partner

· exciting destinations

· inspiring programs

· friendly locals

www.kompasmice.com

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MICE2014_V3_HiRES.pdf 1 15. 01. 14 18:42

24

TOP 10

1. kEmpInskI pAlAcE portorož, slovenia

The Kempinski Hotel is the only five-star superior hotel in Slovenia. This means that the rooms are spacious and well-equipped, as befits a top hotel. The interior colour is subdued, modernly designed and appears prestigious whilst offering a lot of style and freshness. The technical equipment showcas-es the hotel’s technological sophistication. The modern convention centre is prestigious and well-equipped. Six conference rooms have natural daylight and the largest hall can accommodate up to 220 participants. The heart of the convention offer is Crystal Hall, which after the renovation shone in full splendour and in addition to the Union Hall in Ljubljana is the most prestig-ious conference and banquet hall in Slovenia. It opens onto a century-old park, which is an attractive venue for outdoor events.

2. hotEl montE mulInI rovinj, croatia

This is the hotel to enjoy, to which the entire business philosophy is covered. There are only a few hotels that delight and thrill as fully as Monte Mulini does. The hotel looks good, is superbly equipped and offers a number of extras. The longer we hung out in the hotel, the better was the feeling that it is an extraor-dinary gastronomic oasis. A real 5 star hotel in an excellent location. Suitable for the most demanding and exclusive conference events.

3. fAlkEnstEInEr schloss hotEl vEldEn velden, Austria

The legendary hotel is no doubt one of the best hotels in the region. Managed with German precision and Austrian charm, it is the ideal of excellence in all areas. Unfortunately, the town Valden is not following the hotel stand-ards and also the rest of the tourist offer is average. After the takeover by the Falkensteiner hotel chain the hotel was slightly refreshed and is probably one of the best incentive hotels for the most demanding guests. The Hotel was established as the best hotel for elite guests in Carinthia. We consider that the goal is close, however still a little mastery of details will be needed by the Falkensteiner Team. You know what happens when a large hotel chain buys a boutique hotel; in the great zeal to rationalise, it is often forgotten that some things simply cannot be squeezed into a boutique hotel.

4. hotEl lonE rovinj, croatia

We understand design hotels as an experience that includes reflection and very personal contact with culture, nature and the culinary art of the destination. The creators of the first Croatian design Hotel Lone were probably thinking similarly. I like it. Lovers of hotel glamour and kitsch will not like it but we think that luxury is in small details, like a enormous room service menu and the hotel guide in broadsheet newspaper format or in selected fabric for cur-tains and numerous other details. The hotel is ideal for ”DINKS” and young professionals and a monument of Croatian creativity and the zeitgeist of the new generation.

5. hotEl lAv mErIdIEn split, croatia

It is in a class of its own on the current hotel and convention scene in Split. Operators of Starwood have done their homework excellently and are winners in the most sensitive area; friendliness and professionalism of the staff. This has in the past earned them a place among the best in its class. However, there are also some shortcomings, particularly in the field of catering and hospital-ity, where one would expect a little more from a top hotel. However, this is a balanced congress hotel, which is elegant and charming and the perfect choice for the most demanding congress clients.

4.77

4.76

4.73

4.72

4.62

TOP 10 RESORT mEETING HOTELS 2012 - 2013 KOngresna ZVeZda

Meetings star 2013

25

TOP 10

6. hotEl mElIA corAl umag, croatia

Hotel Meliá Coral convinces with the quality of the offer, comfort and spa-ciousness. The final grade is that this is a good hotel for good money. Prices are in fact reasonable in relation to the nearby Istrian and Slovenian competition. Numerous options for organising receptions and outdoor activities. Istratourist together with the hotel chain Melia without much bragging managed to make a great hotel and convention product. Umag is becoming a serious and respected European incentive destination.

7. hotEl & spA IAdErA Zadar, croatia

The overall result of the new resort is extremely good. The hotel follows the known standards of the Falkensteiner group and is an excellent choice for in-centive and product launches and smaller conferences. It is important to avoid the high tourist season and go for less frequent dates, carefully planning the arrivals logistics. From what we saw and experienced we can only give a firm nod of approval.

8. hotEl dubrovnIk pAlAcE dubrovnik, croatia

At the Hotel Dubrovnik Palace I wonder how little is needed to move from being a solid hotel to something special and collecting numerous awards. Firstly, it is about the quality of services, as well as about marketing that was excellently prepared around the hotel and is reflected in its increased profile. According to the World Travel Awards jury, something of a tourism Oscar, the hotel earned the 2011 award for being the leading Croatian hotel and spa resort. At the same time, we wonder whether they are eligible for other prizes. After visiting the hotel, it is clear that the Hotel Dubrovnik Palace deserved the award; to the highest category it does not lack much, and depending on the assessment we ranked it among the top premium congress hotels in the region, where the emphasis is not only on the environment but on quality. In almost all respects a modern hotel and definitely a good choice among the many options in Dubrovnik.

9. rAdIsson blu rEsort & spA dubrovnik, croatia

The Hotel does not have any serious weaknesses and convinces with comfort and quality as it befits hotels in the colours of the Radisson chain. If we used the automotive jargon, it is a premium hotel. If you wonder what we see under the term premium in this hotel, then this would be its rich and luxurious equip-ment, small details and above all the image of the brand. If you have ever or-ganised a meeting in a hotel belonging to the Radisson Blu chain, then you can expect a similar experience in Dubrovnik. The Hotel is very suitable for incentive events, which seem to be taking place as if they were lined up on the conveyor belt at the Hotel’s Convention Centre.

10. grAnd hotEl toplIcE bled, slovenia

In Slovenia there are only a few hotels with such a long tradition and regular guests who like to return to Bled. The Hotel Toplice (Spa) remains one of these, regardless of the change of ownership and renovation of a hotel CLASSIC that gets under your skin. Changes since the last renewal have been welcome, but they did not deprive the hotel of its soul. This is the right hotel for sworn lovers of historical locations and a place where time slows down and almost stops. It is reminiscent of the period that many people long for.

4.58

4.52

4.41

4.38

4.35

KOngresna ZVeZdaMeetings star 2013

26

TOP 10

1. mEtropol pAlAcE belgrade, serbia

The legend has returned to Belgrade. Historic heritage has been in the long ren-ovation excellently rebuilt and the hotel today is flirting with premium hotels in major metropolitan cities of the region. Warm colours, superior lighting, retro furniture and services at an appropriate level place it among the best hotels in the Balkans. If you want to impress your conference guests, then this hotel at the moment is the best choice in Belgrade. The hotel in which the memory of the good returns, which many people are missing today.

2. EsplAnAdE ZAgrEb Zagreb, croatia

The hotel is an excellent choice for business and congress guests and is probably the regional flagship in terms of service quality, customer care, prestige and image. Staying at the hotel is a special experience, with a package that gives you a feeling of luxury.

3. hotEl sAvoIA ExcElsIor pAlAcE trieste, Italia

The Savoia Excelsior Palace is definitely a good example of why such hotels are still a big selling hit and a shining exception on the otherwise quite tired Trieste congress-hotel scene. The hotel with its offer is a good starting point for the re-launch of Trieste as a congress destination. Less can be more. Probably the most stylish first category facility also in the wider region.

4. spIrIt hotEl sarvar, hungary

The hotel Spirit certainly represents a new chapter in the rich history and culture of spa tourism of Sárvár, which is currently the “flag ship” of the city. Hotel Spirit is elegant, spacious and because of all this an impressive hotel. It is certainly not perfect. Anyone wishing to take advantage of everything the hotel has to offer will have to deal with a relatively high price for this part of Europe.

5. shErAton sofIA hotEl bAlkAn sofia, bulgaria

Extremely practical classic hotel, which has recently received numerous com-petition. The question remains what, in addition to the central position, differs the hotel Sheraton from contemporary competitors. If you’re a fan of minimal-ism and the latest hotel fashion than this hotel is not customised for you. It is a traditional hotel with the classic charm of the hotel, which is felt at every step after entering the hotel lobby. However, for the hotel to keep pace with the competition it will need cosmetic refurbishment in hotel rooms.

4.79

4.78

4.65

4.54

4.51

TOP 10 CITY mEETING HOTELS 2012 - 2013 KOngresna ZVeZda

Meetings star 2013

27

TOP 10

6. kEmpInskI hotEl ZoogrAfskI sofIA sofia, bulgaria

Reasonable prices, a solid selection of restaurants, beautiful views from the rooms, especially on the Vitosha mountain, a great convention centre are the main advantages of the hotel. Still, the hotel is far from the standards of other hotels in the Kempinski chain. The most disturbing are lobbies and other public areas, which call for urgently needed renovation, and inconsistent services. The hotel also in the final evaluation fits into the category of four stars and does not reach the standard of five stars, but because of the diversity of the hotel offer in combination with the cuisine, a large number of rooms and spaciousness it is still a very good choice for meeting planners.

7. grAnd hotEl unIon ExEcutIvE ljubljana, slovenia

Taste of meetings organizers is unpredictable and difficult to follow, but the choice of Grand Hotel Union is definitely a right one. Due to the excellent con-vention halls, flexibility and friendly staff, of course. In the Ljubljana confer-ence offer the Grand Hotel Union reigns. Excellent hotel for convention gour-mets and a true flag bearer of the Ljubljana hotel conference offer ever since 1905.

8. hyAtt rEgEncy belgrade, serbia

Hyatt Regency is a legend on the Belgrade hotel scene. It represents an excellent choice in Belgrade’s current premium class. For many years it has been the most reliable and convincing Belgrade hotel. Soon it will face fierce competition with an excess of hotels, which will necessarily demand a renovation of the existing hotel. Already the rooms are calling for renovation. The hotel has a soul, which has been successfully shared with its guests for a number of years and, like the city itself, it does not leave you feeling indifferent.

9. hotEl wEstIn Zagreb, croatia

Westin Hotel is contemporary but not modern, spacious but not over equipped, robust yet flexible hotel for those who care a lot for practicality and reliability.Westin Hotel still functions perfectly and is among congress clients well re-ceived due to its versatility and professionalism of the staff. Service, staff, quality in all the important elements of the hotel works well, it is disturbed only by the lack of a hotel of character and personality, which more inclines the hotel towards four stars.

10. hotEl lEv ljubljana, slovenia

Hotel Lev is somehow reminiscent of car limousines: in our region, despite numerous advantages they are not always the first choice. The situation is com-pletely different in other markets, where limousines dominate among cars as do those with pedigree and genetic blueprint of large hotel chains among hotels. Lev is love at second sight, which never disappoints. After all, not all guests are the same and to some more important than the appearance of the hotel are the well-being, comfort and friendliness of the staff that makes all the difference. After all, this hotel is “good value for money”, which today is also very impor-tant to business guests.

4.46

4.45

4.44

4.44

4.43


mETROPOL PALACE BELGRADE ★★★★★ LUxURY LUXURY LOUNGE IN THE CITY

KEmPINSKI HOTEL ZOGRAFSKI SOFIA ★★★★★ PREmIUm A VIEW ON THE ZEN GARDEN

overall impression and credibilityReasonable prices, a solid selection of restaurants, beautiful views from the rooms (especially to the Vitosha mountain) and a great convention centre are the main advantages of the hotel. Still, the hotel is far from the standards of other hotels in the Kempinski chain. The most disturbing aspects are the lobbies and other public areas, which call for urgently needed renovation, and the inconsistent services. In a final evaluation the hotel fits more readily into the four star cat-egory and does not reach the five star standard, but because of the diversity of the hotel offer in com-bination with the cuisine, a large number of rooms and the overall spaciousness, it is still a very good choice for meeting planners.

- flop – negative surprisesThe old and as yet unrenovat-

ed rooms are not at the level one would expect from the Kempinski hotels.

+ top – positive surprisesJapanese Zen garden with

Japanese restaurant.

overall impression and credibilityThe legend has returned to Belgrade! After a long renovation the historic heritage has been ex-cellently rebuilt and the hotel is today flirting with premium hotels in the major metropolitan cities of the region. Warm colours, supe-rior lighting, retro furniture and services at an appropriate level place it among the best hotels in the Balkans. If you want to impress your conference guests, then at the moment this hotel is the best choice in Belgrade. The hotel, rich in good memories, is now back for the many people who were missing its good times.

- flop – negative surprisesSmall construction details

that have not yet been completely resolved after the hotel’s opening.

+ top – positive surprisesTašmajdan park for lovers of

recreation and jogging, or simply to relax between busy convention hours.

Hidden Congress Guest

RESULTS OF ANALYSISLocation 4.82accessibility 3.92first impression 4.15Lobby 4.07Employee attitude 4.77reception 4.93Hotel room 4.13Hotel bed 4.13Bathroom and restroom 4.38Hotel breakfast 4.66Bars and restaurants 4.69Congress hall 4.89additional offer 4.48Total: 4.46


4.79final score

4.46final score

FINAL GRADE premium hotel 4.46Luxury ★★★★★

Premium ★★★★

Business ★★★ Economy ★★

Budget ★

FINAL GRADE Luxury hotel 4.79Luxury ★★★★★



Budget ★

Meetings star awardBest LUXUrY

CitY HOteL 2014

Meetings star awardBest PreMiUM

CitY HOteL 2014

28

KEmPINSKI PALACE PORTOROŽ ★★★★★ LUxURY THE ALL STARS

HOTEL DUBROVNIK PALACE ★★★★★ PREmIUm SPACE PALACE

overall impression and credibilityThe Hotel Kempinski is, simply put, a great hotel. After the renovation it not only offers to guests superior services at Kempinski standards, but also has a unique look and style that reflects its legendary charac-ter and Habsburg elegance. In ad-dition, at the hotel they understand the concept of hospitality at the very highest level extremely well.

- flop – negative surprisesIt’s hard to find faults, perhaps

the only disturbing thing is the ar-rangement of the coastal stretch, which with the quality of its offer does not reflect the prestigious hotel, but this is not the problem of the hotel, but rather of the development of Portorose tourism. Maybe also the prices of prestigious wines (that are overpriced) raises an eyebrow on the otherwise exceptional wine list.

+ top – positive surprisesThe hotel is an excellent choice

for automotive premieres. Because of the above it is no surprise that the prestigious car manufacturer Mercedes chose it for the global launch of its A-Class model.

overall impressions and credibilityAt the Hotel Dubrovnik Palace I wonder how little is needed to move from being a solid hotel to something special and collect-ing numerous awards. Firstly, it is about the quality of services, as well as about marketing that was excellently prepared around the hotel and is reflected in its increased profile. After visiting the hotel, it is clear that the Hotel Dubrovnik Palace deserved the award; to the highest category it does not lack much, and depend-ing on the assessment we ranked it among the top premium congress hotels in the region, where the emphasis is not only on the envi-ronment but on quality. In almost all respects a modern hotel and definitely a good choice among the many options in Dubrovnik.

- flop – negative surprisesGuests accustomed to 5-star

standard would expect a slight-ly higher standard in the rooms and especially the bathrooms and their hotel arrival experience (concierge).




4.77final score

4.41final score

FINAL GRADE Luxury hotel 4.77Luxury ★★★★★



Budget ★

FINAL GRADE Premium hotel 4.41Luxury ★★★★★



Budget ★

+ top – positive surprisesSpaciousness, comprehensive

offer, wellness and professional conference services.


resOrt HOteL 2014

Meetings star awardBest PreMiUM

resOrt HOteL 2014

29

Intro For Cankarjev dom, it seems like it’s been here since time immemorial. For 33 years the legendary institu-tion has been a synonym for cultural and humanistic activities and meetings industry tourism in Slovenia. The most impressive aspect is that the original pro-gramme vision under leadership of the legendary di-rector Mitja Rotovnik has been completely fulfilled. In Cankarjev dom the cultural-artistic programme and congress activity have been excellently complement-ing each other at all times of operation - a paradigm, which is particularly of interest today. All this places Cankarjev dom among one of the higher-quality and more interesting convention centres in Europe.

locAtIonCankarjev dom is located in the centre of the city within the main modernist square and neighbouring all the major institutions of the Slovenian state. Square of the Republic, where it is located, is important for Slovenia in urbanistic, architectural and symbolic terms. It was conceived as a political centre of the state and it actually transformed the image of the city. On a symbolic level it is associated with events that have transformed the history of Slovenia during the struggle for independence. From the perspective of the meeting industry it represents a meeting focus for Ljubljana.

AccEssIbIlItyThe administrative centre in which lies Cankarjev dom lies makes it easily accessible on foot, by car or by public transport. Under the Square of the Republic there is a large parking garage, and the latest one is just a stone’s throw away under Congress Square. Both are sufficient to cover the needs of motorised confer-ence guests. A great advantage of the location is that all the city’s attractions, and especially the key hotels, are within walking distance. In these terms Cankarjev dom is a very friendly and nice location for conference guests.

cold ApEtIZEr Architecture and Aesthetics Cankarjev dom is the work of architect Edo Ravnikar and is an integral part of his design for the Square of the Republic. It was created in the era of modernism and is considered a key example of monumental ar-chitecture, comparable with achievements of Alvar Aalto in the Finlandia convention centre. A number of smaller details are surprising, the most astounding the fact that the architecture of the building has preserved its value. With the current renovation, which has trig-

gered heated controversy, the convention centre ac-quired more elegance and a contemporary feel with more natural materials. Above all, some of the original planning errors were removed, such as a relatively low ceiling in the lower lobbies. The exemplary building maintenance is particularly impressive, as it is a rarity in comparable centres in Europe.

wArm ApEtIZEr – staff and customer service Without Cankarjev dom and their team the Slovenian meetings industry would probably not be what it is today. Many personnel have formed in Cankarjev dom. A large number of specialists for individual segments provide a superior execution of events. Above all, one of the advantages is the connection with culture. For this reason, in production terms, this opens up com-pletely new possibilities.

mAIn coursE – Quality of facilities Cankarjev dom boasts 22 multi-purpose conference halls and represents the largest purpose-built conven-tion centre in Slovenia. A big advantage is the diversity of spaces for different convention needs. The largest hall, Gallus, with 2,000 seats, is still today the concept of extraordinary acoustics and is the only hall of this type in Slovenia (Auditorium).The venue’s total surface of 36,000 m2 can accommo-date up to 5.000 visitors. With extensive lobby exhib-its it has already carried out a number of conferenc-es with large accompanying exhibitions. This year’s renovation now completed, all spaces will be adapted to modern technological requirements, making them more useful, more comfortable and more beautiful.

dEsErt – catering and additional offerCankarjev dom is the culprit that catering has estab-lished itself as a concept and type of service in Slovenia. For many years the main protocol events in the country were held at Cankarjev dom. It is not surprising that this part of the offer is exemplary, arranged with an excellent centre for the production and distribution of food. It seems that together with the institution two of the largest Slovenian catering companies have also grown - Jezeršek catering and Vivo catering.

- flop – negative surprisesDue to the complexity of the architecture it takes

some time for orientation.

+ top – positive surprisesA sustainable approach, with bees on the roof in

CANKARjEV DOm, Cultural and Congress Centre ★★★★★ LUxURY Luxury congress centre

4.85final score


COngress Centre 2014

the middle of the city, its own crop of honey and an environmentally friendly business philosophy.

final impression and credibilityThe cultural and convention focal point of Slovenia and a place where Slovenian history is happening. One can not imagine Ljubljana today without Cankarjev dom; it and the Slovenian meetings indus-try were created together. On top of that Cankarjev dom is a perfectly oiled congress machinery, which does not show its age and which after recent renovations is in ex-cellent condition.

RESULTS OF ANALYSISLocation 4.95accessibility 3.90Overall impression at arrival 4.90Quality – entrance hall lobby 5.00Quality – conference space 4.98Quality – conference inventory 5.00Quality – lighting 4.89Quality – acoustics and sound system 4.92Quality – multimedia system 4.97Quality – internet connectivity 4.95Employee behaviour 4.76access to power and com lines 4.95Bussines centre 5.00Customer service 4.92Safety 5.00Security and emergency 5.00additional offer 4.83Catering 4.72Sustainability practices 4.85Communication & marketing 4.57Total: 4.85

FINAL GRADE Luxury congress centre 4.85Luxury ★★★★★



Budget ★


30

SWEET ONLINE SHOPNAME: Moja čokolada LOCATION: Ljubljana, SloveniaCONTACT: [email protected]: www.mojacokolada.si, www.chocolateworld.org/en/

Currently our assortment of goods includes more than 1.000 of dif-ferent chocolate products - and since the very beginning our most sold product of all times is My Chocolate of 200 grams which can be created by the customer according to his or her own wishes. There is possible to choose between three different types of chocolate (white, milk and dark chocolate) and more than 60 various toppings - from crumbled hazelnuts, raspberries and candied oranges to chili, salt and dry onions. So, more than 11 billion possibilities avaliable!

CANON LEGRIA mINI xCREATIVE FILmING mEETS AmAZING AUDIOThe Canon LEGRIA mini X is a new, creative camcorder that de-livers professional quality audio alongside stunning HD video to match. Ideal for everyday story-tellers, the LEGRIA mini X merges Canon’s signature video quality with advanced sound and a highly flexible design, making it ideal for almost any kind of video capture – from on-the-scene reporting, documentaries and self-recording, to capturing live music or theatrical performances. Compact and light enough to take anywhere for spontaneous shooting, the de-vice’s unique combination of an ultra-wide angle lens, built-in stand and touchscreen LCD screen makes it easy to capture footage.

www.canon.si

Gadgets

GEOFFREY – ELECTRONIC BUTLERGeoffrey is a multi-award-winning electronic ordering system, price list and newspaper all in one device. Leaves no wishes unfulfilled, lets customers order at any time – without having to wait a single minute. Geoffrey speeds up the average table turnaround and shortens the ordering time to a minimum. Customers can place their own orders, making mistakes, excuses and misunderstandings a thing of the past. Geoffrey is always ahead of the time, and it only gets better!

www.geoffrey.si

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21 - 22 JANUARY 2015, Ljubljana—Slovenia

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SOUTH EAST EUROPEAN EXHIBITION FOR MEETINGS, EVENTS & INCENTIVE TRAVEL

TH7Explore the emerging

destinations of South East Europe over a cup of coffee.

Conventa Add Kongres 2015.indd 1 16. 01. 14 10:42

GEOFFREY WAITER OF THE 21 CENTURY

Inside Award

34

Geoffrey is a desktop electronic price list intended for cafés and hotels that allows guests to review and order the offer, read

daily news of the world media, check events in the surrounding area and much more.

Geoffrey is a system that allows every catering establishment or hotel to increase its traffic and maximize profits. Geoffrey encourages guests to impulsively buy as guest no longer has to wait to order. On average, cafés equipped with Geoffrey recorded 17% increase in sales. On the other hand, Geoffrey caters for 7-10 min faster turn-around of each table. Time savings mean that more customers are served and consequently more sales.

Geoffrey relieves waiters and catering staff, as it spares them unnecessary memorising of orders and walking. This means that staff are not too much under pressure and at all times available to guests, which means better well-being of guests, better service, and of course more sales. Geoffrey in the course of his work constantly collects data and provides detailed insight into the functioning and operations of the bar itself.

With the help of smart questionnaires Geoffrey constantly collects information about custom-er satisfaction, the data is also analyzed and presented in a simple and understandable way. With the help of Geoffrey caterer actually un-derstands their business and the behaviour of guests.

To date, Geoffrey has helped more than 100.000 guests. Old and young, no waiting and fuss.

Content appearing on Geoffrey can be managed centrally via the web. This means that from an-ywhere in the world via the Internet it is quite easy to change the content and offerings which can be displayed on 1, 10, 100 or even 1,000 Geoffreys.

Geoffrey is currently the only handheld that works for several weeks without charging, is

completely waterproof and is actually fully de-veloped for the demanding hospitality environ-ment. He is also the only handheld in the hospi-tality industry, which insurance companies are willing to insure.

Geoffrey has already saved over 700.000 Minutes of waiting

Quite easily. Geoffrey is the waiter of the 21st century, which helps each bar to become a “smart bar” and increase sales, optimise opera-tions, reduce operating costs, while at the same time allowing full access to the business of the establishment and guest behaviour.

mATEj ZALAR, DIRECTOR OF THE VISIONECT, INSIDE AWARD WINNER

Q: What does Visionect do?Visionect deals with the development of high-tech products. Our main product is Geoffrey. Geoffrey is a handheld device intended for cafés. It allows guests to order in their own language food, drink, read daily news of the world media, check the weather forecast, happenings in the area and much more.Geoffrey in a very effective way turns every restaurant table into a smart table and helps each bar to become a “smart bar”.

Q: What problem did you solve with your innovation?We have shortened the ordering process between 7-10 minutes, and enabled a catering establishment to max-imize their traffic and reduce costs. A guest can submit their order at any given moment, which means that they are never in a situation when they due to availa-bility/unavailability of serving staff (waiters) want to change their mind.

Q: What are the concrete economic results achieved by the innovation?Geoffrey increases sales, optimizes operations, reduces operating costs, while allowing full access to the business of the establishment and guest behaviour.It is interesting that to date Geoffrey due to faster

serving in bars and restaurants has saved guests more than 700.000 minutes of waiting.

Q: What are sustainable effects of the innovation?An increase in sales of restaurants from 13-21%, cost reduction, better knowledge of the habits and desires of guests. Guests thus have an improved experience and improved hospitality which makes them return.

Q: What are your plans for the future?To shorten the waiting time in restaurants, cafes, pubs, bars... to the largest possible number of visitors around the world.

Q: What inspires you personally and from where do you get your ideas?Seeing how the product you have been developing for years finally comes to life and helps to improve the lives of users.

mATEj ZALAR DEFINING mOmENTS

The craziest destinationDubai.

The craziest eventBurning man in Nevada.

If you could be present at any event in history, which one would it be?When Ford Model-T, the first cheap enough car for the general public, becomes available.

Hotel in which you like to return?I think there are too many things to see and do. I would rather try and experience new “hotels” than return to the ones I have already been to.

Rock concert that you would like to see?Metallica.

Inside Award

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Hosted buyers attending Conventa will most certainly get plenty of possibilities to explore the SEE region. Not only will they get to know South East Europe by meeting with key meeting industry

suppliers from this region at the trade show, but will also have the possibili-ty to attend Conventa fam trips that will offer them a first-hand experience of the following destinations:

ExPERIENCING SOUTH EAST EUROPE The sixth edition offers a record number of Conventa fam trips

Explore

pre-tour: 20th – 21st january 2014

Ljubljana Tourism / Convention Bureau has once again prepared a special pre-Conventa familiarisation programme. Hosted buyers embark on a 24-hour journey in order to get a feel of the Slovenian capital city. This cosy and vibrant city offers very good value for money when it comes to meetings & incentive products, with an array of downtown venues all within walking distance.

post-tour: 23rd – 24th january 2014

Beautiful scenery provides a fantastic backdrop that enthuses and inspires participants. The lake, island and castle are a truly unforgettable sight, with countless other natural and cultural attractions to stun visitors just a short drive away. A meeting in Bled will remain in the memory of at-tendees forever. It is compact, with all its facilities and sights being within walking distance.


Zagreb, the capital of the Republic of Croatia, is one of Europe’s oldest cities and since July 2013 the new metropolis in the European Union. It is the scientific, economic, and cultural centre of the country, hosting numerous major cultural and sports events, business meetings and inter-national events all year round. Conveniently located at the intersection of several important routes between the Adriatic coast and Central Europe, Zagreb has always represented a unique blend of different worlds and cultures. It has excellent air and road connections to other destinations in the region and beyond.

BLED

ZAGREB

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Carinthia, Austria’s southernmost province, presents itself to its guests with sincerity, a Mediterranean charm, genuine hospitality and a zest for life which is infectious and guides the quality of life and holidays. The many crystal-clear lakes provide refreshment and make Carinthia a ‘lake district’, but it is also a region of mountains with marvellous scenery making it perfect for hiking and skiing. Carinthia’s refreshing paradise of nature offers varied and excit-ing activities at any time of the year. Congress centres, conference hotels, top locations and event agencies offer a top quality, custom-ised service and genuine hospitality.


Professionalism, innovative properties and a multitude of sceneries: in Friuli Venezia Giulia each of these is engaged to make an event an un-forgettable experience. The design and the modernity of the conference centres, combined with the charm of castles and ancient dwellings, offers a wide range of amazing opportunities. Trieste, a cosmopolitan and mul-ti-ethnic city with its Habsburg charm, seems to embrace the sea, or rather, to welcome the sea into the heart of the city. “Piazza dell’ Unità”, one of the loveliest and biggest sea-front city squares in Europe, is waiting for hosted buyers!


The colour of the sun and the sea, along with the wind and salt, strokes the picturesque Mediterranean towns on the Adriatic coast where every one of the 47km offers a new surprise. The coastal town with the longest tradition of tourism is Portorož. It combines history with a modern beat and is a popular centre for conferences and meetings, with several conference halls capable of holding up to 1,100 guests. The town also has casinos, a modern marina and natural health resorts. Portorož is closely connected with the most charming of the medieval towns on the Slovenian coast, Piran.

post-tour: 23rd – 25th january 2014 (2 nights)

Opatija has always been a centre of the most important business, art and entertainment events. The city is a cradle of modern tourism in Croatia and a Mediterranean oasis in the very heart of Europe. Easily reachable by all means of transport, Opatija offers glittering, classically designed halls, congress centres, picturesque parks and a spacious open-air theatre... it is like a large stage set of hotels located close to the sea and the main street, all just a few minutes pleasant stroll from each other. Its meeting facilities include 10 hotels with 50 halls that can host up to 800 participants.

PORTOROZTRIESTE / FRIULI VENEZIA GIULIA

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CONVENTIONS AND mEETINGS IN FRIULI VENEZIA GIULIA: A WORTHWHILE CHOICE

Friuli Venezia Giulia is in the heart of Europe. Thanks to its strategic position, in the centre of the Old Continent, every event can become a unique occasion of guaranteed success. This easily accessible region

served by Trieste airport, just an hour from the international hubs of Venice and Ljubljana, is the ideal destination for the meeting industry.

An unspoiled territory - full of charming locations and ideal for visitors looking for unique emotions - which provides every single event with a touch of originality. A cosmopolitan and multi-ethnic territory rich in history and culture: Trieste with its Habsburg charm, Gorizia with its Central European elegance, Udine and the Venetian architecture, Pordenone with its sixteenth-century palaces.

Friuli Venezia Giulia offers a wide choice of first-class, well-equipped locations for conferences, meetings and workshops of various kinds and sizes. Professional activities can be combined with a program of tours, entertainment, leisure and shopping, cultural or food and wine related visits, thanks to the beauty of an area whose disparate landscape – from the Adriatic sea to the Alps, from the cities of art to the countless wine cellars – is a perfect setting.Small meetings of undoubted success can also be hosted in Friuli Venezia Giulia’s typical wineries and farms, accompanied by tastings and visits which recall the tradition and fragrances of the past.

The main conference centre is Trieste, which was granted status as an in-ternational centre of attraction by the European Federation of Conference Towns, and that offers top-level and state-of-art congress venues, access to excellent hotel facilities and a proven track record of over twenty years’ experience. In Trieste, the flagship is the Stazione Marittima Congress Palace (floor space of over 2,000 m2 with 980 seats, 6 rooms with advanced technical equipment for scientific sessions, 5 rooms for parallel sessions and 400 m2 of exhibition space), lapped on three sides by the sea and located in the city’s cultural district. The largest multifunctional complex in the region is the Udine Expo Conference Centre (9 modern pavilions, 600 to 1,500 seats, a number of rooms adaptable into separate units, and an auditorium with 360 fixed seats). In Grado the modern Conference Hall (an auditorium with 994 seats) is ideal for large business meetings and conferences, while the Kursaal Conference Centre has a team of ded-icated professionals operating in Lignano. In the west of the region the Pordenone Expo Conference Centre offers nine halls and is able to host up to 4000 people.

Friuli Venezia Giulia Tourist Board - MICE department Via Carso, 333052 Cervignano del friuli (Ud) - Italytel. +39 0431 387111 fax +39 0431 387199website: www.turismofvg.it e-mail: [email protected]

Advertorial

Realized within the project of excellence “ MICE in Italy “ with funding from the Department for the development and competitiveness of tourism, the Council Presidency

photo: Marco Milani

photo: Claudio Crivellari

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ZAGREB - A SmART PLACE TO mEET

Zagreb is the capital of the Republic of Croatia and one of the oldest European cities, with a history stretching back to

the 11th century. Since Croatia’s accession to the European Union in July 2013, Zagreb has also become the new metropolis of the European Union. The secret recipe for a successful meeting or a conference, a memorable incentive, or a fasci-nating event, includes a rich variety of careful-ly selected historic and modern venues, world class hotels, exciting gastronomic adventures, top quality PCOs and DMCs, highly profession-al staff and excellent service. Combine them according to your preferences and wishes and what you will get will be a unique, tailor-made Zagreb experience. For that as well as many other reasons Zagreb has increasingly been chosen by business ex-ecutives from all over the world as the perfect destination for their conventions, conferences, meetings and incentives.

You can also spice it up with a great number of cultural and historic attractions, all centrally located and within walking distance - take a break and stroll through a string of green parks and promenades right in the city centre, or just enjoy a delicious cup of coffee in one of the open terraces on the many squares downtown.The pulse of this administrative, economic, diplomatic and cultural capital of the country will carry you everywhere you go, from its Gothic churches, Baroque palaces, the Art Deco buildings, the numerous museums and galler-ies, beautiful city parks, picturesque open-air markets to the many charming places in its beautiful surroundings.Conveniently, “the city of a million hearts” as Zagreb is called by the locals, is very central-ly located, making it easily accessible from all parts of Europe. Simply put, Zagreb boosts the energy levels, mo-tivates and brings out the best in every event and its participants. Welcome!

Advertorial

E [email protected] +386 1 433 21 55WWW.UNION-HOTELS.EU

09:00 - 09:30 Welcome and Introduction to the Future Leaders Forum

miguel Neves, Senior Online Community Manager at IMEX GroupSarah Skavron, Knowledge and Events Executive at IMEX Group

The Future Leaders Forum has been developed to encourage the best and brightest students to develop successful careers in meetings industry. Over 100 forums have taken place globally since 2003 with more than 6,000 students participat-ing in the forums to date.

In this introduction we will present the three partner organisations that are supporting the Future Leaders Forum and give an introduction to leadership. Gain a deeper understanding of the meetings industry and learn how to make the most of the Future Leaders Forum.

09:30 – 10:15 “The Meetings Industry - Not a Job but a Career!”

Paul Kennedy, MBE - Director and Owner of Kennedy Consulting

What is the meetings industry? How is this buoyant, valuable and expanding industry viewed by its employers and employees around the world especially in these troubled economic and political times? Is this an industry that you want to enter and enjoy as an exciting and worthwhile career?

This session will look at developments, trends and the sustainability of the meetings industry as well as the life cycle of meetings from concept to post event. It will be followed by an open discussion.

10:15 – 10:30 Break

10:30 - 11:15 The Meetings Industry in South East Europejan Orsic, Project Manager at Intours DMC

What is the meetings industry like in South East Europe? Join Jan Orsic for a regional overview of the meetings industry where he will present the major players (major hotels, venues, destina-

tions etc). and discuss the different kinds of events that take place in the region. Learn more about the scope and value of the regional indus-try and what role regional organisations play in international events. Jan will also give an overview of FAM trips and how the region is promoted.

11:15 - 12:30 The Elevator Pitch Challenge – Intro-duction and Preparation Introduced by jan Orsic, Project Manager at Intours DMCStudents will prepare their Elevator Pitch in teams.

The challenge is to sell a destination to a specific client with specific needs. The details of the client and specific project will be revealed at the event. In the first part of the challenge you will prepare your brief and in the second part the presentations will take place.

12:30 - 13:30 Lunch

13:30 - 14:00 The_Elevator Pitch Challenge – PresentationsThe teams will present their pitch to a jury of industry professionals.

14:00 - 14:30 Introduction to Meeting Designmike Van der Vijver, Managing Partner, MindMeeting

The expectations of meeting participants and meeting owners are changing: increasingly people expect meetings to be effective and en-gaging. This can never be the result if meeting programmes are not crafted carefully. In this session we will explore the basics of designing good programmes.

14:30 – 14:45 The Power of Networkingmiguel Neves, Senior Online Community Manager, IMEX GroupSarah Skavron, Knowledge and Events Executive, IMEX Group

Networking is key to any industry, but perhaps even more crucial in the meetings industry.

In this session we will explore the value of cre-ating a strong professional network and how networking can advance careers. This short session will give you valuable advice and practi-cal tips on how to make the most of the excellent networking opportunities available to you at the roundtable session and throughout Conventa 2014.

14:45 – 15:00 Break

15:00 - 16:30 Roundtable session with industry expertsA selected group of expert Meetings Industry professionals will offer their time for informal career and professional development conversa-tions. Each expert represents one industry spe-cialty or area of interest giving the future leaders an opportunity to meet with their four chosen professionals in 20m group appointments.

DmC: jan Orsic, Project Manager at Intours DMCDmO: Azra Botonjic, Marketing Manager at Slovenian Convention BureauHotel: mojca Gobina, Assistant Director of MICE Sales at Sava Hotels and ResortsVenue: Luka Zajc, Sales Manager of Events and Congress Department at Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention CentreTechnology: miguel Neves, Senior Online Community Manager at IMEX GroupPCO: mateja Peric, Project Manager at Cankarjev Dom, Cultural and Congress CentreAssociations: Irena jelenova, Membership Development Executive at ICCA

16:30 Close of the IMEX-MPI-MCI Future Leaders Forum at Conventa 2014Certificates of Participation will be handed out

ImEx-mPI-mCI FUTURE LEADERS FORUm CONVENTA 2014, LjUBLjANA, SLOVENIATuesday, 21 January 2014, GR - Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre. Conference Hall Urška 3

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Tuesday, 21 January 2014

AcAdEmy convEntA, Grand Hotel Union

16.00 – 17.00 Forum “Leisure to mICE marketing” Presentations of best practices and challenges for

suppliers For: Exhibitors at Conventa Language: English17.30 – 19.00 “Don’t forget this meeting” Panel discussion on meeting design and brand design Mike van der Vijver, MindMeeting Davor Bruketa, Marketing Agency Bruketa&Zinic Roger Pride, Heavenly Wales moderator: Chris Parnham, Absolute Corporate Events For: Conventa exhibitors and hosted buyers Language: English

Wednesday, 22 January 2014GR - Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre

convEntA mornIng EnErgy sEssIons

08.30 – 09.45 Brandoctor workshop by Anja Bauer Minkara, CEO & Senior Brand Consultant

& Petra Despot, Brand Consultant For: Conventa exhibitors Language: English10.30 – 11.30 Energija za vodenje dr. Danijela Brečko, GV Izobraževanje For: Meeting planners from Slovenia, Slovenian hosted

buyers Language: Slovene

Thursday, 23 January 2014GR - Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre

convEntA mornIng EnErgy sEssIons

08.45 – 9.45 The role of creativity in business, Bruketa&Žinić OmD

Ivan Tanić, Strategic Planner at Bruketa&Žinić OM For: Conventa exhibitors and Slovenian hosted buyers Language: English09.00 – 9.45 Corporate Event Trends in Germany prof. Dr. Ricarda Merkwitz For: Conventa exhibitors and meeting planners Language: English10.30 – 11.30 Inovativen pristop k pripravi in izvedbi dogodkov

s podporo tehničnih sredstev Marko Križnik, Promo d.o.o. For: Conventa exhibitors and Slovenian hosted buyers Language: Slovenian

ImEx-mPI-mCI FUTURE LEADERS FORUm CONVENTA 2014, LjUBLjANA, SLOVENIATuesday, 21 January 2014, GR - Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre. Conference Hall Urška 3

CONVENTA EDUCATION PROGRAmmE

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Tuesday, 21 January 2014 16.00-19.00 Academy Conventa, Grand Hotel Union, White Hall 19.30.21.30 Welcome reception, Grand Hotel Union, Grand Union Hall Wednesday, 22 January 2014venue: GR - Ljubljana exhibition and Convention Centre

08.00 – 09.00 Registration for exhibitors and set-up of exhibition stands

08.30 – 0.00 Conventa morning energy sessions09.00 – 10.00 Registration for hosted buyers 10.00 – 13.00 One2one meetings 13.00 – 14.20 Working lunch and prize draw 14.20 – 17.00 One2one meetings 16.00 – 17.00 Conventa Chef Challenge, coffee corner (SORA

Catering) 19.30 – 22.00 Conventa networking dinner, GR, Sonet hall22.00 – 01.00 Kongres Five-Star After party, GR, Oda Hall Thursday, 23 January 2014 venue: GR- Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre

09.00 – 10.00 Registration 09.00 – 10.00 Conventa morning energy sessions10.00 – 13.00 One2one meetings 13.00 – 14.20 Working lunch and prize draw 14.20 – 17.00 One2one meetings 14.00 – 15.00 Conventa Chef Challenge, coffee corner (Vivo Catering)

17.00 end of the show 17.00 eparture for fam trips to Trieste, Bled, Zagreb,

Carinthia, Portorož and Opatija (for hosted buyers only)

Conventa specials:

On both days, short presentations will be running in the Expert’s corner in the Marmorna Hall. At the Job Fair corner you will be get informa-tion about the young professionals looking for their first jobs! Hosted buyers are welcome to relax in the Hosted Buyers Lounge @ Ljubljana Tourism.

Hosted buyer ‘Chefs challenge’Spice up your Conventa experience by joining the ‘Chefs Challenge’! Cookery courses and culinary workshops are the right choice for all who want to learn about the little secrets of master chefs. Join us on Wednesday, 22 January at 4pm and Thursday, 23 January at 2 pm.

A kitchen surroundings will be created with all necessary appliances and ingredients. Selected number of participants will be divided into two groups and be assigned to one of the chefs. Teams will compete in making delicious culinary delights and be judged by the Conventa participants.You can register for Hosted buyer ‘Chefs challenge’ at SORA Catering stand (No 19) and Vivo catering stand (No 24). SORA Catering chefs and VIVO Catering chefs await for you!

EVENT PROGRAmmE

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........................................................................... Stand Cat. .................................................................................. № № Austria CVB (National, Regional or Local

Convention or Visitors Bureau) Carinthia Convention .............................................................................. 101 49 Convention Bureau Niederösterreich ....................................... 94 50 Salzburg Convention Bureau & Salzburg Congress ......... 92 52 Steiermark Convention ....................................................................... 100 53

Congress & Exhibition Centres Congress Center Villach ....................................................................... 106 50 Congress Schladming................................................................................ 99 50 Design Center Linz / Tourism Board Linz ............................ 93 51 Messe Congress Graz ................................................................................ 97 51

Congress Hotels & Hotels with Conference Facilities Accor Hotels...................................................................................................... 91 49 Best Western Central Europe ............................................................. 10 49 Courtyard by Marriott Graz ................................................................ 95 50 Falkensteiner Resort Carinzia ****s

and Falkensteiner Schlosshotel Velden ................................... 107 51 roomz graz ; Budget Design Hotel ................................................. 96 52 Seepark Hotel Congress and Spa .................................................. 104 52 Sonnenhotel Hafnersee ........................................................................ 108 52 VI Hotels & Resorts ......................................................................................98 53 Werzers Hotels am Wörthersee ................................................... 103 53

Other Congress Services “MICE & more Wörthersee” (Austria) .................................... 102 51

Special Venue Casino Velden/Casinos Austria ...................................................... 105 49

belgium Other Congress Services Euromic – events & destination management partnership...................................................................... 60 53

bosnia and herzegovina Congress Hotels & Hotels with conference facilities Hotel Radon Plaza Sarajevo BiH .................................................... 45 54

bulgaria Congress Hotels & Hotels with conference facilities Kempinski Hotel Zografski Sofia .................................................... 46 54 Hilton Hotel Sofia ........................................................................................ 47 54

croatia CVB (National, Regional or Local

Convention or Visitors Bureaus) Croatian National ......................................................................................... 56 55

Tourist Board / Convention Bureau Dubrovnik Tourist Board ...................................................................... 62 55

Opatija Convention & Incentive Bureau ................................. 75 58 Zagreb Convention Bureau ................................................................ 57 59

Congress Hotels & Hotels with Conference Facilities Falkensteiner Hotels & Residences ............................................. 69 56 Hotel Aristos .................................................................................................. 59 56 Hotel Katarina .............................................................................................. 71 56 HUP-Zagreb d.d. (Starwood hotels in Zagreb) .................... 58 56 Ilirija Travel .................................................................................................... 70 57 Istraturist - Partner of Meliá hotels International ........... 66 57 Lafodia Sea Resort**** .......................................................................... 63 57 Le Meridien Lav Split ............................................................................. 72 57 Maistra d.d. ...................................................................................................... 67 58 Plava Laguna d.d. ......................................................................................... 68 58 Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Dubrovnik Sun Gardens .... 64 58 Solaris Beach Resort ................................................................................. 74 59 Sunčani Hvar Hoteli ................................................................................. 73 59

DmC - Destination management Company DT Croatia - Dubrovnik Travel DMC ......................................... 61 55

Other Congress Services Brandoctor ....................................................................................................... 55 54 Bruketa&Žinić OM .................................................................................... 55 55

czech republic CVB (National, Regional or Local

Convention or Visitors Bureaus) Prague Convention Bureau ................................................................... 81 60

Congress Hotels & Hotels with Conference Facilities Carlson Rezidor ............................................................................................ 82 59

france Other Congress Services Magency Digital .......................................................................................... 54 60

hungary CVB (National, Regional or Local

Convention or Visitors Bureaus) Hungarian Tourism Plc. ......................................................................... 84 60 Sárvár Tourist & TDM Nonprofit Ltd. ....................................... 85 61

Congress & Exhibition Centres Hungexpo - Budapest .............................................................................. 84 60

Congress Hotels & Hotels with Conference Facilities Park Inn by Radisson Sárvár Resort & Spa ............................. 85 61 Spirit Hotel Thermal Spa Sárvár*****superior ................... 83 61

Italy CVB (National, Regional or Local

Convention or Visitors Bureaus) Agenzia Turismo FVG ............................................................................ 90 61

meetings industry suppliers

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montenegro CVB (National, Regional or Local

Convention or Visitors Bureaus) Montenegro Convention Bureau .................................................... 88 62

Congress Hotels & Hotels with Conference Facilities Montenegrostars hotels group ......................................................... 87 62 Normal tours, Hotel Podgorica ....................................................... 89 62

DmC - Destination management Company EastWest Voyage .......................................................................................... 86 62 Talas-M DMC .................................................................................................. 61 63

Qatar Other Congress Services Qatar Airways ................................................................................................. 65 63

romania Congress Hotels & Hotels with Conference Facilities Athenee Palace Hilton Bucharest .................................................. 47 64

serbia CVB (National, Regional or Local

Convention or Visitors Bureaus) Belgrade Convention Bureau ............................................................ 77 64 Serbia Convention Bureau ................................................................... 76 65 Subotica / Lake Palic Destination ................................................ 80 65

Congress Hotels & Hotels with Conference Facilities Best Western Hotel M Belgrade .................................................... 79 64

DmC - Destination management Company DMC Vekol doo .............................................................................................. 78 64

slovenia CVB (National, Regional or Local

Convention or Visitors Bureaus) Bled Tourist Board & Convention Bureau .............................. 29 66 Ljubljana Tourism / Convention Bureau ................................... 3 73 Slovenian Convention Bureau .............................................................. 1 75 Slovenian Tourist Board ........................................................................... 2 75 Tourism Bohinj ............................................................................................. 33 76 Tourist Board Sotočje – Soča Valley ............................................ 36 77

Congress & Exhibition Centres Bled Congress center, Bled Castle ............................................... 34 66 Cankarjev dom, CD Congress Centre Ljubljana ................. 4 67 GR - Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre ........... 6 68 JGZ Brdo - Brdo Estate .......................................................................... 42 71

Congress Hotels & Hotels with Conference Facilities Austria Trend Hotel Ljubljana ............................................................ 8 65 Bernardin Group ......................................................................................... 28 66 Bohinj Park ECO Hotel ......................................................................... 32 67 City hotel Ljubljana, Krajc Hoteli d.o.o. .................................. 14 67 HIT d.d. Nova Gorica .............................................................................. 35 68

HIT Alpinea d.d. ......................................................................................... 35 69 Hotel Cubo ....................................................................................................... 12 69 Hotel Mons ...................................................................................................... 15 69 Hotel Plesnik**** Logarska dolina .............................................. 37 69 Hotel Slon d.d. Ljubljana ....................................................................... 11 70 Hotel Triglav d.o.o. Bled ....................................................................... 30 70 Istrabenz Turizem dd, Lifeclass Hotels & Spa .................. 25 71 Kempinski Palace Portoroz ................................................................. 26 71 Kompas Hoteli Bled d.d. ......................................................................... 11 72 M Hotel Ljubljana ........................................................................................ 17 73 Plaza hotel Ljubljana ............................................................................... 18 73 Sava Hotels & Resorts ............................................................................... 31 74 Terme Čatež d.d. .......................................................................................... 38 75 Terme Krka, d.o.o., Novo mesto ....................................................... 39 76 Terme Olimia ................................................................................................ 40 76 Thermana Laško .......................................................................................... 41 76 Union Hotels, Ljubljana ............................................................................ 9 77

DmC - Destination management Company iDMC ........................................................................................................... 22 70 Intours DMC ................................................................................................. 20 70 Kompas DMC ................................................................................................ 13 72 Kompas DMC International ............................................................... 13 72

PCO - Professional Congress Organiser Cankarjev dom, CD Congress Centre Ljubljana ....................4 67 GO.MICE ................................................................................................................ 7 67

Special Venues Ljubljana Castle ............................................................................................ 16 72 Postojnska jama, d.d. - Postojna Cave ......................................... 27 74

Other Congress Services Adria Airways d.d. ......................................................................................... 5 65 GoOpti low cost transfers ..................................................................... 21 68 Kaval Group ..................................................................................................... 43 71 SORA Catering ............................................................................................... 19 75 Visionect d.o.o. ................................................................................................ 23 77 Vivo catering .................................................................................................... 24 78 Proevent ............................................................................................................ 53 74

the netherlands Other Congress Services International Congress and Convention

Association (ICCA) .................................................................................. 49 63

turkey DmC - Destination management Company Tunes Travel Istanbul ........................................................................... 44 78

united kingdom Other Congress Services The Meetings Show ................................................................................. 48 78 EIBTM .......................................................................................................... 50 78


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........................................................................... Stand Cat. .................................................................................. № №

belgium Whales On Waves ......................................................................................... II. 80

croatia CO2cut d.o.o. ................................................................................................ IX. 79 K. G. Media d.o.o. ................................................................................. VIII. 81 Tailored Development Ltd .................................................................... V. 80

Italy VIDIZ&KESSLER srl - QUBIK CAFFE’ .............................. VII. 81

slovenia Agencija PROMO ............................................................................................ I. 80 Hiša Vizij d.o.o. ......................................................................................... III. 81 Studio 37 d.o.o. ............................................................................................ IV. 81 P&F Jeruzalem Ormož ........................................................................ VI. 80

...................................................................................... Cat. ...................................................................................... № slovenia The Slovenia Times ............................................................................................ 82 Kongres Magazine ............................................................................................. 84 Planet GV ................................................................................................................... 83

germany Tourism Insider ..................................................................................................... 82 Tw Magazine ........................................................................................................... 82

hungary Turizmus Panoráma ......................................................................................... 82 Turizmus Trend ................................................................................................... 83

croatia Poslovni Turizam/Croatia Meetings ................................................... 83 UT Ugostiteljstvo i turizam ......................................................................... 83 Putovanja za dvoje ............................................................................................... 84

france Meet and Travel Mag ........................................................................................ 84

netherlands DV Productions ...................................................................................................... 84

great britain International Meetings Review ................................................................ 84

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casino velden/casinos AustriaWith its incomparable location on the Lake Wörthersee Bay (located in Carinthia, in the south of Austria), Casino Velden is fascinating because of its mix of seeing and being seen, high-profile congresses, gourmet cuisine with nu-merous outlets and a gaming area which thrills all the guests. Celebrate, feast or have a meeting in the casino with its charming atmosphere and spectacular view of Lake Wörthersee. Two individuel event halls offer the ideal setting for events, conventions, balls, concerts as well as clubbings. The versatility of Casino Velden is shown in the architectural design and its flexibility.

Contact:Am Corso 179220 VeldenAustria www2.casinos.at/

Contact person:Ms. Karin ObkircherE: [email protected]: 0043 4274 2064 20112

carinthia convention Carinthia Convention Bureau - Our ServicesSupport in selection suitable conference hotels, meeting and event locations • One stop shop • Organisation and support for site inspections • Professional assistance for putting together supporting programmes on various themes • Carinthia brochures for events on request • Support and guiding through your Event as an official „g reen Meeting“ • Assistance in the advertising of congresses • Goverment funding for international congresses

Contact:Voelkermarkter Ring 21-239020 KlagenfurtAustria www.convention.kaernten.at

Contact person:Ms. Andrea LeitnerE: [email protected]: 0043 463 300095

best western central EuropeBest Western is the world’s largest family of more than 4.100 private hotels perfectly suiting every taste and every demand in 110 countries!Best Western guarantees strictly controlled quality – from 3-star premises to BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® Hotels. Sophisticated booking & res-ervation, lots of specials and one of the world’s largest cus-tomer clubs complement our Best Western range of services. Best Western Central Europe located in Vienna is the head office for more than 70 privately owned hotels in Austria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Macedonia, Montenegro, Kosovo, Serbia, Slovakia and Slovenia.

Contact:Boesendorfer Strasse 51010 ViennaAustria www.bestwestern-ce.com

Contact person:Ms. Ivona MeissnerE: [email protected]: 0043 1 5054706

Accor hotelsAccor, the world’s leading hotel operator and market leader in Europe, is present in 92 countries with more than 3,500 hotels (2.000 Meeting Hotels) and 450,000 rooms. Accor is present in the Austrian market since 1977. Ever since, the group has constantly developed its brand portfolio to become today the first international hotel chain in the country.In 2013 there are 32 hotels in Austria - from Low Budget to Luxury - Sofitel, MGallery, Novotel, Suite Novotel, Mercure, Adagio, Ibis, Ibis Styles and Ibis Budget.Esther Maninger, the exhibitor from Accor Austria at Conventa, is the local contact for all international MICE requests.

Contact:Am Europlatz 11120 ViennaAustria www.accorhotels.com

Contact person:Ms. Esther ManingerE: [email protected]: 0043 1 81434605

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courtyard by marriott grazThe Courtyard Graz hotel is located 5 km south of Graz nearby the Schwarzl leisure center. Enjoy free access to Austria’s largest recreation area. The hotel offers 114 rooms, including Deluxe rooms with Seperate beds or Kingsize beds, Superior rooms and Junior Suites. The perfect connection to major highways (A9, A2) with direction to Croatia and Slovenia and 120 parking lots makes the journey very comfortable. Modern conference hotel near Graz with 6 meeting rooms for 250 people & 366 sqm total event space. Flexible meeting rooms feature day-light, modern technology, Wi-Fi, air-condition & darkening blinds. It’s a new stay

Contact:Seering 108141 GrazAustria www.courtyardgraz.com

Contact person:Mr. Oliver BaumgartnerE: [email protected]: 0043 3168077605

convention bureau niederösterreichNIEDERÖSTERREICH The best location for your event. Niederösterreich is the vast domain round Vienna and has an excellent transportation infrastructure. This Austrian region lies in the heart of the new Europe and is a neighbor of the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Hungary. Alongside its cultural treasures, Lower Austria is famed for sublime culinary treats, mouth-watering delicacies and heart-felt hospitality you will find all along the 830km of wine roads, or in some 270 inns that cultivate and preserve regional Dining. The Convention Bureau Niederösterreich is your competent partner for assis-tance with meetings, incentives, conventions!

Contact:Niederösterreich-Ring 2, Haus C3100 St. PöltenAustria www.convention-bureau.at/e

Contact person:Ms. Edith MaderE: [email protected]: 0043 2742 9000 19825

congress schladmingOne of the most modern event centers in Europe, con-gress Schladming was opened at the end of 2011. Equipped with the newest media and stage technology, the building served as Media Center during the FIS Alpine Ski World Championships 2013. congress Schladming stands for modern architecture, eco-friendly building systems, mul-tifunctional use, gastronomic perfection and state-of-the-art technology in the middle of Austria. The combination of “Conferencing in the Mountains” wiht a broad range of rec-reational opportunities, in the most beautiful natural seeting imaginable, provides that desired balance for mind and soul.

Contact:Europaplatz 8008970 SchladmingAustria congress-schladming.at

Contact person:Ms. Lena ReiterE: [email protected]: 0043 3687 22033-113

congress center villach Congress Center Villach (CCV) is Carinthia’s largest and most modern conference and Event centre. Architecturally innovative, it affords state-of-the-art Technology and is per-fectly equipped to host Events for up to 2.000 People. Situated at the very heart of the City on the Banks of the River “Drava”, CCV’s attractive glass facade offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding mountain landscape. With 20 dif-ferent kind of meeting rooms, the CCV is able to organize all your requirements. The CCV is directly connected with the Congress Hotel 4*Superior, with 134 rooms and Suites, a Gourmet Restaurant and a Wellness area.

Contact:Europaplatz 29500 VillachAustria www.congress-villach.at

Contact person:Ms. Kerstin FritzE: [email protected]: 0043 424222522

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“mIcE & more wörthersee” (Austria)LAKE WOERTH REGION (Carinthia / Austria)In addition to MICE, there truly is a lot “more” on offer - namely special offers for bus groups and special interest groups (eg. golf, cycling or walking). Whether it‘s tradition, culture, sport or pleasure – the lake Wörth region offers the ideal framework for group tours. A wide range of high stand-ard accommodation (3* to 5*) as well as an up-to-date local in-frastructure and various charming sights will guarantee you an unforgettable stay. We assist you in finding the perfect lo-cation and provide you with non-binding offers - everything without any additional costs for you.

Contact:Villacher Straße 199220 VeldenAustria www.mice.woerthersee.com

Contact person:Ms. Petra NestelbacherE: [email protected]: 0043 660 2828 164

messe congress grazStarting in 1906, Congress Graz established itself as a key venue for the presentation of prototypes and products, paving the way for the growth of Austria’s largest and most popular public exhibition location. In the 20th century, up to the fall of the Iron Curtain, Congress Graz played a vital role in East-West relations and thanks to its position at the heart of the expanding European Union has continued to act as a springboard for moves into South Eastern Europe. The inau-guration of the Stadthalle Graz in 2002 added a significant amount of exhibition space and an architecturally eye-catch-ing, multi-purpose venue.

Contact:Messeplatz 18010 GrazAustria www.mcg.at

Contact person:Ms. Claudia UllrichE: [email protected]: 0043 316 80 88 245

falkensteiner resort carinzia **** and falkensteiner schlosshotel veldenFalkensteiner Resort Carinzia **** . Our Conference Center offers 6 rooms with space for up to 450 persons. There’s everything you could possibly need for your seminar, work-shop or special event. And it’s in one of the finest spa hotels in Carinthia, right at the foot of the Nassfeld, the ski and ad-venture area in the Alps.Falkensteiner Schlosshotel Velden *****. The luxurious palace hotel located directly on Lake Wörthersee. We offer 104 magnificent stately rooms and suites, an excellent 3 toque-awarded cuisine, a new SPA world with 3600 square meters as well as 4 modern equiped Seminar rooms with space for up to 400 persons.

Contact:Tröpolach 1569631 HermagorAustria www.schlossvelden. falkensteiner.com

Contact person:Ms. Sabrina SlamanigE: [email protected]: 0043 4274 52 000

design center linz / tourism board linz The DESIGN CENTER LINZ is a timeless event location with a unique glass roof. The locations also well known for its mul-tifunctionality: flexible room solutions offer the same ideal conditions for fairs, congresses, incentives, galas, events, Christmas parties and presentations. All these events are presented with top modern technical equipment.Linz changes the slogan of the city expresses what many already know. The former industrial city has changed and is now a successful, brightly illuminated cultural city at the riverbanks of the Danube. http://www.linz.at/tourismus/

Contact:Europaplatz 14020 LinzAustria www.design-center.at

Contact person:Ms. Lisa WinklerE: [email protected]: 0043 732 69 66 110

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sonnenhotel hafnerseeWelcome!Modern, bright and comfortable. That is how you experi-ence our Hotel in the wonderful Mediterranean countryside of Carinthia. The “Sonnenhotel Hafnersee”, directly settled on the beautiful Hafner lake is a suitable partner for demand-ing meetings, seminars, congresses, events, workshops, pres-entations or company celebrations. Also big events are pos-sible on our total meeting area of 600m². We have in total 7 rooms that are variating from 24-290m², and provide space for 240 persons. Good food and drinks from the Carinthian and Austrian area! That is what you can expect from the “Sonnenhotel Hafnersee”

Contact:Plescherken 59074 Keutschach Austria www.sonnenhotels.de

Contact person:Mr. Alen KapidzicE: [email protected]: 0043 (0) 42 73 23 75 500

seepark hotel congress and spaLocated in the exquisitely beautiful lagoon on the shore of the lake Woerthersee, Seepark Hotel - Congress & Spa com-bines business and holiday life in the most fascinating way and offers hotel guests a perfect position between the city of Klagenfurt and the lake. Happy seminar customers are im-portant to us. Yawn. You`ve heard it a thousand times. We`ll rather let the facts speak for us. Our 5 seminar rooms can host up to 200 attendants, further there is a 3000 sqm park outside (we rather regard it as a business playground) and our 142 rooms a perfectly suited for business customers. Welcome in the heart of Carinthia.

Contact:Universitätsstraße 1049020 KlagenfurtAustria www.seeparkhotel.at

Contact person:Ms. Karolin StrugerE: [email protected]: 0043 463 204499 710

salzburg convention bureau & salzburg congressLooking for the perfect destination to go for your next in-centive or conference? Well, you have found it in the heart of Europe. Salzburg is the stage of the world and offers great opportunities for professional events and meetings. The ideal setting between Alps and urban city life - the city and prov-ince of Salzburg.

Contact:Auerspergstrasse 65020 SalzburgAustria www.salzburgcb.com

Contact person:Mr. Gernot MarxE: [email protected]: 0043 662 8898 7273

roomz graz ; budget design hotelroomz graz, Budget Design Hotel - the place to be!experience the most exciting side of Graz, surround-ed by chic design and modern cosmopolites! right at one of the city’s hot spots, the Graz’ city hall & conference centre, and just a few minutes from downtown! regard-less of whether you are visiting the city as a tourist or on business, the roomz graz has everything you need! beside 131 hotel rooms and 2 roof top appartements we offer the relaxing atmosphere of a full-service hotel with confer-ence facilities, à la carte restaurant, bar & reception desk, which are open 24 hours 7 days a week, at budget rates be-ginning at € 59,00!

Contact:Conrad-von-Hötzendorf-Str. 968010 GrazAustria www.roomz-graz.com

Contact person:Ms. Eva HaselsteinerE: [email protected]: 0043 316 902 090

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euromiceuromic is a non-profit association founded in 1973. Today, with forty years of experience, euromic has earned the status of “THE association of the leading Destination Management Companies in Europe and the Mediterranean Basin.” Recognized for its experience and expertise in meetings, in-centives, conventions and high-caliber special-interest pro-grams, euromic stands for quality, security, stability, sophis-tication and the highest standards of professional conduct, as well as success.

Contact:Rue Arthur Diderich 301060 BrusselsBelgium www.euromic.com

Contact person:Mr. Christophe VerstraeteE: [email protected]: 0032 2 538 66 25

werzers hotels am wörthersee The three hotels Werzer’s Hotel Resort Pörtschach, Werzer’s Seehotel Wallerwirt and Werzer’s Hotel Velden stand out for their impeccable service, personal and intimate ambience and a stunning setting.

Contact:Werzerpromenade 89210 Pörtschach am Wörthersee Austria www.werzers.at/

Contact person:Mr. Thomas Stranner E: [email protected]: 0043 4272 2231-107

vI hotels & resortsVI Hotels & Resorts (VI) is one of the largest Austrian hotel groups abroad operating 35 hotels including 6.218 rooms & 233 meeting rooms with over 22,000 m² room for your con-gress, meeting, event or incentive. The hotels are located in nine European countries:• Austria – Salzburg, Loipersdorf & Dornbirn • Czech Republic – Prague, Pilsen & Karlovy Vary • Poland – Cracow, Katowice, Łódź & Miedzyzdroje • Croatia – Opatija & Mali Losinj • France – at Disneyland Paris • Germany – Berlin, Munich, Coburg, Amberg, Wuppertal, Limburg, Günzburg & Neckarsulm • Romania - Bucharest • Slovakia - Bratislava • Russia – Ekaterinburg

Contact:Dresdner Strasse 871200 ViennaAustria www.vi-hotels.com

Contact person:Mr. Michael KralE: [email protected]: 0043 133 3737346

steiermark conventionSTEIERMARK CONVENTION – ADDING A BURST OF COLOUR TO YOUR EVENTS!Steiermark Convention is your competent partner for ques-tions about organising a convention in Styria. Let us and our experienced partners advise and support you! We provide you with assistance in the comprehensive planning and pro-fessional organisation of your event – fast and free of charge. STEIERMARK CONVENTION – OUR PROVIDERS: 54 con-vention providers throughout Styria: 34 conference hotels: city, wellness, sports and castle hotels specialising in conven-tions, 9 convention centres, 6 event locations, 1 convention bureau, 2 event agencies, 2 excursion

Contact:St.-Peter-Hauptstraße 2438042 GrazAustria www.steiermark-convention.com

Contact person:Ms. Andrea SajbenE: christina.eder@steiermark- convention.comT: 0043 (0) 316 4003-0

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brandoctorBrandoctor is the most awarded branding agency in the CEE. We are specialized in the fields of brand strategy, brand naming, visual identity, brand consulting and brand imple-mentation. Brand is 100% emotion. Brands inspire consum-ers. This inspiration creates an emotional bond between the brand and consumer. The foundation for making inspiring brands is knowledge and experience. We believe in brands we are building, those are the brands that we buy ourselves. Without believing in what we are doing, we wouldn’t be pas-sionate about our work.We started the first regional blog on branding.

Contact:Zavrtnica 1710000 ZagrebCroatia www.brandoctor.com

Contact person:Ms. Anja Bauer MinkaraE: [email protected]: 00385 1 6064 039

kempinski hotel Zografski sofiaYour recipe for successful events at the 5-star biggest confer-ence facilities in Sofia!Meet in style at the Kempinski Hotel Zografski and expe-rience a myriad of venues – from purely business arrange-ments for conventions,exhibitions and product launches to glamorous receptions,gala dinners and fashion shows.Unveil a hotel with an amazing infrastructure on 30 000 sqm with 442 rooms and suites,stunning panoramic views over Vitosha mountain and the city center,11 superb conference rooms and a Ballroom for up to 1200 pax,5 restaurants with remarkable international and local cuisine,3 bars,Spa,indoor swimming pool and a unique Japanese garden.

Contact:100 James Bourchier Blvd1407 SofiaBulgaria www.kempinski.com/sofia

Contact person:Ms. Violeta MilushevaE: [email protected]: 00359 2 969 2283

hilton hotel sofiaHilton Sofia Highlights- Located in the heart of Sofia next to South Park, National Congress center, and a Shopping mall - Shuttle service to and from Sofia International Airport - Newest metro station a step away from the hotel - WiFi-enabled meeting rooms and 24-hour connectivity station - 24-hour gym with sauna, steam room and solarium - Only 5-star hotel with inside re-laxing pool - Contemporary award-winning restaurant and cuisine - Open terrace for your summer parties - 7 fully flex-ible meeting rooms (largest one for up to 320 delegates) with natural daylight - Spectacular Atrium, perfect for glamurous events

Contact:1 Bulgaria Blvd.1421 SofiaBulgaria www.sofia.hilton.com

Contact person:Ms. Alexandra YankulovaE: [email protected]: 00359 2 933 5020

hotel radon plaza sarajevo bihRADON PLAZA Hotel is situated along the main city highway leading up to the city center from the direction of south-west. It is only ten minutes away from the Sarajevo airport and about fifteen minutes from downtown Sarajevo. Hotel has 117 rooms: 82 with king size beds, 35 with twin beds, 2 su-perior suites, and 1 presidential suite. Capacity and facilities of Radon Plaza Hotel are adapted not only to the individu-al needs of our guests, but also to hosting meetings such as congresses, To date, we have hosted and organized over 500 business conferences, fairs, presentations, and other events for a variety of local and international companies.

Contact:Dzemala Bijedica 18571000SarajevoBosnia-Herzegovina www.radonplazahotel.ba

Contact person:Mr. Ernad JakupovicE: [email protected]: 00387 33 752 903

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dubrovnik tourist boardDubrovnik Tourist Board & Convention Bureau is your offi-cial partner offering free impartial support to help you plan your meeting, conference or creative incentive program in Dubrovnik. With our fascinating nature and crystal clear Adriatic sea, UNESCO cultural heritage and unique attractions you can be sure your clients will have a memorable experience. Our experienced team of industry professionals and desti-nation experts can help with all aspects of event planning: advice and comprehensive local knowledge about venues, assistance with site inspections, supporting information for bids, visitor information, updates on new developments.

Contact:Brsalje 5 20000 DubrovnikCroatia www.tzdubrovnik.hr

Contact person:Ms. Romana VlasicE: [email protected]: 00385 20312015

dt croatia - dubrovnik travel dmcDT Croatia proudly celebrating 15 years of successful op-erations! DT CROATIA-Dubrovnik Travel DMC, Croatia’s leading Destination Management Company & PCO, is a pri-vately owned company that specializes in the organization & execution of meetings, incentives, exclusive groups and events. DT also provides customized private shore excur-sions in all ports on this sunny side of the Adriatic Sea. Our in-depth knowledge of the region, leading position in the in-dustry, and creativity ensure our our clients will enjoy a cus-tomized and successful program. DT Croatia Offices: Zagreb (Istria),Split ( Hvar, Zadar), Dubrovnik

Contact:Obala Stjepana Radica 2520000 DubrovnikCroatia www.dt-croatia.com

Contact person:Mr. Alan RacicE: [email protected]: 00385 20313555

croatian national tourist board / convention bureauTHE CROATIAN NATIONAL TOURIST BOARD (CNTB) is a national tourist organization founded with a view to promoting and creating the identity, and to enhance the rep-utation of, Croatian tourism. The mission also includes the planning and implementation of a common strategy and the conception of its promotion, proposal and the performance of promotional activities of mutual interest for all subjects in tourism in the country and abroad, as well as raising the overall quality of the whole range of tourist services on offer in the Republic of Croatia.

Contact:Office in Ljubljana: Gosposvetska 21000 LjubljanaCroatia www.croatia.hr/en-GB

Contact person:Mr. Goran BlažićE: [email protected]: 00386 12307400

bruketa&Žinić omBruketa&Žinić OM is a group of marketing communica-tions agencies consisting with offices in Zagreb (Croatia), Vienna (Austria), Belgrade (Serbia) and Baku (Azerbaijan). It is the Best International Small Agency (Advertising Age, Portland 2013), the Second Most Efficient Independent Agency Globally (Effie Index, Cannes, 2012) and one of the most award-winning advertising agencies in Southeastern Europe, with over 400 international awards for creativity and efficiency.

Contact:Zavrtnica 1710000 ZagrebCroatia www.bruketa-zinic.com

Contact person:Ms. Ivanka Mabić GagićE: [email protected]: 00385 1 6064 000

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hup-Zagreb d.d. (Starwood hotels in Zagreb)HUP-ZAGREB Inc. hotel management, catering and tourism is the biggest hotel company in Zagreb and one of the most significant companies in Croatia. HUP-ZAGREB Inc. fea-tures more than 1,200 luxury rooms and suites to offer to the visitors of Croatian capital city. HUP- Zagreb Inc is the owner of the following hotels in Zagreb:The Westin Zagreb 5*, Sheraton Zagreb 5*, International 4*, Panorama 4*, Jadran 3*, Zagreb 2*For 16 years now, HUP-ZAGREB Inc. has been successfully working with Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide.

Contact:Trg Krešimira Ćosića 9 10000 ZagrebCroatia www.hupzagreb.com

Contact person:Mr. Leon BegićE: Tihana.Bazdar.Gasljevic@hupzagreb.hrT: 00385 4892022

hotel katarinaHotel Katarina is a modern decorated and highly equipped hotel with 101 accommodation units and 243 beds, 4 star hotel category hotel, located in Dugopolje close to the exit of the highway Zagreb - Split. Accommodation at Hotel Katarina offers luxury and comfort, which represents an ideal com-bination for business guests and those seeking for rest and relaxation. Our elegant and multifunctional halls are ideal for your conferences, meetings and various events.On the 1st floor of the hotel there is a conference hall where we can or-ganize conferences, seminars, presentations, small and large meetings, exhibitions,fashion shows and similar events

Contact:Matice hrvatske 421204 Dugopolje, SplitCroatia www.hotelkatarina.hr

Contact person:Ms. Matilda KežićE: [email protected]: 00385 21 712 333

hotel AristosHotel Aristos is a 4* hotel with modern conference banquet center: separate entrance, congress reception, multifunction-al halls equipped with the latest technical audio and video fittings, capacity up to 300 persons in Grand hall and secured free parking ( 200 lots ) and WLAN. Hotel Aristos is situat-ed a few minutes distance from Zagreb Airport ( 6 km ) and from City Center ( 8 km ). At guest disposal are 150 luxurious and spacious rooms, Lobby bar, restaurant Tiara, Lounge Bar Momento, Summer terrace, Wellness & spa Aristos center, Exchange office, Hair dresser, e- business center. All in one place - practical, functional,professional

Contact:Cebini 3310000 ZagrebCroatia www.hotel-aristos.hr

Contact person:Ms. Nikolina ŠtorgaE: [email protected]: 00385 1 6695 900

falkensteiner hotels & residencesFalkensteiner Hotels & Residences is a family-run hotel group from South Tyrol with 30 hotels located in Austria, Italy, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Croatia, and Serbia. In Croatia there are 4 hotels and 2 residences operated under the Falkensteiner Hotels & Residence brand: Hotel Adriana**** and Club Funimation Borik**** in Zadar, Hotel & Spa Iadera*****, Family Hotel Diadora****s, Residences Senia in Punta Skala and Apartments Petrčane in Petrčane. In Serbia there is city hotel Falkensteiner Belgrade****s with 700 sqm conference rooms and family mountain resort Hotel Stara Planina****.

Contact:Zrinsko-Frankopanska 3823000 ZadarCroatia www.falkensteiner.com

Contact person:Ms. Jadranka GojtanicE: [email protected]: 0038 516187546

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le meridien lav splitDiscover Split With New EyesLe Meridien’s unique beach front location invites guests to immerse themselves in the inspirational panoramic views of the Adriatic sea. Le Meridien Lav is a five star hotel in Split that features 365 modern rooms and 17 seaview suite, amongst the largest on Split hotels. Our Conference Centre boasts 2500m² of modern meeting space, hosting 850 guests in natural daylight, with panoramic sea views and latest tech-nology. A Coastal journey awaits youEmbark on a journey of coastal discovery, easily explore the imposing Dalmatian coast, admire scenic towns of Trogir, Omis, Solin and Makarska.

Contact:Grljevacka 2a21312 SplitCroatia www.lemeridienlavsplit.com

Contact person:Mr. Ozren KovačevićE: [email protected]: 00385 21 500 620

lafodia sea resort****Hotel Lafodia Sea Resort**** is situated on the island of Lopud which position is only nine nautical miles northwest from Dubrovnik. You can reach hotel with regular ferry or using our transfers. The hotel has 152 rooms and 30 suites all with sea viwes and balconies. The bussiness centre pro-vides 1 multifunctional meeting room which can be divided in two breakout rooms capacity up to 150 people + board-room capacity of 20. Each meeting room has natural light and direct access to outside terrace where welcome drink or coffiee break can be organised. Standard equipment includes overhead projector, flipcharts, screen, notepad+pens, hospi-tality de

Contact:Obala Ivana Kuljevana 5120222 LopudCroatia www.lafodiahotel.com

Contact person:Ms. Ana KovacevicE: [email protected]: 00385 (0) 20 450 312

Istraturist - partner of meliá hotels InternationalIstraturist is a Croatian company 50 years tradition in render-ing tourist services.All Istraturist’s properties are located on the north-western coast of the Istrian peninsula.Istraturist has invested significantly over the last few years in the infra-structure and the company offer for guests that are looking for group and other business services.The ever-develop-ing M.I.C.E.programe is second to none in Croatia.You can choose from 3 -four- and five-star hotels that tailor to busi-ness and other group guests.Our hotels feature a meeting center with top business amenities, all accompanied by Meliá Hotels International outstanding service offer.

Contact:Jadranska 66 52470 UmagCroatia www.istraturist.com

Contact person:Ms. Nataša KovačevićE: [email protected]: 00385 52 719104

Ilirija travelIlirija travel is a part of Ilirija d.d., a company which covers all three segments of the tourism offer: hotel industry, nautics, camping, DMC&PCO and provides all necessary support. Ilirija Travel provides tailor made programs, conference & meetings planning, incentive organization, reveals stunning Zadar Region, its history, culture, cuisine, nature and adven-ture and much more. We are presenting M/Y NADA, a multi-functional event ship with seating capacity 180 and complete conference audio and visual equipment, a restaurant, kitchen and bars providing excellent service intended for gala recep-tions, banquettes, weddings, incentives,..

Contact:T. Ujevića 723210 Biograd na MoruCroatia www.ilirijabiograd.com

Contact person:Ms. Margita VrankuljE: [email protected]: 00385 23 383556

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radisson blu resort & spa, dubrovnik sun gardensRadisson Blu Resort & Spa at Dubrovnik Sun Gardens pre-sents the perfect conference venue featuring a variety of resort amenities located in a Mediterranean setting on the Adriatic coastline, only 15 minutes from the Old Town of Dubrovnik.The resort offers a 201 hotel room and 207 luxurious resi-dences, stylish multifunctional ballroom and 7 additional conference rooms that can host a variety of events, from small boardroom meetings to conferences of up to 900 participants. Resort facilities include an award winning spa, a comprehen-sive sports and recreation centre, 3 outdoor pools, beach and 16 F&B outlets.

Contact:Na Moru 120234 OrasacCroatia www.radissonblu.com/ resort-dubrovnik

Contact person:Ms. Vesna Jurica MarketE: [email protected]: 00385 99 2343834

plava laguna d.d.Plava laguna - Laguna Poreč is one of the largest hotel com-panies in Croatia. It has 13 hotels, 4 apartment villages and 4 campsites, having the total accommodation capacity for 22.000 guests.Our hotels have conference halls and meeting rooms which can accomodate 10 to 600 people.A combination of the pleasant and the useful - this might just be the essence of our message and the goal of our offer for the organization of congresses, seminars, work meetings, sym-posiums, presentations, sports events, gala dinners, folklore evenings, weddings and animation in Laguna Poreč facilities.

Contact:Rade Koncara 1252440 PORECCroatia www.lagunaporec.com

Contact person:Ms. Iva Baldas PuckoE: [email protected]: 00385 52 410222

opatija convention & Incentive bureauThe Opatija Convention & Incentive Bureau is a non-prof-it organisation aimed at promoting Opatija as a renowned Croatian convention and incentive destination. The Bureau provides independent information free of charge about the possibilities of organising conventions and incentive events in Opatija and its surroundings. Its main services include:• venue finding • hosting familiarisation trips and site in-spections • suggesting social programmes, pre- and post-con-vention tours • providing promotional material • assisting in PCO election • bid assistance

Contact:V. Nazora 351410 OpatijaCroatia www.opatija-convention.com

Contact person:Mr. Goran PavlovicE: [email protected]: 00385 51 271710

maistra d.d.Crucial step for the Maistra MICE development took place in 2011. with the opening of hotel Lone which represents the basis of Maistra’s congress offer and the first Croatian hotel included in the international collection of the world-re-nowned brand Design Hotels AG. International Hotel Awards has pronounced this hotel in Rovinj the best five-star con-gress hotel in Europe in 2012. Together with the 5-star hotel Monte Mulini, 4-star hotels Eden and Istra and 3-star hotel Park it forms the Cap Aureo conference center which is the flagship of Maistra’s MICE offerings and the best equipped regional conference center.

Contact:Obala V.Nazora 6 52210 RovinjCroatia www.maistra.hr

Contact person:Ms. Jasmina ArićE: [email protected]: 00385 52 800 250

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carlson rezidorThe Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group is one of the world’s largest and most dynamic hotel companies. It has a fantastic port-folio of 1,319 hotels in operation and under development, a global footprint covering 81 countries and territories and a powerful set of global brands: Radisson Blu, Radisson, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inns & Suites By Carlson and Hotel Missoni.In South Eastern Europe, Carlson Rezidor is represented by 14 hotels in Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Romania and Bulgaria.

Contact:Kolinska 413000 PragueCzech Republic www.carlsonrezidor.com

Contact person:Ms. Luiza PaduraruE: [email protected]: 0042 0730580998

Zagreb convention bureauZagreb Convention Bureau is a non profit organization focused on promotion of Zagreb as an ideal destination for meetings and incentives. Our members are major subjects of Zagreb meetings industry: hotels, PCOs, DMCs, authentic historical and unusual venues, incentive facilities.. We aim at improvement of Zagreb meetings industry which results in growing number of international meetings and events taking place in Zagreb. Our services are free and include: • venue finding service, • preparation of bid documents, • hosting of fam trips, site inspections, • suggestions for PCO/DMC, • suggestions for social programs, • promotional material

Contact:Kaptol 510000 ZagrebCroatia www.zagreb-convention.hr

Contact person:Mr. Zlatan MufticE: [email protected]: 00385 1 48 98 555

sunčani hvar hoteliA sunsational mix of business and pleasureSunčani Hvar Hotels offers countless possibilities for a wide range of business conferences, professional gatherings and special events. Our first class-service, professional staff and highly skilled IT team will inspire the confidence and enthusiasm of your colleagues. Moreover, our outstanding amenities and the island’s pristine natural beauty will create a delightful and dynamic mixture of business and pleasure Most of our hotels and restaurants offer adaptable spaces for professional meetings and special events. Specifications on these spaces can be found on the individual hotel fact sheets o

Contact:Dolac 1 21450 HvarCroatia www.suncanihvar.com

Contact person:Mr. Damir PuljicE: [email protected]: 00385 21 750000

solaris beach resortSolaris Beach Resort is a reputable congress destination, ideal for the organization of different incentives, congress-es, conferences, events or teambuildings, situated in central Dalmatia. It is only 6 km away from the historical city of Šibenik and cca 70 km from the both airports Zadar and Split.Total capacity of the Solaris Congress center is 2000 places. It includes 13 multipurpose halls on the surface of 2000 m2. The biggest hall is the amphitheater with total capacity for 500 participants.Among the 5 hotels in Solaris, we would like to highlight our premium, luxury hotel Ivan****+.

Contact:Hoteli Solaris 8622000 ŠibenikCroatia www.solaris.hr

Contact person:Ms. Ivana Ivković NanjaraE: [email protected]: 00385 22 361 004

hungexpo - budapestHungexpo Budapest, member of the French-owned GL Events Group and Hungary’s leading exhibition man-agement company, offers you an ideal venue for all types of events for even 15.000 participants. Located in the heart of Budapest and from 20-minutes drive from the internation-al airport, the establishment covers 36 hectares with land-scaped gardens and 8 pavilions which provide the ideal venue for hosting any type of events all the year round. The &ld-quo;G” Pavilion with its available column-free indoor space can be divided into two sections with movable walls, making it perfectly suitable for simultaneous events.

Contact:Albertirsai út 101101 BudapestHungary www.hungexpo.hu

Contact person:Mr. Márton IpacsE: [email protected]: 0036 1 263 6520

hungarian tourism plc.Hungary is becoming a firm favourite in the meetings in-dustry, a vibrant destination with warm and friendly people, varied and distinct cuisine choices among beautiful buildings and streets. Conveniently located in the very heart of Europe, Hungary is easy to access from any part of the world; it is less than 2-hours away by plane from all European capitals. It offers a plethora of attractions. All major hotel brands can be found in Budapest and beyond to cater for conferences and incentive trips, and there is a host of PCO-s and DMC-s spe-cializing in organising spotless meetings and unforgettable entertainment.

Contact:Bartók Béla út 105-113.1115 BudapestHungary www.hcb.hu

Contact person:Ms. Júlia CsesznokE: [email protected]: 0036 1 488 8644

magency digitalWith an office in Paris and New York, Magency Digital is one of the biggest experts in digital platform development. With 2,000 iPads, we offer an all-in-one solution to innovate and guarantee the success of your event. Our white-label appli-cation enables to promote your company and increase inter-activity in a brand new way. • Boost your participants’ en-gagement with the Live Voting, the Question Wall, the Quiz.• Facilitate Networking and encourage team spirit with the Who’s Who, the Business Card, the Treasure Hunt, the Photo Story and many more. In 2 years, we have managed 400 digital events going from 5 to 6,000 participants.

Contact:34 rue des bourdonnais75001 ParisFrance www.magencydigital.com

Contact person:Ms. Jenny MirallesE: [email protected]: 0033 983240342

prague convention bureauPrague Convention Bureau is the official convention bureau of Prague and is a non-profit organization working alongside the Czech Tourist Authorities to offer you a one-stop-shop service for organizing a conference, meeting, seminar, exhib-iton or incentive event in Prague. Our mission is to promote Prague as one of Europe’s leading congress destinations.

Contact:Rytí€ská 2611000 PragueCzech Republic www.pragueconvention.cz

Contact person:Ms. Dagmar BrožováE: dagmar.brozova@

pragueconvention.czT: 0042 0224284269

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Agenzia turismo fvgWhen you arrive in Friuli Venezia Giulia, you arrive in the heart of Europe. Thanks to its strategic position, in the centre of the Old Continent, every event can become a unique occa-sion and guaranteed success.The region is served by Trieste airport that is located just one a hour from the international hubs of Venice and Ljubjana: is an ideal destination to host congresses, meetings and in-centives thanks to the excellent structures throughout its territory. The beauty and infinite number of attractions of our region are always able to create new opportunities for enjoyment, relaxation or fun between one commitment to another.

Contact:Via Carso, 333052 Cervignano del FriuliItaly www.turismofvg.it

Contact person:Ms. Brenda Lee FabbroE: [email protected]: 0039 0431 387122

spirit hotel thermal spa sárvár*****superiorThe Spirit Hotel *****superior lies on the shores to the seven lakes of Bad Sárvár as well as to beautiful forests and meadows. The centre of the traditional spa town is within an only 15-minute-walk from the hotel. Bad Sárvár is one of the few “Royal Spas of Europe”.One of the unique spa hotels in Europe, offering 271 in boutique style furnished hotel rooms and suites, fit to the demands of international five star guests. The modern conference and event centre with garden and pool view, fit up to 500 visitors, are perfect venue for any event, and can be divided into 5 section rooms.

Contact:Vadkert krt. 5.9600 SárvárHungary www.spirithotel.hu

Contact person:Ms. Barbara BollaE: [email protected]: 0036 20 234 6979

sárvár tourist & tdm nonprofit ltd.Sárvár - A crystal-clear experienceSárvár’s main attraction is its thermal waters.Its Spa and Wellness Centre meets the European standards thanks to the continuous improvements and to the family friendly services. That’s why Sárvár is a popular destina-tion. The Nádasdy Castle and the Nádasdy Museum, a his-torical place awaits the tourist with its rich programmes. The Botanic Garden is part of the health-resort; the park around the castle and the Boating Lake with its green belt invite people for a romantic walk.

Contact:Várkerület 33/C.9600 SárvárHungary www.sarvar.hu

Contact person:Mr. Ferenc HallerE: [email protected]: 0036 95 520 178

park Inn by radisson sárvár resort & spaIdeally located four-star hotel in SárvárSituated in the centre of this picturesque town in the re-nowned spa region of West Hungary, this hotel in Sárvár is directly connected to the state-of-the-art Health Spa and Wellness Centre Sárvár, boasting a uniquely designed bathing landscape and water park. Guests at this hotel in Sárvár can also indulge in a variety of fitness and beauty treatments, including traditional and Far Eastern massag-es and therapeutic treatments. Unwind in one of the 223 well-equipped rooms and enjoy a scrumptious lunch or dinner at La Caraffa and cocktails at Graffiti Bar & Lounge.

Contact:Vadkert u. 4. 9600 SárvárHungary www.parkinn.com/hotel- sarvar

Contact person:Ms. Eszter HorváthE: [email protected]: 0036 95530106

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normal tours, hotel podgoricaNestled on the bank of the river Moraca, the hotel has a unique location. It is situated in the central part of the town, and at the same time it is in the quiet recreational zone. The hotel is a four star hotel and presents an ideal space for meet-ings, conferences and other gatherings. It disposes with 2 well equipped conference rooms, 44 guest rooms and apart-ments. Their common characteristics are abundance of light, space, natural colors and materials, and a wonderful river view. The hotel’s restaurant has a beautiful terrace facing the river, and features special union of classic cuisine and inter-national specialties.

Contact:Svetlane Kane Radevic81000 PodgoricaMontenegro www.hotelpodgorica.co.me

Contact person:Ms. Nevenka DrobnjakE: [email protected]: 00382 20 402 510

montenegrostars hotels groupThe Montenegro Stars Hotel Group, founded in 2003, is a hotel management company that owns and operates three hotels in Montenegro, on the Budva Riviera. Our properties include:• Splendid Conference and SPA Resort 5* - the most well-known hotel on the Budva Riviera and within 600 km around • Montenegro Beach Resort 4* - a comfortable hotel in Bečići, famous for being a great place for family vacations • Blue Star Hotel 4* - a modern hotel in Budva city center, designed for short-stay travelers and businessmen • Splendid SPA – one of the East Adriatic’s luxurious wellness hot spots • Splendid Casino Royale – a state-of-the-art gambli.

Contact:Becici BB85310 BudvaMontenegro www.montenegrostars.com/ index.php/en/

Contact person:Ms. Spasenija PuricE: [email protected]: 00382 33 773444

montenegro convention bureauMontenegro is the right choice for organizing business meet-ings, large conferences and incentive trips.The advantages are many: in addition to luxury hotels with great accommodation capacities and theaters equipped with the latest technology, Montenegro offers the Mediterranean climate, outstanding natural, cultural and historical attrac-tions, unforgettable excursions, excellent relaxation and leisure activities, as well as a rich and authentic cuisine.Peaceful and romantic old cities, the invigorating smell of the sea, together with the dedication and hospitality of the hosts, will make all participants remember the event with joy.

Contact:Bul. Sv. Petra Cetinjskog 13081000 PodgoricaMontenegro www.mice.montenegro.travel

Contact person:Ms. Danica CeranićE: [email protected]: 00382 77 100 003

Eastwest voyageEASTWEST VOYAGE is Montenegrin independent travel agency, DMC with extensive experience in providing superior travel service to all our clients and business partners. As a full service destination management company, we provide expert advices & personalized travel planning, design of tailor made programs, conference & meetings planning & incentive or-ganization. Founded in 2011, EASTWEST VOYAGE is an in-coming & outgoing tour operator. Our staff provides services for FIT & GROUP basic to culture program, arrangement for business & incentive program, sightseeing tours, guiding services….

Contact:Pilota Cvetkovica i Milojevica 148000 PodgoricaMontenegro www.eastwestvoyage.com

Contact person:Ms. Zorka RaicevicE: [email protected]: 00 382 (0) 20 657 448 / 657 446

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Qatar AirwaysQatar Airways, one of the world’s 5-star and fastest growing airlines, member of the oneworld alliance, has rapidly ex-panded into the MICE business. Promoting the exciting cor-porate business tourism year round, the airline is capitalizing on the burgeoning hospitality business in the State of Qatar, encouraging meeting event organizers and MICE companies to extend their business opportunities to Qatar and any des-tination within the airline’s rapidly growing network. Being a leading player in global aviation, Qatar Airways currently operates a young fleet of over 125 aircrafts to more than 125 key destinations around the world.

Contact:P.O.Box 2255022550 DohaQatar www.qatarairways.com

Contact person:Mr. Alen MlekuzE: [email protected]: 0097 433685340

International congress and convention Association (IccA)ICCA (the International Congress and Convention Associ-ation) is the global community for the meetings industry. Our objective is to enable ICCA members to generate and main-tain significant competitive advantage in the international association meetings market. ICCA represents the main specialists in organising, trans-porting and accommodating international meetings and events, and comprises almost 1,000 member companies and organisations in over 90 countries worldwide.

Contact:Toren A, De Entree 571101 BH AmsterdamThe Netherlands www.iccaworld.com

Contact person:Mrs Amanda MarochkoE: [email protected]: 0031 654995006

talas-m dmc For more than a decade, Talas-M has been one of the leading event specialists in Montenegro.Thanks to our excellent reputation, we have been entrusted with some of the most prestigious events ever organized in our country. Some of our clients have been well known names as Volkswagen, Airbus, Henkel, Coca Cola, L’Oreal, Chanel, Toyota, Renault, IBM and many more. Our team of multi lingual event planners, who are immensely in love with their country, will show you Montenegro different way than the others do, because we know places that hide real surprises.

Contact:Zrtava fasizma 2685310 BudvaMontenegro www.talas-montenegro.com

Contact person:Ms. Dijana KustudicE: [email protected]: 00382 33 403 860

talas-m dmcFor more than a decade, Talas-M has been one of the leading event specialists in Montenegro. Our team of multi lingual event planners, who are immensely in love with their country, will show you Montenegro different way than the others do, because we know places that hide real surpris-es. Our expertise in organising unique incentives , exclu-sive events, memorable meetings, creative congresses and special interest tours throughout this country of the wild beauty, combined with unbeatable supplier relationship, means we are the one to make it happen in Montenegro. Let us be the planner for your next meeting or event!

Contact:Žrtava fašizma 2685310 BudvaMontenegro www.talas-montenegro.com

Contact person:Mr. Aleksandar JovanovicE: [email protected]: 00382 33 403 860

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dmc vekol dooDMC Vekol is the leading destination management and special event service provider in the Serbia.We’re offering new team building ideas and the best of the event planning and management resources all under one roof, giving us the ability to develop and produce flawless, cost ef-fective meetings and events every time as well as conference services in Serbia.Whether you need a special event, incentive, conference, let our expert team of professionals plan the perfect program for your organization. For our clients we are always providing UNIQUE experience on destination.

Contact:Vuka Karadzica 6/IV11000 BelgradeSerbia www.vekoldmc.com

Contact person:Mr. Dejan BogdanovE: [email protected]: 00381 11 3282 689

best western hotel m belgradeBest Western Hotel M is four star business hotel with su-perior quality service for any kind of stay, from leisure to special events and congresses.Hotel is located next to the Banjica park, 20 km from the Airport Nikola Tesla and just 4 km away from the city center and Sava Congress Centre. Hotel offers luxury accommodation in 172 rooms and 8 suites. Additional services for guests are complimentary: e-business center, Wi-Fi internet and hotel parking. Beside the comfort of the accommodation, hotel has 8 modern Conference rooms capacity for 20-500 participants - total capacity 1100 seats.

Contact:Bulevar oslobođenja 56 a11000 BelgradeSerbia www.hotel-m.com

Contact person:Ms. Tatjana KovacevicE: [email protected]: 00381 11 30 90 505

belgrade convention bureauWelcome to Belgrade and get ready for a surprise.Belgrade is a hip dynamic city that is now booming with new business and urban development projects. Belgrade offers remarkable convenience for hosting major events and con-ferences. The Sava Centar’s 3,670 plenary seats and a wide range of hotel and venue choices are only 15 minutes from the Airport. Belgrade is one of the best value for money and least expensive destinations in all of Europe. The Belgrade Convention Bureau is ready to assist you in planning your next event; from selecting the appropriate venue to helping you choose the best service providers.

Contact:Masarikova 5/911000 BelgradeSerbia www.vtravel-belgrade.com

Contact person:Ms. Dragana BabovicE: [email protected]: 00381 3061400

Athenee palace hilton bucharestA lovingly restored belle époque, up-town property, situat-ed within easy reach of government offices, embassies, and banks. Main city attractions are all around, while the airport is 20 minutes away. Built in 1914 and situated within the heart of the city this Bucharest hotel provides spectacular views of Revolution Square.All 272 spacious bedrooms, including 60 luxurious suites, overlook the city or the hotel courtyard and offer Wi-Fi. 13 meeting rooms (2-400 guests), including two ballrooms. The Le Diplomate Ballroom is a national heritage monument and a spectacular setting for internationa

Contact:1-3 Episcopiei str10292 BucharestRomania www.bucharest.hilton.com

Contact person:Mr. Konstantin YonchevE: [email protected]: 0040 21 3033777

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Austria trend hotel ljubljanaOur hotel awaits you with all the amenities you would except from a modern high-end hotel: an inspiring atmosphere, ex-clusive comfort, state-of-the-art facilities, stunning design, elegant details, professional service, international flair and the most spacious hotel rooms in Ljubljana (measuring from 30 m² minimum to 160 m²)! And let us not forget about the spacious wellness area and our highly professional conference service. The main attractions and the Ljubljana city centre can easily be reached by public transport.

Contact:Dunajska 1541000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.austria-trend.at/Hotel- Ljubljana

Contact person:Ms. Sanja TesanovicE: [email protected]: 00386 (0)1 588 25 13

Adria Airways d.d.Adria Airways boasts more than fifty years of experience in charter and scheduled services. We connect Slovenia to nu-merous European cities, and we offer excellent connections to Southeast Europe. As a Star Alliance member, we provide access to a global network of flights to 193 countries.We have 170 scheduled flights from Ljubljana a week, while most of our charter flights connect Slovenia to holiday desti-nations in the Mediterranean. Our fleet includes one Airbus A320, two Airbus A319 planes, four Bombardier CRJ900 air-craft and four Bombardier CRJ200 planes.

Contact:Zgornji Brnik 130h4210 BrnikSlovenia www.adria.si/en/

Contact person:Mr. Tomaž TolarE: [email protected]: 00386 42594543

subotica / lake palic destinationJust between Budapest & Belgrade, Subotica/Lake Palic offers you charming atmosphere of buildings in the art nouveau style and pristine nature of largest and most beauti-ful lake in Vojvodina. Originally a spa in the mid 19thcentury, destination became a popular health & vacation resort for the affluent citizens of the region.Cute and convenient with all hotels and venues located very close to each other, multiethnic city of Subotica is teeming with culture and offers a plethora of activities for visitors like sailing, carriage/horseback riding and ‘sand wines‘ tasting. Perfect value for the money. Please visit www.meetinsubotica.rs.

Contact:Trg slobode 124000 SuboticaSerbia www.meetinsubotica.rs

Contact person:Ms. Branka BanjaninE: [email protected]: 00381 24 670 350

serbia convention bureauLet us introduce Serbia, major economic hub in SE Europe - in Top50 World MICE destinations:• Excellent flight connections; • Main conference facilities and fairs; • Diversity of new hotels to choose from; • Variety of restaurants and special venues; • Great value for money; • History of successful events.Spectacular incentive & team building programs:• Belgrade - the New Capital of Cool! • Danube - The Iron Gate spectacular river gorge; • Numerous UNESCO archae-ological sites, medieval fortresses & monasteries; • Luxurious train rides, raspberry spa treatment; • Serbian gastronomy, wine tasting & growing organic produce;

Contact:Cika Ljubina 811000 BelgradeSerbia www.scb.travel

Contact person:Mr. Milos MilovanovicE: [email protected]: 00381 116557101

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bled tourist board & convention bureauBled is one of Slovenia’s premier meeting destinations, whose allure lies in its magical lake, island and castle. The destina-tion caters for meetings of up to 500 participants, who can be accommodated in the Bled Convention Centre. The meeting offer is complemented by first-rate hotels with conference fa-cilities, while accommodation options range from the simple to the sophisticated. Bled has been playing host to corporate, association and governmental meetings, as well as frequent top-end sports events for decades. The destination also offers ample opportunities for enhancing a meeting with a recep-tion, gala dinner or teambuilding programme.

Contact:Cesta svobode 114260 BledSlovenia www.bled.si/en/meetings

Contact person:Ms. Petra ČukE: [email protected]: 00386 45780500

bled congress center, bled castleCongress organization in Bled prides itself on tradition, ex-pertise and experience; making Bled a top-rated host. Bled congress centre, situated on the lake shore and within easy walking distance of all major hotels, the centre seating 512 is ideally located for all types of top-level corporate and enter-tainment events. It offers 3 smaller halls for work in sections and a large exhibition hall. Bled can accommodate 2,500 people in its hotels and guest houses and offers a wide choice of rooms and apartments in private houses. Bled hotels are of high standard, with comfortable and tastefully decorated rooms.

Contact:Cesta svobode 114260 Bled, Slovenia www.kongresni-center- bled.si/en

Contact person:Ms. Špela RepnikE: [email protected]: 00386 4 57 29 770

bernardin groupBernardin Group, Resorts & Hotels brings together a compre-hensive selection of offerings for quality free time or confer-ence-related activities on the Slovenian coast.With prestigious locations in Portorož, Izola, Strunjan and Piran, we offer hotels and apartments, wellness centres with a top selection of services for natural health and well-being, conference centres and casinos.

Contact:OBALA 26320 PortorožSlovenia www.bernardingroup.si

Contact person:Mr. Urban BenčičE: [email protected]: 38656907303

bernardin group The Bernardin Group provides a complete range of tourist services in 4 different resorts comprising 3- to 5-star hotels on the Slovenian Mediterranean coast: Bernardin Resort and Metropol Resort in Portorož, Salinera Resort in Strunjan and San Simon Resrot in Izola - Isola. The flagship of our group is the St. Bernardin Adriatic Resort & Convention Centre which, with its 1,100-seats auditori-um, is the largest convention hotel in Slovenia. Due to its 19 conference rooms of a different size and superb location, overlooking the Adratic Sea, it is most suitable for scientific congresses, corporate events and dynamic incentives alike.

Contact:Obala 2 6320Portorož PortoroseSlovenia www.bernardingroup.si/en

Contact person:Mr. Gregor GorencE: [email protected]: 00386 5 690 71 08

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go.mIcEGO.MICE is a Professional Congress Organizer, active in the region of South-East Europe. Its team of event managers con-tributes creative ideas on how to enrich the contents of each event and to generate even greater return on investment. When planning the event Go.Mice takes into consideration client’s goals, demands and resources. Go.Mice can take over the organization of the complete event from the bidding, start-up strategy to the on-site execution. Special attention is being paid to sustainable management of events. Go.Mice is proud to have developed the concept of Conventa trade show and has been designated as technical organiser.

Contact:Stihova 41000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.go-mice.eu

Contact person:Ms. Natalija Bah CadE: [email protected]: 00386 1 4305103

city hotel ljubljana, krajc hoteli d.o.o.The City Hotel, located in the very heart of Ljubljana, is an excellent choice for business and leisure visitors alike, as it provides an ideal base for efficient meetings or exciting dis-covery tours. At less than five minutes walking, one reaches the vibrant city centre and romantic Old Town. The prop-erty has 201 rooms, three luxury suites, an underground garage, a restaurant, which is popular with its daily lunches, and a flexible conference centre with four meeting rooms. If united, they can welcome a maximum of 200 delegates thea-tre-style, while a single space can hold up to 50 seats.

Contact:Dalmatinova 151000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.cityhotel.si

Contact person:Ms. Tadeja MarinkovićE: [email protected]: 00386 1 239 01 41

cankarjev dom, cd congress centre ljubljanaCD Congress Centre is located in the centre of Ljubljana, at a walking distance from several hotels and the attractive Old Town. With 22 multi-purpose halls and function rooms and a maximum capacity of 2,000 delegates in the plenary hall, it is the largest purpose-built congress centre in Slovenia in terms of auditorium-style seating and among our most es-tablished venues on the international conference market. The venue, which has a total surface area of 36,000 m2 and is able to welcome up to 5,000 visitors simultaneously, also provides extensive space for commercial or art exhibitions. It is a member of ICCA and IAPCO.

Contact:Prešernova 101000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.cd-cc.si/en/congresses

Contact person:Ms. Maja VidergarE: [email protected]: 00386 1 2417 128

bohinj park Eco hotelNestled in the heart of Alps you will find Slovenia’s premier new 5star alpine ECO retreat with 102 rooms, 7 conference rooms, cinema, bowling, exclusive wellness and aquapark. The hotel was built in 2009 with highest awareness of the environment and is as such, at the moment, one of the most advanced and energy efficient hotels in CEE. In 2010 it has also been certified by Green Globe sustainability organisa-tion. Our efforts target all areas of sustainability: energy-wa-ter-waste consumption and re-use, working with locals, pro-moting local culture, heritage, landscape. Welcome to the green and active destination, only 45 min from the airport.

Contact:Triglavska cesta 174264 Bohinjska BistricaSlovenia www.2864.si

Contact person:Ms. Nataša AndlovecE: [email protected]: 00386 8 200 4000

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hIt d.d. nova goricaThe Hit Group is the largest multinational tourism corpo-rate in Slovenia devoted to the tourism development inside its primary sector of “gaming and entertainment”. The group has been operating in this sector for over 29 years and its tourist offer contains gaming and entertainment centres, casinos, resorts, hotels and restaurants strategically located in renowned tourist locations in Slovenia and abroad.Nova Gorica, SloveniaEntertainment destination, headquarters of the Hit Company, 2 gaming and entertainment centres, 1 gaming hall, Spa Perla Centre, Hit Sport Centre, Hit Conference Centre, 4 hotels, restaurants and bars.

Contact:Delpinova 7a5000 Nova GoricaSlovenia www.hit.si

Contact person:Ms. Hana ŠkobaljE: [email protected]: 00386 5 3364282

gr - ljubljana Exhibition and convention centreGR – Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre is the leading events centre in Slovenia comprising 20 multifunc-tional halls that occupy a surface area of 12,323 square metres, which are complemented by 8,844 square metres of exter-nal exhibition space. The function rooms, providing a high degree of versatility, can be arranged to welcome any kind of meeting from 15 to 4,000 delegates. The largest hall provides a seating capacity for around 2,200 people theatre-style, or 1,200 if a banqueting set-up is arranged. The three larger halls are complemented by an array of different-sized con-ference rooms, with a capacity from 15 seats upwards.

Contact:Dunajska cesta 181000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.gr-congress.si

Contact person:Mr. Miha GartnerE: [email protected]: 00386 1 3002627

gr - ljubljana Exhibition and convention centreGR – Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre is the leading events centre in Slovenia comprising 20 multifunc-tional halls that occupy a surface area of 12,323 square metres, which are complemented by 8,844 square metres of exter-nal exhibition space. The function rooms, providing a high degree of versatility, can be arranged to welcome any kind of meeting from 15 to 4,000 delegates. The largest hall provides a seating capacity for around 2,200 people theatre-style, or 1,200 if a banqueting set-up is arranged. The three larger halls are complemented by an array of different-sized con-ference rooms, with a capacity from 15 seats upwards.

Contact:Dunajska cesta 181000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.gr-congress.si

Contact person:Mr. Luka ZajcE: [email protected]: 00386 1 3002639

goopti low cost transfers GoOpti is the first LOW-COST ground transportation company. Inspired by low-cost airlines we try to offer the lowest price for reliable transportation services with possible extra payments for greater comfort. GoOpti takes care everyone can easily and for low cost reach main Slovenian destinations (Ljubljana, Maribor, Slovenian Coast) from nearby airports (Venice, Trieste, Milan, Bologna, Zagreb, Graz, Vienna, Salzburg, Munich,...). GoOpti transfers are appropriate for individual and business passengers and also for other closed groups. We also organize transfers for Meetings & Events. We cooperate with Travel agencies, hotels,.....

Contact:Tehnološki Park 181000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.goopti.com

Contact person:Ms. Urška KozamernikE: [email protected]: 00386 1 320 45 32

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hotel plesnik**** logarska dolinaThe four-star Plesnik offers luxurious amenities, exquisite dining and professional service. Highlights for us include the breathtaking views from the south-facing balconies, the splendid hotel terrace and the heated ground level pool and sauna facilities with a glass wall through you can view the valley while you swim. These are free to use for guests and various massages and other treatments are available for an extra charge. The hotel is also a popular destination for business retreats and meetings and multi-day packages for couples and families are also on offer. Additional accommo-dation is offered in adjacent Villa Palenk.

Contact:Logarska dolina 103335 SolčavaSlovenia www.plesnik.si

Contact person:Ms. Nina PlesnikE: [email protected]: 00386 3 839 23 00

hotel monsThe Mons is the first design hotel in Slovenia; in addition to its excellent hospitality, modern congress centre, good transport connections and excellent culinary treats, it affords guests a special privilege, being on a hilltop in the midst of greenery, surrounded by woods and grassy fields, while still being in close proximity to the heart of Ljubljana.

HOTEL & CONGRESS CENTRE• 110 double rooms and 4 suites • free Wi-Fi internet access• free parking • congress centre with 6 function rooms and 3 conference rooms.

Contact:Pot za Brdom 41000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.hotel.mons.si

Contact person:Ms. Vesna LešnikE: [email protected]: 00386 30 666 777

hotel cuboHotel CUBO is a small design hotel located in the heart of the city centre. We are offering 26 luminous and spacious rooms, decorated with particularly good taste in a warm contemporary style using only the highest quality materials and amnesties. In addition, we also offer conference facili-ties - 2 meeting rooms with minimalistic design, strategically placed lighting and latest audio-visual equipment. The new conference hall which we just added in 2013, is situated in the vicinity of our hotel, a few meters walk from the hotel. It can easily accommodate up to 100 guests. The hall and all hospitality services are managed by our hotel.

Contact:Slovenska cesta 151000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.hotelcubo.com

Contact person:Mr. Luka OcvirkE: [email protected]: 00386 1 4256000

hIt Alpinea d.d.Kranjska Gora meetings tourism has a long tradition. Hit Holidays hotels have as many as 19 halls, the biggest hosting up to 1,200 participants and most of them having plenty of daylight. The unspoiled natural surroundings call for active leisure time and are excellent for a wide range of teambuild-ing programmes. After the activities, participants can relax in any one of the four wellness centres, take a walk and see the local sights, or visit any of the museums. There are also many options for organising gala dinners and dinner parties that take you to the realm of dream culinary experiences.

Contact:Borovška 994280 Kranjska GoraSlovenia www.hitholidays-kg.si

Contact person:Ms. Tjaša ŠuvakE: [email protected]: 00386 4 5884 548

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Intours dmcINTOURS DMC operates in Slovenia and Croatia, with offices in Ljubljana, Split and Dubrovnik. We are a creative team, aware of responsibilities we have towards the agencies and clients. Ljubljana, Alpine or Mediterranean part of Slovenia, Istria, Dalmatia, Split, island of Hvar, Dubrovnik,... this are the regions which are extreme-ly interesting for incentives and where INTOURS DMC can offer you a great service. Excellent relations with suppliers give us additional strength. Dedicated and experienced staff combined with local expertise is a guarantee for successful event. Welcome! INTOURS DMC team

Contact:Dalmatinova 31000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.intours-dmc.com

Contact person:Mr. Tomaz KusicE: [email protected]: 00386 1 430 35 50

idmc iDMC is specialized in designing and implementation of special events, incentives, teambuildings and business events. Our professional staff will make every part of your event an unforgettable first class experience. Whether in the Mediterranean or in the Alps, Slovenia offers you beauty, comfort, safety and an array of choices. Experience Slovenia in a unique way and events will tell your story. Being fresh, reliable, inspiring and innovative, iDMC is the right partner for you.

Contact:Stegne 31000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.idmc.eu

Contact person:Ms. Jelena PetkovićE: [email protected]: 00386 590 177 46

hotel triglav d.o.o. bledHotel Triglav Bled, first opened in 1906 and after extensive renovations newly opened in April 2009, is only 200 metres from Lake Bled and in the immediate vicinity of the train station. All rooms and suites are tastefully furnished and decorated with artwork and selected antique furniture. The stunning views will make your stay unforgettable. The hotel features the à la carte restaurant 1906 Bled which is one of the best in Bled, a wine bar, a wine cellar and a fire-place lounge. We can organise meetings for up to 70 people, weddings, anniversaries, business lunches and Slovenian cu-linary workshops and teambuildings.

Contact:Kolodvorska cesta 334260 BledSlovenia www.hoteltriglavbled.si

Contact person:Ms. Sonja PrimozicE: [email protected]: 00386 4 575 26 10

hotel slon d.d. ljubljanaThe BEST WESTERN PREMIER Hotel Slon is the premier business tourism venue in Ljubljana only a few steps away from the old city core, Ljubljana castle and all the main city sights. This modern 4-star superior hotel offers 168 com-fortable and well-appointed rooms with all the modern fa-cilities and amenities. The hotel offer includes an in-house Fitness&Spa, with Fitness, saunas and massage studio to unwind, relax and escape the daily stress. There are exten-sive facilities for business functions; a versatile array of five conference halls provide accessible and flexible conferencing for up to 250 participants, backed up by a professional team.

Contact:Slovenska cesta 341000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.hotelslon.com

Contact person:Ms. Helena KotolenkoE: [email protected]: 00386 1 4701 156

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kempinski palace portorozThe 5 star Superior hotel Kempinski Palace Portoroz is sit-uated directly at the Adriatic coast of Slovenia, just a short drive from Ljubljana, Trieste and Venice.The hotel embodies a combination between traditional and modern design, boasts 164 Superior and Deluxe rooms and 17 exclusive suites, 1500 sqm SPA and offers innovative food and beverage concept in all its restaurants and bars. Conferences, seminars, team buildings, product presentations and gala dinners – the Kempinski Palace avails six meeting rooms, a selection of breakout rooms, a unique ballroom and a private 5000 sq m park for all kind of events.

Contact:Obala 456320 PortorozSlovenia www.kempinski.com/portoroz

Contact person:Ms. Najda ĐorđevićE: [email protected]: 00386 5 692 7665

kaval groupKaval Group is a restaurant chain in Ljubljana. At Kaval Group we pride ourselves on providing a distinctive experience to our guests. The typical Tuscan cuisine combines classic preparation from Italy infused with flavors of Slovenia. Our guests will find the experience to be both enlightening and memorable. And as Thomas Keller said:“When you acknowl-edge as you must, that there is no such thing as perfect food, only the idea of it..Then the real purpose of striving towards perfection becomes clear – to make people happy. That’s what cooking is all about.

Contact:Tacenska 951210 LjubljanaSlovenia www.kaval-group.si

Contact person:Ms. Dada JerovšekE: [email protected]: 38615120072

jgZ brdo - brdo EstateBrdo near Kranj is located in the heart of Slovenia. Slovenia is a boutique country of great contrasts and one of Europe’s prettiest jewels. The destination is a great opportunity for MICE business and well worth of experiencing the diverse beauty of Slovenia. Brdo near Kranj is renowned for its ex-ceptional history and is distinguished by its closeness to Ljubljana, the Slovenian capital city and other nearby inter-national airports such as Ljubljana Airport, Venice, Vienna, Munich, Zagreb, and others. Brdo estate is located on a prime location that offers its guests great services, a natural envi-ronment and professional atmosphere.

Contact:Predoslje 394000 KranjSlovenia www.brdo.si

Contact person:Ms. Jasna JašičE: [email protected]: 00386 4 2601794

Istrabenz turizem dd, lifeclass hotels & spaLifeClass Hotels & Spa in Portoroz, featuring 6 hotels (a 5* Grand Hotel Portoroz and 5 hotels 4*), famous for their spa experience and their modern congress center featuru-ring 10 congress rooms with biggest one for 500 delegates. Completely refurbished huge spa area spreads over 10.000 m2 and features thalasso, ayurveda, thai, ultimate sauna experience, modern and spacious gym, indoor swimming pools and exclusive beach area. The restaurants feature in-ternational, thai, indian and typical mediterranean cuisine, both as eat-all-you-can buffet and as à la carte with table service. Closest airports Trieste 75 km, Ljubljana 130 km, Venice 170 km.

Contact:Obala 33 6320 PortorožSlovenia www.lifeclass.net

Contact person:Mr. Ronald KvarantanE: [email protected]: 00386 5 692 9045

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ljubljana castleLjubljana Castle, a mighty medieval fortress, a symbol of the Slovenian capital Ljubljana is an interesting tourist point, the idyllic grounds for long strolls just a glance away from the lively city centre. The Ljubljana castle offers many cultur-al, historic and entertaining events throughout the year.The Ljubljana Castle offers halls and premises for rent intended for various occasions in an idyllic castle environment.You can organize press conferences, presentations, fashion shows, re-ceptions, gala dinners, weddings, diverse cultural and artistic exhibitions, etc., above and away from all the city bustle.

Contact:Grajska planota 11000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.ljubljanskigrad.si

Contact person:Ms. Maja PangršičE: [email protected]: 00386 1 306 42 30

kompas hoteli bled d.d.The sister hotels Kompas and Best Western Premier Lovec are situated in the very heart of Bled, next to one another, and offer views across the lake and the mountains. There are five meeting halls in the Kompas Hotel, the largest for 220 participants, with an additional top-floor hall for up to 140 guests in the Lovec. The hotels combine a stimulating working environment with superb cuisine featuring dishes made from the freshest locally grown ingredients, which may be tasted at working lunches, gala dinners and receptions. Particular emphasis is laid on personal attention, which the friendly hotel team provides to participants of each event.

Contact:Cankarjeva cesta 24260 BledSlovenia www.kompashotel.com

Contact person:Ms. Sandra CerarE: [email protected]: 00386 4 620 51 18

kompas dmc InternationalKompas is a destination management company with more than 60 years of experience and has since its foundation retained a commitment to use all the creativity, expertise and experience to make every stay the most enjoyable and memorable. We take our variety of tailor made services, in-cluding incentives, company meetings, promotional events, individual and group travelling to the next level. Whatever your want, where ever you want and however you want, we’ll make it happen.

Contact:Prazakova 41000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.kompasmice.com

Contact person:Mr. Drago SečnikE: [email protected]: 00386 1 2006 448

kompas dmcKompas is a leading destination management company in the Adriatic region with more than 60 years of experience and has since its foundation retained a commitment to use all the creativity, expertise and experience to make every stay the most enjoyable and memorable. We take our variety of tailor made services, including incentives, company meetings, pro-motional events, individual and group travelling to the next level. Whatever your want, where ever you want and however you want, we’ll make it happen.

Contact:Prazakova 41000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.kompasmice.com

Contact person:Mr. Viljam KvaličE: [email protected]: 00386 1 2006 448

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plaza hotel ljubljanaPlaza Ljubljana offers 236 spacious guestrooms, including 25 junior suites, 2 business suites and an astonishing 155 m2 Plaza executive suite. The rooms include a sizable working area, a comfortable deep-sleep bed, and a fully stocked re-freshment bar with a coffee making facility.On the 15th floor of this prestigious building, Plaza Hotel Ljubljana proudly presents a modern congress centre. Adjustable congress halls with a capacity of up to 250 people, astonishing views and extraordinary food and beverage service make it a perfect place to hold meetings and host various events on the first-class level.More at www.plazahotel.si

Contact:Bratislavska cesta 81000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.plazahotel.si

Contact person:Mr. Matevž Matic VozličE: [email protected]: 00386 30 605708

m hotel ljubljanaAn ideal, very accessible location with parking places. Personalised, friendly approach to the customers. Competitive rates. 9 different conference and meeting rooms. 154 hotel rooms. Own shuttle transfer service. The new hotel restaurant offers every day buffet lunch and dinner plus a-la-carte dishes.Very nice summer terrace. A lot of various shops next to the hotel. Jogging tracks in the green nature just at the hotel. All 154 elegant rooms have: free wireless Internet access, air-conditioning, especially comfortable mattresses from the latoflex. minibar, cable-TV.

Contact:Derčeva 41000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.m-hotel.si

Contact person:Ms. Anja NovakE: [email protected]: 00386 1 513 7029

ljubljana tourism / convention bureauLjubljana Tourism / Convention Bureau is the prime contact for professional support concerning meeting venues, suppli-ers and services in the Slovenian capital. The destination can welcome events with up to 2,200 delegates in two congress centres, a number of convention hotels and special venues.Ljubljana can be depicted as safe, green, compact, multilin-gual and hospitable city providing a combination of modern infrastructure and urban lounge feel. It also has a wealth of history, style, arts & culture and a mix of Central European and Mediterranean flair, with many of Slovenia’s attractions - possible settings for incentives, close by.

Contact:Krekov trg 101000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.visitljubljana.com/ meetings

Contact person:Ms. Tatjana RadovicE: [email protected]: 00386 1 306 45 84

ljubljana tourism / convention bureau Ljubljana Tourism/Convention Bureau is the prime contact for professional support concerning meeting venues, suppli-ers and services in the Slovenian capital. The destination can welcome events with up to 2,200 delegates in two congress centres, a number of convention hotels and special venues.Ljubljana can be depicted as safe, green, compact, multilin-gual and hospitable city providing a combination of modern infrastructure and urban lounge feel. It also has a wealth of history, style, arts & culture and a mix of Central European and Mediterranean flair, with many of Slovenia’s attractions - possible settings for incentives, close by.

Contact:Krekov trg 101000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.visitljubljana.com/ meetings

Contact person:Ms. Vesna KlemenčičE: [email protected]: 00386 51 622393

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sava hotels & resortsSava Hotels & Resorts brings together the 6 most beautiful destinations in Slovenia where modernity, excellence and diversity connect in a creative atmosphere in harmony with nature. With 14 hotels of different categories, 41 tradition-al and contemporary meeting rooms, high level conference services, state of the art technical equipment, professional support in planning, organisation and all related activities we assure the provision of services of the highest level. Additional attractions include: thermal spas and wellness centres, golf courses, culinary delights.

Contact:Dunajska 1521000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.sava-hotels-resorts.com

Contact person:Ms. Katja AnželE: [email protected]: 00386 2 74 94 519

sava hotels & resortsSava Hotels & Resorts brings together the 6 most beautiful destinations in Slovenia where modernity, excellence and diversity connect in a creative atmosphere in harmony with nature. With 14 hotels of different categories, 41 tradition-al and contemporary meeting rooms, high level conference services, state of the art technical equipment, profession-al support in planning, organisation and all related activi-ties we assure the provision of services of the highest level. Additional attractions include: thermal spas and wellness centres, golf courses, culinary delights.

Contact:Dunajska cesta 1561000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.sava-hotels-resorts.com

Contact person:Ms. Mojca GobinaE: [email protected]: 00386 4 206 6049

proeventProevent d.o.o. was founded in 1994. In almost 20 years of its activity it has grown from a leading company in installation and equipment rental for fair constructions in Slovenia to a company with a long-term vision - from idea to performance. In 2006 they extended their prime activity into organization of all sorts of events and fairs, which have till this day become regonisable brand names.

Contact:Proevent d. o. o.Dunajska cesta 10, P.O.Box 35581000 Ljubljana www.proevent.si

Contact person:Mr. Janez LevecE: [email protected]: 00386 1 300 32 22

postojnska jama, d.d. - postojna caveThe company Postojnska jama d.d. manages the Postojna Cave and the Predjama Castle, two of the biggest Slovenian tourist attractions, must-see destinations for every visitor to Slovenia. The Jamski dvorec Mansion, at the entrance to the Postojna Cave, is a luxurious event and culinary center. The Postojna Cave is well-known for its beautiful dripstones and its exceptional animal Proteus anguinus. It is the queen of the world’s show caves and the most visited show cave in Europe. The Predjama Castle is among ten most fascinating castles in the world and the only cave castle in Europe. Both of them are unique venues for special events.

Contact:Jamska cesta 306230 PostojnaSlovenia www.postojnska-jama.eu/en/

Contact person:Ms. Urška KikovićE: [email protected]: 00386 5 7000 103

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terme Čatež d.d.Terme Čatež d.d. is the largest Slovenian natural health resort. Its range and diversity of tourist products rank it among the most attractive tourist destinations in Europe.Terme Čatež is present on four locations – at Čatež, Mokrice, Koper and Portorož, all of them offering a broad range of choice of a quality holiday arrangement with accommodation in hotels (1,550 beds), lovely holiday apartments (450 units) and the camp (450 units), which was in 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013 declared best camp in Slovenia by ADAC. The main element of development and service range of Terme Čatež is the thermal water and aqua programmes.

Contact:Topliška cesta 358251 Čatež ob SaviSlovenia www.terme-catez.si

Contact person:Ms. Nataša MihajlovićE: [email protected]: 00386 7 6207 086

sorA cateringSORA Catering is an international event catering company providing multiple hospitality products and services. SORA Catering provides innovative and personalized solutions with a dedicated human touch to create memorable experiences.SORA Catering is the international brand of a renowned, family-run company Jezeršek Catering. Jezeršek Catering is with more than 30 years of experience the first Slovenian catering company and could hold its position as the Slovenian market leader until today. Jezeršek Catering was appointed as the Official Caterer of the EuroBasket 2013 and was re-sponsible for VIP Hospitality.www.soracatering.com

Contact:Sora 1a1215 MedvodeSlovenia www.soracatering.com

Contact person:Ms. Kristina JurjevecE: [email protected]: 00386 1 3619421

slovenian tourist board Slovenian Tourist Board (STB) is a major national tourist organization for planning and performing the promo-tion of our country as a tourist destination, linking the existing products and programmes of national impor-tance and advancing the progress of new ones, establish-ment of the integral tourist information infastructure and executing research and development work. The STB is the contact and central point in the complex network of the Slovenian tourism which plays a coordinating and linking role between the public, private and civil society.

Contact:Dimičeva 131000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.slovenia.info

Contact person:Ms. Lucija JagerE: [email protected]: 00386 1 5898 550

slovenian convention bureauSLOVEnia is a compact country rich on geographical diver-sity and cultural heritage. Superb meeting facilities spread all around the country combined with excellent service and hospitality of the people enriched by exquisite cuisine and ex-cellent wines and good value for money are ingredients for a successful event. Slovenian Convention Bureau is a non-profit organization and acts as a professional intermediary to assist clients in finding objective information on destinations, meeting venues and service providers. Bureau acts as an in-dependent guide and provides a free of charge service to all interested clients. SCB has currently 65 members.

Contact:Dunajska cesta 1561000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.slovenia-convention.com

Contact person:Ms. Azra BotonjicE: [email protected]: 00386 1 569 12 60

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tourism bohinjThe main activities of Tourism Bohinj are: providing infor-mation services, promotion of the tourist destination, mar-keting, the organisation and implementation of events and development of the sustainable products that promote the awareness of the significance of the local cultural and natural heritage. More than two thirds of Bohinj tourist destination lies in the protected area of Triglav National Park. Bohinj welcomes everyone - those, who search for new things, those who strive for unique experiences, the dreamly and adventurous, but still considerate and respectful of nature.

Contact:Triglavska cesta 304264 Bohinjska BistricaSlovenia www.bohinj.si

Contact person:Ms. Vida KovačičE: [email protected]: 00386 4 57 47 590

thermana laškoCONGRESS CENTER THERMANA LAŠKO• Connected to a contemporary hotel with a thermal centre enclosed in a glass dome and a wellness spa centre. • Exceptional location in the very heart of Slovenia • Large number of exterior parking spaces as well as underground parking • The built in audio and video systems will ensure a fully professionally presented event. All halls have good natural light as well as the ability to produce total darkness. Wireless internet is available without extra charge.Capacity up to 1,100 participants on over 3.700 square metres:• 1 multi purpose hall up to 490 seats • 6 seminar halls from 20 - 200 seats

Contact:Zdraviliška 63270 LaškoSlovenia www.thermana.si

Contact person:Ms. Mojca LeskovarE: [email protected]: 00386 3 4232 484

terme olimiaMeetings in the harmony of nature – location, away from the crowded city rush.Congress Center Olimia is devised as a multifunctional space, appropriate for different types of meetings up to 350 dele-gates . A complex of eight excellent and technically equipped halls and meeting rooms is suitable for conferences, com-memorations, meetings, seminars, exhibitions and presenta-tions as well as motivational programs, receptions and other social events such as banquets, fashion shows and formal banquets. All areas are equipped with the latest audio-video equipment for a high quality realization of your events and undisturbed work.

Contact:Zdraviliška cesta 243254 PodčetrtekSlovenia www.terme-olimia.com/gb

Contact person:Mr. Dejan HojnikE: [email protected]: 00386 3 8297848

terme krka, d.o.o., novo mestoTerme Krka is one of the leading tourism companies in Slovenia that comprises health and spa resorts in Dolenjske and Šmarješke Toplice, the seaside centre Thalasso Strunjan, the Otočec Hotels with the Otočec Castle and the Krka Hotel in Novo mesto. At all its locations Terme Krka offer plenty of opportunities for organizing seminars, meetings, trainings and social or business gatherings. The modern Hotel Balnea which together with the Cultural and Congress Centre sets Terme Dolenjske Toplice Spa as one of the most attractive des-tinations for congress tourism. Another interesting venue are Otočec Hotels with the Otočec Castle Hotel.

Contact:Ljubljanska cesta 268501 Novo mestoSlovenia www.terme-krka.si

Contact person:Ms. Katja Kočevar LeskovecE: [email protected]: 00386 7 3919412

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visionect d.o.o.Visionect developed a table-top ordering solution for restau-rants, pubs, bars, cafés, hotels and similar named Geoffrey. Geoffrey enables guests to have entire menu at their finger-tips. Guests can review and submit orders directly from their table, browse daily news, read up on events and much more. No more waiting, no more frustrated guests.Simply put, Geoffrey is the 21st Century Waiter that helps res-taurants, pubs, bars, cafes and hotels to sell more, save more money and at the same time gives them a much better over-view over their business and their guests. With Geoffrey’s help every restaurant table becomes a smart table.

Contact:Ukmarjeva 21000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.visionect.si

Contact person:Mr. Matej ZalarE: [email protected]: 00386 31 832270

union hotels, ljubljana The Grand Hotel Union is located in the heart of the Ljubljana city centre just a few steps from the Old Town and less than 30 minutes’ drive from Jože Pučnik international airport. It consists of two connected parts, Executive and Business. They offer together 327 hotel rooms with modern technical equipment, tailored to the needs of today’s travellers. The Grand Hotel Union is the largest congress hotel in Ljubljana and boasts the stunning Grand Union Hall which can ac-commodate up to 800 delegates. The conference area in total includes 21 halls with the area of 3,150 square meters with state-of-the-art technology and natural daylight.

Contact:Miklosiceva cesta 11000 Ljubljana Slovenia www.union-hotels.eu

Contact person:Ms. Nusa SolarE: [email protected]: 00386 1 308 1070

union hotels, ljubljana Hotel Lev, takes its name from the powerful animal, the Lion. The elegant and modern Hotel Lev Ljubljana combines clas-sical elegance and modern accommodation. Business travel-lers, conference delegates and tourists alike can experience the exquisite art of life and hotel seervices at the Hotel Lev. Hotel is located in the very heart of Ljubljana, just a few minutes walk from the main sightseeing attractions and less than 30 minutes drive from the airport. Hotel offers one con-ference room, wich can accept up to 150 delegates in theatre style and 40 in U shape and 6 smaller meeting rooms on the 13th floor with breathtaking views of Ljubljana.

Contact:Vošnjakova 11000 Ljubljana Slovenia www.union-hotels.eu/

Contact person:Ms. Mojca Vidic E: [email protected]: 00386 1 231 77 97

tourist board sotočje – soča valleyTourist board LTO Sotočje is a destination management or-ganization covering central area of Soča Valley (Tolmin & Kobarid). The area is an outstanding outdoor destination, famous for the emerald Soča river and known for its natural beauties (Triglav National Park), historical role (World War I.) and excellent restaurants. We provide information servic-es to visitors, partners and media and professional support to our members. We can assist partners and operators special-ized in any kind of alpine tourism including events, confer-ences and incentives. We are also managing DMO activities for the whole Goriška / Northern Primorska region therefor

Contact:Petra Skalarja 45220 TolminSlovenia www.visit-soca.com

Contact person:Ms. Tatjana HumarE: [email protected]: 00386 5 3800490

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the meetings showOrganised by meeting professionals for meeting profession-als, The Meetings Show is a major event for the UK inbound and outbound meetings industry. With suppliers from around the world, high quality networking and a comprehensive edu-cation programme, the show is more than just another trade exhibition. It is where the meetings industry will meet to do business, develop industry knowledge, catch up on the latest trends, establish new partnerships or simply re-establish old friendships.

Contact:Wells PointW1T 3QN LondonUnited Kingdom www.themeetingsshow.com

Contact person:Mr Adam GarsideE: [email protected]: 0044 207 970 4061

EIbtmWhere the global meetings and events industry connects.EIBTM (www.eibtm.com) is the leading global event for the meetings, incentives, conferences, events and business travel industry, taking place in beautiful Barcelona. The event gathers over 15,000 MICE industry professionals for three days of focused access to a dynamic business environment with over 3,100 Exhibitors, an international Hosted Buyer Programme, thought provoking professional education and business networking to drive your business into the future. We look forward to seeing you on 18-20 November 2014 for another must attend exhibition and on the 17 November for the EIBTM Forum opening conference.

Contact:Gateway House/ 28 The QuadrantTW9 1DN RichmondUnited Kingdom www.ibtmevents.com

Contact person:Mrs Ronda AnnesleyE: [email protected]: 0044 788 005 5747

tunes travel IstanbulTunes Travel Istanbul is a full service and innovative desti-nation management company based in Istanbul. With exten-sive experience and progressive ideas, Tunes Travel provides the organization and implementation of incentive travel pro-grams to any point of Turkey. Tunes Travel supplies endless opportunities to sample the country’s diverse culture, 2000-year history, famous cuisine and entertainment. Offering the highest level of personal attention, professional-ism, and flair, the company is managed by professionals with broad experience in global communications and travel. Tunes Travel Istanbul looks forward to being of service to you.

Contact:Bagdat Cad. 191 Ciftehavuzlar34730 IstanbulTurkey www.tunestravel.com

Contact person:Ms. Serra Tunaman ParlakisikE: [email protected]: 0090 5322158704

vivo cateringVivo catering is on the top of Slovene catering services with successful 20 years tradition. We boast of international expe-riences, and we prepare catering in Slovenia and also abroad. We are specialised in organising an event catering. We can feasts thousand guests or more on different locations at the same time. We arefamous of our tasty and original dishes and our touch of artistic presentation. With of congressional activity in Slovenia, we are more and more present on the congresses. One of the biggest in Slovenia was in 2010 where we were caterer at Autoimmunity congress at Gospodarsko razstavišče with 1600 guests for five days.

Contact:Pot na Fužine 21000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.vivo.si

Contact person:Ms. Mateja PohlinE: [email protected]: 00386 1 54 61 657

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co2cut d.o.o.CO2cut d.o.o. is part of Geonatura Group with offices in Zagreb and London. We provide carbon neutral travel and online shopping at no additional cost. Also offer bro-kerage and emissions trading consultancy both for volun-tary and regulated carbon markets. CO2cut is the member of Impact HUBs in Zagreb and London and member of Carbon Trade Exchange platform. We are also UKTI Global Entrepreneurship Programme’s company.YesI have read and agreed to the stated Terms and conditions for exhibiting in Conventa Eco village

Contact:Opatovina 2310000 CityZagrebCroatia co2cut.com

Contact person:Mr. Roman DankoE: [email protected]: 00385959047271

ROCK OUT LIKE A VIP AT THE FIVE-STAR ***** KONGRES MAGAZINE PARTY at Conventa 2014Kongres magazine, the main media partner of Conventa trade show, invites you to the party that will start off the year 2014. Although we are keeping our promise to always deliver the freshest meeting industry news, be ahead of everybody else and predict the trends before they happen, we can’t help ourselves but to once in a while also feel a bit nostalgic. On the 22nd of January 2014, for one evening only, we will take you back in history to remember the times we shared. We will first walk through the Tito exhibition – the Yugoslavian icon whose life is now the red thread of many historical incentives and later on rock out to the best Ex-Yugoslavian beats plaid by the famous band Rock Partyzani.

The five-star party will be a chance to meet again and thank our partners in person, exchange ideas, network with key meeting industry at-tending Conventa, a chance to unwind, dance and once again represent the region as one.

Everybody who is somebody in the meeting industry will be there. Will you?To get you on the VIP list please confirm you attendance to Gorazd Čad, the editor of Kongres magazine and organizer of the party at [email protected]!

Party on! See you at Five-star party held on 22 January 2014 at 22 at GR – Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre (Oda Hall)!


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p&f jeruzalem ormožThe best things in life should be shared with others. This de-scribes the essence of P&F Jeruzalem Ormož: a refreshing winery from Slovenia.The foundation for the quality of our wines lies in our region, one of the best wine regions in the world. Yet at the same time we are convinced that it is the people who truly make the difference. For instance, our grapes are still hand-picked. We love working together with people who share the same love, passion and craftsmanship. In this way we seek to produce even better and more accessible wines allowing more people to enjoy them. Meet our wines and get to know us.

Contact:Kolodvorska cesta 112270 OrmožSlovenia www.pfwineries.com

Contact person:Ms. Sonja ErculjE: [email protected]: +386(0)27415700

tailored development ltdTailored Development Ltd is full service design and devel-opment agency specialized in WordPress. We should be your first stop if you need a quality website design for every screen resolution you can think of, as well as WordPress consulting, 24/7 support and custom WordPress development.

Contact:Kapitolinski trg 1052100 PulaCroatia www.tailoreddev.co

Contact person:Mr. Emanuel BlagonicE: [email protected]: +385 99 5503 300

Agencija promoAgencija Promo is an event management specialist which provides promotions and presentations, incentive and team-building programmes. We provide support with our knowl-edge and consultancy in all of the stages of your event: from the idea to the technical support and to the final visual image starting with an excellent and dynamic presentation on tablet. The first-to-last service includes total flexibility in line with clients’ needs and wishes for the most demanding of func-tions such as multimedia events. We present the specialties and adventures of Slovenia’s rich natural, cultural and social heritage to domestic and foreign businessmen in a way not easily discovered on one’s own.

Contact:Cankarjevo nabrežje 71000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.promo-ag.si

Contact person:Mr. Marko KrižnikE: [email protected]: ++386 1 438 24 70

whales on wavesWhales On Waves creates sparkling mobile ideas. For the meeting industry we have created a new interactive tool: iConference. iConference is a conferencing tool that gives your audience the opportunity to actively participate in your meeting. It includes all the tools you need for an interactive meeting!iConference includes a voting tool but has also a twitter function and provides the possibility to ask questions during the meeting. But most of all: it has a function to follow the speaker’s slides on your own device. With an optional audio-stream and possibility to follow and participate in the meeting from home, iConference offers a full package to make your meetings more attractive and high-tech.

Contact:M. Fochlaan 691030 BrusselBelgium www.whalesonwaves.com

Contact person:Mr. Stefan UytterhoevenE: [email protected]: +32 2 880 87 78

mEEtIng sErvIcEs spot

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hiša vizij d.o.o.We are a Slovenian company offering wide range of superb professional equipment for sound system, lighting system and scenography elements to rent. In addition, we can provide you with complete technical and conceptual support for organiza-tion and execution of various events - from simplest to most challenging events. Our offer:-Sound system-Lighting sys-tem-Lease of furniture, decoration and other elements for dif-ferent events-Design and execution of the finest scenography for events-Complete organization of events-Purchase of fine small table decorations: http://trgovina.popolna-dekoracija.siTrust us with your moment and we will provide you with high quality, optimized installation and execution of event that will create a joyful moment, for you and your guests.

Contact:Šišenska cesta 361000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.hisa-vizij.com

Contact person:Ms. Ana FlegarE: [email protected]: 05 9035 388

vIdIZ&kEsslEr srl - QubIk cAffE’Vidiz & Kessler is the excellent partner. Its experience comes from many years of working in the coffee field and colonial products, which have been present in Trieste, a city symbol of the Mittel European merchant tradi-tion, since 1948. The established reputation acquired over decades and production flexibility are the hall-marks of our company in our industry on the market. With the brand new coffee Qubik want to offer a blend of the best Arabica coffee. With high quality products we offer our coffee to a partner who can satisfy and pamper even the most demanding customers.

Contact:Via Stazione Di Prosecco 5/B34017 SGONICO (TS)Italy www.qubik.eu

Contact person:Mr. Andrej ZuppinE: [email protected]: +386 31 620175

studio 37 d.o.o.Studio 37 is an independent full service advertising and pro-duction agency, specializing in event management, produc-tion and Multidata touch screen units. Our event management services include complete project management, from concept creation to execution and support. Our most advanced projects in production include 3D video mapping on several buildings in Ljubljana. The company’s latest challenge is Multidata, a network of interactive Digital Signage Systems, especial-ly useful for congresses and conferences, such as Conventa, where you can try out 5 devices.

Contact:Dunajska cesta 1191000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.studio37.si

www.multidata.pro

Contact person:Ms. Barbara RandićE: [email protected]: +386 1 56 55 126

k. g. media d.o.o.KG Media is an advertising agency with more than 20 years of experience, focusing on advertising in international media, covering all media types: from press to radio, from televi-sion and outdoor to the Internet. KG Media’s core business is mostly promotion of tourism industry.Our service includes target-audience analysis, media-strategy and evaluations, me-dia-planning, media-pre-selection, media-negotiations and placement, media-buying, advertising creation and production management, result-measuring, checking of publishing-re-sults, invoicing together with voucher-copies, pre-financing, etc...

Contact:Partizanska 4/152440 PorecCroatia www.kg-media.hr

Contact person:Ms. Jelena JažićE: [email protected]: 00385 52 427 046

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tourism InsiderTourism-Insider is the largest and best known German-Chinese and English speaking online-magazine for tourism executives. According to google analytics we have over 81.000 readers in 143 countries of the world. Our main focus is on au-thentic advertising-free reporting in the tourism branch with a close view to worldwide interconnections. We publish highly topical and explosive insider-knowledge out of the tourism branch with the fastest news about current trends and events, as well as Marketing and PR news. Tourism-Insider reports about current affairs in the tourism industry.

Contact:Schwedenstr. 15b13357 BerlinGermany www.tourism-insider.com

Contact person:Mr. Joachim FischerE: [email protected]: 493088766645

turizmus panorámaTURIZMUS Ltd. serves the daily work of the representatives of the travel trade by the production and distribution of rel-evant information, services and products, while on the other hand creates a communication platform for members of the travel trade and the suppliers aiming to reach them.Our strength: • Image-building communication towards the widest range of the Hungarian travel trade; • Delivering spe-cific messages to the target groups of the travel trade through diverse filters; • Combination of the print, the online media and the BTL-tools

Contact:Munkás u. 91074 BudapestHungary www.turizmus.com

Contact person:Ms. Ágnes KelecsényiE: [email protected]: 3612665853

tw magazineTw tagungswirtschaft as practice-oriented professional and business publication is a reliable partner to MICE deciders. It features an extensive variety of information and thus is an efficient support instrument for planning and organizing meetings, conventions, congresses and events. There’s new inspiration to readers, and definite real-life support as well. In addition, Tw tagungswirtschaft presents successful case examples, analyses on-going research and university projects, conducts own studies and provides in-depth background reports. At the same time, it narrates stories, awakens interest and kindles emotions.

Contact:Mainzer Landstraße 25160326 FrankfurtGermany www.tw-media.com

Contact person:Ms. Theresa SilbergE: [email protected]: 496975951885

the slovenia timesThe Slovenia Times is the central newspaper in the English language in Slovenia since 2003. After implementing higher quality print and fresh design last year in 2012 we significantly upgraded the Economy section with attractive interviews and background stories connected to current economic situation in Slovenia. In May 2012 we also substantially upgraded the web page www.sloveniatimes.com with up to date daily in-formation. The Slovenia Times offers a critical, in-depth and vivid analysis of the social and economic image of Slovenia. The second part of the newspaper focuses on attractive stories from the fields of tourism, culture, sports, recreation and other lifestyle related entertainment topics.

Contact:Dunajska 51000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.sloveniatimes.com

Contact person:Mr. Goran MladenovičE: goran.mladenovic@ sloveniaitimes.comT: 38615205084

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turizmus trendTurizmus Trend (Tourism Trend) is the dominant source of information for the Hungarian tourist trade. With the fine ar-ticles and surveys of the monthly published magazine, our goal is to get a wide international perspective and to go ahead of domestic and foreign trends.

Contact:Montevideo utca 3/b1037 BudapestHungary www.turizmusonline.hu

Contact person:Mr. Petér SzigetiE: [email protected]: 3614304551

ut ugostiteljstvo i turizamUGOSTITELJSTVO I TURIZAM (CATERING AND TOURISM) is a monthly professional publication with 62 years of tradition. Our magazine serves as an official voice for the associations of hoteliers, catering professionals, camp site owners and managers, restaurateurs and travel agencies. UT is also place for communication between all segments of tourism and it is very good and successful media for companies which offer their products or services to tourist industry in Croatia and some other countries.

Contact:Bosiljevska 3210000 ZagrebCroatia www.utm.hr

Contact person:Ms. Silvana JakusE: [email protected]: 38513705750

planet gvPlanet GV is a valuable partner for business and personal train-ing as well as coaching sessions. We cooperate with experts, consultants and lecturers from different fields of knowledge. We also exceed in organising customized trainings for differ-ent companies.Planet GV publishes two special Magazines, HRM – Magazine for Human Resources Management, PIA – a magazine for agile business assistants and as much as 10 books per year. Our mission: Constantly developing new topics, up-grading knowledge and skills, as well as expanding our offer and thus creating new values for individuals and organisa-tions. We aim that our partners achieve expected business results and make their visions a reality.

Contact:Železna cesta 181000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.planetgv.si

Contact person:Ms. Maja BovconE: [email protected]: 38613094449

poslovni turizam/croatia meetingsCroatiaMeetings.com is the first specialized online guide through complete offer of Croatian congress and MICE tourism capacities (meetings, incentives, conferences, exhi-bitions). CroatiaMeetings.com is the first specialized online guide through complete offer of Croatian congress and MICE tourism capacities (meetings, incentives, conferences, exhi-bitions). CroatiaMeetings was recognized and is being sup-ported by leading Croatian specialized institutions (Croatian Ministry of Tourism, Croatian Tourist Board and Zagreb Tourist Board).

Contact:Kvarić 20/210090 ZagrebCroatia www.poslovniturizam.com

Contact person:Ms. Daniela KosE: [email protected]: 385912638282

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kongres magazine / International meetings reviewThe Kongres Magazine is a leading communications medium in the field of meetings industry. It gathers and distributes know-how related to the organisation of meetings for the world’s top professionals and analyses the development of meetings industry in Central and Southeast Europe, Europe. Kongres Magazine is member of IMRN – International Meetings Review.

Contact: Štihova ulica 41000 LjubljanaSlovenia www.kongres-magazine.eu www.internationalmeet ingsreview.com

Contact person:Mr. Gorazd ČadE: [email protected]: 38614305103

putovanja za dvojeThe main goal of the company Studio Damjana d.o.o. regarding the magazine Traveling for couples - to become the leading European tourism magazine, thereby using all comparative advantages: compositions of travel journalists that are like-wise passionate readers of our magazine, journalists that with their somewhat emotional approach offer a direct experience of the destination, exceptional photographs without the pos-sibility of aloofness, and a modern design in accordance with world trends. After reinforcing the position of the magazine in Europe, expanding to other continents is planned.

Contact:Andrijevićeva 1210000 ZagrebCroatia www.putovanjazadvoje.com

Contact person:Ms. Petra RožmanE: [email protected]: 38514618898

dv productionsDVProductions offers a choice of professional travel trade media (print, online and television) within the tourism in-dustry in Belgium and Luxemburg. DVProductions is the sole publishing house in Belgium to offer a printed magazine for every segment of the Belgian travel industry: travel2 for the leisure segment, business travel2 for the corporate segment, and mice2 for the meeting segment. VProductions also organ-ises the yearly online travel agent contest “Best Travel Agent”, which rewards the travel agents’ knowledge of the sponsoring destination. The final selection, with 10 finalists, takes place on the destination itself, where the winner of the “Best Travel Agent of the Year” is chosen.

Contact:Willem Lepelstraat 282000 AntwerpenNetherlands www.travel2.be

Contact person:Mr. Danny VerheydenE: [email protected]: 32475944972

meet and travel magThe French magazine of the Meeting Industry. A bi-monthly publication, certified circulation 8.000 copies per issue, en-tirely dedicated to Incentive and Events news and latest trends from worldwide destinations. Incentive, congresses, conven-tions, seminars, product launches… 100% MICE.

Contact:32, rue du Fg Poissonnière75010 ParisFrance www.meetandtravelmag.com

Contact person:Mr. Patrick MonnierE: [email protected]: 33175772162

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WE COVER THE WORLD WITH OVER 130 DESTINATIONS.

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Explore the world onboard one of the youngest fleets. Fly via Doha, your

gateway to journeys as rewarding as the places you visit.

Let’s look at the events that marked the year 2013 in the field of congress tourism and were the most read on the www.kon-

gres-magazine.eu portal.

Air serbiaAir Serbia was established on 29th October 2013, after Etihad Airways took ownership of the in-cumbent JAT. Revival of the former JAT raises a lot of optimism regarding the improvement of the accessibility of the entire region.

belgrade Belgrade is one of the fastest growing congress destinations of the region and in 2013 it is finally back on the map for both corporate events and conferences of associations. With the opening of new hotels and the positive outlook for 2014, the only way is up.

congrexThe collapse of one of the world’s largest PCOs shook the meetings industry.In the field of PCOs nothing will be as it was before. The bankruptcy of Congrex has to become a kind of a turning point, as behind the magnificent façade of the industry a lot of prob-lems and challenges are hiding, that will inexo-rably be unveiled in the coming months.

dubrovnik Dubrovnik has experienced a dream meetings year in which hardly a week passed without some communication on the implementation of important conferences, from NATO con-ferences to the UEFA football association and many others. In 2013, Dubrovnik has definitely strengthened its position as a flag bearer of the regional meetings industry.

EurobasketAs the biggest sporting event in Slovenian history this one really marked the year 2013. The major organisational challenge has proven to be extremely successful and exceeded expec-tations, as was also confirmed by the FIBA. The Championship was watched by a record 330,000 spectators, including 55,000 foreigners.

falkensteiner Continues to open new hotels in the region and is strengthening its market position. In 2013 they opened a Falkenstener hotel in Belgrade, the Hotel Schladminng in Carinthia and the Hotel Wien Margareten, as well as taking over the management of the Hotel Stara Planina in Serbia.With 28 hotels in its portfolio that are concen-trated in the region, it is becoming one of the region’s strongest hotel chains.

gadgets2013 was the year of a variety of useful gadgets that make life easier for congress organisers, many of them massively financed on platforms such as kickstarter. Within the project INSIDE for 2013, ‘Geoffrey – electronic butler’ was one to be awarded.

heart of meetings The realisation of the year was the turning point towards participant satisfaction of congress events, receptions, conferences, seminars... It is absolutely because of them that we all exist and they are the very essence of the meetings industry. In the blockbuster of the year, “Into the Heart of the Meetings”, this was nicely pre-sented by Mike van Der Vivjer and raised a lot of interest among the Kongres readers.

IccA50 year anniversary of ICCA, which was created at a time when one could not imagine today’s omnipresent connectivity. The idea arose in 1962, when international air traffic stated to grow and with it the number of conferences and meetings of associations also increased. The basic idea of the exchange of information throughout its existence has remained the focus of the association.

jubileeIn the year 2013 anniversaries were marked by many events. The CONVENTA trade show celebrated its fifth anniversary, with many hotels presented in the magazine also cele-brating anniversaries, among them the 100th anniversary of the celebrated hotel Piran and to great fanfare also the legendary Dubrovnik Hotel Excelsior. The Hotel Europe in Sarajevo celebrated its 130th birthday and the Istrian company Istraturist its 50th anniversary.

kempinski palace portorož Was the best resort convention hotel in 2013, according to the selection of hidden congress guests, and for the second time at the top and just in front of the Hotel Monte Mulini of Rovinj and the legendary Falkensteiner Schloss Hotel Velden.

lowcost spring In 2013, virtually no day passed without an an-nouncement of new low-cost connections in the Balkans. It seems that the low-cost carriers will quickly replace the loss of flights by the regular scheduled carriers. This is good news for many interesting destinations in the Balkans and also for the meetings industry of the region, which relies on air connections.

metropol palace The best city hotel, as chosen by hidden congress guests for the year 2013. Following its opening in 2012 the hotel quickly stood amongst the best in the region for its superior service.

networksIn 2013, we can no longer conceive of the life of congress organisers without social networks. With the help of many tools your events can go beyond the standard framework. A large number of apps created in 2013 are intended to integrate your event with social networks.

one2one The explosion of One2One events at the global level and regionally has raised questions on the meaningfulness of some of them. However, the results suggest that personal experience is still in the foreground and one of the best sales tools. The importance of measuring ROI was also very clearly demonstrated: among the projects with good ROI on a global scale IMEX and EIBTM stand out and locally, according to research, Conventa has also performed very well.

pragueThe best city congress destination accord-ing to the selection and evaluation of Kongres travelogues 2013. It ranked higher than both Dubrovnik and Budapest.

roIWe have devoted a whole chapter to the theme, because events are under scrutiny, marketing budgets are shrinking and directors require maximum ROI. In 2013, the ROI also in the meetings industry finally established itself as a tool for decision-making regarding events and interpretation of the results and impacts.

start-ups Technological and organisational challenges of the meetings industry have triggered a series of entrepreneurial start-ups, which began its life in 2013. Some of them offer outstanding solu-tions that used to require huge investments. You won’t fail to remember names such as sli.do, conferize, meethub, eventrater and many others.

tedx talks Are also in our SEE region an extremely popular concept of conferences where the audience listens attentively from beginning to end. From events with the slogan “Ideas worth spreading” event organisers have a lot to learn, mostly from the very well-prepared lecturers and from the concept of built-in interactivity.

A - Z 2013 BY KONGRES mAGAZINEof the most-read stories on www.kongres-magazine.eu

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unconference In the year when at the forefront of events were event participants, we have also seen in Zagreb the implementation of the first “unconference” event. This event stepped outside of the classic conference framework as a result of the interac-tivity of the open-space format, a format that has been known since the mid-nineties and has thus also started to be used concretely in our region.

virtual realitySimulation of real conferences in virtual space became a part of the normal practices of event organisation in 2013. Highlighted interactivity offered by many low-cost programmes became a practice among hybrid and true virtual events. In 2013 readers were most enthusiastic about the technology giant Cisco.

weekend media festival Is undoubtedly the event of the regional commu-nications industry. In 2013 it also offered inter-esting lectures, round tables and crazy parties. Attracting over 3,500 participants is an absolute record and in the magazine we dedicated cover-age to the event through a conversation with the author of the story, Tomo Ricov from the Zagreb agency Peppermint.

xperienceExperiential marketing is the answer to imper-sonal and intrusive communication, typical of traditional marketing. In the field of events it gained a lot of supporters in 2013, because with users it only communicates there and then, when participants wish to do so.

youth Generation Y is on the rise - it is growing up, gaining purchasing power and organising events. From childhood it has been experiencing an explosion of information and stimuli, which they now also expect from events. Modern tech-nology gives them a breadth and flexibility that the earlier generations were denied.

Zagreb The old capital of the new EU member state. Croatia became the 28th member of the EU, which was the expansion event of 2013. Despite restrained euphoria on its entrance, this is a sub-stantial opportunity for the Croatian meetings industry.

2013

From the editorial board of Kongres mag-azine we have gathered together some of the events and trends that are predicted

for 2014 and that were sent to us by our corre-spondents, partners and other professionals with whom we work. After years of reflections on the crisis, a wave of congress optimism is finally sweeping, with 2014 also to be marked by impor-tant anniversaries and major sporting events. In particular, we are bring to your attention:

Anniversary of Emona In 2014 we will mark 2,000 years since the es-tablishment of the Roman settlement Emona on the ground of today’s Ljubljana. The anniversa-ry will be celebrated with many events peaking between the 22nd and 24th August 2014, with the event Ave Emona that will trace 2,000 years into the past and show the life as a former Roman settlement.

bledOn the congress scene the green convention destination Bled will shine once again, a desti-nation that has long been preparing for a come-back and today is fresh and with new congress energy awaiting conference guests. It is also increasingly becoming a regional Davos, due to important political meetings being held. In ad-dition, among all of the regional destinations it most comprehensively tackled and profiled itself in the context of sustainable tourism.

contentIn 2013 contextual marketing was on the rise, and in 2014, in our opinion, it will finally estab-lish itself. The winners will be those who will be able to tell the best stories. Changed market con-ditions require a new strategy for content mar-keting, which builds on positive communication with customers through stories and storytelling.

design The key question for event organisers is how to get under the skin of participants. Most of us are familiar with the heart of conference organisa-tion, but much less is at the forefront of thinking about the soul of meetings. In Europe, more and more professional meeting designers are coming on stream and that you are going to encounter in the future. In 2014 we are predicting their de-finitive breakthrough in the meetings industry.

Experiential 2014 will be a year of experiential marketing, which will be at the heart of event organisation. The user experience on a personal level with an option of choice is the basic paradigm that will distinguishe good from bad events. The experi-

ential benefits of events will this year be recog-nised even by the greatest traditionalists.

fIfA world cup brazilJuly 2014 will be marked by the football World Cup. Brazil will be following up on the World Cup by hosting the Olympic Games. It will be interesting to monitor what the effects of the championship will be on the meetings industry of the entire region.

green meetings The path of the meetings industry towards green meetings has only just begun, although in some ways it seems that this topic has already been exhausted. The world is constantly changing; it is necessary to take into account many different factors and environmental issues are just one of them. The meetings industry will continue to focus, but in the right way - through the obser-vance of all the three elements of sustainability: environment, economy and social responsibility.

hologramsThe next phase of hybrid and virtual conferenc-es will be holographic projections. The tech-nology has become cheap and is a champion of virtual meetings. Cisco is a pioneer also in this field with its Cisco On-Stage TelePresence with which it has already equipped 150 conference halls in 28 countries. We are looking forward to the first hotels in the region to offer such an experience.

Istanbul and turkey Istanbul and the whole of Turkey will in 2014 host some of the most important congress events of the year. It will begin with the MPI confer-ence in Istanbul, the ending with the ICCA con-ference in Antalya. This is a confirmation of the totally outstanding direction of this country in the meetings industry.

kickstarterSome creative events have already been financed by this most famous crowdfunding platform. The logic of kickstarter is a great opportunity for new, innovative congress projects that want to try themselves out and be funded in such a way. In 2014, test your ideas on crowdfunding platforms.

live Live streaming of audio and video allows people who, because of a lack of time, cannot be phys-ically present to watch the event online. This allows for proper interactivity. To paraphrase a little: if your conference or event in 2014 is not live, it does not exist.

mobile With the continued development of smart phones the percentage of people who use their mobile phone as their primary source to access the web and web content increases. Bear this fact in mind when restoring your website and writing or sending web mail, but also make sure of it so that your conference and its contents are suitable for reading and using from mobile devices.

new Europe 2014 will be a year of new convention destina-tions that Europe is not yet aware of and that we are reckoning to be in Eastern Europe. These destinations are full of energy, believe in them-selves and know exactly what they want. To the European meetings space they are bringing freshness and new exciting congress stories. Put in your mind the names of the new conven-tion bureaus: Ostrava, Yekaterinburg, Kazan, Azerbaijan and many others…

online events Virtual conferences and webinars are not new on the market, but their organisation has become technologically simple and mobile, so we are predicting an explosion of them in 2014. Solutions such as CiscoWebex and others are now becoming affordable and easy to use.

planners of the futureIn the year 2014, in our view, meeting planners will change into planners of marketing and communications. The future will arrive in the form of young planners eager for change and more open to the idea of lifestyle ideas than the mature traditionalists oriented towards confer-ence logistics.

real time The concept does not seem anything new, but think about how important it is for the organisa-tion of events to capture ‘the right moment’ - to report on events at the time when they are happen-ing, to create news. Event organisers are changing into editorial boards of stories that they have been able to launch to participants in real time.

sarajevo 2014 A year of important anniversaries for the leg-endary place by the Miljacka river, which will also be important as a communication oppor-tunity for this beautiful city. It will start in February with the anniversary of the legendary Winter Olympic Games in 1984. The highlight of the year will be the anniversary of the First World War, which began right in the city by the Miljacka river.

A-Z 2014 BY KONGRES mAGAZINEof the most-read stories on www.kongres-magazine.eu

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tenth Anniversary The Slovenian Convention Bureau will celebrate its tenth anniversary. Ten years have passed in a spirit of numerous innovations and a number of successfully implemented pro-jects. All of this and much more stems from the healthy and respected balance of the Slovenian meetings industry, which will be presented within the framework of the celebration of ten years of the bureau.

umag and north-western Istria North-western Istria offers a genuine and very active con-ference experience. The options of activities with which you can load a schedule for your conference guests are countless. Including through the help of a convention bureau, which is now being established, we are counting it to be among the most promising congress destinations in 2014.

viralityToday there is undoubtedly no event that does not want to achieve virality, possible only through paid advertising or or-ganised virality. Since paid advertising is too expensive for most events often the only option is viral marketing. It is best done by word of mouth, which has to be properly promoted. Knowledge of viral marketing will become key in 2014.

winter olympics sochi XXII Olympic Winter Games - Sochi (Sochi) 2014 will start on 7th February, when the opening ceremony will take place and will run until 23rd February. This will be the first Winter Olympic Games in Russia. In addition to the positive impact on tourism, they are devoting great attention to congress tourism after the event.

xpress businessIn the field of congress tourism the speed of decision-making is important, as is the speed of execution. We estimate that 2014 will be a turning point for providers who will not be able to adapt and use quick and inexpensive organisational solutions. In this a crucial role will be played by technology and the huge number of Apps that are growing like mush-rooms after rain.

you The meetings industry does not exist because of hotels, ca-tering providers and vendors of technological solutions, but because of a genuine and unique human need for meetings. Participants have taken things into their own hands, so this year will be the year of purebred organisers, who talk with their body and soul. Participants feel this; they are attracted by the smell of events, the smell of the people around them and a human proximity.

Z generationThe youngest generation is on its way and it will soon conquer the world. These are the young people born in the 90s or after. Although it seems that they are not important for the meet-ings industry, a lot can be learned from them, because they are superiorly informed and want to actively participate in all of the processes, particularly in the organisation of events.

2014

Feel the people. Taste fresh ideas.

SLO

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www.slovenia.info www.slovenia-convention.com

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CONGRESS TELESCOPEBy Robert Cotter

Telescope

Telescope

As the IT&CM China event scheduled for 15-17 April at the Shanghai World Expo and Convention Centre will be its eighth iteration,

we can therefore rightfully expect that the stars should be aligning to make this one an event to remember.

With Shanghai continuing as host city for the eighth run and also being a city in which growth towards its goal of becoming the world’s financial powerhouse is tireless, the event has borrowed a little from the city’s energy in also not stopping when the doors of the convention centre close. This is not only through the amazing business connections and deals started there, but is also demonstrated through the Travel Corporate Roundtable sessions that have been advanced since the close of the 2013 outing.

“There are aspects of Business Travel Management that Chinese corporations are still lacking awareness in, such as their travel management processes,” explained Ooi Peng Ee, General Manager of TTG Events. “The Roundtable sessions aim to fill this knowledge gap.”

With many Chinese corporations still relying on manual systems and paper processes rather than tech-nological options for automation of event organisation management, and this within an industry estimated to be worth $150 billion annually and growing at 20% per year, these may prove to be valuable sessions to attend. In addition to this, the sessions also fill what might otherwise be perceived as a calendar lull and ensure that IT&CM China remains live right throughout the year, which when it reaches the showcase three days in April is expecting to attract 3,000 MICE professionals

from a range of sectors including DMCs, PCOs, cor-porate travel and associations, as well as 400 hosted delegates, altogether making up more than 10,000 business appointments in addition to a whole range of opportunities through business, education and net-working sessions.

“China’s business events market is growing faster than any other nation and it is predicted that China will be the world’s largest contributor to this industry,” stated Chen Yueliang, Vice-President of event co-or-ganiser China International Travel Service (CITS) Limited. “With domestic and international demand driving surges in group meetings and events travel, both Chinese industry suppliers and buyers alike will find IT&CM China as an ideal platform to expand their business networks.”

The broad omens for the future of the China’s MICE industry, without thinking just of lucky 8, are clearly very good and whilst the growth has been questioned at some points over the past years and may not be as rampant as in its earlier years of growth it remains more than healthy and with huge room for further development.

“China has become the number one (top) source market of MICE travellers to Thailand since 2013, and with a constant growth of the Chinese economy we expect to welcome more business travellers and MICE visi-tors from China,” said Nopparat Maythaveekulchai, President of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau, by way of example. Whilst Thailand is one of the easier to reach destinations for Chinese outbound, with the scale of growth and scope for longer-haul trips becoming more within reach of Chinese corpo-rate and MICE travellers, it is certainly high time for interesting European destinations, such as the many gems of South East Europe, to start looking seriously at this burgeoning market.

“2014 exhibitors can expect to see 70% Chinese buyers, addressing the outbound and domestic procurement for both international and Chinese suppliers respec-tively,” confirmed Darren Ng, Managing Director of event co-organiser TTG Asia Media, in this regard. “The latter can also benefit from the remaining 30% of international buyers looking to buy into China (inbound),” he added.

Kongres looks forward to investigating both the inbound and outbound potential of the world’s single biggest MICE market and will once again be partici-pating in IT&CM China. We will be reporting back in a future issue on what we hope will be a very prosperous event indeed for all of us. Here’s to Lucky 8!

The number 8 has a profound significance in China, recognised as being auspicious due to its close resemblance to words in the Chinese language such as ‘wealth’ and ‘prosperity’.

IT&Cm CHINA 2014 – “LUCKY 8”

text by Robert Cotter

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Rising from the ground over five decades ago, at the time locals couldn’t have known that a modern but timeless Athens

landmark was on its way. Half a century on and those who were there for the original unveiling of the Hilton Athens have had the chance to savour not just fifty years of a city legend, but also what became an international emblem of quality for the Hilton brand, so much so that company founder Conrad Hilton, present at the 1963 in-auguration, was moved to say that “I agree with those who believe that the Hilton hotel in Athens is the most beautiful Hilton hotel in the world”.As with the passage of time, however, even the most radiant of beauties can fade, as perhaps no other city on earth knows like Athens does. After forty years of celebrity-studded service – from Aristotle Onassis to Frank Sinatra and from Ingmar Bergman to Anthony Quinn, to name but a few – and for the occasion of the 2004 Olympic Games being held the city, the hotel underwent a full renovation and played a key role as HQ to the International Olympic Committee.Ten years following this auspicious moment in the hotel’s history, today it continues to shine brightly, from the monumental artwork by Yannis Moralis on the building’s façade to the urban reputation of its celebrity-filled rooftop Galaxy bar with astounding city views of the Acropolis and Lycabettus Hill, from the time-earned reputation of its Milos restaurant and Aethrion lounge, not to mention the recently opened and elegant Byzantino terrace, to the health and leisure facilities, including the city’s largest outdoor pool and the Hiltonia Spa, all of which complement the 506 high quality rooms, 109 of these being executive and with their own executive lounge and private reception. The strength and outstanding quality of all of these attributes was recognised in October 2013 when the Hilton Athens, on the celebration of its fiftieth birthday, scooped the ‘Best Business Hotel in Western Europe’ title at the Business Traveller Awards“This is very gratifying and a confirmation of a targeted focus on satisfying our business trav-eller guests,” said Bart van de Winkel, Area General Manager for Greece and Cyprus, Hilton Worldwide. “With the hotel’s central location, professional service and a unique selection of rooms and suites, the Hilton Athens has a lot to offer to all segments of the business community, both domestic and international.”Pivotal to all of this success has also been what Hilton Athens has been offering to the MICE

industry through its range of meeting facili-ties, the largest in Athens, which in themselves reflect the high quality found throughout the rest of the hotel. With 22 flexible and state of the art meeting rooms, the largest holding up to 1,600 people, and a range of exhibition areas, all naturally daylit and some with direct access to the pool area, the hotel covers all the bases for hosting the perfect meeting, made easier by all of the rooms being connected to the business centre for access to support and secretarial staff as well as administrative tasks. Achieving the Hilton Meetings trademark for meeting facili-ties in nine of the 22 rooms, the benchmark for excellence is and remains a priority in Athens.They say that life begins at 50. For the beauty that is the Hilton Athens, it looks like that is very true indeed.

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HILTON ATHENS - SHINING BRIGHT AT 50


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mEETINGS FROm THE HEART


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Food is undeniably a central and increas-ingly important part of productive events, whether it is ensuring the right kind of

snacks are in place, that the food can keep both the brain and body active reflecting the nature and demands of the event and, of course, that for formal functions the food elicits a wow factor from delegates. Further, many more incentives are nowadays being based around food and learn-ing new cooking skills or a better understanding of alternative cuisines.In South Korea, one of the world’s leading nations on the global MICE circuit and quickly making its way towards the top spot for inter-national events, the emphasis placed on the importance of food is immense, with all of the health and concentration benefits that it can bring taken into account, as well as how it best reflects the culture, tradition and everything else that makes South Korea a premium desti-nation. This all became evident on a recent Korea Food Foundation FAM tour that took in some of the key production facilities for quality Korean produce, not to mention some of the finer res-taurants where this produce could be enjoyed as part of amazing dishes.The tour of Korean cuisine – or Hansik, as it is called – started off in the remote south-eastern corner of South Korea, closer to Japanese terri-tory than to Korean capital Seoul, but in a place of wild natural beauty where the gifts of Mother Nature constantly work their magic on the treas-ures of the earth. Jookjangyeon Farm, set amidst mountains and surrounded by orchards, is a place where the ultimate brain food, the soybean, is through a long fermentation and ageing process transformed from a simple, weak tasting bean to a rich, flavour-filled, premium sauce. With in-credible care and attention to detail the humble bean is subjected to a process of cleaning (with spring water drawn from hundreds of metres below the farm), boiling, pasting, fermenting, seasoning and finally ageing in hundreds of huge clay pots positioned to catch both the sun and the prevailing winds through the valley. The result? After anything from three months to a number of years (as per customer requirements), it is per-fection in a jar, and a perfection that is shared on the tables of MICE delegates. Travelling northwards from Jookjangyeon another spot also making the delicious soybean

based sauces is to be found at the Seoil Farm, an extra benefit of this one being that they have an established restaurant on site to taste their ex-cellent wares and with rambling gardens around the farm to be able to walk them off afterwards. Also, for those lucky enough to be granted such access – such as international journalists on a FAM tour – a special sitting with the farm’s pa-troness and tasting her range of amazing and traditionally prepared teas is a once in a lifetime experience.On the road between these two farms, should the journey be too taxing and the need to try out other foods raise its head, a stopover at the UNESCO World Heritage listed Hahoe village is an absolute must and a seriously recom-mendable incentive idea. Staying the night in a hanok (a traditional Korean house) at the his-toric Bukchondaek serves up accommodation that hasn’t change for centuries and sleeping on the floor of traditional Korean buildings with a centuries-old under-floor heating system is a re-markably intimate connection with the culture of the country. To prepare for a good night’s sleep, there is also the option to enjoy a tradi-tional meal at the nearby town of Andong’s tra-ditional Pungjeon restaurant, where an endless procession of fine Korean cuisine is brought ta-pas-style to tables that can also be reserved in private rooms. This would again all make part of an incredible incentive tripAfter a night steeped in history wedged between two immersive trips into Korean traditional cuisine, the fine dining back in the capital Seoul capped off everything that South Korea has to offer for its MICE industry. Whilst outside of

It has often been said that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and if a little bit of this wisdom is brought into the MICE industry it could become commonplace that the way to the heart of a successful meeting might also be through the food provided.

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Korea the food is mostly known for its Bibimbap, barbecue and its famous Kimchi, the range of cuisine available such as from the city’s re-nowned Sanchon restaurant, a Buddhist vegan menu that manages to stimulate all the taste buds and leave even the meat-needy satisfied, to the über-trendy Jungsikdang restaurant offering very high end modern Korean fare (and with a sister restaurant in New York city) leaves no pot, pan or stone unturned. And leaves no delegate wanting for a better culinary experience.In South East Europe and no less at Conventa itself some of the flavours of the region can also really be appreciated through the expert prepa-ration of local catering companies. South East Europe is a big area, however, with a lot of unique regions that all have their take on flavours and foods. There is a lot that can be learned from the Korean care and concern for ensuring that the best food can make the best events. Not to mention truly tasty events at the same time. South East Europe can join with South Korea in aiming to get to the heart of great events by making them titillate the taste buds just as much as the brain cells.

For International Delegates Email: [email protected]: (65) 6395 7575

For Chinese Delegates Email: [email protected]: (86-21) 3304 9999

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THE SECRET LIFE OF GRAND HOTEL UNION

Exclusive reportage from backstage of famous Ljubljana hotel

Hotel exterior, photo GH Union

grand hotel Union allowed us to look behind the scenes where the congress guests are usually not allowed. We found out what happens when technique brakes down, what’s going on behind the scenes of the reception and

who first come to work.......

A friendly receptionist on the main reception of the Grand Hotel Union directed one guest in one of the most famous restaurants in Ljubljana. In the

lobby was waiting for its first guests the one and only shoes cleaner. Lively team of congress organizers was preparing plan for its conference with the first morning coffee at the Aperitiv bar. Later we learned that they are guests which are starting the congress season in Ljubljana’s largest con-vention hotel with its conference. Consistency of railways schedules across Europe depends on their accuracy.

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The work in the kitchen of Grand Hotel Union has already begun at four o’clock in the morning. The kitchen works like a well oiled machine, where each knows what his assignment is. Chef

janez Dolšak is responsible for a team of 3 chefs who first begin with the preparation of bread, sausages and grilled dishes. More than half of bread is prepared in the kitchen. Work is progressing towards eight o’clock where the kitchen is joined by 30 chefs. Chef likes to take a walk to Ljubljana market place for shopping as well as for the inspiration for the creative dishes which he creates as a member of the Slovenian national culinary team. As he says there is always plenty of time for improvement and creativity in daily work, which he likes to test at competitions with his team. The quantity of food that is served in the kitchen is impressive. They prepare over 1.500 eggs for breakfast if they have a fully occupied hotel. Quite a few food stays and goes to biological processing.

Despite the reduction in congressional budget, chefs’ challenge is to prepare creative dishes from cheaper materials. Otherwise, the most popular is light food. There is increasingly less demand for meat and more and more for vegetables. Employees are eating in the hotel canteen. They try to have diverse food and adapted to the work they do. For Janez Dolšek, office work is the less pleasant work. Young people who are interested in this challenging and creative profession advises a lot of patience and diligence. As a specialty we can tell you a secret. In the team of chefs at Union is also a gynaecologist who changed his profession for the spoon of this legendary hotel.

Photo of the dish, photo GH Union

Janez Dolšak in action, photo GH Union

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A technical coordinator is in the hall at least one hour before your event. miha mramor worked for 6 years

as a technician as a student and success-fully completed his studies of multimedia. Each month he takes care for 100 events with his team. As he says, the biggest problem is failure of batteries, which sometimes causes that the microphone does not work. He says that customers appreciate if he is present throughout the event, as it creates a sense of security to organizers. Conference guests don’t have to worry if the power cuts, because in such cases they have a generator deep in the bowels of the hotel. Miha is currently the most proud of the latest HD project, which is the second one in Slovenia and provides truly superior projection. In addition, he says that the acoustic in the main Union hall is superb. It happened that organizers wanted ice in the hall but in the end this idea was not realized.

Picture of Miha Mramor, photo Kongres Magazine

Union hall, photo GH Union

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In the lobby of the hotel there is a special start-up story for the nostalgic guests. Anže Stare came up with the great

business idea at the time of his unemploy-ment. He set the elaborate chair for cleaning and shoe caring, as we remember from the old days and movies. The overall design of the chair is the result of local knowledge. As he says, this was the only thing that he could afford at the beginning of his career, plus he does not have competition in Slovenia. Quite a number of guests decides for this service, among them are dominating the foreigners. The price is from 4, 50 to 6 Euros and many guests say that the shoes look prettier than new. Anže wants to extend the service to other hotels from the Union group and he will also be happy if you invite him to your conference.

A detail of a chair for cleaning shoes, photo Kongres Magazine

Photo of Anže Star, photo Kongres Magazine

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When the sales team completes their work, there begins the work of reception. miran Erjavec is shift manager who himself

perform a lot of work before the guests even arrive. Night work is very important. It is necessary to prepare everything for the next day – review of the reserva-tions, the preparation of the material, so the next day everything goes smoothly. At larger arrival to the hotel, it is necessary to examine a lot of reservations and agreed prices. The basic rule in the work of the receptor is discretion, it is particularly necessary to pay attention to the specific request of guests, which recep-tion always strictly takes into account. Guests usually do not have any special requirements. It comes to usual stuff from washing cars to help with health problems. Mr. Miran says that in his long-standing practice it has not yet happened that he would not have an answer to any question.

Even before the guests find themselves in the hotel, for them takes care booking service led by Otto Škerbinc. Otto is among the oldest hotel staff because he was employed in 1979 in the former Holiday Inn hotel. He knows the hotel from head to toe since he began his career as a lift boy and in the meantime he performed the work of a master of bathing in secretariat. Since then, the hotel industry has changed fundamentally. Considerably more were walk-in guests, especially in times of fairs. Also the role of travel agencies has changed significantly. Otto believes in the positive combination of youth and experience in sales. Young people need to learn from our mistakes. Good hotel salesperson usually gets the business.

Photo of Otto Škerbinc, photo GH Union

Photo of uniforms, photo GH Union Photo of Miran Erjavec, photo Kongres Magazine

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The maids have a lot of work every day. Senada Zulić is the housekeeping supervisor. She usually cleans from 13 to 18 rooms per day. The cleaning process takes from 20 to 30 minutes. The most disturbing for her are late

departures when it’s running out of time to thoroughly clean up the room. It bothers her when guests hang the sign »do not disturb«. Otherwise, special sat-isfaction for her is when the room is ready for the guest, clean and nice scented. Guests frequently forget items for personal care and especially phone chargers. There are many unusual items. Once a guest forgot 100 Euros wrapped in news-paper. The maid did not notice the money, so she threw the newspaper in the trash. The money was however found between paper recycling and return it to the client. As an interesting anecdote she remembers an event that took place during the visit of American president Bill Clinton. After arrival at the hotel he dressed into sportswear. Somehow he escaped the strict security guards and went to see the exhibition in the hotel ground floor. In the meantime, the security searched around the hotel, but in the end they found him.

Traditional Heering FeastHeering Feast is traditional slovenian culinary exhibition. Already 88 years chefs in Grand Union Hall are preparing exhibition and tasting of fast culinary delights, always on Asw Wednesday, day after Mardi Gras. In 2014, this will already be 89th Traditional Heering Feast.

The most notable prizes won and titles of Janez Dolšak2002: GTZ Terme Čatež- culinary delights cate-gory A gold medal (Slovenian culinary represent-ative team) and preparation of art cuisine2002: Gast International culinary competition Salzburg – gold medal for preparing finger food,

gold medal for exhibition of cold cuisine and bronze medal for exhibition of artistic cuisine2005: Gast International culinary competition Salzburg – gold medal for exhibition of cold cuisine category A and acknowledgment for achieved points2006: Participation in competition of French Culinary Academy paris 2009: Participation in competition “Global Chef Challenge Portugal” 2012: Culinary Olympics IKA, as leader of na-tional culinary team silver medal for cooking menu category; acknowledgement for exhibition of culinary delights-total bronze medal

Famous guest at the hotel In over a hundred years of existence, the Grand Hotel Union significantly shape the political and social life in the capital and its wider region. In its rich history, the hotel has been witness to important events in it. In 1979, in GH Union stayed actor and director Orson Welles, in 1999 former U.S. President Bill Clinton and his wife, in 2002 the Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama, in 2008 Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. with her husband.

Photo of a hotel room, photo GH Union

Photo of Senada Zulić, photo GH Union

grAnd hotEl unIon spEcIAl

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OZREN KOVAČEVIĆSales Manager, Le Meridien Lav Split

1: Getting to know new people and cultures every day, finding out what makes them special and unique!

2: It would be much easier to know many more foreign languages. The best way to connect is still through direct contact in the lan-guage of your client.

3: What was your best idea last year? The idea was started in 2012 but it came alive in 2013, it was the birth of my new son in February 2013!

4: It was the Yamaha Rev Your Heart MT-09 launch by Ant-Production in Summer 2013 held at Le Meridien Lav Split.

LISA WINKLERDesign Center Linz/Tourism Board Linz

1: Getting in touch with new and interesting people and the fact that I can support the customers with the event planning.

2: Everything is fine - I like a challenging job!

3: To participate in the Linzer Marathon with my company.

4: Graduation ceremony of my Academy for Marketing & Management.

LUKA OCVIRKHotel Cubo

1: Planning an event.

2: Even better technical support.

3: To add a new conference hall in our offer.4: New Year’s Eve dinner at the hotel.

EDITH mADERManager, Convention Bureau Niederösterreich

1: To meet interesting people and telling them about the wonderful places and event-loca-tions in Lower Austria.

2: A good time management between our pro-motion tours within and without Austria.

3: A business evening in Bratislava for custom-ers, with the presentation of our partners in an exclusive ambiance.

4: The business lunches in Germany where we combined cooking and networking with clients.

mILOŠ mILOVANOVIČCeo, Serbia Convention Bureau

1: Meeting with nice people and working in the international environment.

2: More money for some activities.

3: To take fa ew days off and spend it with family.

4: EXIT Festival 2004, Architecture Biennale Venice 2006, ICCA Congress 2007.

mATIC VOZLIČService Manager, Plaza Hotel

1: Best part of my job is to meet new people, every single event is a special one.

2: I think if you are organised enough there is no problem to make it easier, and of course with the help of your colleagues. Team power is very important.

3: To start with some live concerts in our hotel.4: Live streaming of operation in our hotel

and UKC Ljubljana, a special congress.

WHO IS WHO AT CONVENTA

1. What is the best part of your job?

2. What would make your job easier?

3. What was your best idea last year?

4. The most memorable event for you?

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SANjA TEŠANOVIĆDirector Of Sales, Austria Trend Hotel Ljubljana

1: Meeting new people and learning some-thing new every day.

2: Having more regular meetings with MICE representatives (from the same region), so we could share our experiences.

3: Special site inspection for Conventa hosted buyers which will be even more special in 2014.

4: Thematic (Casino Royale – James Bond) New Year’s Party organised by our hotel for one of our clients.

TADEjA mARINKOVIĆCorporate And Meetings Manager, City Hotel Ljubljana

1: The best part of my job is that I have plenty of reasons to smile on a daily basis. I meet so many kind people who are able to return the smiles back.

2: My job would be much easier if ALL the people would feel the passion and enthusi-asm to fulfill their obligations, or even do something MORE. We have plenty of tools available nowadays, but people are getting more and more dissatisfied, empty and even angry. Without those, my job would be easier.

3: My best idea was not to do some things.

4: The most memorable event for me was the organisation of a continuous 48-hour event in one of the venues I was working as an Event Manager. A very unusual and chal-lenging thing to do.

NUŠA ŠOLAREvent Manager, Union Hotels

1: Since I was a child I always had to organise different things and was keen to meet new people and so congress manager is definite-ly a dream job for me.

2: In a perfect world everyone would choose our destination and our hotel.

3: Actually not many business ideas, since I was on maternity leave and I’m glad to be back at work for new great ideas.

4: Last Conventa reception I attended in Grand hotel Union, since it’s a perfect venue for different kinds of events.

mOjCA VIDICSales Manager - Conference, Union Hotels - Hotel Lev

1: Interaction and communication, it’s a lot of fun to work with people and have the op-portunity to get to know people and learn something new.

2: When every client would know exactly what they want. J I have had the opportunity to receive and prepare the offer for Apple Inc. and I can tell you they really have a vision and strategy for everything. You can find out from their request exactly how they want it to be.

3: There have been several best ideas in 2013.

4: A kitchen party event we organised last year. It was a conference and networking party afterwards in the kitchen for secre-taries of the biggest Slovenian companies. The ladies were surprised by our kitchen, how young a team we have and how the process of work is totally different from that at home. The event was scheduled to be over, but they could not leave the kitchen J

RONALD KVARANTANArea Sales Manager, Istrabenz Turizem dd, Lifeclass Hotels & Spa

1: The look on the face of the satisfied client at the end of an event.

2: To erase the economic crisis would make my job much easier.

3: The dinner in Ljubljana Castle was a great success and the Italian chapter of the Goldwell company was thrilled with the

idea, so I suppose it can be considered as one of my best ideas in the last year.

4: The congress of the Italian company Tricologia in February 2013

BRANKA BANjANINProgram Executive Officer, Subotica / Lake Palic Destination

1: The best part of my job is that it is a creative one and that there’s no such thing as a typical day. After ten years in business I love my job.

2: A bigger staff would surely make my job easier. There are a lot of things to do but only few people to do it.

3: I cannot choose one best idea. Every single day is compiled of different bigger or smaller ideas. Sometimes, one big idea doesn’t bring big results. Usually, a bunch of small ideas brings constant results.

4: The most memorable event last year was the Subotica Tourism Organisation Annual Tourism Award ceremony, when all the ac-tivities and the accomplishments of our or-ganisation were listed – and it was not a short list. These accomplishments were achieved through team work and the best “players” were awarded on this occasion. It was very nice.

NATAŠA ANDLOVECMarketing Manager, Bohinj Park Eco Hotel

1: People.

2: Flexibility.

3: To go on vacation J

4: Continental - global press conference for bicycle tires.

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TATjANA HUmARManager, Tourist Board Sotočje – Soča Valley

1: What I enjoy most about my work is seeing happy and enthusiastic visitors, who come back to me, thank me for my kindness, pro-fessionalism and help with organising un-forgettable experiences for them.

2: For those who create the destiny of our ac-tivities to listen to and better understand our needs and support the ideas and devel-opment of the sector of tourism.

3: The implementation of a new gastronomic event in Kobarid – “Festival štrukljev in krapcev” (Festival of štruklji and krapci), where tradition and new trends meet and merge.

4: Outdoor Show Kobarid – a presentation of sports activities, competitions, entertain-ment etc. All in all, it was an unforgettable mix of positive energy, active life-style, nature and fun.

DEjAN HOjNIKMice Manager, Terme Olimia

1: The best part of my job is absolutely diver-sity, because every event is different and so every single day is different. You get the most of it when you work in the MICE de-partment – from being on the road in foreign countries and then on the other hand man-aging the events on the location. It’s the perfect balance.

2: Another pair of hands. J No, seriously sometimes you need to do everything in one day and most of the time it seems impossi-ble, so it would be great if I could get some help. If I think it through it would be great if my office would be closer to my home, because I am driving about one hour every day to get there.

3: I had some great ideas for team building and incentive groups last year. So you need to send me an inquiry and you will see.

4: The most memorable event last year was

Days of Slovenian Tourism, which took place right here at Terme Olimia.

KRISTINA jURjEVECMarketing Manager, Sora Catering

1: Our team of co-workers. I love stepping into the office each morning and seeing their smiley faces. My second favourite is the making of our food creations’ photo galler-ies. Imagine why …

2: If days would have more than just 24 hours J

3: Actually we jointly create ideas in our company. We sit together when an idea pops up and implement it together.

4: The most memorable event for you? There have been several in the last year. But being the official caterer at EuroBasket 2013 still tops them all.

ALExANDRA YANKULOVASales Executive MICE, Hilton Sofia

1: The best part of my job is the dynamic envi-ronment I work in and the contact with dif-ferent people and characters. I love the challenges that the job brings on a daily basis and the inevitable lessons I learn from each and every occasion.

2: My job would be easier if there was better support from the state organisations and the Government to promote our destination.

3: My best idea was to sign up for Conventa 2014 J

4: Personally, the most memorable event from last year was my nomination and participa-tion in a Top Talent event held in Prague where people with exceptional perfor-mance and ideas were gathered to form a pool of “talents” with the aim to support the rapidly developing Hilton chain in our region.





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KONSTANTIN YONCHEVDirector Of Sales, Athenee Palace Hilton Bucharest

1: The dynamics! Travelling around, meeting interesting people, different situations and challenges!

2: A convention bureau plus clear and targeted promotion policy at national level in Romania, especially when it comes to mice.

3: Moving to Bucharest to join the team of a true landmark property. This was and con-tinues to be the place to create the history of Bucharest and Romania over a century!

4: This is going to be the 100th anniversary of Athénée Palace Hilton this year! We shall organise & take part in a series of events in the hotel and in Bucharest to mark this special year.

jELENA PETKOVIĆProject Manager, iDMC Ltd

1: For me the best part of the job is at the end of the event, when all the participants go home happy, safe and full of new experienc-es. It’s when the client is happy with our work and after we overcame all the chal-lenges of the project. And then I can hardly wait for the next one!

2: Sometimes I think it would help if there was more time for planning.

3: Idea 145 ;)

4: In 2013 this was definitely our Garden party of Slovenian MICE that we organ-ised in Moscow for our partners and clients. It really was a memorable party as we even had a football group of artists that sang for us!

mAjA VIDERGARMarketing Projects Manager, Cankarjev Dom, CD Congress Centre Ljubljana

1: That nothing is the same and that every day brings something new.

2: Understanding clients and willing partners as well as Murphy’s Law proven wrong.

3: To actually start listening and hearing what people are trying to tell you.

4: Attending the shooting of the promotional film on Cankarjev dom Congress Centre with a helicopter camera. My my, what shots and what halls those are.

GERNOT mARx,Deputy ManagerSalzburg Convention Bureau

1: It’s the intermediary part of my job between the clients and the suppliers as we work un-biased and free of charge for our clients. The fact to think out of the box for every event and come up with creative ideas makes my job so interesting.

2: It would be easier when corporate events would be planned on a long term basis. Clients would gain better terms and condi-tions from suppliers and it would make them more flexible. However, we profit from a great market share in Salzburg and still hold the second place in the Meeting Industry Report Austria, after Vienna.

3: There have been so many ideas we realised, but one of them might be our new website and digital communications. We have been aiming to provide in depth destination and supplier information, but also simple venue finding solutions. Client feedback shows that we’ve done a great job.

4: Our 10th anniversary events in 2013 are my personal favourite. We invited clients in dif-ferent European destinations to participate at typical Salzburg cooking classes with award winning chefs, rented a brewery and an après ski location in the centre of London. We managed to show the hospitality and uniqueness of Salzburg and our services.

URŠKA KIKOVIĆSales Assistant, Postojnska Jama, d.d.

1: The best part of my job is organising a wide variety of different events while meeting new people. We have many various offers and we always try to adapt to clients’ diverse wishes.

2: If clients would respect all the arrange-ments regarding an event, this would make my job easier. I would add also joint mar-keting activities with companies and or-ganisations that deal with business events.

3: Last year we have developed a new product – an adrenaline underground adventure ‘’Following in the footsteps of Luka Čeč’’ which is the embodiment of experiencing and getting to know Postojna Cave in a dif-ferent way, outside of the usual tourist trails. The adventure helps participants become familiar with the compelling story of this underground world, mainly in rela-tion to the first steps ever taken inside the Postojna Cave.

4: The most memorable event for us was the official Draw of EuroBakset 2013 which took place underground – in the Postojna Cave Concert Hall. The unique settings of the Postojna Cave provided the back-ground as the Draw of EuroBasket 2013 marked the start of the official countdown to Europe’s premier basketball event. Over 600 guests attended the ceremony in the world-famous tourist attraction, including delegates of the 24 participating teams, special guests and 150 accredited media.

DAVOR BRUKETABruketa & Žinić OM

1: We work on something different every day. We solve our clients’ challenges with mar-keting communicati ons. Those challenges can be very different. It’s up to us to find an efficient solution that can do the job with minimum expenses. Sometimes the good

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old print ad or a web banner will do it, but much more often it is some unusual forms. Sometimes it’s enough to do a small perfor-mance to intrigue the media and the public through social platforms. We did all sorts of projects: from large conferences to books that glow in the dark.

2: A good question is half the answer. The more our task is clearer and focused, the more efficient is the solution and its results. Many times our challenge is that the adver-tiser wants to say too much at once, and per-ception is built step by step.

3: Last year we really did various things and it’s difficult to single out one project. This resulted with the American magazine Advertising Age pronouncing us the Best International Small Agency in 2013. We are not part of any global agency networks, we’re independent, so this was a great rec-ognition for us.

4: Events don’t need to be expensive and large to be memorable. We received an offer to exhibit our projects in Mestrovic’s Pavilion in Zagreb. Instead of displaying our pro-jects, since they can all be viewed on the agency web page, we decided instead to display the interest that these projects aroused. We exhibited all those people who were intrigued by the agency’s work to date and who came to view the exhibition. The photo of each visitor was displayed on a large circular projection on the walls of the gallery as well as on a special microsite and on huge displays on city squares. All photos were saved on the microsite and could be shared on social networks. Instead of staying in an introverted gallery space, we came out where there’s a lot of people – on the streets and social networks, all with a relatively small budget. http://bruketa-zinic.com/2012/04/12/biz-exhibit/

NATAŠA mIHAjLOVIĆ Sales&Marketing, Terme Čatež

1: Travelling and meeting new people.

2: I enjoy my job, it is very exciting and gives me many opportunities and possibilities for my career promotion.

3: The organisation of the team building event for my colleagues, which resulted in higher productivity.

4: Organisation of a big event for charity purposes.

jASNA jAŠIČProtocol Event Manager, JGZ Brdo - Brdo Estate

1: The stunning natu ral setting of Brdo that makes me feel like a delighted visi tor each and every time I come to work.

2: A fully functioning time machine.

3: Bringing the classes of acclaimed fitness instructor Alenka Košir to Brdo, where they are organised outdoors in the summer and indoors in the winter.

4: One involving a smaller corporate group of 25 persons who visited us for a 3-day cluster meeting within the framework of our MICE offer. We prepared an exciting teambuilding program that featured photo hunting on the Brdo hunting grounds, an entertaining cu-linary showdown, a fish-smoking course in our log cabins, and a wine tasting dinner in the spirit of the ancient Zois family.

ANDREA LEITNERManaging Director, Carinthia Convention

1: The best part of my job is the product I am allowed to sell. Carinthia (Koroska) is such a beautiful region and has so much to offer. Every time it is a real pleasure experiencing what you are able to do in Carinthia.

2: If we, the Convention bureau, would have more possibilities to present Carinthia to our guests and clients.

3: The best idea we had was to change our mo-tivation. Sustainability is our major goal for business and our motto. We are official holder of the Austrian Environment license, therefore we are allowed to certify events with a green meeting label.

4: ATB Experience – a brand new format of the Austrian Tourism Board that took place in Villach, Carinthia. Over 150 international guests were able to experience Carinthia during 10 totally different adventures. Being the main organiser it made me really proud organising such an event in Carinthia.





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http://bruketa-zinic.com/2012/04/12/biz-exhibit/

http://bruketa-zinic.com/2012/04/12/biz-exhibit/

KERSTIN FRITZSales & Marketing Manager, Congress Centre Villach

1: The best part of my job is the very cool feeling to represent the biggest and most flexible event location in Carinthia.

2: When European people already know that there is a great congress destination – VILLACH - crossing three interesting countries.

3: We created our new innovative banquet folder – with new culinary ideas like “green meeting packages”.

4: “Innovationskongress 2013” – the biggest congress of innovation in Europe, with more than 1,000 participants from all over the world.

KARIN OBKIRCHERMarketing & Sales Assistant, Casino Velden/Casinos Austria

1: To organise so many different events and to communicate with so many different compa-nies and customers.

2: Less bureaucracy – more creativity.

3: To organise the first casinoball in spring 2014, because we will celebrate the 25th an-niversary of the casino in Velden.

4: The white nights on 26th of July with dif-ferent DJs, live acts, white dinner and thou-sands of people dressed in white.

KAROLIN STRUGERSales Manager, Seepark Hotel Congress and SPA

1: The constant interaction with colleagues and partners is very important ... and in my job this is possible daily. You have the op-

portunity to meet new interesting people and to have new experiences every day ... Conclusion: no day is like another ... and that’s the exciting and fun part of my job.

2: The international exchange should be sim-plified in my opinion. The job was not sup-posed to be easy, otherwise it is no longer a challenge. And challenges completed posi-tively push us and motivate us to continue.

3: I would not say that one idea is emphasised here, but that the totality of the implement-ed ideas speak for themselves. The Seepark Hotel has undergone a conversion of 100% in 2013 ... new website, newly launched rate structure, strong presence at trade shows, workshops and sales trips.

4: Last year I experienced many fascinating moments ... one of them was certainly Conventa 2013 ... one of the best organised trade fairs in the calendar. But also the in-house events and the events in Klagenfurt were unique ... Ironman Austria, Woman’s night Luxury or Beach Volleyball Championship ... because all these events took place in front of the Seepark Hotel in Klagenfurt.

ERNAD jAKUPOVIĆSales & Event Manager, Hotel Radon Plaza Sarajevo BIH

1: The best part of my job is that I am fortunate enough to have the opportunity to meet new people and to consistently work on new pro-jects and challenges.

2: My job would be made easier with more ef-fective communication between staff members and team work. Also, staff profes-sionalism and decisiveness among staff to perform to the best of their abilities and a willingness to further educate themselves.

3: My best idea last year was to sign over 300 corporate contracts with various companies so that we as a hotel can focus on being a great business destination and provide our business clients the best possible services.

4: We had many successful events last year and our goal is to provide the same attention to all our clients. No matter what their budget is, we believe that each client is to be treated like a king.

ANjA BAUER mINKARASenior Brand Consultant, Brandoctor

1: The part that makes me in love with this job is the combination between the fun and cre-ative with the complex and rational. It’s so challenging to think of great ways to create a brand that is memorable and inspiring to consumers. The best part is to be your own judge – to see if what you did would inspire you or people that you find inspiring.

2: If I took it less seriously, but then I would leave this job.

3: The one I hold dear is the project that we did for a humanitarian aid organisation that is still in the implementation process. The one project I am most proud of is Stina wine re-branding – because we made a huge change for this brand despite the lack of money for communication.

4: If we are talking about work then it is being rewarded by Rebrand100 for 6 years in a row. This means that Brandoctor was awarded amidst fierce international compe-tition (against brands such as Starbucks or Audi) - this makes us feel good, as our clients don’t have as much money as our in-ternational competitors. Thus, we feel con-fident that bigger international brands will come knocking on our door.

ANDREA SAjBENSteiermark Convention

1: I feel motivated because my job is really rich in variety. There is a good balan ce betwe en business trips and appointments in the office. I also enjoy meeting new contacts from all over the world as well as regular partners.

2: It would be easier if destination-marketing could be more measurable. We always try to evaluate the success of our projects in coop-eration with our partners as good as possi-ble, but we exactly know that there would be enough room for improvement.

Who is Who

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3: I’m particularly pleased by the way Steiermark Convention has set standards for the presentation at workshops and exhi-bitions. It means that all of them developed a special product in cooperation with re-gional producers. We are proud to represent Styria as a high quality destination with delicious culinary and wine through inter-active highlights like cooking workshops. This also gives rise to our slogan “Making Meetings a delight”.

4: The Congress Award 2013 in Graz: it honours organisers of scientific, business and NPO conferences and meetings who act as ambassadors of the city at local, national and international levels by holding their events in Graz. I also love the Congress Graz, which is a very special and unique lo-cation for this event.

PETRA TOLjAMeetings & Incentives Manager, Kompas d.d.

1: Certainly the best part is the end of every event. I am always nervously waiting for the organisers feedback. After each positive mail I receive I immediately forget all the sleepless nights and problems we might have had. So, satisfaction of the clients make it all worth it.

2: 28 hours instead of 24 and longer deadlines.

3: Accepting an event I was quite skeptical about and in the end it was a pure success.

4: ISU 2013 – stereoscopic world congress. Having 3D photographers for a week in Slovenia enjoying all of the beauty that Slovenia has to offer.

THOmAS STRANNERWerzers Hotels am Wörthersee

1: The best part of my job is: I do a lot of sales and also I have a lot of contact with our hotel guests because I am working in the front and back office in our hotel company.

2: My job would be easier if we had more than 365 days a year, so I can divide my work.

3: My best idea was an excellent event in our new Werzers Bathhouse and also a lot of new modernising things in our hotel group.

4: There are more than one, but it was my first big moderation for an great event in 2013.

mICHAEL KRALDirector Of Global Sales, Vi Hotels & Resorts

1: Selling our beautiful properties and desti-nations as well as staying in contact with MICE industry professionals and work ac-tively developing this segment for our company.

2: More qualified MICE platforms and events. A lot of MICE events & forums are popping up at the moment. It’s getting more chal-lenging to find the right place to be and to meet the right contact persons.

3: A lot of ideas and new things were coming up last year, it’s tough to nominate the best one. If I have to I would say it was a great & successful idea to implement new global strategies and global contracting during the last year for our key accounts for all our hotels; we act in a global way but also we worked very closely with our local hotels. A successful season was our result.

4: ITB Party 2012 at the Andel’s Berlin - our biggest VI property. We were celebrating the 3rd anniversary of the hotel as well as presenting the new strategies of VI Hotels & resorts. It was an amazing celebration with over 1,000 guests.





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CVETLI»ARNA GALERIJAFLOWER SHOP GALLERY

MARJAN LOV©IN

Prešernova 10a, 1000 Ljubljana, t.: +386 1 426 04 05, f.: +386 1 426 04 03, e: [email protected]

Na vsakem dogodku najbolj cvetoËi! We’re in full blossom at every event!

Advertorial

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CONVENTIONS, CORPORATE mEETINGS AND EVENTS WITH KIRA TRAVEL DESTINATION mANAGEmENT

We are a company of trusted, passionate travel specialists who create custom-ized events with highest standards of

service and comfort. Kira Travel Destination Management encom-passes all aspects of your conference and event: planning, designing, managing,budgeting and organizing.We pay close attention to your and your clients needs, assist you in creating a lasting impres-sion and provide a complete range of services to achieve your company goals.From the original concept right through the design, building and application, we can handle it all with flair and originality - leaving a lasting impression for all the right reasons.For: Product Launches & Grand Openings, Corporate Social Outings , Themed Events, Interactive and Team Building Programs, we source and coordinate local services - from ac-commodation, transportation, social programs and events management and create a wide range of programs to suit your’ clients special interests.

We are independent agency, who are large enough to compete but small enough to care and we’ll take the best care of you and your clients.Just leave it up to our unique network, and we will give your event a place and a shape.

Quick, flexible and creative!

Never-ending Commitment to the Perfect Event.Kira Travel, Croatiawww.kiratravel.com Sales inquiry: [email protected]

CONVENTIONS, CORPORATE mEETINGS AND EVENTS WITH KIRA TRAVEL DESTINATION mANAGEmENT

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Print OTOCI - RAB 210x297+3 v3 cor.pdf 1 17. 01. 14 10:35

Think out of the box. Surprise your clients. Exceed your goals. THINK BLUE.

[email protected]

www.joannes.si

[email protected]

www.aegeanair.com AW

A R D S 2 0 13

Best RegionalAirline Europe 2013

Go from grey days into gold…that’s the magic of Aegean

13156_Aegean_Kongrea_Ad.indd 3 13/01/2014 15:59

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AUSTRIA TREND HOTEL LjUBLjANA

No wonder that Austria Trend Hotel Ljubljana is known as the prime address for elegant lodging in Ljubljana! Our

hotel awaits you with all the amenities you would except from a modern high-end hotel: an inspir-ing atmosphere, exclusive comfort, state-of-the-art facilities, stunning design, elegant details, professional service, international flair and the most spacious hotel rooms in Ljubljana (meas-uring from 30 m² minimum to 160 m²)! And let us not forget about the spacious wellness area and our highly professional conference service.

A true highlight of our hotel is the perfect lo-cation! The main attractions and the Ljubljana city centre can easily be reached by public trans-port. The Old Town, the Convention Centre, the Faculty of Economics, the BTC shopping centre, the Krvavec skiing resort, several golf courses and Center Stozice are situated in the vicinity of the hotel as well.

meetings at the highest levelAt the Hotel Ljubljana we offer eight extraor-dinary conference rooms on a total area of 830 m², suitable for any kind of event – ranging from smaller meetings, over conferences with up to 600 guests. Video conferences are available. All our conference rooms feature state-of-the-art facilities and many technological highlights such as electronic flipcharts.

rEstAurAnt & bAr – a gourmet paradiseWe look forward to treat you with an unfor-gettable culinary experience, both in our res-taurant and our bar, where we offer delicious domestic specialities and exciting international favourites. Wine and dine in a truly pleasant atmosphere!Start your day with a powerful breakfast in our restaurant. Taste our fresh rolls and other deli-cacy and enrich your day with the vitamins from a variety of fresh fruit cuts.

wellness & beautyWelcome to the oasis of harmony for body and soul. A place where time stands still and where you can forget the world around you. With its oriental and peaceful atmosphere the “Sense Wellness Club” is perfect to relax and unwind and offers a unique combination of massage treatments from Thailand and the Philippines. Aromatic oils, warm herbs and various oriental treatments round off our offer. In addition, we offer a Hammam, a Finnish sauna, a bio sauna, a whirlpool, a relaxation room as well as a VIP area where couples can enjoy treatments togeth-er in a relaxed atmosphere.

BEST WESTERN PREmIER

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BEST WESTERN PREMIER Hotel Slon is located in the most central area of Slovenia’s beautiful capital city and cele-

brates more than 460 years of tradition in hos-pitality. It is only a few steps away from the old city core, Ljubljana castle and all the main city sights, as well as the city’s government and fi-nancial district.

Whether you are planning a board meeting, conference or celebration, we can arrange un-forgettable event for you. A versatile array of five congress halls provides accessible and flexible conferencing for up to 250 participants. Our dedicated and experienced team helps you co-ordinate every detail – from arranging transfers to helping you design a signature event, includ-ing additional activities for your guests to enjoy during their stay at the hotel. Our award-win-ning culinary team will inspire your guests with a customized menu designed for your celebration.

The luxury 4-star superior hotel offers 168 comfortable and well-appointed rooms with all the modern facilities and amenities that a business guest comes to expect. The hotel offer includes an in-house Fitness&Spa, with state of the art Fitness room open 24/7, equipped with

Technogym machines and relaxing saunas. Hotel also offers massage studio with generous choice of 9 different Thai massage treatments to unwind, relax and escape the daily stress.

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GR – LjUBLjANA ExHIBITION AND CONVENTION CENTREA perfect fit for international congresses

GR as a typical example of modern func-tionalist architecture has always been a tempting location for international con-

gresses. In 1955 it was originally built for the purpose of the 7th Congress of the Communist Party of Yugoslavia. Later on, in 1964, the XVth International Congress of Applied Psychology was held there as the first international scientif-ic event of that kind in former Yugoslavia. 1200 delegates from 33 countries participated in the congress. And the GR calendar for 2014 looks promising, too: Slovenia, its capital Ljubljana and the GR will obviously be a perfect fit for many international congresses.

40th worldwIdE scout confErEncEFrom 11 to 15 August 2014, the GR will host 40th Worldwide Scout Conference. This is the meeting of the leadership of 160 scout organiza-tions which is held every three years; the dele-gates pass programme guidelines for the whole world. 800 delegates from around the globe will participate in the conference.

14th congrEss EAAE From 26 to 29 August 2014, the 14th congress EAAE, which is held every three years in one of European countries, will take place at the GR. The main topic of the congress will be to estab-lish the dialogue between the subjects of power and scientists in the development of agriculture.

AbtA Between 22 and 23 September 2014, the yearly conference ABTA will take place at the GR. In the main meeting of the biggest British tourist association, about 600 managers from tourist organizations in Great Britain will participate, as well as 25 journalists from leading Great Britain professional and general media cover-ing tourism, who will be present before, at and after the event.

GR – Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre is the leading events centre in Slovenia comprising 20 multifunctional halls that occupy a surface area of 12,323 square metres, which are complemented by 8,844 square metres of ex-ternal exhibition space. It has great flexibility

and offers a truly first class range of facilities. The function rooms, providing a high degree of versatility, can be arranged to welcome any kind of meeting from 15 to 4,000 participants. The location within the city and the option of having an open area exhibition and convention centre rather than a regular building are definitely its advantages making it a perfect venue for con-gresses with exhibition for 1500 participants.

8th A. Menarini Diagnostics International Diabetes Nurses Conference, Marmorna Hall, 31 May 2012

dt-kongres.indd 1 27.2.2012. 11:25

SERIOUS about

MICE, hosting more

than 350 events/year

Re� ection of diversity for

meetings & events with character

[email protected] www.sava-hotels-resorts.comSava Turizem d.d., Dunajska cesta 152, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenija

RESPONSIBLE

about nature

CARING about relations

FOCUSED aboud what

we deliver

MICE- revija Kongres_cover_0110 13.indd 1 10/1/2013 2:53:49 PM

SERIOUS about

MICE, hosting more

than 350 events/year

Re� ection of diversity for

meetings & events with character

[email protected] www.sava-hotels-resorts.comSava Turizem d.d., Dunajska cesta 152, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenija

RESPONSIBLE

about nature

CARING about relations

FOCUSED aboud what

we deliver

MICE- revija Kongres_cover_0110 13.indd 1 10/1/2013 2:53:49 PM

Beyond the app

Make your eventsMEMORABLE

✃

KONGRES - EDITORIAL CALENDAR TOPICS AND DATES

convEntA dAIly January 2014

convEntA dAIly 1 - 2 Daily newspaper, which will be released during the Conventa trade show and which brings to exhibitors and invited guests daily news from Conventa.Space close: 13.12.2013 materials due: 20.12.2013Delivery: 22. - 23.01.2014

spEcIAl IssuE January 2014

convEntA 2014 Special edition, published as a catalogue of Conventa together with extensive destination presentations and presentations of participat-ing partners. In terms of content this is the most comprehensive overview of the meetings industry in the region of Southeast Europe.Space close: 13.12.2013 materials due: 20.12.2013Delivery: 22. - 23.01.2014

srIng IssuE March 2014

In Focus: EnErgy The uniqueness of your event is based on energy. The event can be quickly estimated as successful if it was just executed well and in line with the objectives. Effective are only a few events, which are the ones in which the flow of atomic congress energy is present, where par-ticipants become a part of the energy. In the spring issue we will highlight all the meetings industry topics related to energy.

Themed supplement: KONGRES GOURmET 2014Space close: 14.02.2014 materials due: 21.02.2014Delivery: 28.03.2014

spEcIAl IssuE May 2014

mEEtologuE 2014 In Kongres magazine we have been publishing since 2010 CONGRESS TRAVELOGUES, which were renamed mEETOLOGUES. International Congress buyers thus discover little-known European convention destinations. All existing travelogues of the NEW EUROPE will be issued in a special issue of Kongres magazine, which will be released prior to IMEX trade show. With high-quality editorial content, travelogues com-pletely replace the tedious and irrelevant cata-logues of meetings suppliers. Digital versions of MEETOLOGUES are currently the most read sections of the Kongres magazine.Space close: 11.04.2014materials due: 18.04.2014 Delivery: 16.05.2014

summEr 2014 July 2014

In Focus: EngAgEmEntFuture of meetings industry depends on un-derstanding the needs of new generations of congress participants who are looking for new different experiences. In the summer issue, we will explore what triggers positive experienc-es. To do this we must first build well, if we build events on authenticity, there is a good chance that we will initiate positive emotional reactions. We will present to you a few stories that are true, verifiable and relevant.

Themed supplement:ADVENTURE PARKS 2014 OUTDOOR VENUES 2014 Space close: 20.06.2014 materials due: 27.06.2014Delivery: 25.07.2014

fAll 2014 September 2014

In Focus: “EdutAInmEnt”We live in a period of edutainment, where con-nection of educational content with entertain-ment has become a vital component of events. We will discuss how to use technology at your events for greater interactivity, what kind of innovations are offered on the market. We will re-open the dilemma of whether technology can replace personal contact.

Themed supplement: INNOVATIVE PEOPLE & EVENTSSpace close: 22.08.2014 materials due: 29.08.2014 Delivery: 19.09.2014

wIntEr 2014 November 2014

In Focus: EntErtAInmEnt Meetings industry is characterized by a mixture of professional and fun motive, but certainly the most important thing is companionship in their profession and communities. What are the trends, innovations, and what are the examples of good practice will be revealed in the last issue in 2014. Moreover, as an integral part of the magazine we will present a whole series of new ideas for organization of congress parties.

Themed supplement: KONGRES WAW - WINES AND WINERIES 2014, KONGRES HOLIDAY & PARTY GUIDESpace close: 18.10.2014 materials due: 25.10.2014 Delivery: 15.11.2014

Kongres Magazine is far from being just a mag-azine. It is the only provider of integrated con-gress marketing communications, with which you can make effective dialogue with congress customers. Because we know what congress customers really need and how to ensure their long-term loyalty, we can make above-average, high-quality, relevant, independent, in-depth and interesting congress stories. In 2013 they will dedicate to you and your customers even more.

Published 6 times per year

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LjUBLjANA UPDATE

LjUBLjANA CASTLE TO BE REFRESHED BY SPRING 2014

The Ljubljana Castle, which towers above the Old Town, is one of the prime special events venues in the Slovenian capital. Back in 1979, the extensive renovation of this historic building started in the

M Wing, right where the works are approaching the final stage. This section of the castle has welcomed many visitors in the past for a special reason, as it housed until recently the Blue and White halls, better known as the Wedding halls. More than 30 years of use and over 700 weddings a year were a good reason enough for a makeover. The renovation works are due to be completed in March 2014 and will transform the two halls, henceforth named Red and Blue, into a versa-tile and even more appealing function space. The solemn elements of this castle wing will be softly intertwined with its architectural her-itage, light and freshness of the colours. The premises will open up to the courtyard and therefore emphasise the historical environment of the Ljubljana Castle.

www.ljubljanskigrad.si

mORE COmFORT AT CD CONGRESS CENTRE LjUBLjANA

CD Congress Centre Ljubljana has skipped a proper summer break again as, for the past few years, the venue has been under-

going an extensive gradual renovation, techno-logical upgrading and maintenance works in the warmest months. Bearing the comfort of visitors in mind, the seats in the two largest auditoria - Gallus and Linhart halls - have been replaced, with a thor-ough refurbishment that took place alongside. Gallus Hall (1,545 fixed seats) is set to start the forthcoming season shining in a new splen-dour. The parquet floor in the stalls, as well as the dress and upper circles, have been sanded, the marble walls polished, and the new seats

installed. The overhaul of Linhart Hall (562 seats) has been even more extensive. The walls are now repainted, the stage portal renovated, conduit pipes and electrical installation re-placed, equipment upgraded, the latest ventila-tion and air-conditioning system built in and an advanced lighting system installed. The highly comfortable new seats were the final touch. The value of this year’s investment is two million Euros.Other details of the makeover comprise im-proved elevator access to the panoramic, top-floor CD Club, as well as the refurbished CD Information Centre and Box Office. The con-struction works have been concluded by the

end of August as scheduled, right on time for the busy autumn congresses and events season, which has also featured the Congress of the Paediatric Rheumatology European Society (PReS) with 1,000 delegates – this year the largest in Ljubljana. The Centre’s recent genesis, to be continued next year with the construction of additional breakout rooms, will certainly be appreciated by the foreign and local public, whose total number in just over 30 years of operations has reached as many as 15 million visitors / delegates.

www.cd-cc.si

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http://www.ljubljanskigrad.si

http://www.cd-cc.si

CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS IN 2013 AND 2014

Ljubljana’s congress calendar features a number of scientific and expert meetings of regional, European and international rele-vance. Among the ones taking place in 2013 the two largest were:

5th Conference of the European Survey Research Association – ESRA (Faculty of Social Sciences, 600 delegates) and the Congress of the Paediatric Rheumatology European Society – PReS (CD Congress Centre Ljubljana, 1,000 delegates). The highlights in 2014 are to be: World Psychiatric Association – WPA Regional meeting 2014 (CD Congress Centre Ljubljana, 1,000 delegates), 40th World Scout Conference – WOSm (GR - Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre, 1,500 delegates) and the 14th Congress of the European Association of Agricultural Economists – EAAE (also the GR, 800 delegates).

www.visitljubljana.com/meetings

The Roman Goddess of the night, Nox, brings a breeze of fresh air to the Ljubljana boutique hotels portfolio.Ljubljana’s latest hotel offer has been enriched this September by

Nox, another trendy property in the design line, which already seduces travellers by its refined style, modern comfort and aesthetic luxury. The prime concept of this 4-star boutique hotel is to perfectly blend business and pleasure through an original approach aiming to create an experien-tial showcase of the “made in Slovenia” hotel interior design. What distinguishes Nox from other hotels is its interior decoration. Each of the 24 rooms is unique in design and character and guests can choose the one that suits their taste best when booking. Several acclaimed Slovenian designers and architects had a total creative freedom in develop-ing the room concept, which ranges from minimalist to a richly decorated baroque, as well as vintage, more romantic, or even a saltern room. All the hotel rooms are double, but differ in layout and size, ranging from 24 to 45 sq m. The property also features a trendy lounge, which is becoming popular for smaller social functions, and a conference room seating up to 60 delegates, The hotel’s construction follows one of the green principles of sustainable development: the use of local materials. The wish was also to create a raw yet plain and attractive appearance. As a result, the interior blends three primary materials - oak wood, concrete and metal.The NOX Hotel is well situated close to the ring road, on the way from the city centre to the airport, which makes it perfect for business travellers and those coming to Ljubljana for a city break by car. In a nutshell: the aim to reach diversity in ideas and experiences has been accomplished and Ljubljana can now proudly present another jewel in its design palette.

www.hotelnox.com

NOx - A NOVELTY ON THE HOTEL DESIGN SCENE

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http://www.visitljubljana.com/meetings

http://www.hotelnox.com

Event Date Location Meet Kongres wwwConventa 22.-23.1.2014 Ljubljana KONGRES www.conventa.si/homeFITUR 22.-26.1.2014 Madrid www.ifema.es/fitur_06EMITT 30.1.-2.2.2014 Istanbul emittistanbul.com/enBTS 4.-5.2.2014 London www.businesstravelshow.comSalon Bedouk 5.-6.2.2014 paris www.salon.bedouk.com/MCE CEE 9.-11.2.2014 Bucharest www.europecongress.com/events/mce-cee-2014-bucharestConvene 12.-13.02.2014 Vilnius KONGRES www.convene.lt/en/home.htmlDMAI 12.2.2014 Washington www.destinationmarketing.org/dmai-destinations-showcaseACE OF MICE 27.2. - 1.3.2014 Istanbul KONGRESBIT 13.-15.2.2014 Milan www.bit.fieramilano.it/enAIME 18.-19.2.2014 Melbourne www.aime.com.auMeetings Africa 24.-26.2.2014 Johannesburg www.meetingsafrica.co.zaInternational Confex 11.-13.3.2014 London KONGRES www.international-confex.comMITT 19.-22.3.2014 Moscow KONGRES www.mitt.ru/en-GBGIBTM 24.-26.3.2014 Abu Dhabi www.gibtm.comUITT 26.-28.3.2014 Kiev KONGRES www.uitt-kiev.com/enCOTTM 9.-11.4.2014 Peking www.cottm.comIT&CM China 15.-17.4.2014 Shanghai KONGRES www.itcmchina.comIBTM Africa 28.-30.4.2014 Cape Town www.africatravelweek.comIMEX Frankfurt 20.-22.5.2014 Frankfurt KONGRES www.imex-frankfurt.deAIBTM 10.-12.6.2014 Orlando KONGRES www.aibtm.comThe Meetings Show UK 08. - 10.07.2014 London KONGRES www.themeetingsshow.comGBTA Convention 27.-30.7.2014 Los Angeles www.gbta.org/Pages/default.aspxSwissEMEX 26.-28.8.2014 Zürich www.suisse-emex.chCIBTM 17.-19.9.2014 Peking www.cibtm.comIT&CMA 30.9.-2.10.2014 Bangkok KONGRES www.itcma.comIMEX America 14.-16.10.2014 Las Vegas KONGRES www.imexamerica.comMBT Market 15.10.2014 Munich www.mbt-market.deBTC 11.-12.11.2014 Florence www. btc.it

INDUSTRY EVENTS 2013/2014

Events

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EIBTM. Where the global meetings and events industry connects.Join over 15,000 professionals at the leading global meetings, events and business travel exhibition for three days of networking and unlimited business opportunities. Discover over 3,100 international venues, hotels, destinations, technology, business travel and events services providers essential for your meetings and events. Attend EIBTM for a unique and powerful opportunityto make the connections that matter to drive your business into the future.

EIBTM. Create your meetings and events here.Register to attend or apply to be hosted at www.eibtm.com

CREATE YOUR MEETINGS AND EVENTS HERE

MEET THEWORLD HEREMeet over 3,100 global exhibitors in just 3 days.

NETWORK AND CONNECT HEREMeet face-to-face and makeconnections that matter.

FIND INSPIRATION HEREFind out what’s new andsee the latest innovations.

TRADE SHOW OF SPA & WELLNESS TOURISM in

Join us at the 6th

CENTRAL EUROPE

From 23 – 25 October 2013, Radenci, SLOVENIA

Brda – a fairy tale landscape, from where the

view stretches out to the sea, Friuli and Vene-

to, a land of hills, nested halfway between the

Alps and the Adriatic Sea. The abundance of

beauties, attractions and experiences attracts

each and every traveller. Bearing the stamp of

the past, today’s life in the villages and hamlets

of Brda has been taking its own pace - tranquil

and cheerful, surrounded by family and in har-

mony with visitors. The essence of the Brda

region remains the same – pleasure of tasting

excellent dishes, enticing wine experience and

unforgettable socializing moments.

Brda, land of invigorating moments, all year

round!

SEE YOU AT NATOUR ALPS 2014

OCTOBER 2 – 5, 2014, GORISKA BRDA, SLOVENIA

Registration and information on www.natour-alps.eu

Hoteli Bernardin d.d., Obala 2, 6320 Portorož

Tel . 05 690 70 00 [email protected]

www.bernardingroup.si

TOP OF THEADRIATIC

(CO)ORGANIZERS AND INTERNATIONAL PARTNERS:

OFFICIAL PARTNERS:

REGIONAL PARTNERS:

mEDIA PARTNERS:

INTERNATIONAL PARTNERS:

SPONSORS:

wireless Lan network (wi – Fi)

GR - Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre

Wireless access:

SSID:

WPA2 – network key:

gr11110000

Marjan Lovšin

www.visitljubljana.com/meetings

A cool capital

for great m

eetings

TL kongresni oglas 234x287 0613.indd 3 11. 07. 13 11:02

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