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Resources, Tips and the Latest News on the Meeting Planning Industry
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01 Sep 10 Ship Charters For When You Need to Call The Shots

Cruise events are an obvious choice for many companies and organizations, as well as an obvious fit for certain needs. The problem that many organizations planning cruises run into is that they do not necessarily want the cookie cutter cruise that takes x number of days to stop at y number of ports in a specific order. The solution is simple: ship charters. Here is what you need to know about booking ship charters:

  • Ship charters can be very cost effective – Booking an entire ship might seem expensive at first, but charters are almost always more cost effective than renting cabins on a generic tour when everything is factored into the equation. Why? Simple: it is an extra tour for the cruise company and one in which they are presented with a chance to build a long lasting relationship with many high-powered guests and clients.
  • Ship charters let you have incredible flexibility – Want to book a 4 am spinning session so everyone has time to shower before the breakfast seminar at 7am? No problems. Want specific menu items planned? That can almost certainly be arranged with a little preparation and advanced notice.
  • Stop where you want to stop and when – Most ship charters are generally very flexible in terms of where and when stops take place so long as no scheduling conflicts exist. See what you want to see and when, it’s your call when you charter a ship.
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18 Aug 10 Planning Meetings Abroad

Planning large scale international gatherings/meetings is complicated, but the fact that they are held abroad makes them even more complex. Here are some tips for planning the perfect meeting abroad:

  • Start planning early – Planning early is the best way to get everything ready and prepared properly. Be sure to look around online forums and search engines to see if the venue(s) and/or hotel(s) being considered are reputable. Remember that reputable might mean different things to different people, and some countries allow establishments to rate themselves in terms of stars.  Consider an all inclusive cruise meeting.  Cruising to foreign ports is a great way to save money and still offer a fabulous itinerary.
  • Passports and visas – Some countries have very laid back standards for entry, while others have very strict rules that are dutifully enforced. Know the rules of the country you plan on visiting and follow them fastidiously.
  • Start slow – Jet lag is unpredictable, and thus it is best not to put critical meetings at the break of dawn on the very first day. Instead, schedule mixers and other light events on the first day and let the second day start a little slow.
  • Book early – Let participants know what to expect in terms of jet lag, and suggest that people be on the ground and ready a day early. A few early bird cocktail mixers or other events could be held for these people, but remember the previous tip.
  • Guides – A good host will prepare guides for their guests. Include basic language and custom tips when appropriate as well as a list of important numbers.
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