MIM108

The European meetings and incentive travel magazine for corporate plannersin exclusive partnership with EUMA, the European Management Assistants Association

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SAPLUCA FAVETTA:A GIANT EMEA BUSINESS EVENT PLANNER

108

SAMPLE EUROPE IN BRUSSELS

MARCEL A.M. VISSERSOwner - Editor in chief

WWW.MIMMAGAZINE.EU

E D I T O R I A LMARCEL A.M. VISSERSMARCEL A.M. VISSERS

Owner - Editor in chiefOwner - Editor in chief

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In ‘Ambassadors of the good example’ I read that fashion designer Olivier Strelli dearly loves Brussels. What does he say about Brussels? I quote: ‘I travel a lot but when I return from a long journey, I always manage to retrieve my energy in Brussels. I am a man of the city and Brussels is my city, the capital of the country where I live. Here, all countries are represen-ted. We can profi t profoundly from a mix of cultures and there’s a real international atmosphere. Brussels is not huge and does not have the hysteria of other metropolises, never-theless it’s an international city. I love that city… ‘.

In the company of this cosmopolite I would like to reconnoitre Brussels and try to uncover Europe. How many times haven’t I heard from visitors from abroad: ‘Where is Europe in Brussels... How can I see and experience Europe in Brussels?’. Oftentimes I can only refer them to the concrete – which Olivier loves so much – of the Schuman district, where the European Parliament and other institutions are located. There has to be more! A European Museum, for example, where I can revisit European history. A European Youth Centrum for Culture, where I can visit the future of Europe. An architectu-ral European marvel or a contempo-

rary ‘European Lounge’, where I can sit and socialise. And much, much more...

I can’t fi nd anything like this in Brussels. When I look for it – because this kind of information does not or hardly ever get passed on to me – I fi nd a few interesting websites, like ‘BrusselsEurope’, (better known as ‘Brussel, My European Village’) and

‘Europe to Brussels Tof People’. From the former I would certainly chose ‘Musical trip through Brussels in search of European authors and musicians’ and from the latter I would chose a ‘Tof’ Italian who would show me around Brussels. Actually I would like to meet 27 different Europeans who would show me how to discover their country in Brussels. All the same, with my visitor I’d prefer to enter a kind of European home – without too many brochures and paper work –where we could simply sample Europe in Brussels.WWW.MIMMAGAZINE.EUWWW.MIMMAGAZINE.EU

Where can I see, feel and experience Europe in Brussels?

Olivier Strelli dearly loves Brussels

MIM 4

The response of the worldwide meetings industry to our sustainable initiative is very gratifying and heartwarming.

Let’s start with the good news from ICCA and its CEO Martin Sirk: ‘On behalf of ICCA, I paid GBP2,715 (=EUR3,000) towards the Trees for Life (Meetings For-est) project, enabling the future plant-ing of 543 trees as part of the rebirth

of the ancient Caledonian forest! This is ICCA's 2008 budget year environmental contribution in recognition of the neces-sary carbon impact caused by staff and board fl ights and our general day-to-day operations during the course of the year. I have always been keen to make sure that our environmental CSR contributions somehow are connected to the meetings industry rather than just disappearing anonymously into the giant carbon-offset-ting market. Your initiative has provided us with the perfect answer for the fi rst year when ICCA is undertaking this sustainabil-ity commitment.’

Robin Lokerman, President and CEO of MCI Asia Pacifi c - Institutional Division, stated: ‘I presented the Meetings Forest initiative to my MCI-partners. We have some problems with the project not having any certifi cation, which means we won’t be able to report it in our Carbon Accounting report to UNGC, the Carbon Disclosure project or our GreenGlobe certifi cation. Despite this, I still fi nd it a very good initia-

tive and I will personally support you by ordering 100 trees immediately.’ (editor’s note: we’re looking into this certifi cation problem at this very moment.)

Mandy Torrens, EIBTM Exhibition Director, added: ‘I’ve had a look at the website and we are really interested in working with you on this. I’m wondering if it’s something we could offer at EIBTM or even as part of our BS8901 programme to perhaps donate trees to exhibitors who can demonstrate they are doing something to improve their CSR poli-cies. First question: how much does it cost to plant one tree? Do you have any ideas how

we could work together on this?’ (editor’s note: one tree costs GBP 5 and we shall fur-ther discuss how to work together on this.)

To tell you the truth, I didn’t expect our ini-tiative to take up so quickly. And I sincerely hope we’ll have even greater news to come.

To make a donation / To plant a tree:www.treesforlife.org.uk/groves/meeting_media_company.html

MIM > Meeting Forest

Who got a Meetings Tree?The following meetings industry people have already been presented with a tree or have bought one themselves to let the Meetings Forest live and grow:

Staff of MIM magazine and Head-Quarters: Marcel A.M. Vissers, Cécile Caiati-Koch, Sophie Molle, Rémi Dévé, Igor Hendrickx, Steven Kins Luxembourg Tourism Offi ce: Olivier Barbieux, Direc-tor CUT Communications, London: Nina Gardiner, Managing Partner Darwin Con-vention Centre, Australia: Malu Barrios, General Manager (AIPC Award Winner)Adelaide Convention Centre, Australia: Alec Gilbert, Chief Executive (AIPC Award Winner) China National Convention Center, Beijing: Haiying Liu - CEO, Tony Xu - Director of Marketing Beijing Tour-ism Administration (BTA): Sandy Li, Head of MICE China Star, Beijing: Ping LIU, CEO Hong Kong Tourism Board: Gilly Wong, General Manager – MICE & Cruise Euro-pean Specialist Printing Manufacturers Association (ESMA): Peter Buttiens, Gen-eral Manager MIC plus, Milan: 1 tree ICCA: 543 Trees Robin Lokerman: 100 trees

Someone who takes initiatives usually knows where it starts, but not where it ends. This is exactly what’s happened with our Meetings Forest. A few months ago, MIMmagazine and its sister magazine HeadQuarters resolutely chose for Caritas Terrae – giving presents to the Earth and starting a Meetings Forest. Already 560 trees have been ordered by Trees for Life, the organisation in charge of our company grove in Scotland. In Spring 2010 we’ll start planting them. TEXT MARCEL A.M. VISSERS

The Meetings Forest is growing

Martin Sirk, CEO of ICCA: ‘The rightly named Meetings Forest, an initiative taken by Marcel Vissers, has inspired us to choose this project as our 2008 budget year donation.’

CONTENTS

GENERALEUMA 2010 Conference 2Editorial 3Meetings Forest 4Short News 7Sustainable Meetings 10EMIF 2010 11

INTERVIEWSCover Interview – SAP 12

BRUSSELS SPECIALA Day in Brussels 15MIMorables 17Brussels Meetings Week 21Men About Town 22AIM & AIMS 25

DESTINATIONS Luxembourg 36Namur 39Alberta 40

COLOPHONMIM magazine IS THE TREND-SETTING TRADE JOURNAL FOR THE MEETINGS INDUSTRY IN BELUX. MIM MAGAZINE IS NOW IN ENGLISH AND COMES OUT 6 TIMES A YEAR AND HAS A CIRCULATION OF 5000 COPIES, PUBLISHED BY MEETING MEDIA COMPANY BVBA/SARL.

SUBSCRIPTIONS:An Annual subscription in Belgium costs 75 EURO (excl. 6% tax) and comprises 6 magazines. In order to subscribe, go to www.MIMmagazine.eu or send an e-mail to [email protected].

Editor in chief:Marcel A.M. VissersT: +32 (0)3 226 88 [email protected]

Managing Director:Cécile Caiati-KochT: +32 (0)2 761 70 [email protected]

MIM Director:Sophie MolleT: +32 (0)2 761 70 [email protected]

Editorial Manager:Igor HendrickxT: +32 (0) 761 70 [email protected]

Editor:Rémi Dévé

Address:59, rue René Declercq B - 1150 Brussels (Belgium)T: +32 (0)2 761 70 50 F: +32 (0)2 761 70 51 www.mimmagazine.eu

Publisher:Meeting Media Company Marcel A.M. Vissers Mechelseplein 23, bus 1B - 2000 Antwerpen (Belgium)www.meetingmedia.eu

Brussels skyline:© Colin O'Brien of Things.be

Design: UPSILON advertising, GentT: +32 (0)9 267 39 [email protected]

Printing:Cartim - Destelbergen

MIM magazine sets great store by sustainable development and therefore chose environment-friendly FSC certifi ed paper which comes from a controlled source. More info: www.fsc.be and www.fsc.org ® FSC, A.C. FSC-SECR-0045

In exclusive partnership with European Management Assistants Association.

STAY TUNED FOR MIM109+ Sustainable Meeting Hotels & Venues in Europe + EUMA Report+ Prepare for EMIF 2010+ Dublin’s fair city+ Barcelona’s newest 5 star hotel

…and as usual we interviewed a European Corporate Event Planner

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH THE

MIM MAGAZINE WEBSITE:WWW.MIMMAGAZINE.EU

MIM 7

MIM > Short News

The Brewery in London launches X-treme MenuLondon venue, the Brewery has used alligator tail and other unusual items to create an ad-venturous menu for conferences and events. The menu will appeal to the more daring delegate as it showcases a range of exotic in-gredients, going one step beyond standard venue catering. The Brewery hosts an average of 586 events a year ranging from corpo-rate conferences and exhibitions to charity functions and upscale awards ceremonies.www.thebrewery.co.uk

Dusit International arrives in ChinaDusit International, one of Asias

leading international hotel chains announced its fi rst Dusit property in China: Dusit Thani Sanya. The resort is located at Ziangshui Bay, an new exclusive enclave on the island. Opening in December 2010, Dusit Thani Sanya is located on the east Hainan Island (often referred to as the Hawaii of the East) and boasts spectacular views of the ocean and the coastline. The resort has 160 luxurious guestrooms, 22 beautifully designed villas, and one Presidential Suite, all overlooking the South China Sea. In addition, the resort will boast excellent meeting facilities, a gym and the award-winning Devarana Spa. Its location out of the built up areas of Hainan Island will make it a truly inspiring resort destination.www.dusit.com

Accor announces 200 new hotels in FranceFrom November 9 to 12, Accor held a convention in Marseille for its hotel franchise partners. Reaffi rm-ing its fi rm intention of remaining France’s leading hotel franchiser, Accor announced the opening of at least 200 hotels throughout the country over the next four years. Despite today’s diffi cult economic environment, franchising rep-resents a priority development path. The new hotel openings will mainly involve hotels operated under the All Seasons, Mercure, Ibis and Etap Hotel brands.

www.accorhotels.com

‘The Labyrinth’ of Fort Napoleon in Ostend, Belgium

When it took over the management of Fort Napoleon in 2009, Tourism Os-tend wanted to expand the possible activities. It is now possible to organ-ise a new motivational experience in Fort Napoleon: ‘The Labyrinth’. This activity can best be described as a combination of the classic board games ‘snakes and ladders’ and ‘game of the goose’. Each team functions as a pawn in the game and must solve mysteries, overcome obstacles and fulfi l assignments. The fort’s pentagon shape ensures a disorienting competition in its secret passageways. The experienced event bureau ‘The Outsider Coast’ can change the game to have whichever theme the client wishes. Apart from various other activities, it’s also pos-sible to hold meetings in the fort.www.zininzaken.be

Golden Tulip BrasiliaRecently a new complex with a Golden Tulip and a Royal Tulip hotel has opened in Brasilia, capital city of Brazil. The Golden Tulip Brasilia Alvorada, a four star hotel and the Royal Tulip Brasilia Alvorada, a fi ve star hotel offer a

Send your press releases to [email protected]

The Brewery

Dusit

Group Accor

Short news

wide range of facilities for both business and leisure travellers.Both hotels benefi t from a splendid view on the lake Paranoà, and the tennis court, the swimming-pools, the spa and fi tness centres will ensure a pleasant stay. The complex has 15 meeting rooms to accom-modate any kind of event up to 1.200 people.www.goldentulip.com

IAPCO reports worldwide demand for National SeminarsIAPCO experienced a record number of requests for national seminars in 2009. In line with its quality policy, IAPCO continues to develop its educational

programme. IAPCO looks back at an exciting year for training and education, starting with Dubai in February where the Dubai Convention Bureau and Net Conference and Conventions or-ganised back to back basic and advanced courses on conference management. Increased competition for international meetings demands that all key industry players are in tune with strategies to attract the right congresses. IAPCO seminars focus on the practical aspects of conference management, illustrated by case studies and personal examples, which paint a picture of real experiences.www.iapco.org

Hotel Casino Barriere Lille, the new destination for your business events.Ideally located in the heart of Lille, just a 10-minute walk from the historical centre, a 5-minute walk from the Lille Flandres and Lille Europe train stations, and a 4-minute walk from the Lille Grand Palais conference centre.

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Contact: Nicolas COUTON Sales manager - Lille - + 33 (0)3 28 14 45 46 [email protected]

777, Pont de Flandres I 59777 Lille - FRANCE I www.meetings-barriere.com

L I L L E

A hotel complex combining business and leisure facilities

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2 and spa centre

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OpeningMIM > Short News

2010 MEETINGS INDUSTRY FAIRS WORLDWIDE: MAKE YOUR CHOICE!

Meetings Africa – Sandton Convention Centre – Johannesburg // 24-26 February 2010 // www.meetingsafrica.co.za

AIME – Melbourne – MCEC // 2-3 March 2010 // www.aime.au.com

EMIF – Brussels – Tour & Taxis // 17-18 March 2010 // www.emif.com

GIBTM – ADNEC – Abu Dhabi // 29-31 March 2010 // www.gibtm.com

IMEX – Frankfurt Messe // 25-27 May 2010 // www.imex-frankfurt.com

For more and regularly updated news, go to www.MIMmagazine.eu

Golden Tulip Brasilia

Our hotels are designed for your success.Free high speed internet access* available to day meeting delegates. 100% guest satisfaction guarantee.Over 70 meeting rooms throughout Belgium and the Netherlands and in 170+ hotels in Europe, Middle East and Africa.All you need for a successful meetings. Find out what we can do for your next event!*For a full list of participating hotels, please visit radissonblu.com/freebroadband

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radissonblu.com/ meetings

MIM 10

Marcel Bosman of RDC Environment (recipient of the 2005 3 star label

‘Eco-dynamic enterprise’) explained what exactly is meant by the very

broad term ‘sustainability’: ‘You should always fi rst state

what you mean by ‘sus-tainable development’ and what your position is on the matter. We

always put the emphasis on three pillars: environ-

ment, social and economic development. Oftentimes ‘sustain-

able development’ is limited to the environment, because it can be clearly defi ned and delineated. Companies fi nd this much more straightforward. The ‘social aspect’ has become more important of late and the debate about ‘economic sustain-ability’ is still ongoing.’

Willem van der Zee of Radisson Blu: ‘Our group is familiar with all three aspects. Our Responsi-ble Business programme strives to improve the environment, social responsibility and the health and security of our guests and of our personnel. In addition to the ISOO 9001 certifi cate, we’re the only hotel group recognized with a Total Quality certifi cate 14001. Rezidor also has the Green Key. To us ‘sustainable development’ has become an attitude and not just something to buy off guilt. Society’s call for ‘sustainability’ can no longer be ignored and by investing in it, we’re simply con-forming to modern times. Economically, we notice that our guests really appreciate this approach.’

Arianne Deguelle of GL Event SQUARE: ‘Three years ago we started a group to think about programmes, like a transport code of conduct, waste management and energy conservation. Two major priorities have been defi ned by Group Human Resources. First, successfully attract, mo-tivate and retain talent. Secondly, fi ght against all forms of discrimination and promote the inte-gration of population segments in diffi culty. This also applies to our suppliers with whom we try to promote and improve the application of the principles of ethical conduct. Naturally this costs us money, but economically speaking our clients too have shown their appreciation.’

www.efapco2010.euhttp://forum.efapco2010.eu

On 8 and 9 January 2010, the fi rst major international confer-ence will take place in SQUARE, Brussels’ Palais des Congres: EFAPCO 2010. In preparation of this important sustainability

congress, BAPCO president Sam van de Kerckhof organised a round table discussion. He asked the meetings industry a

direct question: ‘What’s being done for sustainable development and the environment and how much effort and

money does it involve?’ TEXT MARCEL A.M. VISSERS

Sustainable meetingsBAPCO Round Table Discussion

MIM > Sustainable Meetings

‘We are Blu since 2009. We are green since 1989.’ Willem van der Zee (Radisson Blu)

Green Key®, an Eco-label for hotels and meeting venuesThe Green Key® is a worldwide available eco-label awarded to leisure orgnaisations, as hotels, youth hostels, conference- and holiday centres, camp-sites, holidayhouses and leisure facilities. To obtain The Green Key the company has to fulfi l a list of environmental requirements. These requirements are contained in a number of criteria. Besides environmental demands (by example to control the production of waste and the use of water, electricity, etc.), the criteria include demands on policy, action plans, education and communication.

MIM > EMIF

New in 2010Next to the usual ‘cream of the crop’-exhib-itors, some new features will be launched. On day two, visitors can indulge in the event sector in a separate area for the events industry; the Facts on Acts pavilion. Also new – after a clear demand from visitors - is

a pavilion for catering companies; tastefully named EM’mm’IF.

‘Top content programme’Next to the top-end Associations Pro-gramme (organised together with ASAE, Kel-len Europe, MCI and HQ & ESAE), corporate

visitors can also expect an educational treat. With some keynote speakers already con-fi rmed the corporate seminar programme is bound to be inspirational. One of the speakers during the corporate seminars is Rohit Talwar – a ‘futurist’ with an impressive consultancy CV. His presentations focus is on showing organisations how to anticipate creatively and effi ciently to different future scenarios in a fast-changing environment. Other confi rmed speakers during the cor-porate programme include Filip Muyllaert (“Compelling presentations & speaking in public”) and Sylvie Verleye & Michèle Deceuninck (“From Powerpoint to Personal image"). The EMIF kitchen is steadily brew-ing up further initiatives for the corporate seminar programme. To be continued!

Don’t miss outAll MIM readers are cordially invited to come and see for themselves on 17 & 18 March 2010, in Tour & Taxis in Brussel. Online reg-istration is up and running at the brand new website www.emif.com. Naturally, all other information on EMIF 2010 can be found there as well.

Things are looking promising for the European Meetings Industry Fair. New and renewed strategic partnerships, keynote speakers during the seminar programmes and fresh features on the show fl oor.

EMIF 2010

MIM 12

MIM: Could you tell a bit more about SAP and yourself?Luca Favetta: Headquartered in Walldorf, Germany, SAP is the world's largest business software company – with more than 47,804 employees at sales and development locations in more than 50 countries worldwide.I’ve been in the event business for almost 25 years. Before I joined SAP, I worked for 16 years for Hewlett Packard, always involved in the events business. Since 2004 I’ve been working for SAP as Senior Director of Global Events in EMEA (Europe-Middle East- Africa). In this role I’m responsible for the overall plan-ning of the regional event strategy, and for the production/execution of all the global events happening in the region.This is really not an easy task, considering the complexity of the company. We have more than 25 different internal business units, each having their own marketing plan and budget

Not many associate SAP with the fourth largest independent software company in the world. Originally German, SAP stands for ‘Systeme, Anwendungen und Produkte in der Datenverarbeitung'. SAP’s industrious-ness also translates itself into the yearly organisation of between 130 and 150 company events – from the smallest meeting to the largest congress. MIM interviewed Luca Favetta, Senior Director of Global Events in Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA). Find out what Luca said – amongst other things – about Brussels, where SAP Belgium has developed a unique concept no to be found in any other European city. INTERVIEW AND TEXT CÉCILE CAIATI-KOCH AND IGOR HENDRICKX

Luca Favetta, SAPA giant business event planner

MIM > Corporate Interview

MIM 13

and consequently their own events plan. On top of that we have cross industry solu-tions with separate plans too. And this is refl ected at Local (country), Regional and Global level. My role and the one of my team is to consolidate and analyse all the event marketing plans from all these dif-ferent entities/stakeholders, streamlining the lists ensuring that they are not in con-fl ict and that they are all aligned towards the major SAP business priorities.You can imagine that with between 130 and 150 events annually, I haven’t got a lot of time to sleep. Luckily I have a great team supporting me – that is spending many sleepless night in my place.Thanks to the many diverse levels of or-ganisation, we’re involved in a great many diverse events: Each one is different from the other. This variety is one of the rea-sons why I like my job. It’s also a job that

requires a lot of creativity. Finally, I like the fact that the result of our hard work is always immediately and clearly visible. This is very satisfying.

MIM: How exactly do you and your team go about your work?LF: My team consists of professional event organisers from SAP, but also of long term contractors. Today it is quite normal to have virtual teams, and SAP is no dif-ferent. I’m based in Switzerland, but my resources are spread out over Germany, Spain and France. This geographical spread helps to better cover the EMEA Region. When it comes to events execu-tion. I personally spend a lot of my time travelling, considering that SAP EMEA Headquarters is based in Walldorf, that my team – as mentioned – is spread out over Europe and that I have a direct reporting line with our Global Marketing Offi ce in New York. Added to this, I often have to attend the major events we organise to ensure their smooth execution.Plus there’s the fact that I sit on the Inter-national Board of Directors of MPI (Meet-ing Professional Association) and that I try to be active within our Industry. It all adds even more travelling to an already crowded calendar.

MIM: How do you organise these meetings?LF: As said before, we organise between 130 and 150 events each year and these include events of all kinds and sizes: from small and secretive meetings to large events for our partners and customers. These events can be mainly divided into three large groups: Awareness, Thought leadership and Lead Gen events. Different events require different venues. Some-times we use hotel conference facilities, other times we use large convention halls, exclusive small hotels,... It all depends on the size of the event, the kind of audience that will attend, the objective we have in mind and, of course, the available budget. When selecting a venue and organising such an event, we take a few things into account: logistics, business and personal criteria. The logistic criteria include such things as capacity, availability of venue

and hotel rooms, geographical location, airport infrastructure and airline avail-ability, service quality, budget, image of the venue... It must be said that in recent years the window between planning an event and its execution is constantly shortening, and fl exibility is becoming one of the key elements in our job, so this is another selection criterion that we seri-ously consider. The business criteria are a bit more concerned with the position-ing of the competition, and the business appeal of the venue in question. The fi nal category of criteria is a lot more subjective but just as important. If I know a location from personal experience, if I’ve heard good or bad things about or if I know the people personally, this will certainly make my decision easier.With people from all over the world attend-ing our events, it’s sometimes diffi cult if not impossible to please everyone. That’s why we try to keep the atmosphere inter-national and generally pleasing. At each of our large events, we arrange for each country to have its own specifi c lounge


SAP organises each event from A to Z: there’s more to event organising than just logistics.

Sapphire

which they can adapt to their personal preferences. Overall, we try to maintain an international fl avour, without forget-ting the local culture.

MIM: Where does Brussels fi gure in the EMEA events?LF: Brussels has a lot of advantages. It’s centrally located in Europe with an international airport not far from down-town. Moreover, the many EU bodies in the city allow for easy informational po-sitioning. In short, it’s the perfect place for medium sized events. We haven’t organised any large events here in the past 4 or 5 years, because there are no venues large enough for these.SAP in Belgium has developed a unique concept in Brussels: the SAPLounge (see inset). This is a concept developed by SAP Belgium, and is not mirrored in other European Countries. In our headquarters based in Walldorf, we have a very functional and brand new Customer Meeting Center that we use very often to host our events in that area.

MIM: Do you make use of professional organisers?LF: At SAP we don’t work with a preferred event organiser. Rather, we rely on a network of different suppliers for each different area (registration, audiovisual, booth construction...) and location. We use local DMC’s for on site support and to organise the pure logis-tic services related to the even, such as transportation, catering, entertainment, etc. We also make use of the support of the local convention bureaus, which can play a great role in speaking to the entire local industry on behalf of our-

selves (the customers), trying to solve eventual issues.

MIM: What do you consider as a successful event?LF: There is a lot of talk these days around Event ROI measurement. We at SAP are trying to keep our focus on it. Depending on the event objec-tive (Awareness, Lead Gen, Pipeline Acceleration), we use different tools to measure the event effectiveness and the related impact. Whenever possible, we try to relate the event to the busi-ness, and strictly monitor the number of MGOs (Marketing Generated Opportuni-ties) created by the vent. The leads are tracked in our CRM system and different reports are produced in the months fol-lowing the event, tracking the evolution of our customers in the pipeline. In this way we can understand if and how the event helped to create new business, to accelerate the sale cycle, etc. Of course we then use customers surveys to measure the level of customer satisfac-tion and pre/post event questionnaires to measure the relevance of the event in changing customers’ perception and business attitudes’.

MIM: Has SAP got a corporate social responsibility program?LF: The sustainability efforts and prac-tices used for our events, refl ect the general approach of SAP in the sustain-ability matter. It matters to us, we take our responsibility. SAP’s been recog-nized by the Dow Jones Sustainability Index over the past 9 years and we even appointed a Chief Sustainable Offi cer this year. We’re exploring, collaborating and inventing to constantly improve in the fi eld, for ourselves and our custom-ers and partners.In events specifi cally, our efforts are clustered in the fi elds of Materials Management, Waste Management and Emission Reductions. Additionally, we integrated the sustainability factor in our purchasing processes and make sure we work with sustainable and responsible partners.

SAP LOUNGE IN BRUSSELS

SAP Lounge is SAP’s meeting place for interactions with customers, prospects, partners and press. It’s the place where professionals come together for formal and informal meetings, to attend events, to have a drink, a bite, to work or network in a pleasant atmosphere. The concept was launched in 2004. Every two years they rent a new location.The new SAP Lounge at ‘Het Tuchthuis’ in Brussels (2009-2010) offers a best in class infrastructure to catalyze business interaction with restaurant and network-ing bar, fully equipped convention rooms, executive area and a multifunctional attic area. All this in an historic decor devised by renowned architect Caroline Notté. There's room on the fi rst fl oor for an open workspace where meetings can be held in enclosed areas or where you can work quietly. The Convention Centre on the fi rst fl oor is suited for the organisation of bigger events. Up to 140 people are able to follow seminars and other events here. The Convention Centre can be divided into two separate seminar rooms, ideal for bigger meetings of up to 70 people. Each seminar room can also be equipped with its own catering area. On the second fl oor you will fi nd the Exec-utive Floor with the SAP and Foundation Partners conference rooms, all equipped with the latest technology. The ‘piece de resistance’ is defi nitely the historic Attic under the roof tiles of ‘Het Tuchthuis’. The Attic is perfect for receptions or larger events for up to 140 people.

www.hellosap.be

MIM 14

Het Tuchthuis

Flexibility is the key to planning and executing an event.


MIM 15

Apart from making me appreciate the beauty and diversity of Brussels even more, the walk with Kathleen also made clear to me that there are quite a few neighbourhoods interesting for meetings and incentives: Mont des Arts, Sablon,

Marolles, Dansaert and the European Quarter. Brussels also has its offi cial con-vention districts. Although attractive by all accounts, we didn’t visit Rogier, Louise and Grand Place. Interesting venues and ideas from there and elsewhere in Brus-sels will, however, be mentioned in the MIMorable pages of this issue.

Mont des ArtsThe Mont des Arts neighbourhood has recently become the place to meet. You only need to take a look at all the venues that are within easy walking distance of each other. Of course, most people know already about the newly opened congress centre Square, but there’s more.

Right next to Square is BOZAR. Because of its underground connection to Square, it is entirely possible to artfully end your congress with a private visit of the diverse BOZAR collection or a concert in the evening and a festive dinner. In 2010 BOZAR will have many interesting expositions: ‘Frida Kahlo y su Mundo’ (16/01-18/04), ‘Africa Festival & Expo’ (11/06-26/09), ‘Asia-Europe: Faith and Trade’ (25/06-10/10),... Events can also be held in the different rooms of BOZAR and Cinematek itself. Naturally, it’s possible to organise private museum visits, concerts and receptions in most Brussels museums. Like the new Musée Magritte, which not only has the largest collection of works by the surreal-ist artist, but also two auditoria for 105 and 650 guests respectively, as well as two reception rooms in the evening. For a

An outsider’s objectivity should be tempered with a certain familiar-ity. To instil a certain acquaintance with Brussels’ meetings indus-try, we arranged a day and a night in Brussels for me. Kathleen Davisters (Brussels International – Tourism & Congress) introduced me to the different possibilities of Brussels’ many districts.TEXT: IGOR HENDRICKX

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Europalia China Tea House

A day (and a night) in BrusselsColourful and diverse

S A M P L E E U R O P E I N B R U S S E L S - 2 0 P A G E S

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truly Belgian experience, you can visit the renovated BELvue Museum across the Musée Magritte. Here you can discover Belgium and Europe, enjoy a simple snack from the Green Kitchen and organise a reception in the glass-walled atrium over-looking the royal gardens. You can fi nd Brussel Info Place next door, whose peo-ple will help you fi nd ideas and locations for events in Brussels. It’s also possible to organise meetings here. And all within easy walking distance of Brussels’ Central Station.

SablonThe Sablon lies right next to the Mont des Arts. While the latter is mostly meeting ori-ented, the former has plenty of opportunities for incentive activities. It is, after all, a neighbourhood of chocola-tiers, couturiers, antique and design shops and restaurants. The possibility even exists to combine the latter two: Il Gusto di Flament is a restaurant in a designer store. Hosting an event here is not only enjoyable, it’s also very unique. Strolling past antique shops and designer stores is an activity by itself or you can take part in one of the several chocolate related incentive possibilities: world famous Pierre Marcolini, Godiva or Wittamer (purveyor to the royal court). The latter’s tasting is certainly worth the effort as well as their patisserie. And if you’re looking for somewhere to sleep, the NH Hotel Du Grand Sablon could fi nd no better central location.

Marolles After the palatial Mont des Arts and the elegant Sablon, a visit to the authentic Marolles will feel like a step in a whole new world: small streets, multicultural inhabit-ants, popular bars and brocante shops. In recent years this popular neighbourhood has seen a revival and many people like to spend their free time hunting for hidden treasures on fl ea markets and in shops. A trip to the

Marolles is not only a confrontation with authentic Brussels, but also

inexpensive and fun. That’s why BITC has several city

walks planned here: ‘Sun-day fairs of Brussels’, ‘Magritte’s surrealist Brussels’ and ‘Brussels for little money’.

DansaertKnow as Brussels’ trend-

iest area, the Dansaert neighbourhood

is known for its fashion and design shops, hip bars and restaurants. It’s not neces-sarily known for its venues, but we did manage to discover two special ones: La Bellone and the Halles Saint Gery. La Bel-lone is dedicated to the live arts: theatre, dance, opera, circus, performance... A courtyard covered by a glass roof shelters

a baroque facade of the 18th century. La Bellone offers permanent services, notably through its centre for theatre resources; and organises events and privileged mo-ments with the artists. The Halles of Saint Gery look like London’s Covent Garden Market. It’s an information and exposition space about Brussels’ patrimonial history. It can be rented for events and has its own event team, but a simple visit to the exposition is just as interesting. The Halles are surrounded by trendy bars, like Zebra, Mappa Mundo, Le Roi des Belges,... You can fi nd excellent seafood restaurants around Saint Catherine square. The Brus-sels Marriott Hotel, which has meeting possibilities of its own, is the ideal place to stay if you want to explore this area.

European QuarterIn the European Quarter, you can easily combine meetings with the European Com-mission or the European Parliament with business events of your own in a classic setting. The Solvay Library – also known as ‘La Maison de l’Europe’ – and the Museum for Natural Sciences are located in or near Parc Leopold, right behind the European Parliament. Though these venues are well known to our readers, they still manage to impress guests. The Solvay Library hides its modern infrastructure behind stately architecture. The Museum for Natural Sciences has – apart from the famous dinosaur gallery – four other halls for your evening events as well as four conference rooms and auditoria. Until August 2010 your event can be linked to an interesting exposition about whales and dolphins. No better reasons to dive right in.

More info and other ideas can be found in the following MIMorable pages.

MIM > Brussels Special > A day in Brussels

La Bellone

Dansaert

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MIMorable places and ideas can be many things. A MIMorable place can be a new congress centre, an undiscovered special venue or a recently renovated classic. The same goes for MIMorable ideas, which can be a creative team building activity, a surprising combination of meeting and incentive or new and original incentive ideas. All these places and ideas have at least one thing in common: they are worth your time to visit or to make use of for your meetings and incentives. In short, they are MIMorable...

MIMorablesPlaces and ideas worth to remember in Brussels

BIPIn the actual centre of Brussels, within walking distance of the Grand’ Place and the Sablon and only a few steps away from Square and Bozar stands Brussels Information Place. BIP is not only your fi rst stop for information about Brussels and its meeting possibilities, but it is also an interesting and little known venue in its own right. Several areas and spaces in this Neoclassical house can be rented to organize a business event. The list of available rooms is - quite simply - impressive. A pressroom with an adjacent salon for diversifi ed events, four small but comfortable salons (three of which are connected to each other and can be rented as one), a large event space under the roof for a variety of events, a recep-tion room and a cafeteria. Crown jewels - so to speak - are the courtyard for open air events and the richly decorated with

marble and oak Ticket Hall. The inter-active Experience Brussels! Exhibition adds an extra dimension to any event. Prestigious or welcoming, from 30 m2 to 245 m2, our BIP rooms accom-modates groups of between 10 and 250 people. Whether you are looking for a hushed atmosphere, a quiet work setting or an exceptional reception area, BIP For Rent makes the [email protected]

Discover Brussels by SegwaySegway tours have become a very popu-lar way to discover cities, including Brus-sels, in a more active way. It takes less than 10 minutes to learn how to use this revolutionary machine and then you’re off an easy, fun and cheap discovery tour of Brussels. Like ducklings you’ll be guided past the many sights and sounds of the city. Available from 1 may to 27 September.www.belgium-segwaytour.be

Brussels and the BDTintin, Asterix, Spirou and Fantasio, Lucky Luke, the Smurfs and many others have shaped the youthful mem-ories of every European born after the 1945. That’s why a comic strip themed event is always such a big hit. Since Brussels is the centre of the Franco-

Belgian comic strip industry, there are quite a lot of possibili-ties to organise events like these in Brussels.Naturally, the fi rst place to visit is the Comic Strip Museum in Victor Horta’s Waucquez Warehouse. Apart from the permanent and special exhibitions, it’s also possible to organise several events in this beautiful setting: meet-ings, seminars and lunches for up to 150

MIM > Brussels Special > MIMorables

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people can be organised during the day, while in the evening 300 people can dine or 1,000 can enjoy a cocktail. Animation can be provided by live bands, comic book impersonators, cartoonists,... Another comic themed location is 9 City. This museum of the comic book fi gurine has two modular rooms and a VIP space for events of maximum 600 guests. 9 City also offers you tailored comic themed events: a Gallic banquet, personalised sessions and thematic animations and decors (Western, Heroic Fantasy, Medieval).Finally, there’s the Strip Route, a walk which takes you along comic strip murals through Brussels But there always new festivals, exhibitions or other comic things to do.www.brusselscomics.comcomicscenter.netwww.ninecity.be

Jazz StationTrain stations have always been im-promptu meeting places. The old station

of Saint-Josse-ten-Noode has been restored to be a meeting

place of artistic sensitive-ness in which musicians rub shoulders with each other but also with paint-ers, photographs, sculp-tors, journalists… Thanks to several meeting rooms and the station’s concert hall, it’s also possible for businessmen and -wom-en to rub shoulders with these artists. Meetings, seminars and parties will benefi t from the jazzy themes and regular concerts and exhibitions as well as from the trendy interior. Through its contacts in the musical industry, Jazz Station can add some musical extras to your event.www.jazzstation.be

VIAGEIn the spring of 2010, a multi-facetted entertainment destination will open in

Brussels. VIAGE is the name of this brand new

concept packaged in a brand new complex

on Boulevard Ans-pach, one of Brus-sels’ main roads traversing the city centre. The

coloured balls in the logo stand for a sparkling experience, almost like the bubbles

in a glass of champagne, with all the different colours representing all of the different experiences you can fi nd within Viage. A spectacular roof-top restaurant, a string of theme-bars, an international hall for the performing arts, topnotch gaming rooms... VIAGE invites you to laugh, eat, drink, dance, encounter and discover! There will be an events area with a capacity of 1,000 persons. A media lounge for 60 people, 2 open rooms and meetings rooms and a lodge will also be available. www.viage.be

Cook&BookCook&Book is what its name implies: a revolutionary bookstore with a restaurant

or vice versa. Spread out over nine themed rooms, Cook&Book is as much a place for contemplation as a place for fun gastronomy. There is however more to Cook&Book than just that. It’s possible to organise cocktails, dinners, walking dinners, presentations, meetings... A fact of which Paris Match magazine has made good use to celebrate its 60th birthday. Because Cook&Book also organises regular its own programmes and exhibitions, they have the contacts and the experience to help you arrange leisure activities for your event.www.cookandbook.be

Chalet RobinsonSince September 2009, the Bois de la Cam-bre - one of Brussels public parks - boasts an extraordinary venue for all kinds of


events. Restored to its original look, the Cha-let Robinson is located on the park’s only is-land, surrounded by ducks and swans and can only be reached by two electric ferryboats. Spacious reception areas are spread out over two fl oors and a terrace, with a total maxi-

mum capacity of 500 guests. This site can once again be used for receptions, seminars, workshops, walking dinners... The fact that the League of Optimists of the Kingdom of Belgium regularly meets here, further underlines the peacefulness and beauty of this venue and its suitability for meetings.www.chaletrobinson.be

Area 42Area 42 is a venue housed in the RTT-building of Michel Polak, one of the architects who helped shape Brussels

during the Interbellum. His signature mix of art-deco, classicism and modernism can also be found here. This offi ce building near the Botanical Gardens in the heart of Brussels offers approximately 2500m2 event space. Four large spaces have a refi ned and pure architecture ideal for

conventions and events. Especially beau-tiful is the auditorium with its red

ceiling, parquet fl oor and view on the green courtyard. The

other rooms each have their own interior style designed by international renown designers Edouard Poul-lain and Gy Monseu – one with a plant wall, another with glass ceilings. All rooms are modular and can each accommodate between 300 and 600 people.

www.area42.be

SquareUnless you have been liv-

ing on another planet in the last few months, you must

be aware that SQUARE, the one and only congress centre

in the heart of Brussels, recently opened with an

array of fi reworks, acro-bats and strobelights. Now in full swing, the

venue is the ideal place for small and large events alike.

Located amidst the fi nest museums in Brussels, within walking distance of the Grand Place, the Sablon and close to hotels, restaurants and shopping centres, SQUARE is easily accessible by public transport, with a nearby train station boasting a direct connection to the airport. Two defi nite highlights of the building are the 2 rooms designed by Belgian designer Arne Quinze: the new restaurant in the park and the ballroom with a breathtaking panoramic view of the Belgian capital. And if you need fi g-ures, the biggest hall is 4,000 m2 tall and the biggest auditorium accommodates up to 1,200 people!www.square-brussels.com

Chateaux d’eauTowers have some-thing magical about them. High above ground level with a view of the surrounding countryside, you imagine yourself in a different world. An event hosted in such a place won’t soon be forgotten. In the Bois de la Cambre lies not one, but

two water towers that have been completely stripped and carefully renovated. The water towers of the Bois de la Cambre comprise an original and centrally located venue nestled in a green setting with conven-ient parking. The fi rst water tower has been divided into several fl oors: ground fl oor, fi rst fl oor, second fl oor and the mezzanine. The second tower is larger and its only remaining adornment is the brick cladding. A staircase ascends to the top, which is more than 30 metres high. While the larger can hold 250 people for a walking dinner, the smaller one can hold up to 120. www.chateauxdeau.be

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Il Gusto di FlamantCombine a visit to one of Brussels’ fore-most design stores with authentic Italian gastronomy. In the discrete luxury and intimate charm of Flamant Home Interior, you can organise a cocktail, workshop, meeting or seminar after hours followed by a dinner in one or more of the show-rooms. Up to 60 people will enjoy the all Italian cuisine of ‘Il Gusto di Flamant’. This gastronomic experience is available for more people too. www.fl amant.com

Cercle des VoyageursThis charming but little known lounge bar lies 30 meters from ‘Manneken Pis’. As the name implies, it’s a place for travellers to have a drink... and more, because it also functions as a travel library, exhibition space and meeting venue. It has been decorated in colonial style with comfortable leather chairs, a fresco of the

world on the ceiling and several other travel attributes. The Cercle des Voyageurs has three rooms available and can host an event for up to 100 people in Brussels without seeming to be in Brussels.www.lecercledesvoyageurs.com

Made in BrusselsAction Team Training has developed a creative team building concept. Your team will be stimulated to be creative in an inter-active way: you must face four challenges, each representing an artist from Brussels. Prepare to rebuild a famous monument from Brussels by effi ciently distributing all tasks at hand. Join the great names of Surrealism by creating a giant fresco. Wander through in the obscure depths of

the Brussels Swamps to achieve a literary breakthrough. Amaze the Brothers Lu-mière by fi lming your own short fi lm. These activities can be complemented by exterior activities in the centre of the city. At the end of the day you will have made some-thing truly personal and truly brusselois.www.actionteamtraining.com

ChocolateLike beer and fries, chocolate is one of Belgium’s mainstays. Naturally, quite a few possibilities exist in Brussels to organise a chocoholic event.‘La Maison des Maîtres Chocolatiers Belg-es’, or MMCB for short, is a modern shop on the Grand Place where ten artisans showcase Belgian chocolate in the purest of traditions. Visitors are invited to taste a praline, enjoy a luscious hot chocolate or simply to enjoy sights and scents. It’s possible to organise a tailored event on the fi rst fl oor where you can participate in a ‘Chocolate Discovery Workshop’ and design your own corporate gifts.Chocolaterie Mary is a supplier to the Belgian Royal Household. In Spring 2009 they opened a new 800m2 workshop, with an exhibition on the history of chocolate and where you have the chance to see chocolate in the making and of course to taste it. There’s also a meeting room for 20 or 30 people and up to 100 guests can attend an event in the exhibition space.www.bbcw.bewww.marychoc.com

Discover Brussels inside and outside through creative team work and interactive learning

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MIM > Brussels Special > Brussels Meetings Week

As usual, this event will take place in the context of the European Meetings Indus-try Fair (EMIF), which will be held in Tour & Taxis, Brussels, on March 17 and 18, 2010. The Brussels Meetings Week will start this year with the Brussels Meetings Industry & Tourism Award Ceremony.It has also become somewhat of a tradi-tion that MIMmagazine releases its annual Brussels Special before this event takes place. This way our readers can enjoy the week of activities as actively involved and deeply informed participants.

Programme+ Monday 15th March:

Press Conference - Meetings Industry & Tourism Awards 2010 @ Square

+ Tuesday 16th March:VIP day 2010 (a variety of programmes in a variety of locations)

" This is not a gala dinner" @ Musée Magritte Museum+ Wednesday 17th March: VIP day 2010 – EMIF @ Tour & Taxis+ Thursday 18th March: VIP day - EMIF - Career Day @ Tour & Taxis+ Friday 19th March:

Brussels "Tourism & Meetings Industry" Job Day @ Autoworld

From mid January more info can be found on www.brusselsmeetingsweek.be

It’s that time of the year again! No, not Christmas or New Year, but the Brussels Meetings Week. Each year Brussels promotes and supports the meetings industry’s image during a whole week of exhilarating activities all over the city. It’s an excellent opportunity to learn what the meetings industry means for a city like Brussels.

Brussels Meetings Week: March 15 – 19, 2010An active week in Brussels

Musée Magritte

Autoworld

Tour & Taxis

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MIM > Brussels Special > Cerexhe & Close

As the capital of Belgium and Europe, Brussels is also a natural centre of the meetings industry. The responsibility for this indus-

try is shared by the government of the Brussels Region and the city council. In other words, Benoît Cerexhe, Minister of Com-

merce, works with Philippe Close, Councilman for Tourism, to make Brussels the capital of the meetings industry. We asked them a few questions about their city and its region.

MIM: How do you like to show visitors ‘your’ Brussels?Benoît Cerexhe: When simply wandering around in Brussels, I like the spaces that breathe sincerity. These I like to show to

visitors and are often far away from the classic tourist spots. That’s

not to say that the Grand Place or the St.-Hubert Galleries aren’t worth a visit. Amongst the more authentic locations I show my visitors, are the fl ea market at Place Jeu de Balle, the typical cafés, the antiquarians of the Sablons or Bois de la Cambre – our very own Central Park.Philippe Close: Personally, I like it when Brussels is fi lled with animated people. Usually this happens during large events. Like the ‘Brussels Summer Festival’: streets fi lled with stages, music, and masses of people who’ve come to enjoy some urban festivity. The same goes for ‘Winter Pleasures’, which opened 27 No-vember. I love the ambiance of the Grand Place when it’s fi lled with people, stalls,... Brussels really is at its best during such festive events.

MIM: What are your favourite haunts in Brussels?PC: Coincidentally, the place where I work is also the place where I love to be: the Grand Place. I like to lunch in the ‘Pavés de Bruxelles’ or in the ‘Brasserie de Bruxelles’, where from time to time I meet Benoît Cerexhe. When I don’t know

what to do, I visit the ‘Mont des Arts’. Whether it’s at the new Magritte Museum or at Belvue, BOZAR, MIM or any other museum, this neighbourhood shines

brightly with culture.

BC: It depends on what I want to do. If I want to do some window shopping, I really like Uptown Brussels and Louisa Avenue. There a great many quality stores here – places to buy, but also to dream. For a drink, I love the bars of my student years. Of course, these are far away from the touristic centre. However, to better understand the originality and wealth of Brussels, you should pay them a visit. As for food, I prefer a good, honest Belgian meal to a special fi ve star meal. Luckily, Brussels has many places where you can

Men about town

Benoît CerexheMinister of Commerce

Cerexhe: ‘In view of Square’s capacity, we really need a new centre with a capacity of 5,000 to host large international events in Brussels.’

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MIM > Brussels Special > Cerexhe & Close

get the former: Filigrane, Cook&Book,...MIM: What’s the touristic/economic impact of the meetings industry on Brussels?BC: Two thirds of the touristic industry is devoted to meetings and incentive travel. The meetings industry is thus a source of employment and wealth and that’s why it has received special government attention. Brussels’ status as EU capital has ensured a steady increase of busi-ness travellers, even when the Congress Palace was closed for renovation.PC: The meetings industry keeps the touristic sector alive, because it’s the business men who visit Brussels during the week and the off season. Our main goal is to promote our destination to the leisure market in the quieter periods for the meeting industry: summer, the end of the year... Moreover, the touristic offer is defi nitely important for the meeting indus-try. The choice of a destination to organize a congress is based on the attractiveness of the city for the delegates’ free time.

MIM: How do you plan to stimulate the Brussels meetings industry in the future?PC: First of all, we launched the ‘Brussels Booking Desk’, an hotel reservation central for the pre-booking of groups of more than 200 delegates. It is a concrete tool attractive for the meetings organizers. It is a partnership between BECI, BHA and BI-TC, Brussels-Expo and Square. Second, the welcoming policy of the BITC. We’re steadily increasing the number of info points and welcome desks in Brussels to help guests as soon as they arrive. We’re also promoting Brussels at the big fairs and congresses.BC: There are two ways in which we plan to improve the industry. First, there’s the diversifi cation of the infrastructure. With the opening of Square, we now have a superb congress centre, but it’s not yet enough. We need not just one, but more quality meeting venues capable of hosting large events. Second, we need to improve the way in which congress attendees and business travellers are welcomed to Brussels. It started with inauguration of a new welcome desk at Brussels Airport.

The quality should be improved in many ways. As Minister of Commerce, I would really like to improve the way in which visitors can enjoy Brussels after their meetings. Shops should be allowed to stay open longer and it should be easier to discover Brussels’ night life.

MIM: At the opening ceremony of Square the mayor of Brussels announced a purpose built congress centre at the plateau of Heisel. What’s your opinion?BC: The government has agreed to built this centre as part of our plan to diversify the meetings infrastructure. This is really neces-sary when we compare what Brussels offers with what other European cities offer. In view of Square’s capacity, we really need a new centre with a capacity of 5000 to host large international events in Brussels.PC: As the alderman responsible for tourism in the city of Brussels, I’m part of the management of this prject. Everyone agrees: the infrastructures planned for the Heisel (large congress centre, shopping centre, hotels,...) is needed. We would like to the Heisel an international spotlight of the European meetings industry. We have everything to gain from this project: the return will be worth the investment for the region.

Philippe CloseCouncilman for Tourism

Close: ‘The choice of a destination to organize a congress is based on the attractiveness of the city for the delegates’ free time.’

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Antoine Pinto studied architectural interior design at the 'Académie des Beaux-Arts' in Liège. In 1976 he opened his fi rst restaurant and in 1980 the Besser Guide, the German equivalent of the Gault & Millau Guide, pro-claimed him as one of Central Europe's hun-dred best chefs. Nevertheless he remained an artist in heart and soul. 25 years later he is called the expert in Horeca interior design. He has created more than 56 projects: the legendary Alcantara Café in Lisbon, Dock's Café, the Ostend Queen and three other establisments within the Casino in Ostend. The hotel sector as well found its way to him: Sofi tel Toison d'Or and Hotel Vendôme in Brussels... The challenge for Antoine Pinto consists of rejuvenating historic and unique locations with his own typical eye-catching and mouth-watering style. Two wonderful examples can be found in Brussels and can be used for business events.

Belga QueenAntoine Pinto's desire to create getaway spaces which offer a gastronomic trip throughout Belgium is the foundation of the Belga Queen brasserie adventure. In a land-mark building dating from the 18th century

(previously housing the Hôtel de la Poste and then the Crédit du Nord bank) Antoine Pinto created a multifunctional complex housing a restaurant, an oyster bar, a beer bar and a cigar lounge - reveals clearly his respect for the original space and volumes. Belga Queen regularly organises events, in both the restaurant and the Cigar Lounge Bar. Contemporary architecture and gas-tronomy meet each other in an amazing way. All these characteristics make the brasserie Belga Queen the ambassador of "made in Belgium". All your senses will bestimulated: taste, touch, hearing, sight and smell.

Midi StationAntoine Pinto has taken up the challenge to develop the central part of Brussels’ South Station that covers the 2000m2 of the Vinci Park, which accommodates the vehicles of the station’s users, just a few steps away from the Thalys and the Eurostar. A single glance will not be enough to catch all the diversity on offer: a luxurious designed VIP bar, papers and magazines that are distributed daily, the mezzanines which allow guests to take in the unique atmosphere of the place, the grand piano protected by a huge lantern, the acoustic pillars designed to soften the voices and let the music rise above them. A private conference room in warm colours has also been incorporated in the concept. There’s also a dance fl oor for hosting Brussels’ nightlife and other events. This really is a place to be seen rather than to be talked about. A Brussels fl agship, where you can eat, do business, or just have a chat over a good glass any time of the day. It will be the cherry on the cake for the European capital.

Belga QueenT +32 2.217.21.87, F +32 [email protected]

Midi StationT +32 2.526 88 00F +32 2.526 88 [email protected]

Brussels is well known as an Art Nouveau and Surrealist city. Indeed, 2009 saw the celebration of the Art Nouveau Biennale and the

opening of the Musée Magritte. To the uninformed it might seem as if there have been no new artistic trends ever since. Wrong! Antoine

Pinto is the clearest proof that art is far from dead yet in Brussels.

Antoine PintoArtistically designed venues in Brussels

MIM > Brussels Special

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How do you explain the success of your company?We always try to give the clients more than they expect – no matter where they are from or where they are going. That’s why our service is two-sided. We have thirteen offi ces spread out over Europe and these are all staffed by local people, who between them can speak all the main European languages. This way the client gets served in his or her own language and culture, allowing us also to better understand the needs of the group. On the other hand, our local clients usually want to organise their events in another country. Where that could be a problem for a local agency not familiar with other destinations,

the AIM & AIMS offi ces make sure that our clients get the best service in other destinations as well. To further expand our staff’s knowledge of the destina-tions, our company meetings always take place in a different offi ce and some of our events are organised by people from different offi ces, thus making sure that the client has access to the best knowledge and experience for the specifi c project. We can offer our clients professionally tailored meetings and incentive programs for every destination and every nationality.Globalisation has made the distances shorter and the differences smaller. Nowadays everyone expects the same service and accommodations in hotels

and venues the world over. Some things haven’t changed though. Nationalities mostly differ in attitude. We have to pay

particular attention to this, since clients can go anywhere else now if it’s not to their liking.

2009 was a signifi cant year for AIMS International, the group responsible for managing more than 700 large and small events per year worldwide. AIMS International has recently merged with the AIM Group to become a large and important player in the European meetings industry. Not only that, but 2009 is also the 30th anniversary of the group and – fi ttingly for this issue – the 10th anniversary of its Brus-sels offi ce. Their experience in dealing with all kinds of nationalities, inspired us to make an overview of the specifi c needs of the Europeans in Brussels. MIM interviewed Susanne Kostka (Managing Director AIMS), Patrizia Semprebene Buongiorno (Managing Director AIM) and Dorothée Flament (Director Sales and operations AIMS Brussels). INTERVIEW AND TEXT: CECILE CAIATI-KOCH AND IGOR HENDRICKX

AIM & AIMS10 years experience in Brussels

MIM > Brussels Special > AIMS

Brussels always manages to meet the specifi c needs of our customers

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MIM > Brussels Special > AIMS

Deutsche Gründlichkeit & French fi (rm)nessThe French have very specifi c requests and want to have detailed information before even considering a site inspection. Sometimes it happens that they’re not happy with what they asked for and want to see something different. Still, it must be said that once they have what they want, they are extremely grateful and happy. By contrast, the British are easier to please. Politeness will often prevent a guest or delegate from complaining. British agencies generally prefer to book hotels themselves, convinced that everyone speaks English in the European capital. People from the

Spanish market as well like to contact providers and hotels themselves. That way they know more about prices and condi-tions. The ‘Deutsche Gründlichkeit’ contin-ues in the meetings industry. They like to challenge us with requests and details and like to have things arranged well in advance to avoid any kind of last minute stress. As soon as they notice that you work well, they trust you completely. All in all they are very professional and expect the same from their service providers. Italians love attention and a lot of direct communication and are very strong negotiators. Finally, Scandinavians keep an open mind as long as they are treated with high quality serv-ice, venues and accommodations.

Eating habits & hotel accommodationsOver the years we’ve also noticed differ-ences concerning team building activities, gastronomic preferences and hotel accom-modations. The Spanish prefer Spanish ho-tel chains when available, Brussels meets their needs with NH Hotels and Husa; the French like the traditional values of Hotel Le Plaza; the British feel comfortable with international brands like Hilton; the Germans are used to booking the hotels themselves. The difference between Ital-ians and British concerning team building activities is most striking. The British have no problem at all with trying new exciting,

potentially embarrassing activities, while the Italians are a bit more cautious. A problem with which we’re often con-fronted is that the Portuguese, Spanish and Italian like to dine late, that they want to eat without pauses between courses and that they love to spend hours talking over coffee afterwards. It’s not always easy to fi nd restaurants like that here in Brussels, but our restaurateurs, like ‘The Manufacture’ and ‘Museum Brasserie’, un-derstand the habits of the southern coun-tries and are adapting their service hours. The British love beer and that’s one of the reasons – apart from chocolate for the la-dies – why they love it here. The increasing number of special diets to be catered for

with British groups (eg. gluten free, dairy free) do however present a challenge. The Dutch don’t have specifi c food needs, but they do want to be served in Dutch, which is becoming more and more diffi cult in Brussels. Traditionally, the French want French cuisine but that too changes. One French lady even said that Belgian food is better, so she only wanted a restaurant with French themed Belgian cuisine. The Scandinavians are a bit easier: they just want a mix of traditional and modern food. Generally speaking, however, all our clients are willing to adapt themselves to the restaurants that are available, as long as they are hip and the service is good.

Brussels is multifunctionalBrussels has a lot of potential. It’s the capital of Europe, meaning it’s multicul-tural and multilingual. That’s why a lot of international corporations and associa-tions have their headquarters here. It’s also interesting that in recent years Brussels has become more easily acces-sible by air and by train. The proximity of cultural cities (Antwerp, Ghent, Bruges,...) is an asset when promoting incentive travel. However, we fi nd that many don’t look beyond this image. Most of them only know the way between the airport and the European institutions or their own interna-tional headquarters. They don’t look any further. We always try to sell the destina-tion fi rst to our clients and that’s why we give them a tour of authentic Brussels. When we get our clients to visit Brussels, they are always surprised by the different possibilities. A stroll through the Dansaert district with all our young designers, a Ghaudi facade, or the different guilds of Brussels at the Petit Sablon, usually make them realise that Brussels is not only an international capital, but as has its own identity. Perhaps Brussels profi les itself to much as multi this and multi that, while forgetting its own identity. In any case, Brussels always manages to meet the specifi c needs of our customers: it’s truly a multi functional city.

www.aimgroup.euwww.aims-international.com

Europeanisation has made the distances shorter and the

differences smaller. We have to pay particular attention to this,

since clients can go anywhere else now if it’s not to their liking


At Dolce La Hulpe Brussels, we have a passion for creating exceptional meeting experiences. And when people are

passionate about what they do, you can see, feel, and even taste the difference.

• 135, CHAUSSÉE DE BRUXELLES • 1310 LA HULPE - BELGIUM DOLCELAHULPE.COM • TEL +32 (0) 2 290 98 21

Genius is fifty percent inspiration and fifty percent destination.

The grand old lady of the hotel industry in Brussels is undoubtedly Hotel Métropole. With its impressive façade it dominates the Place de Brouckère at the very heart of Brussels’ busy commercial and cultural centre. Thanks to its world-class service and excellent location and decor, the hotel has been able to serve discerning travel-lers for more than hundred years.Decorated with many different styles – French Renaissance, Empire, Art Deco, Louis XVI or contemporary classic – the hotel lavishly welcomes each guest with a refreshingly nostalgic ambience. Hotel Métropole has more than 20 venue rooms available for meetings, seminars and presentations for up to 500 guests. This includes the Métropole Executive Centre with a lounge and relax areas. The won-

derful historic surroundings are backed up by all the modern comforts needed for a successful business event. Furthermore, gourmet dinners and colourful cocktails can be organised in restaurant ‘L’Alban Chambon’, in bar ‘Le 19ième’ or in ‘Café Métropole’. 298 appointed rooms, of which 15 spacious suites, complete the range of possibilities for an overnight stay. In fact, there are so many possibilities that the hotel offers you several packages to make your choice easier. From its debut in 1895 to the present day,

stars and personalities from the worlds of fi lm, music, business and politics have been attracted by the quality of the service, the creative cuisine and grand surroundings of Hotel Métropole. In other words, you can’t imagine a longer and more distinguished list of references to convince you to visit Hotel Métropole!

T +32 2 217 23 00F +32 2 218 02 [email protected]

Hotel Métropole: back to Real Hospitality

MIM 28

Just a stone’s throw away from Tour & Taxi and the North Station, Husa Presi-dent Park Hotel only lies 2 kilometres from the Grand Place and is located in Brussels’ new business and ministries dis-trict. Husa could hardly be better located as a meetings hotel. Don’t be deceived by the sumptuous French-stone facade. Hidden behind these walls is a universe of bright-ness and comfort. Husa was entirely renovated in 2008: spread out over four fl oors are 297 rooms and suites with warm wooden fl oors and designer furniture and invitingly relaxing colours. The hotel’s private garden adds a measure of quiet contemplation to the atmosphere.The entirely renovated Bar and Restaurant which is open daily from 11.00 - 24.00 will give your stay at the Husa President Park an extra dimension.You can enjoy a splendid view over the garden as well as access to the garden terrace during sunny days. The Bar and Restaurant serve a wide variety of food with Mediterranean and season hints, as

well as various beverages which range from an extensive Belgian beer assort-ment to exotic cocktails.

Husa meets your expectationsLocated on three different levels, the majority of the 17 meeting rooms benefi ts from the natural daylight. The largest can hold up to 225 guests in classroom style. These rooms are available for seminars, conferences, plenary sessions, product launches, car exhibitions, fashion shows and all kinds of other events. A separate

functional access for car shows and prod-uct launches is available as well as an exclusive entrance for your guests. Your meetings and conferences will be fully supported by the hotel’s professional event team. The biggest meeting rooms have direct access to our beautiful garden, ideal to host a cocktail or barbeque.

For further information:T +32 2 205 05 12F +32 (0) 2 201 52 [email protected]

Husa President Park Hotel


Choose from several meeting pack-ages until February 28th - 2010:

1. Comfort Package 50€/pp Sandwich buffet

2. Gourmet Package 55€/pp Cold and warm buffet

3. Executive Package 70€/pp 3-course lunch

4. All break-out rooms 50% discount

All 3 packages include: plenary meeting room

hire, 2 coffee breaks, free WIFI in all meeting

rooms, bedrooms & public areas

A meetings hotel in Brussels' Rogier Convention District

MIM 29


The meetings industry in Brussels has been graced by not one but three Marriott Hotels. Whatever your event may entail, they can provide the right tools and the right space. With fl exible meeting space for groups from 10 to 460 attendees, the Marriott Hotels offer three great four star options that cater to the discerning needs of today's meeting planners. Their hotels are located in three distinct locations within Brussels: the Brussels Marriott Hotel, located in the historic city centre directly in front of the Bourse,

the Renaissance Brussels, conven-iently located in the heart of European Quarter just around the corner from the European Parliament, and the Courtyard by Marriott Brussels, located near the airport and the important business parks. For a tailored event solution, Marriott offers you a total of 728 guest rooms and 30 meeting rooms, including 3 large modular ball rooms. You can get the ‘beststeaks in town’ at Marriott’s MidtownGrill, have a cocktail in the Schengen barof the Renaissance and enjoy a dinner in the atrium of the Courtyard.

Meetings Matter More at MarriottWhen organising a meeting or other event at Marriott properties world-

wide, Marriott rewards your loyalty by delivering even more value along with the superior service you’ve come to expect. And if you book more, you also get more.

There’s more! Marriott has adapted itself to the changing economic conditions. Companies looking for exceptional value while still receiving excellent service and quality, will be pleased with Marriott’s

Value Dates. Value Dates for 2010 offer rates starting from 79€ to 139€ inclusive of breakfast for a group of guests.

For further information:Jamila Bouabid, Group Sales Manager+32 (0) 2 516 90 [email protected] Reservations+32 (0) 2 505 20 [email protected]

Marriott Hotels

For each qualifying meeting of at least 50 cumulative room nights booked and actualized by July 1, 2010, you will receive:

1. 25% allowable attrition2. One complimentary room

for every 35 rooms booked3. Double Marriott Reward Points, up to 100,000 points per meeting.* Mention promotional code: MIM OFFER. Offer is subjectto availability & does not apply for already booked business.

Value DatesJanuary 1-16, February 14-21March 28 - April 11, May 20-24July 15 – August 31, November 7 – 14December 16 – 30

2010 Group Rates Starting From:+ €99 Including Breakfast at the

Brussels Marriott+ €89 Including Breakfast at the

Renaissance Brussels+ €79 Including Breakfast at the

Courtyard by Marriott Brussels

* Rates are subject to availability

MIM 30

In a quiet street behind the active Louise district, within its own oasis of greenery and calm, lies a gentleman’s residence of the XIX century. Welcome to Espace Moselle. The building has retained all the charm of the century when Brussels was the capital of an industrial and colonial empire. Recently renovated, it now offers a high degree of comfort and the most up-to-date technology. Espace Moselle comprises 1,300 m_ of offi ces, reception and seminar rooms. With its wood-panelled, beautifully decorated rooms, crystal chandeliers, inlaid parquet fl oors and top quality furniture, Espace Moselle

symbolises elegance, tradition and class. An enchanting and harmonious atmos-phere reigns over the garden, the decor and the spacious rooms illuminated by the daylight.

LocationLocated in the centre of the city, Espace Moselle can easily be reached by public transport. A private, very helpful park-ing is also available for the guests. Several quality hotels (Bristol, Clubhouse, Conrad, Delta, Hilton, Manos and Sofi tel) lie within walking distance of the venue.

And the good news is that Espace Moselle even offers to take care of all these ac-commodation needs during your event.

Event servicesEspace Moselle lends itself to exhibitions, seminars, meetings, cocktails, receptions...


Espace Moselle Business, Meeting and Conference Centre

your business needs more space than ever

you just have to name it! The venue’s special atmosphere will be a sure bonus to your event. The professional and expe-rienced staff is ready to help you with any request. One look at the list of references will assure anyone that its deserves its reputation as a classy and professional venue for all kinds of events.

The catering has several formu-las for coffee breaks, aperitifs and cocktails, sandwich buffets, cold buffets, three course menus and an open bar. An extract from one of these menus speaks vol-umes about the gastronom-ic delights you can expect: ‘Young leeks wrapped with smoked salmon and sour dill, salad of haddock with pickled radishes and chervil, tomatoes stuffed with tails of crayfi sh,...’. And those are just the appetizers.Of course an excellent location and quality service are important for the suc-cess of any event, but it would all be for naught if the events spaces didn’t meet the expectations of meticulous guests. At Espace Moselle they do and how... All rooms are air-conditioned and all the usual technological refi nements are available on demand.Events can also be organised outside

in the peaceful private garden and several offi ces are

also available for your support staff with all the trimmings of a

home offi ce.

For further information:Mme Paule Dodé[email protected] +32 (0) 2 504 97 00F +32 (0) 2 504 97 09Rue des Drapiers 40, 1050 Brusselswww.espace-moselle.be


Support your event with classic elegance,

quality service and modern technology

Function rooms+ Schumann Theatre: 80 pax Classroom: 45 pax Boardroom style: 45 pax U-shape: 38 pax Banquet: 80 pax Cocktail: 200 pax+ The Auditorium Capacity: 34 pax+ Europe Capacity: 20 pax+ Gallery Capacity: 25 pax+ De La Tour Theater: 45 pax Classroom: 30 pax Boardroom style: 15 pax U-shape: 15 pax Banquet: 60 pax Cocktail: 100 pax+ Club Moselle Banquet: 80 pax Cocktail: 100 pax

MIM 31

MIM 32

Accor Hotels in BrusselsCovering every segment from luxury to economy around the world, Accor’s hotel brands meet the needs of business and leisure travellers. In Brussels, Accor has no less than 15 hotels, 8 of which are espe-cially suited for meetings and other busi-ness events: Sofi tel Brussels Europe, Sofi tel Brussels Le Louise, Pullman Brussels Airport, Novotel Brussels Airport, Novotel Brussels Centre Tour Noire, Mercure Brus-sels Airport and Ibis Brussels Gare du Midi.

Location and accessIt no longer matters if the participants of your event arrive only by car, by plane or by train. You’re certain to fi nd an Accor hotel in Brussels which will suit your particular mode of transport. Pullman Brussels Airport and Novotel Brussels Airport both have an easily accessible parking lot and lie close to the airport and to Brussels’ surrounding highways. All

three hotels near the airport have a free shuttle service to and from the airport. Are you ecologically minded and prefer to use public transport? No problem, Ibis Brussels Gare du Midi lies right next to South Station and is also easily accessible by bus, tram and metro. International guests can even make use of the Thalys.Depending on the kind of event, you might prefer being close to one of Brussels’ many attractions. Novotel Brussels Tour Noire lies in the very centre of the city, Sofi tel Brussels Europe is within easy walking distance of the European institu-tions and Sofi tel Brussels Le Louise is located in the middle of Brussels’ fashion-able Louisa district.

Business and pleasureNowhere is it written that you can’t combine business with pleasure and with Accor it has just become that much easier. Novotel Brus-

sels Airport, Novotel Brussels Centre Tour Noire and Pullman Brussels Airport have a hammam or jaccuzi, fi tness centre, swim-ming pool or jetstream… The two Sofi tel hotels have fi tness centres as well.It’s not only the outer human who is in for a treat, the inner human will most certainly enjoy the hotels’ restaurants. Sofi tel Brussels Le Louise has the ‘Crystal Lounge’, designed by the famed Antoine Pinto, which welcomes its guests into a resolutely modern setting, transforming their break, their lunch or their dinner into a unique moment. Mercure Brussels Airport has ‘Vins sur 20’, a bar where one can sample great ones at exceptional prices. Local and regional dishes will en-sure a ‘fl avourable’ experience. These are just a few examples of the mouth watering possibilities of Accor.


Accor’s A|Club Meeting Club Planner will help you earn points by organi-sing events in these hotels. These points can be exchanged for reward vouchers, as well as weekend car rentals, intra-European fl ights, SNCF and Thalys train tickets and Lenôtre gift packages.

Sofi tel Brussels Le Louise

Sofi tel Brussels Europe

Ibis Gare Midi

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MIM 33


Meeting serviceIt goes without saying that all meeting rooms and event spaces are comfortably designed and benefi t from state of the art technology. However, Accor has more to offer! Hospitality implies that everyone gets treated as an individual guest. The event teams of each and every Accor hotel will make sure that you receive a personal-ised service and a tailor made programme. You will have a single contact person to organise every aspect of your event: suc-cess guaranteed. Flexibility is the key word of every interaction. The prime example of this quality service is Pullman Brussels Airport. There ‘con-nectivity lounges’ have been introduced in a partnership with Microsoft. These have been designed so customers can stay in touch with their offi ce, friends and

family without anyone reading over their shoulder. You can work as effectively here as at the offi ce, as each workstation is equipped with the latest of technology. The Pullman Co-Meeting offer inaugurates a new approach to organising business meetings and incentive programs. ‘Innova-tive breaks’ organised during meetings offer participants opportunities to unwind and take refreshment: relaxing massages, energising gourmet breaks around differ-ent recipes for a particular product, the-based breaks,... Ask for the break menus. You can benefi t from the ‘Happy meeting’ Packages if you organise a meeting before 31 March 2010.

These are just a few of many reasons why these hotels serve as an excellent alterna-tive to other hotels with a larger capacity. In short, from the moment that you con-tact Accor Sales Support, your event is on straight route to success. The many pos-sibilities of the Accor group, allow them to provide you with a solution for any kind of event. The free, quick and friendly service with expert advice is yet another good reason to think of Accor when organising your business event in Brussels.

Info, terms, conditions and reservations:+32 (0) 2 718 07 [email protected]

Hotels for any kind of event all over the city

Accor has launched its entirely renewed site dedicated to meeting organisers. This site is accessible in seven languages, provides a step-by-step guide for meeting planners to help them complete their tasks by providing segmen-ted offers, depending on the event, and advice sheets at each stage. The site allows meeting planners to access and check on availability in the hotels in real time, send them requests for estimates, and make direct reser-vations to organize meeting of between three and thirty people. The site also supplies meeting planners with information about each hotel brand. www.meetings.accorhotels.com

Pullman Brussels Airport Novotel Brussels Airport

Novotel Brussels Off Grand'Place

Sofi tel Brussels Le Louise

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MIM 34

The DominicanIn a quiet street in the centre of Brussels’ business quarter, lies The Dominican – a Carlton Hotel and a member of Design Hotels – on the site of a 15th century Dominican abbey. This splendid hotel is housed behind the classic fa-cades of the house where Jacques-Louis David, Napoleon’s court painter, died. The hotel pays tribute to both legacies with its name, logo and interior design.

The ground fl oor is a se-ries of huge interlocking rooms which surround an inner court-yard garden. High ceilings, windows and mir-rors are combined with warm colours and a modern eclectic style to create a heaven of tran-quillity. The splendorous style is continued in the 150 rooms (including several executive and deluxe rooms, four spacious suites and an executive loft).

The Dominican’s three brea-kout rooms have the same soaring ceilings and attention to detail as the rest of the ho-tel. Meetings can be organised for a guest public as small as 8 or as large as 300. The nearby Grand Lounge, Lounge

Bar and courtyard offer plenty of oppor-tunities to relax with a drink or refresh

with a bite. A business corner, omnipresent free Wi-Fi and all the usual technical refi ne-ments ensure the ideal busi-ness atmosphere.

Saint Thomas Aquinas, the Do-minican priest and infl uential philosopher, once said that ‘a thing's perfection is consid-ered chiefl y in regard to its end’. As a place for business and pleasure, The Dominican has indeed reached perfection.

T +32 (0)2 203 0808F +32 (0)2 203 [email protected]

Why not organise your event all over Europe? At the foot of the Atomium you can stroll in just a few hours amidst the typical am-biance of the most beautiful towns of the Old Continent. A visit to the interactive games of the European Space is also a must. Mini-Europe is the ideal location for the organisation of your staff parties, seminars, cocktail parties, family days, presentations,…- A unique location with a European dimension.- A central location with easy access and parking facilities- A catering service which can fulfi l your gastronomic desires- 4 rooms which can be personalised according to your wishes

Mini-Europe

More information:Kristof Van Vaerenbergh+32(0)[email protected]


The Dominican is a regular supporter of the Pink Ribbon Campaign

INFORMINFLUENCEINSPIRE

Built for ideas and inspiration, SQUARE is Europe’s pre-eminent convention venue.

13.000m² for unforgettable events, right in the heart of Brussels.

SQUARE-BRUSSELS.COM

the coffee on your private terrace

Rue Charles Dubois 87 | B-1342 Limelette | Belgium +32 (0)10 42 19 99 | +32 (0)10 41 57 59

[email protected] | www.chateau-de-limelette.be

Our seminar package is available for groups of 6 or more people all our meeting rooms have been renovated recently and have a private terrace with access to the garden. For 69 euros per person, we provide coffee on arrival, the meeting room which comes fully equipped, a 2-course lunch buffet and the drinks package (1/2 bottle of wine or 2 soft drinks or 2 beers) water and coffee, 2 coffee breaks (morning and afternoon) free parking with 280 spaces and free (Wi-Fi) Internet access. Located at only 20 km from Brussels.

you and your guests

MIM 36

MIM > Luxembourg

DYNAMIC REGION- Olivier Barbieux, Director OTL Brussels ‘Luxembourg City is a European

capital on human scale with a lovely green surrounding countryside. The dynamism of the region has once again been proved by the opening

of new hotels: Château d’Urspelt (2008), Melia (2009), Place d’Armes and Légère Premium (Spring 2010) and Suite hotel (2010-2011). Thus the Grand Duchy will reach the grand total of 4000 rooms. To show the new in-frastructures and other ideas, we will

again organise a study trip especially for the meetings industry in 2010.’

- Maryline Arthkamp, LCTO ‘What’s more: in April 2010 Château

Schengen will open its doors as part of the 25th anniversary of the Schengen Treaty (14 June 2010). Don’t hesitate to contact the LCTO. We’re there to sup-port your event with advise and we will put you through to the ideal contacts.’

- Didier Scaillet, Director MPI ‘The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg

looks like a peaceful little town, but over a period of 10 years an impressive evolution has taken place with hotel infrastructure and cultural develop-ments (‘La Philharmonie’, the Abbey of Neumunster). The old prejudice that

On 22 September 2009 a lunch was held at the embassy of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg to discuss Luxembourg’s meeting industry infrastructure and its further potential. This panel discussion was organised by the Brussels’ Tourism Offi ce of Luxembourg and got the full support of MIM magazine. This animated discussion was moderated by Marcel A.M. Vissers and was led by Olivier Barbieux and Annette Declerck. Following quotes show the positive atmosphere that permeated the lunch and the subjects that were discussed.

Panel discussion about Luxembourg

MIM 37

there’s nothing happening in Luxem-bourg, has disappeared. The gas-tronomy too needs emphasis: fi fteen restaurants have received Michelin stars. Finally, the quality of life in Luxembourg is so good that foreigners make up 65% of its population.’

- Charlotte Rovito, Project Manager AIMS International

‘From the many requests for residen-tial seminars, we can conclude that Luxembourg’s easy accessibility from Brussels is a real advantage.’

QUALITY SERVICE- Sabine Lebrun, SIMCORP Benelux ‘With the help of Pepper & Salt, we’ve

recently organised a global convention in Luxembourg. Our staff enjoyed a product presentation and a dinner at the Château of Septfontaines. Our con-vention took place over two days and

we welcomed over 300 global guests. It was hosted at the Abbey of Neumun-ster and the delegations stayed in the Royal-Leading Hotel or in the Hilton next door. I enjoyed the collaboration with our Luxembourg partners and simply must underline the quality of the service and of the food.‘

- Annik Paquay, Pepper & Salt ‘In my opinion as an event organiser

the fl exibility of the Luxembourg hotels is remarkable.’

Annik Paquay is also co-manager of the 37°, the fi rst green meeting place of the Grand Duchy. It’s also the newest conference centre and event venue of Luxembourg City and by itself an architectural piece of art. Ecology and culture are its additional values.

- Michel Kunnen, Omnia Travel ‘In 2009 we organised the annual

CBC-KBC famtrip (1200 people divided over 5 weekends in July and August). Guests are very sensitive to the local scenery and that’s why we organised boat cruises on the Moselle river and walking trips through ‘Little Switzer-land’. It works as a way to retain cus-tomers because we’ve already received a lot of applications for 2010.’

LARGE POTENTIAL- Nicolas Lebrun, Managing

Director Destrée Organisation ‘In April 2009, I wanted to put forward

other developments in Luxembourg and other sectors. The banking and fi nancial sector represents a major industry in Luxembourg, as do ICT and Telecom-munications. In other words, a lot of potential for the meetings industry. For example, we organised a plenary session for the EU (DG Emploi) with two nights and a dinner at the new Novotel Gare.’

- Alexia Fierens, Ovation ‘That’s true, we have a lot of requests

for 2010 from the fi nancial sector for events in the Moselle region. While the senior managers are in a meeting, cultural incentives are easy to arrange there for their spouses.’

- Helene Bouillet, Kalahari ‘The pharmaceutical sector should not

be forgotten. For ABBOTT Laboratories we have prepared biotherapy days at the Mondorf-les-Bains and for BAYER product launches at the Château of Septfontaines. We worked very well with the Luxembourg partners, espe-cially Events & More.’

What all these quotes clearly show is that Luxembourg is a dynamic coun-try, where the meetings industry is professional and supportive and where there’s a lot of potential for further developments. In other words, this panel discussion came to the same unanimous conclusion as MIM’s Luxembourg Sup-plement: ‘Luxembourg: hot city, cool country... and so close by.’

For further information:Luxembourg National Tourist Offi ce (Belgium)Olivier BarbieuxT. (+32) 2 646 03 [email protected]@visitluxembourg.bewww.visitluxembourg.be

MIM > Luxembourg

Olivier Barbieux - Maryline Arthkamp - Charlotte Rovito Sabine Lebrun - Alexia Fierens - Marcel A.M. Vissers

Didier Scaillet - Anne Declerck - Nicolas Lebrun Helene Bouillet - Annik Paquay - Michel Kunnen

MIM 39

Lying close to Brussels and in the centre of Wallonia, Namur is easily accessible for meetings and incentives against a spectacular green landscape character-ized by rocky river valleys, steep hills and deep caves. Because of its central location, the city of Namur has become the capital of the Walloon region and an important centre of political and economic decision making.

In between the industrial cities of Liège and Charleroi, Namur is a warm town with a charming administrative infrastructure. Important for the meetings industry: it also has a penchant for knowledge: the University Faculty of Agronomic Sciences of Gembloux (FSAGX) and the reputed faculty of Our Lady of Peace of Namur (FUNDP).

Thrown into the bargain, are quite a few interesting venues:The Palais des Congrès offers a fascinat-ing mix of old and ultramodern in the heart of the city. A 300-seat amphithea-tre, an auditorium for up to 100 people and a number of conference rooms are in the experienced hands of Artexis.Namur Expo – also managed by Artexis – hardly needs an introduction: the offi cial exhibition centre of the city and province of Namur yearly hosts twenty fairs and an array of meetings and events in its 12000m2 of infrastructure.Ciney Expo, surrounded by green fi elds

and forests but still easily accessible by car (free parking for 4500), has become a key player in the Walloon meetings industry. This large multifunctional venue has a main hall, a welcome hall, several seminar and meeting rooms and an open air esplanade.The Theatre of Namur serves as a natural link between the meetings industry and the cultural sector. It delivers room rental, VIP seating, catering, … for your events with a capacity ranging from 30 to 900 and with no need for expensive middlemen.

Namur Congrès benefi ts from the same dynamism that suffuses this green region. This congress bureau is the ideal partner for organising meetings and incentives in the city and province of Namur.

For further information:Namur Congrès - Convention BureauTel. +32 (0)81 776758Fax +32 (0)81 [email protected]

Thanks to the confl uence of Sambre and Meuse the province of Namur has been a meeting place since prehistory. The fortifi ed cities of Namur and Dinant as well as the many castles overlooking the rivers, serve as proof that this region has been a political, economic and cultural centre for many centuries.

Namur, a charming region to discover

MIM > Namur

Novelties: Château de la Poste, Boat for You, Domaine du Vieux Moulin, La Ferme de Foy, Hôtel du Golf de Flanuée, Château de Franc-Warret. Aside from these novel places, the region has also brought forth people like Adolphe Sax, Justine Henin, Benoît Poelvoorde, Cécile de France, Félicien Rops,… In short: your event will be in good company!

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MIM 41

MIM > Alberta

Dreamy AlbertaAll the Meeting Space You Can Get Thanks to the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver and the constant, pro-active effort on the part of the Canadian Tourism Commission to put the country ‘out there’, Canada, as a whole, has gained a lot of visibility on the international scene lately. So now is defi nitely a good time for them to promote values that can easily be translated into the meetings industry. Indeed, when it comes to getting together, Canada has nothing to blush about. REPORT RÉMI DÉVÉ

I can personally state it as I was invited on a press trip to discover the joys and jewels of Alberta. To tell you the truth, I had never been so far west in Canada. I knew Nova Scotia, Montréal and Québec, but my meetings adventures had never taken me this close to the Rocky Mountains. Not only did I discover a land of endless possibilities but I also came across some fascinating venues some of you people could easily use to make your meetings and incentives memorable. Whether it be the fascinating scenery, the laidbackness of the Albertans, the commitment to sustainability or the pure spaciousness of things, Canada is the place to be. Sadly I can only mention the highlights of my trips here, but believe me I could ramble on for pages.The Canadian Tourism Commission and Travel Alberta had carefully arranged the itinerary: to give me a strong taste of Al-bertan fl avours. My journey had to be done in several stages: a landing in and a quick tour of Calgary, a long and pleasant ride through the Rocky Mountains discovering Banff and its remarkably accessible moun-tain wilderness, Lake Louise’s breathtaking setting and incredible hues, and charming Jasper, a hike on a glacier and a climatic ending in Edmonton, the Festival city. By the end of the week, I must say I was out of breath, with all the super interesting info I was fed with. Also, my eyes were sore, hav-ing seen so many beautiful things…

1001 ways to get togetherWhether you like the comfort of a confer-ence hotel, the secluded character of a luxurious resort or the fascinating fea-tures of a performing art centre, Alberta has everything to meet the demands of any meeting planner.Just outside Calgary I particularly liked Spruce Meadows. With its serene character, this picturesque complex has captivated the worldwide audience of the sport of show

Shaw Conference Centre, Edmonton

jumping and offers meetings space for up to 500 people. In Banff, I also grew fond of the inspirational Banff Centre where you can combine a meeting with excellence in the arts, leadership and mountain culture.Of course if you’re more into ‘traditional’ meeting space, the Telus Convention Cen-tre, to which the Fairmont Palliser - and its wonderful ‘Pavilion’ directly linked to the station platform for gala dinners and re-ceptions - is connected and BMO Centre in Calgary, as well as the Shaw Conference Centre and Northlands (which is about to be expanded) in Edmonton, are there to help you out!

1001 ways to have funCanadians in Alberta know how to hike, ski and play golf. If you’re in search of team-building or social activities after a hard day of work, you will most of the time just need to get out of your hotel and you will fi nd yourself on a hiking trail, sometimes on a glacier, some other time on a ski slope. Whether it be on the mountains surrounding Banff or in the picturesque valley of Jasper, your group will most certainly be thrilled.In Calgary, I defi nitely have to mention the Calgary Stampede, which bills itself as the ‘Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth’. This large festival, exhibition and rodeo lasts for 10 days every summer from early to mid-July and might be an ideal time to hold a corporate meeting so your event re-ally becomes one-of-a-kind. Heritage Park Historical Village also deserves to be pointed out: a living museum, it recreates early Western Canadian history through costumed interpreters, street theatre and over 150 buildings and exhibits. It could well be the perfect place to hold an exclu-sive gala dinner.1001 ways to be breathtakenOne thing I have to mention here is the constant, outstanding sceneries that are everywhere to be found in Alberta. Just

take out your camera and shoot whatever is in front of you and you will sure get a postcard-like picture. Everything is majes-tic, gigantic and worth a photo. At the end of your trip, you will even feel a bit blasé by all of this. You don’t say!Also everything is big in Alberta: the hotels, the roads, the cars, everything! It lends a kind of serenity to the overall atmosphere. I mention that because I feel it’s very important for a meeting or an incentive to be held in the most ideal environment possible. You can forget the occasional ‘feeling’ you can get in a city, here you can take a deep breath, thinking the sky is the limit!

For further information:In Canada: Susan Frei, DirectorCanadian Tourism CommissionTel. 703 825 1134 - Fax 703 825 [email protected]

In Europe: Roger BradleyAxis Travel Marketing LtdTel. +44 0 208 686 [email protected]

More info on Alberta: Travel Albertawww.TravelAlberta.com/meetings

It looks like the Fairmont hotels were big sponsors of this trip. And good for me! With their very special locations, their outstanding architecture and sense of service, their in-house dog (I became friends with Sunny at Lake Louise) and their special mailbox system on which Marcel wrote extensively in HeadQuarters, they might well be meetings hotels par excellence.+ The Fairmont Banff Springs: Situated among

the snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies, it stands as a world-renowned symbol of Canadian hospitality. Looking almost like a gigantic Bavarian castle in the Black Forest, the hotel offers 768 guestrooms and suites, all with impressive valley views or dramatic mountain views. As for meetings, it boasts more than 7,000 m2 of meeting and banquet space.

+ The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise: Nestled on the shores of postcard perfect Lake Louise - with the bluest water ever, just look at the picture! - the existing Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise architecture dates back to 1913 and was designed by Canadian Pacifi c Railway's chief ar-chitect Walter Painter. The meeting space available measures 3,500 m2 and there are even guides on-site if you want to take your group for a hike to see white goats and grizzli bears!

+ The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge: In the charming town of Jasper, it’s the ultimate lodge experience, boasting 446 rooms on 700-acres of luxury in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. There’s an on-site golf, countless possibilities in terms of activities, 2,500 m2 of meeting space accommodating up to 1,000 delegates with 17 function rooms, and even elks looking quite exhausted during the breeding season!

www.fairmont.com

The Fairmont hotels Fairmont Banff Springs

Fairmont Jasper Park LodgeLake Louise

MIM > Alberta

MIM 42

Lot#103 Mountains, one hour away

Lot# 3213 Downtown, convention centre

Lot# 683 Western Hospitality, go wild

calgary-convention.com

Sold — Yes it’s Calgary!

T 403.261.8500F 403.261.8510

[email protected]

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