Miami Beach, FL, June 30 2008 – Epoque Hotels, one of the leading boutique hotel representation companies, successfully completed “Conference ONE” in Barcelona, its first international meeting. In attendance at the mid-June event were more than 50 hotel executives representing the company’s member properties from countries like the US, Mexico, Africa, China, Latin America in addition to many cities throughout Europe.
To launch the series of meetings, President David Maranzana and Vice President Juan Palmada delivered a keynote speech that summarized Epoque Hotels’ history, its current standing and plans for growth. Other staff members explained their roles. Francesca Suereth and Diane Merians gave a detailed presentation about Epoque Hotels’ innovative online booking engine, EHBOX. During day one’s guest speakers included Joana Homs i Ros, of the Consortium of Tourism in Barcelona; Robert Denier, Managing Director of welllcom Marketing and Public Relations; Renee Martin, Account Manager for Epoque Hotels at Carolyn Izzo Integrated Communications; and Edyth Shapiro, Senior Consultant of VHS International Sales & Marketing Services. On day two, attendees were surprised with a visit to a historic and renowned country estate and restaurant called Les Panolles near Girona. Guest speakers were Chris Mumford, Managing Director of HVS Executive Search; Klaus Liebisch, Head of Training of Ibersolar Energia; and Edoardo Cognonato, Consultant for Hotel Management and Human Resources Teamwork. A spectacular gourmet lunch was the ideal ending for the two-day event. “Our goal was to organize a conference that addressed issues and trends in the business and leisure travel markets,” said Juan Palmada, a Barcelona native. “On opening night, attendees enjoyed an elegant cocktail reception on the terrace of the Hotel Omm. The following day we organized a Gala Reception at the FAD, Foment de les Arts Decoratives I del Disseny. Along with conference participants, the event attracted VIPs, travel agents and journalists.” “Another key objective was to present a compelling series of speakers and topics that would inspire in depth discussions and analysis,” added David Maranzana. “Additionally, the conference enabled us to meet, network and establish stronger relationships. We’re confident that this will result in increased cross-promotional strategies among our members.” While the location of Conference TWO is still to be determined, Epoque Hotels would like to extend its gratitude and appreciation to all of the hoteliers who attended and participated. About Epoque Hotels The Epoque collection is composed of over 300 style-driven, boutique hotels located in 100 destinations worldwide. The collection is divided into two categories: Epoque and Avantgarde. The Classic collection is dedicated to sleek, exemplary boutique hotels, while the Avantgarde collection is devoted to the most hip, trend-setting members. Established in 2002 and headquartered in Miami, Florida, Epoque Hotels also has sales offices in Italy, The United Kingdom, Spain and China. For reservations or more information on all of Epoque’s properties, visit www.epoquehotels.com or call (305) 538-9697 or (866) 376-7831.
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