MailPound Blog

Let's continue our journey through Mexico with an interview featuring Janet Jimenez, Sales Manager, Hotel Cozumel & Resort located in Cozumel, Mexico.

   For more information visit: HotelCozumel.com.mx

What makes your hotel distinct from the other hotels? 
Our family-friendly resort has the largest swimming pool in Cozumel and was recently recognized by “Check Safety-First” (Hotels that care about your health) as one of the three hotels in Cozumel that has proved its capability to prevent food borne illness.

What activities can you recommend while visiting your hotel? 
On top of the flavor, the tradition and the exotic beauty that Cozumel’s island has to offer, one of the most popular activities is diving. Thousands of divers visit Cozumel and its fabled dive sites each year, many of them making the trip multiple times and for a good reason: Nestled in the protected lee of the island’s west coast are some of the world’s famous reef dives.

We proudly offer several packages tailored and designed especially for those adventure seekers. Also, Hotel Cozumel & Resort offers you its unique Gazebo by the sea and facilities as well as its experience in the very specific field of weddings, marriage vows exchange, honeymoons and romantic dinners by the sea. Allow the sun, sea and sand to be an accomplice of the most special moments in your lifetime. 

How far is the hotel from tourist sites? 
Our great location is among the many reasons for which our resort is the best option for families and divers. We are within walking distance from gorgeous downtown San Miguel, the shopping area, night entertainment and only minutes away, by boat, from all the island’s main reefs. These are just a few recommendations not to be missed:

The Museum of the Island of Cozumel, located in downtown San Miguel, showcases the island's history and natural environment; its origins, wildlife migration patterns, reefs, archeology, galleons and pirates. Four exhibit halls, dioramas, sculptures, charts, traveling exhibits and interactive demonstrations, complete with guides who speak English, Spanish and Maya, bring the museum to life.

Chankanaab Park is just south of the town of San Miguel, is located within Isla Cozumel's Reefs National Marine Park and features the only inland coral reef formation in the world. The park is home to the world renowned eco-system and natural aquarium, Chankanaab Lagoon, with more than 60 species of tropical fish, crustaceans and corals and the only botanical garden on the island, featuring the most diverse species of tropical plants.

Punta Sur Light House, Ecological park and nature reserve is a breathtaking environment of mangrove jungles, white sand beaches and reef formations at the south end of the island. The park extends over more than 247 acres of land harboring a varied wildlife, including crocodiles, which visitors can watch from a safe distance in a look-out tower, 220 species of birds, iguanas, and giant turtles, which come to shore between June and August to lay their eggs. Among the park's most interesting structures is an old lighthouse and navigation museum displaying the evolution of seamanship and navigation from the time of the Maya to modern times. Here, visitors can also learn about life in Cozumel during the first part of the 20th century through photos and other articles belonging to several generations of lighthouse keepers and their families. Near the lighthouse, El Caracol is a well-preserved ancient structure, used by the Mayas to signal the approach of a hurricane.

Do you have any current promotions you would like to share with the Travel Agents?
Yes, we do have the Great and Value Rate which includes free breakfast buffet, free unlimited WiFi, 10% commission, one free scuba diving introductory lesson at the pool area, 15% off in all the Gift Shop. This promotion is valid from November 1, 2009 to December 23, 2010. 

How can a Travel Agent book Hotel Cozumel & Resort?
Via GDS using our codes:

Simply go to Reservations, click on the Travel Agents tab and register. Go to Promotional rates and look for Great Rate and Value. Please enter Rate Access code MAIL to access this rate. 

Thank you Janet for sharing all these great details about your hotel. I can't wait to visit!

Please feel free to submit your comments below. Have an excellent day!

This week we are traveling to Mexico for an interview with Hortensia Garcia, Marketing and Sales Coordinator, Valentin Imperial Maya – An All Inclusive Adults-Only Resort in heavenly Riviera Maya, Mexico.

   For more information visit: ValentinMaya.com

What will clients experience at your hotel? 
Our guests will experience personalized service. The property is nestled in an exclusive and secluded location in Playa del Secreto (The Secret Beach) which is considered one of the best beaches in the Riviera Maya, with a beautiful small palm tree forest that leads towards half mile of white sandy beach. In true luxurious lifestyle tradition, our guests write their own agenda, whether it’s a relaxing stroll along the beach at sunset, a calm early afternoon by the pool, enjoying our nightly show at the fully air-conditioned theater, or dancing the night away underneath the starry Caribbean night sky. Our guests also enjoy the exquisite gourmet dishes around an unlimited experience with top shelf bar service throughout the resort.

What activities and places are nearby for clients to enjoy? 
There is an array of exciting water-sports available for those who want to explore the seas, including kayaking, snorkeling, diving & more. Also, our All Inclusive Adults-Only magnificent Resort places you just minutes from the vibrant Cancun city & Playa del Carmen town, Xcaret & Xel-Ha parks, and from the world famous Mayan archeological sites such as: Tulum, Coba, Chichen Itza. 

A challenge for the "warriors of the greens": Multiple fields of battle are located nearby where they can face and overcome with honor 18 enemies. Giving these "soldiers" the motivation they need to do battle are the songs of the tropical birds and being observed under the baleful gaze of a sleepy iguanas who call these playing fields their home. These perfect settings have been designed by the Gods of the sport; carved out of the jungle, surrounded by lagoons, cenotes and the vestiges of the ancient Mayans, themselves great sportsmen, and facing the luminous turquoise-blue waters of the Caribbean Sea. 

For those who love music, here as an event not to be missed: Music in Paradise from November 25th – 28th Framed in the heart of the most beautiful tourist area of the world, for four days Riviera Maya becomes one more time the host for the best national and international Jazz acts of all times.
Combining the most varied expressions of the genre once again in its seventh edition the Riviera Maya Tourism Board shares with visitors an unforgettable "fiesta" of sun, ocean and music where fun is guaranteed. "You only need to be here" RivieraMayaJazzFestival.com/new/

Is there any advantage to staying at your hotel rather than other ones in the area?
We have one thing that beats every hotel in the area: Our staff! There is absolutely no other team like the Valentin family in the Riviera Maya that welcomes, serves and pampers you with a genuine smile as the Valentin Imperial Maya staff. When our guests leave our hotel they feel as if they left a piece of their heart at the Valentin Imperial Maya. That’s why people visit us and come back over and over again; once they are here they become one with the Valentin Imperial Maya family.

Do you have any current promotions you would like to share with Travel Agents?
We are currently offering a Great and Value Rate. This promotion offers $100 Resort Credit good towards Massages. If booking any category except the Deluxe Junior Suite, the guest will also receive an additional $100 Resort Credit good towards an upgrade upon check-in. Kindly note that the credits do not have monetary value. When booking the Deluxe Junior Suite, this rate is commissionable at 13% and if any other category is booked, the Travel Agent will receive a 15% commission. 

This special is valid from November 03, 2009 – April 12, 2010

How can a Travel Agent book the Valentin Imperial Maya?
Via GDS using our codes:

Simply go to Reservations, click on the Travel Agents tab and register. Go to Promotional rates and look for Great Rate and Value. Please enter Rate Access code MAIL to access this rate. 

Thank you Hortensia for sharing all these great details about your wonderful all inclsuive resort. 

Please feel free to submit your comments below. Have an excellent day!

This week we are featuring a great interview with David Muñoz, Marketing Director for La Amada Hotel in beautiful Playa Mujeres, Mexico.

   For more information visit: LaAmadaHotel.com

What will clients experience at your hotel?
At La Amada Hotel clients will enjoy contemporary luxury. La Amada integrates stylish hotel architecture and decor, generous suites, spotless service, deluxe facilities, and our secluded beachfront location in a tranquil Caribbean setting. The hotel is comprised of intimate 109 suites designed to ensure utmost comfort, divided in eight suite categories, all generous in size. The hotel suites give the options of features such as pool access, ocean views, rooftop terraces, and beachfront location. 40% of the suites are equipped with their own private plunge pool. Some of the guests’ services include Wi-Fi internet service, twice daily maid service, kids’ club activities and much more.

La Amada Hotel counts with 3 swimming pools, one of them with beachfront view, and outdoors Jacuzzis for the enjoyment of our guests.

Fine Cancun dining is as well an integral part of the La Amada experience. Under the European Plan concept, La Amada gives guests and Playa Mujeres visitors the opportunity to sample a variety of fare and laid-back gourmet dishes at the hotel restaurants. Two convenient bars and two lounges complement the cuisine, offering all-day refreshment—from coffee and tea to fresh fruit juices, and poolside drinks to evening cocktails.

Visitors to Playa Mujeres community also enjoy services such as a comprehensive spa and wellness center, 170-slip marina and a Greg Norman designed golf course that features holes along the Caribbean and lagoon. Here is all about living the good life!!!

What activities and popular locations are nearby for clients to enjoy?
La Amada is situated just 25 minutes from Cancun International Airport and Cancun shopping zone, on an untouched peninsula, between the Mexican Caribbean and a national wetlands wildlife preserve. The area surrounding La Amada Hotel includes much of Playa Mujeres Cancun and Mexico’s top tourist attractions, activities and destinations. Our visitors have the freedom to travel to and explore this rich and beautiful land and culture. 

Whether our guests are in the mood for shopping, dining, or nightlife, there’s always something going on at Cancun hotel zone, and from La Amada Hotel, guests can be in the middle of it in minutes. To the south of La Amada Hotel and Cancun lies Mexico’s famous Riviera Maya which is known for its wondrous Mayan archeological sites and a variety of natural wonders. 

La Amada Hotel also enjoys proximity to the Great Mayan Reef—the second longest coral reef in the world, and an international destination for snorkeling and diving. 
The bohemian fishing island Isla Mujeres, is a short ferry ride away and offers a variety of shopping and dining options. There are also some seasonal Playa Mujeres Cancun Tours and activities like snorkel with whale shark in Holbox during the summer.

And as mentioned before, guests also enjoy of services such as a comprehensive spa and wellness center, 170-slip marina and a Greg Norman designed golf course.

Is there any advantage to staying at your hotel rather than other ones in the area?
Certainly, La Amada hotel is located in an environmentally friendly village which brings laid-back luxury to the wilds of the region. Here, you’re secluded from the hustle and bustle of Cancun’s famous hotel zone, yet close enough to take advantage of its activity during your travel and stay in beautiful Cancun.

Do you have any current promotions you would like to share with Travel Agents?
Of course, this is the best time to visit La Amada Hotel. Just to give you an idea some of the promotions that we are currently running include:

“Great and Value Rate” which is up to 60% off BAR. This special is valid from November 03, 2009 – December 23, 2009 and it is 15% commissionable to Travel Agents. 
Stay tuned for the e-flyer arriving to your inbox on Tuesday, November 10th, however, you can book this rate right now via GDS or in our website. Our GDS codes are below, 

“Early Booking Promotion 2010” which includes a 45% savings on selected room categories. The Special is valid for travel from December 24, 2009 – December 22, 2010

Please note that “Great and Value Rate” and “Early Booking Promotion 2010”, both include free continental gourmet breakfast and free internet access.

As well, special discounted rates are available for Travel Agents, who would like to experience the magic of our beautiful hotel. 

How can a Travel Agent book La Amada Hotel?
Via GDS using our codes:

Simply go to Reservations, click on the Travel Agents tab and register. Go to Promotional rates and look for Great Rate and Value. Please enter Rate Access code MAIL to access this rate. 

Thank you David for telling us all about La Amada Hotel. I love the concept of laid-back luxury.

Please feel free to submit your comments below. Have an excellent day!

Jacqueline Warda is our featured interview for this week. She is the Director of Sales at The Congress Plaza Hotel, Chicago, IL. 

   For more information visit: CongressPlazaHotel.com

What are some of the key selling features of Chicago's Congress Plaza Hotel?
Originally built to accommodate visitors to the World’s Columbian Exposition in 1893, the guest rooms and suites of the Congress Plaza Hotel are truly spacious by today’s standards. In contrast with the more modern hotels, guestrooms are larger, ceilings are higher, bathrooms bigger, and window expanses wider. The abundant public space, large lobby, and long corridors provide a freedom of movement not present in the more constricted area of today’s hotels.

Our LakeView rooms are characterized by their residential ambiance and, of course, the fabulous view of Grant Park, Buckingham Fountain, and Lake Michigan. They feature a king or two double beds, high speed internet, and complimentary coffee/tea.

The Congress Plaza Hotel has over 50,000 square feet of meeting space, including an 8,300 square foot Ballroom. The Gold Room at the Congress Plaza Hotel is famous for its architecture and for its place in the history of Chicago. An elegant Chicago banquet facility, the Gold Room was restored in 1997 by the Italian artist Lido Lippi - restorer of the Sistine Chapel - to its original splendor. The elegance of the room is ideal for formal events and is often selected for wedding receptions and banquets.

Why is The Congress Plaza Hotel the ideal choice for travelers?
The Congress Plaza Hotel’s convenient downtown location commands a spectacular view of Grant Park and Buckingham Fountain. It also provides easy access to the Art Institute of Chicago, Millennium Park, Orchestra Hall, and Sears Tower; all within walking distance. The downtown business district, shopping, and restaurants, as well as downtown theaters, museums and universities are just steps away. 

Having existed for more than a century, the hotel is considered by many to be a “Landmark of Chicago Hospitality.” The Congress Plaza Hotel is a full service hotel.

In addition to our great location and services, our rates are always competitive and offer great value. For example our Bed & Breakfast promotion includes a full American Breakfast per person.

Why should Travel Agents book The Congress Plaza Hotel for their clients?
Besides the convenient location and truly spacious accommodations for our guests, we pay 10% commission to all Travel Agents in a timely and accurate system.

Do you have any current promotions you would like to share with Travel Agents?
Our Great Rate and Value is valid for all new bookings now through January 31, 2010. It includes a 10% discount off of our best available rate. Another great promotion is our Bed and Breakfast promotion. It includes full American Breakfast for each guest.

How can a Travel Agent book The Congress Plaza Hotel?
Via GDS using our codes:

Simply go to Reservations, click on the Travel Agents tab and register. Go to Promotional rates and look for Great Rate and Value. Please enter Rate Access code MAIL to access this rate. 

Thank you Jacqueline for taking time to tell us all about The Congress Plaza Hotel. It's beautiful!

Please feel free to submit your comments below. Have an excellent day!

This week we are back in my hometown, sunny Miami, FL, where I interviewed Lisa Gory, Director of Sales at Shula's Hotel and Golf Club.

   For more information visit: DonShulaHotel.com

What are some of the key selling features of Shula's Hotel and Golf Club?
Our 205 well appointed guest rooms include pillow-top mattress, complimentary high-speed wireless internet and more. You can play golf at our championship 18-hole course. The Senator Course is recognized as one of Miami's best golf courses.

Book a custom Ritual experience in our Aveda concept spa. We invite you to relax at our warm and inviting environment as we provide you exceptional service. 

You can workout and stay healthy at our 44,000 square foot fitness facility with state of the art fitness equipment and exceptional staff.

Dine at the "Original" Shula's Steak House. Recognized as one of America's best steak houses, Shula's serves Premium Black Angus Beef. 

There is complimentary wireless and high speed Internet access. You can also take advantage of our 20,000 square feet of modern meeting space including 14 rooms and outside venues.
 

Why is Shula's Hotel and Golf Club the ideal choice for travelers?
We are conveniently located just outside the city of Miami, approximately 12 miles from Miami International Airport (MIA) and approximately 22 miles from Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport (FLL). We are also minutes from many popular sights and attractions such as South Beach, Land Shark Stadium (Dolphin Stadium), and Miami Beach.

Why do you think Travel Agents should book Shula's Hotel and Golf Club for their clients?
Shula's Hotel is a destination designed for the business and leisure traveler alike. As one of the last independent Miami resorts, our focus is to provide you world-class service while you make our hotel your home away from home. Constantly providing travelers with a variety of different rates and specials throughout the year, Shula’s has something for everyone. 

Do you have any current promotions you would like to share with Travel Agents?
Our Great Rate and Value promotion is valid through December 31, 2009. The promotion rate is $99.00 and includes one $25 certificate to the original Shula’s Steak House and one $20 certificate Shula’s Steak 2 restaurant. These rates are 10% commissionable.

How can a Travel Agent book Shula's Hotel and Golf Club?
Via GDS using our codes:

Simply go to Reservations, click on the Travel Agents tab and register. Go to Promotional rates and look for Great Rate and Value. Please enter Rate Access code MAIL to access this rate. 

Thank you Lisa  for telling us more about Shula's Hotel and Golf Club. I'll meet you at the "Original" Shula's Steak House, then maybe we can go play a round of golf!

Please feel free to submit your comments below. Have an excellent day!

The windy city is my next stop where I interviewed Maria Moreno-York, Director of Sales - Business Transient at Hotel Felix, Chicago, IL.

   For more information visit: HotelFelixChicago.com

What are some of the key selling features of Hotel Felix Chicago?
Great Location! Hotel Felix is a new, Eco-Friendly hotel with a great location. We also offer spa services and a full service restaurant. 

Why is Hotel Felix Chicago the ideal choice for travelers?
Hotel Felix Chicago offers travelers the convenience of complimentary wireless throughout the hotel. We also offer complimentary use of business center and free local calls. We offer warm and plush accommodations and are walking distance to North Michigan Avenue.

Why should Travel Agents book Hotel Felix Chicago for their clients?
In addition to the great accommodations and amenities I mentioned for their clients, we are also offering travel agents15% commission when booking our "Great Rate and Value" promotion.

Do you have any current promotions you would like to share with Travel Agents?
Our Great Rate and Value is valid for all new bookings now through January 31, 2010. For the guest, this promotion includes 20% off of our best available rate. When booking this offer, we are currently offering 15% commission for Travel Agents.

How can a Travel Agent book Hotel Felix Chicago?
Via GDS using our codes:

Simply go to Reservations, click on the Travel Agents tab and register. Go to Promotional rates and look for Great Rate and Value. Please enter Rate Access code MAIL to access this rate. 

The next time your clients want to visit the windy city, consider booking them at the Hotel Felix Chicago. Thanks for joining me today, Maria! 

Please feel free to submit your comments below. Have an excellent day!

This week we interviewed Amir Almir, General Manager of Gables Inn, located in beautiful Coral Gables, FL.

   For more information visit: TheGablesInn.net

What are some of the key selling features of Gables Inn?
Gables Inn features a convenient location, free WiFi, free breakfast and free cable TV.

Why is Gables Inn the ideal choice for travelers?
Gables Inn is centrally located. We are 10 miles from the beautiful beaches, 7 miles from the Port of Miami and 8 miles from Miami International Airport. 

It’s located on the main road to Key West in the most prestigious city in the US, Coral Gables.

Coral Gables offers the Venetian Pool, Historic retail areas, Coral Golf Course, Theatres, fine restaurants and University of Miami. 

Why should Travel Agents book the Gables Inn for their clients?
Travel Agents should book their clients at Gables Inn because of the quality and the size of our rooms. We also feature the lowest prices for the area.

Do you have any current promotions you would like to share with Travel Agents?
We are actually offering a really great promotion right now. It's called our "Great Rate and Value" promotion. It is valid through December 31, 2009 and offers a discount of 20% off BAR.

How can a Travel Agent book the Gables Inn?
Via GDS using our codes:

Simply go to Reservations, click on the Travel Agents tab and register. Go to Promotional rates and look for Great Rate and Value. Please enter Rate Access code MAIL to access this rate. 

Thank you Amir for participating in MAC Chat. Coral Gables is such a beautiful area and it has so much to offer. Gables Inn is very centrally located and a perfect choice for travelers. 

Please feel free to submit your comments below. Have an excellent day!

This week we are featuring a great interview with Mary K Twomey, Director of Sales and Marketing for Chicago’s Essex Inn.

   For more information visit: EssexInn.com

Jessica: What are some of the key selling features of Chicago’s Essex Inn??
Mary: Recently renovated rooms feature LCD flat-screen TVs, wireless internet access, sleek desks with a large work space, iPod and MP3 compatible alarm clocks, refrigerators, coffee/tea service and irons and ironing boards.

A 24 hour business center with computer workstations, a printer, and a high-speed internet connection.

Complimentary all season rooftop pool offers views of the lake, a fitness center with modern treadmills, lifecycles, weight machines, and free-weights.

A complimentary shuttle that makes stop at the Art Institute, Navy Pier, John Hancock, and Museum Campus.

On site restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Jessica: Why is the Essex Inn the ideal choice for travelers? 
Mary: Within walking distance to the public transportation including trains and buses. One of the closest hotels to the McCormick Place convention center. Minutes from the financial district 

Jessica: Why should Travel Agents book the Essex Inn for their clients? 
Mary: Along with our ideal location, amenities, and service, we frequently run specials that are designed to benefit both the traveler and the travel agents such as our current Great Rates and Value promotion. 

Jessica: Do you have any current promotions you would like to share with Travel Agents? 
Mary: Our Great Rate and Value is valid for all new bookings now through March 31, 2010. For the guest, this promotion includes a 10% discount off of our best available rate as well complimentary WiFi. We are also giving travel agents 15% commission on these bookings rather than the standard 10%. 

Jessica: How can a Travel Agent book Chicago's Essex Inn?
Mary: Via GDS using our codes:

Simply go to Reservations, click on the Travel Agents tab and register. Go to Promotional rates and look for Great Rate and Value. Please enter Rate Access code MAIL to access this rate. 

Thank you Mary for sharing all these great details about your hotel. Next time I visit beautiful Chicago, I know exactly where I will be staying!

Please feel free to submit your comments below. Have an excellent day!

This week we are featuring a great interview with Mariely Maduro and Johanny Jiminez, Reservations Managers at the South Seas Hotel & Avalon Hotel, Miami, FL.

   For more information visit: SouthBeachHotels.com

What are some of the key selling features of the South Seas & Avalon Hotels?
The South Seas and Avalon Hotels offer a one of a kind oceanfront location with direct access to the soft sandy beaches for which Miami Beach is famous.

Guest can relax in the comfort of our newly renovated rooms with our Flat Screen TV's with HD service, I-Pod Docking Stations, Egyptian cotton sheets, plush down comforters and waffle robes.

Breakfast is on us at the South Seas and Avalon Hotels with a deluxe European breakfast buffet awaiting you each morning!  

Why are the South Seas and Avalon Hotels the ideal choice for travelers?
The South Seas Hotel's oceanfront location on Collins Ave. and the Avalon Hotel’s beachfront location on Ocean Drive are just steps away from South Beach's boutique shopping and exciting nightlife!

The South Seas Hotel is located 2 blocks from the Miami Beach convention center.

Both properties have on-site lunch and dining options at either our award winning A Fish Called Avalon or Pilikia by the Pool.

We welcome all of our guests to lay back and relax in one of our cushioned teak lounge chairs by the South Seas pool or take a nap in our hammocks under the lush tropical foliage under our palm garden.

Why should Travel Agents book the South Seas and Avalon Hotels for their clients?
Both hotels offer oceanfront location in the heart of it all, with luxurious amenities, for an unforgettable experience.  We design specials to benefit both the traveler and the travel agents such as our current Great Rates and Value promotion.

Do you have any current promotions you would like to share with Travel Agents?
Our Great Rate and Value is valid for all new bookings now through December 30, 2009. For the guest, this promotion includes $20.00 off of our best available rate as well as complimentary European Breakfast and WiFi.

How can a Travel Agent book the South Seas and Avalon Hotels?
Via GDS using our codes:

Simply go to Reservations, click on the Travel Agents tab and register. Go to Promotional rates and look for Great Rate and Value. Please enter Rate Access code MAIL to access this rate. 

Thank you Mariely and Johanny for sharing all these great details about your hotels. I can't wait to visit them!

Please feel free to submit your comments below. Have an excellent day!