More stunning featured venues for April

The latest venue amp hotel discounts

Where on earth is the boss

April Group FeatureFour Pillars Hotels

Suggest a venuefor the next magazine

From Findmeaconference amp FindmeahotelroomApril 2011 Issue

A new look website with a new look magazine

We donrsquot do things by half Read all about it within these pages

A venue with a difference

Advertisement

Read more

Conference delegates and meeting attendees are welcome to enjoy the unique surroundings Twycross Zoo has to offer throughout the day If booked in advance private tours and animal encounters can also be arranged

A venue with a difference

Advertisement

Read more

Conference delegates and meeting attendees are welcome to enjoy the unique surroundings Twycross Zoo has to offer throughout the day If booked in advance private tours and animal encounters can also be arranged

Read more

Conference delegates and meeting attendees are welcome to enjoy the unique surroundings Twycross Zoo has to offer throughout the day If booked in advance private tours and animal encounters can also be arranged

Martin ThorleyEditor

martinthorleyinfotelsolutionscomtwittercomFMAConferencefacebookcomFindmeaconference

Marchrsquos International Confex Exhibition marked the 10 year anniversary of findmeaconference and to celebrate a decade of being one of the UKrsquos leading venue finding service providers the popular conference and meeting venue website wwwfindmeaconferencecom has been revamped The past decade has seen findmeaconference help source venues for thousands of customers whilst also helping venues across the UK fill their meeting space This month findmeaconference launches a new look redeveloped site making it even easier to book space and compare thousands of venues in a matter of seconds The dedicated team at Infotel Solutions have worked tirelessly to improve a site that already provided an excellent service to our clients and partners The thorough makeover makes it even easier for conference and venue bookers to search for the ideal venue The new-look advanced search options and rate comparison technology ensures that venue bookers have all the required data at the touch of a button to make a fully educated choice when selecting venues for corporate events and private functions

With a database of over 10000 UK venues wwwfindmeaconferencecom will now enable the sitersquos visitors a seamless access to a variety of suitable locations The ease of use coupled with the speed accuracy and efficiency of results enables clients to find their required results in a matter of seconds The new site also enables users to search direct if they know the name of the venue or by entering their preferred town city county region postcode nearest airport or train station Alternatively they can cater the search to match their requirements by number of delegates room layout facilities and dietary requirements To further assist the cost reduction for our clients a budget figure can be searched by with results showing rates for the venue The results will be shown in order of relevance to the end user and will be based on their individual requirements offering suitable alternatives based on the requirements if necessary Images virtual tours and videos are displayed for venues giving customers a greater feel for the venue

4

ContentsApril 2011

11 NewsThe latest from venues and groups this last month

Features15 Featured Venues

21 Featured Venue Group

23 Our new Partners

29 Renewed Partners

31 Special Offers

39 Take a tourOur lovely new-look site is finally online Find out whatrsquos been in development over the last few months

45 Where on earth is the bossSelf proclaimed lsquoFantastic CEOrsquo Ann Cordner really could be anywhere wersquore not too sure Maybe Europe Russia China South Korea Alaska Find out where shersquos been and where shersquos heading

Regular Features

53 Who are we55 Meet the team

TO BOOK CALL ONE OF OUR AGENTS ON 01775 843411

Some more faces behind this monthrsquos issue of The Corporate Magazine

Ann CordnerFounder

Ann who recently embarked on her insane 87 day bus trip from London to New York has started blogging her journey Check out how shersquos doing on page 45

Dan RansomDesignMarketing

Dan is the chap who designs organises and publishes all of the great content yoursquore seeing in each monthrsquos Corporate and Leisure magazines

Luke BlackmoreDesignMarketing

Along with Dan Luke has designed the look of the updated findmeaconference website this monthFind out more about it on page 39

Stephanie CarterClient Services

Steph provides an invaluable service of organising which venues feature in each issue of The Corporate Magazine There wouldnrsquot be much to read without her

Emma SpridgenQuality Auditor

Em has a keen eye for checking all the content is written correctly and represents the venues to a high standard

Sarah EmmittGroup Accounts

Sarah has chosen the stunning Four Pillars Hotels to be this monthrsquos featured venue group (page 21)

5

Bookings ampReservations

6

Contact us

Conference Bookings 01775 843411enquiriesfindmeaconferencecomLines open 830am - 530pm Monday to Friday

Client Services 01775 843404clientservicesfindmeaconferencecomLines open 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday

Hotel Reservations Call Findmeahotelroom on

01775 843414Lines open 9am - 7pm Monday to Friday

Have a Corporate Account with Findmeahotelroom

01775 843402reservationsfindmeahotelroomcomLines open 830am - 530pm Monday to Friday

Bookings ampReservations

6

Contact us

Conference Bookings 01775 843411enquiriesfindmeaconferencecomLines open 830am - 530pm Monday to Friday

Client Services 01775 843404clientservicesfindmeaconferencecomLines open 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday

Hotel Reservations Call Findmeahotelroom on

01775 843414Lines open 9am - 7pm Monday to Friday

Have a Corporate Account with Findmeahotelroom

01775 843402reservationsfindmeahotelroomcomLines open 830am - 530pm Monday to Friday

7

Write to us at The Corporate Magazine

FindmeaconferenceInfotel Solutions Ltd

Boston Rd GosbertonSpalding Lincs PE11 4NR

Add your venue to Findmeaconferencecom

or call 01775 843414

Elsewhere on the web

Want to see your hotel venue or companyin a future issue ofThe Corporate MagazineCall our Marketing team today on

01775 841194

httpwwwtwittercomFMAConference

httpwwwfacebookcomfindmeaconference

Check out the photos taken at the recent Discover Northampton Familiarisation Tripall on our Facebook page now

httpwwwlinkedincomcompanyfindmeaconference

Whorsquos talking about us on twitter

FMAConference

- great feature on us Thankyou Follow them for some great promotions and interesting tweets -)

Thx to the team at FMAconference for an excellent venues showcase event yesterday good to catch up with some old friends and make new ones

httptwittercombtcstevenage

httptwittercomRobCollConf

A venue

TheNationalSpace Centre

Advertisement

View venue

Our galleries provide a fascinating and inspiring backdrop for your event First class catering excellent service and the latest available technology ensure that every last detail is successfully taken care of

View venue

Our galleries provide a fascinating and inspiring backdrop for your event First class catering excellent service and the latest available technology ensure that every last detail is successfully taken care of

Venue amp Group News

Joel Fagg 24 Operations Manager at the luxurious Barceloacute Walton Hall amp Hotel in Warwickshire has scooped a prestigious hospitality industry awardThe coveted Acorn Scholarship which unearths talented people within the hospitality industry and helps them reach their career goals was awarded to Joel in recognition of his hard work and dedication at a lunch hosted by Michelin starred chef and restaurateur Michael Caines MBE

View Barceloacute Walton Hall Hotel or Browse all Barceloacute hotels

CCT Venues is officially one of the most environmentally responsible businesses in London according to the 2010 Clean City Awards Organised by the City of London Corporation this awards scheme encourages good practice in waste management across the Square Mile

Presented by the Lord Mayor of the City of London during a ceremony at the Mansion House the new award recognises CCT Venuesrsquo strongly improving track-record The company won a Gold Award in 2009 and a Merit Award in 2008

Ettington Park Hotel in Stratford-Upon-Avon Warwickshire has been awarded Hand Picked Hotelsrsquo lsquoHotel of the Year 2010rsquo boasting excellent customer and employee satisfaction in 2010

Hand Picked Hotels a collection of 17 country house hotels located across the UK holds an annual awards ceremony to celebrate the achievements of the hotels in the collection and lsquoHotel of the Yearrsquo is the most prestigious of three awards selected by the Hand Picked Hotels board This year the awards ceremony was held in January at winner of lsquoHotel of the Year 2009rsquo Crathorne Hall Hotel near Yarm North Yorkshire The two other major awards included lsquoConsistent Hotel of the Yearrsquo which was awarded to Norton House Hotel amp Spa in Ingliston Edinburgh and lsquoMost Improved Hotel of the Yearrsquo won by four-star New Hall Hotel amp Spa in Sutton Coldfield Birmingham

News

TO BOOK CALL ONE OF OUR AGENTS ON 01775 843411

Thistle Haydockrsquos Chef de Partie Martin Gregory this week celebrated becoming lsquoChef of the Yearrsquo at the St Helens Tourism and Leisure Awards which recognise the achievements of those who contribute to the boroughrsquos growing tourism industryMartinrsquos win came after an adjudicated lsquocook-offrsquo where he beat off stiff competition including his colleague Jonny Barr who finished overall runner-up in the competition Martinrsquos menu came out on top as the judges were particularly impressed by his starter of Devil on Horseback and main of poached duck breast with duck crackling

Sodexo Prestiges Stop Hunger campaign gives charity a helping hand

Pictured at the recent presentation of a cheque for euro8000 to St Vincent de Paul the designated Irish charity for the companyrsquos Global Stop Hunger Campaign were (from left) divisional director Margot Slattery Kevin McDermott finance manager St Vincent de Paul account director Aidan Walker and Patricia Carey director of services St Vincent de PaulThe Society of St Vincent de Paul is the largest voluntary charitable organisation in Ireland Its membership of 9500 volunteers throughout

the country are supported by professional staff working for social justice and the creation of a more just caring nation This unique network of social concern also gives practical support to those experiencing poverty and social exclusion by providing a wide range of services to people in need

11

Get A GoodKnightrsquos SleepOxford Thames Four Pillars Hotel launches 12 beautifully refurbished bedrooms within its historic College House

Oxford is steeped in history as the city of dreaming spires has long captivated both the hearts of the poetic and the minds of the academic The Oxford Thames Four Pillars Hotel has a varied history itself with documents dating the site back as far as the 12th century It is appropriate therefore that the hotel should

choose to refurbish its oldest wing (the medieval College House) restoring it to its original glory and giving guests the opportunity for a Knight to rememberhellip

The refurbished bedrooms promise to reflect the hotelrsquos status within Oxfordrsquos historic past Each of the 12 rooms has been named after Oxford Colleges (Christchurch St Johnrsquos Trinity Magdalen etc) Colour schemes in the rooms will also reflect the sense of history and status with rich ruby and amethyst tones complimented by contemporary accents Upgraded Clarins toiletries will also come as standard along with Divine chocolate bars and a complimentary drinks tray (to include soft drinks mineral water and mini bottles of wine) robes slippers and a complimentary newspaper The majority of these rooms will also overlook the beautifully landscaped lawns leading down to the River Thames and the majestic St Johnrsquos College barge

Have some news to share about your venue or venue group

Email it to marketinginfotelsolutionscom

wwwfindmeaconferencecommagazine

Now available for

PC Mac iPad iPhone

and Android devices

You may have noticed that wersquore sporting a bit of a new look in this monthrsquos issue of The Corporate Magazine Not wanting to be outshone by the new look findmeaconference website the magazine not only took on a bit of a refresh in the design department but is brought to you by new magazine software which brings improved functionality and a couple of extra new features

Now for the first time The Corporate Magazine is available on mobile devices such as the iPad iPhone and Android phone

Now powered by Issuu the leading digital publication platform as well as being available for PC amp Mac as a flash eMagazine The Corporate Magazine is also produced in HTML5 format a standard

supported by IOS devices such as the iPad

So what does this all mean to you Our readers can now read our latest issue on the go We still send all of our subscribers advanced notice when each new issue becomes available but now you donrsquot have to wait until yoursquore next at your desk to read us - instead just wake your iPad up go to findmeaconferencecommagazine and check it out there and then

The reading experience has improved for our PC and Mac readers too the Magazine now comes in a beautiful lsquofull screenrsquo mode with improved image quality

Not wanting to be outshone by the website The Corporate Magazine also received a facelift this month - bringing with it a couple of interesting new features

13

Introducing the new look magazine to complement the new look site

April 2011

Featured VenuesFeaturing

Trethorne Golf Club Cornwall

Hothorpe Hall Leicestershire

Holiday Inn Birmingham City

Holiday Inn London Bloomsbury

Group Venue

Four Pillars Hotels

Introducing

All because it just works - Findmeaconference Partner renewals

Feature Offers

TrethorneGolf Club Launceston CornwallIf you are a business looking to host an important event in a professional friendly and picturesque environment Trethorne Hotel amp Golf Club can meet both your business and personal needs

Just 40 minutes from Exeter and Plymouth and ideally located just off the A30 on the DevonCornwall border Trethorne is set in over 120 acres of beautiful Cornish countryside and offers the perfect venue for both residential and one day conferences or business meetings

Our innovative and contemporary conference suite can accommodate up to 60 delegates making it suitable for conferences small business meetings workshops seminars training events presentations exhibitions and team building sessionsComprehensive integrated audio visual and IT facilities including LCD HD projector electronic screen WIFI internet access telephone conferencing and Crestron digital room control package will meet the most demanding requirements

With the addition of spacious en-suite accommodation for up to 60 guests 18 holes of great quality golf and on site ten pin bowling Trethorne can build a bespoke package if the standard room types dont fit your requirements

Facilities include

- Free Parking- Spacious en-suite guest accommodation- Satellite television- Free Internet access- State of the art Conference Suite for up to 60

delegates- Championship standard 18 hole golf course- Floodlit Driving Range- Restaurant amp Bar- Private Dining- Ten Pin Bowling on site

Special Offer

Make a booking in April and receive a 10 discount on the room hire

10discount

Read More

15

You may have noticed that wersquore sporting a bit of a new look in this monthrsquos issue of The Corporate Magazine Not wanting to be outshone by the new look findmeaconference website the magazine not only took on a bit of a refresh in the design department but is brought to you by new magazine software which brings improved functionality and a couple of extra new features

Now for the first time The Corporate Magazine is available on mobile devices such as the iPad iPhone and Android phone

Now powered by Issuu the leading digital publication platform as well as being available for PC amp Mac as a flash eMagazine The Corporate Magazine is also produced in HTML5 format a standard

supported by IOS devices such as the iPad

So what does this all mean to you Our readers can now read our latest issue on the go We still send all of our subscribers advanced notice when each new issue becomes available but now you donrsquot have to wait until yoursquore next at your desk to read us - instead just wake your iPad up go to findmeaconferencecommagazine and check it out there and then

The reading experience has improved for our PC and Mac readers too the Magazine now comes in a beautiful lsquofull screenrsquo mode with improved image quality

Not wanting to be outshone by the website The Corporate Magazine also received a facelift this month - bringing with it a couple of interesting new features

13

Introducing the new look magazine to complement the new look site

April 2011

Featured VenuesFeaturing

Trethorne Golf Club Cornwall

Hothorpe Hall Leicestershire

Holiday Inn Birmingham City

Holiday Inn London Bloomsbury

Group Venue

Four Pillars Hotels

Introducing

All because it just works - Findmeaconference Partner renewals

Feature Offers

TrethorneGolf Club Launceston CornwallIf you are a business looking to host an important event in a professional friendly and picturesque environment Trethorne Hotel amp Golf Club can meet both your business and personal needs

Just 40 minutes from Exeter and Plymouth and ideally located just off the A30 on the DevonCornwall border Trethorne is set in over 120 acres of beautiful Cornish countryside and offers the perfect venue for both residential and one day conferences or business meetings

Our innovative and contemporary conference suite can accommodate up to 60 delegates making it suitable for conferences small business meetings workshops seminars training events presentations exhibitions and team building sessionsComprehensive integrated audio visual and IT facilities including LCD HD projector electronic screen WIFI internet access telephone conferencing and Crestron digital room control package will meet the most demanding requirements

With the addition of spacious en-suite accommodation for up to 60 guests 18 holes of great quality golf and on site ten pin bowling Trethorne can build a bespoke package if the standard room types dont fit your requirements

Facilities include

- Free Parking- Spacious en-suite guest accommodation- Satellite television- Free Internet access- State of the art Conference Suite for up to 60

delegates- Championship standard 18 hole golf course- Floodlit Driving Range- Restaurant amp Bar- Private Dining- Ten Pin Bowling on site

Special Offer

Make a booking in April and receive a 10 discount on the room hire

10discount

Read More

15

April 2011

Featured VenuesFeaturing

Trethorne Golf Club Cornwall

Hothorpe Hall Leicestershire

Holiday Inn Birmingham City

Holiday Inn London Bloomsbury

Group Venue

Four Pillars Hotels

Introducing

All because it just works - Findmeaconference Partner renewals

Feature Offers

TrethorneGolf Club Launceston CornwallIf you are a business looking to host an important event in a professional friendly and picturesque environment Trethorne Hotel amp Golf Club can meet both your business and personal needs

Just 40 minutes from Exeter and Plymouth and ideally located just off the A30 on the DevonCornwall border Trethorne is set in over 120 acres of beautiful Cornish countryside and offers the perfect venue for both residential and one day conferences or business meetings

Our innovative and contemporary conference suite can accommodate up to 60 delegates making it suitable for conferences small business meetings workshops seminars training events presentations exhibitions and team building sessionsComprehensive integrated audio visual and IT facilities including LCD HD projector electronic screen WIFI internet access telephone conferencing and Crestron digital room control package will meet the most demanding requirements

With the addition of spacious en-suite accommodation for up to 60 guests 18 holes of great quality golf and on site ten pin bowling Trethorne can build a bespoke package if the standard room types dont fit your requirements

Facilities include

- Free Parking- Spacious en-suite guest accommodation- Satellite television- Free Internet access- State of the art Conference Suite for up to 60

delegates- Championship standard 18 hole golf course- Floodlit Driving Range- Restaurant amp Bar- Private Dining- Ten Pin Bowling on site

Special Offer

Make a booking in April and receive a 10 discount on the room hire

10discount

Read More

15

Just 40 minutes from Exeter and Plymouth and ideally located just off the A30 on the DevonCornwall border Trethorne is set in over 120 acres of beautiful Cornish countryside and offers the perfect venue for both residential and one day conferences or business meetings

Our innovative and contemporary conference suite can accommodate up to 60 delegates making it suitable for conferences small business meetings workshops seminars training events presentations exhibitions and team building sessionsComprehensive integrated audio visual and IT facilities including LCD HD projector electronic screen WIFI internet access telephone conferencing and Crestron digital room control package will meet the most demanding requirements

With the addition of spacious en-suite accommodation for up to 60 guests 18 holes of great quality golf and on site ten pin bowling Trethorne can build a bespoke package if the standard room types dont fit your requirements

Facilities include

- Free Parking- Spacious en-suite guest accommodation- Satellite television- Free Internet access- State of the art Conference Suite for up to 60

delegates- Championship standard 18 hole golf course- Floodlit Driving Range- Restaurant amp Bar- Private Dining- Ten Pin Bowling on site

Special Offer

Make a booking in April and receive a 10 discount on the room hire

10discount

Read More

15

Hothorpe Hall Lutterworth LeicestershireSituated in the heart of England with beautiful rural surroundings

Hothorpe Hall is a family business and specialise in hosting Conferences Away Days Weddings Banquets Church Weekends and Holidays and Private Parties

The Georgian Manor House is on the Leicestershire Northamptonshire border - close to the motorway network - and working behind the scenes is a dedicated team renowned for their friendly and helpful service

Planning your next conference and looking for a new venue Then perhaps Hothorpe could be just the right place for your group Not only is Hothorpe a spacious and well designed centre with a choice of meeting rooms varying in size the team will also ensure your stay is a positive and memorable one

Read More

Feature

Day delegate rate

pound3624 hr rate from

pound71

Spring Saver Special OfferBook a day or residential meeting at Hothorpe Hall to take place before 30th April 2011 and one in every ten delegates booked is free of charge

You must quote SPRING SAVER at the time of enquiringMinimum of 10 delegates subject to availability New bookings only

Offer valid from 14022011 until 30042011

Friendly staff welcome you to the chandelier-lit Lobby of Holiday Inn Birmingham City Contemporary decor makes your guest room a stylish home-from-home and you can check email with complimentary wireless Internet throughout the 11-storey hotel Were conveniently located in the heart of the cityHost banquets and conferences for up to 630 people in Holiday Inn Birmingham Cityrsquos 14 modern meeting rooms Wireless Internet and

projectors make for an impressive corporate event and our dedicated conference staff are on hand to help with catering and seating arrangements

You can stage conferences for up to 630 people in our 13 meeting rooms Complimentary wireless Internet keeps everyone connected and projectors give your presentation a professional edge Ask our dedicated events team to help you plan your session

18

Feature Venues

Read More

May Day Delegates

Arrival Tea and Coffee Afternoon Tea and Coffee with a Tea Cake Selection of Wraps and Chips Main meeting room Hire LCD Screen amp 2 Flipcharts

pound30Special Offer

Holiday Inn Birmingham City

Stay central at the comfortable Holiday Inn Birmingham City Centre hotel 3 minutes walk from Birmingham New Street station

Friendly staff welcome you to the chandelier-lit Lobby of Holiday Inn Birmingham City Contemporary decor makes your guest room a stylish home-from-home and you can check email with complimentary wireless Internet throughout the 11-storey hotel Were conveniently located in the heart of the cityHost banquets and conferences for up to 630 people in Holiday Inn Birmingham Cityrsquos 14 modern meeting rooms Wireless Internet and

projectors make for an impressive corporate event and our dedicated conference staff are on hand to help with catering and seating arrangements

You can stage conferences for up to 630 people in our 13 meeting rooms Complimentary wireless Internet keeps everyone connected and projectors give your presentation a professional edge Ask our dedicated events team to help you plan your session

18

Feature Venues

Read More

May Day Delegates

Arrival Tea and Coffee Afternoon Tea and Coffee with a Tea Cake Selection of Wraps and Chips Main meeting room Hire LCD Screen amp 2 Flipcharts

pound30Special Offer

Holiday Inn Birmingham City

Stay central at the comfortable Holiday Inn Birmingham City Centre hotel 3 minutes walk from Birmingham New Street station

Holiday Inn London Bloomsbury

2 minutes walk from the Tube 10 minutes by bus from Eurostar connections at St Pancras station and a 45-minute taxi ride from London Heathrow Airport

Check into your stylish guest room air-conditioned and connected to wireless internet

We have 15 modern meeting rooms for up to 300 delegates in our plush Academy Our spacious facilities are also suitable for smaller training days and catch-ups Major organisations such as the BMA Unison and UCL are 15 minutes walk away You can access the City with ease at Holiday Inn London-Bloomsbury from nearby Holborn underground station

Balance evenings out in nearby Covent Garden and

Theatreland with relaxing afternoons in quaint Bloomsbury cafes The British Museums vast collection of world treasures is 15 minutes walk from us and admission is free You can splash the cash on Londons famous shop-lined Oxford Street just 10 minutes by Tube from the hotel

Treat yourself to sizzling fajitas in our Junction restaurant or a pint of Guinness with an Irish stew in the beer garden at Holiday Inn London-Bloomsbury Our friendly Concierge can assist you with directions and tourist tips

19

TO BOOK CALL ONE OF OUR AGENTS ON 01775 843411

Read More

Four Pillars HotelsFour Pillars is a privately owned group with 3 and 4 star hotels in their portfolio all offering full leisure and extensive conference facilities Four Pillars hotels are all ideally suited for business and pleasure and offer a wide variety of choices with superb accommodation

Feature Venue Group

TO BOOK CALL ONE OF OUR AGENTS ON 01775 843411

View the Four Pillars collection

Tortworth CourtDelegate rates start at pound45

Oxford ThamesRates coming soon

Cotswold Water ParkDelegate rates start at pound45

Oxford WitneyDelegate rates start at pound2333

Oxford SpiresDelegate rates start at pound37

21

Stay at a Four Pillars hotel with

Accommodation rates at Four Pillars Hotels start from just pound99

Book online atwwwinfotelcoukfourpillars

or call the booking line on01775 843413Lines open 9am - 7pm

Monday to Friday

TO BOOK CALL ONE OF OUR AGENTS ON 01775 843411

View the Four Pillars collection

Tortworth CourtDelegate rates start at pound45

Oxford ThamesRates coming soon

Cotswold Water ParkDelegate rates start at pound45

Oxford WitneyDelegate rates start at pound2333

Oxford SpiresDelegate rates start at pound37

21

Stay at a Four Pillars hotel with

Accommodation rates at Four Pillars Hotels start from just pound99

Book online atwwwinfotelcoukfourpillars

or call the booking line on01775 843413Lines open 9am - 7pm

Monday to Friday

Birmingham HippodromeWest Midlands

Delegate rates from

pound3950No matter what your event may be a meeting for 5 people or a residential conference for 200 Birmingham Hippodrome can cater for all your needs We have years of expertise behind us to ensure that your event runs smoothly

Old Thorns Golf amp Country EstateHampshire

Delegate rates from

pound3900Old Thorns Manor Hotel can provide facilities to suit your individual needs from a small group of 2 delegates up to a maximum of 300 all accommodated in our highly modern conference centre

Sandon Hall amp Park EnterprisesStaffordshire

Delegate rates from

pound3000Situated in the heart of the county and surrounded by 400 acres of glorious parkland Lord Harrowbys elegant home is a superb venue whose private drive ambles almost a mile in zig-zag fashion past grazing sheep and proud pheasants

Read More Read More Read More

Introducing

22

TO BOOK CALL ONE OF OUR AGENTS ON 01775 843411

The latest Partner Venues on Findmeaconferencecom

23

TO BOOK CALL ONE OF OUR AGENTS ON 01775 843411

The University of SheffieldSouth Yorkshire

Delegate rates from

pound2227The University of Sheffield is easily accessible by public transport A tram service runs directly from the rail station and the campus is well-served by local bus routes

Crowne Plaza London Ealing

Delegate rates from

pound3900A design led contemporary hotel offering chic and tasteful surroundings the Crowne Plaza Ealing is one of West Londons most hip and stylish hotels

Drapers HallCity of London

Delegate rates coming soon

The unrivalled grandeur and opulence of Drapers Hall provides a magnificent setting for every type of event - from business meetings working lunches and presentations to cocktail parties and lavish dinners

Drapers Hall

Read More Read More Read More

Kilworth House Hotel North Kilworth LeicestershireAn enchanting blend of Victorian opulence fine food and contemporary luxury set amid thirty-eight acres of landscaped south Leicestershire parkland

Kilworth House Hotel is the perfect business venue It offers grandeur and intimacy in equal measure - space to plan your next

five years the warmth to put your clients at ease and a quiet corner in which to close a deal

Grand rooms provide the elegant backdrop to board-level meetings and private dining Rolling parkland inspires fresh ideas while friendly service and fine food tell clients that you care

The facilities at Kilworth House can accommodate a discreet boardroom meeting for five or a theatre-style conference for 80 For presentations launches and press events the central location and quiet efficiency of Kilworth House are unrivalled

Read More

Introducing

Delegate rates from

pound70

ldquoA breath

of fresh airrdquo

Robinson CollegeCambridge

Delegate rates from

pound3800At Robinson College we have focused upon excelling as a conference venue in Cambridge Since the Colleges inception over 25 years ago and still today we are proud of our reputation for exceeding our clients expectations

Durham County Cricket Club

Delegate rates coming soon

We are pleased to introduce our Meeting amp Event facilities at the Emirates Durham International Cricket Ground

This modern development is situated in highly attractive and mature parkland on the banks of the River Wear

Crowne Plaza Kensington

Delegate rates from

pound7000Choose the stylish Crowne Plaza London-Kensington hotel a short walk from Victoria shopping royal parks and Londons epic museums

Read More Read More Read More

Introducing

Robinson CollegeCambridge

Delegate rates from

pound3800At Robinson College we have focused upon excelling as a conference venue in Cambridge Since the Colleges inception over 25 years ago and still today we are proud of our reputation for exceeding our clients expectations

Durham County Cricket Club

Delegate rates coming soon

We are pleased to introduce our Meeting amp Event facilities at the Emirates Durham International Cricket Ground

This modern development is situated in highly attractive and mature parkland on the banks of the River Wear

Crowne Plaza Kensington

Delegate rates from

pound7000Choose the stylish Crowne Plaza London-Kensington hotel a short walk from Victoria shopping royal parks and Londons epic museums

Read More Read More Read More

Introducing

Advertisement

Five of the best hotel savings this month

Cardiff Let ApartmentsWales

Landmark PlaceRate normally pound800Book from just pound75 with Infotel

OVER 80 OFF

Laystall ApartmentsManchester

2 Bedroom ApartmentRate normally pound360Book from just pound120 with Infotel

OVER 70 OFF

Ashling HotelDublin

Double RoomRate normally euro300Book from just euro79 with Infotel

OVER 70 OFF

Umi HotelBrighton

Sea View Double RoomRate normally pound250Book from just pound79 with Infotel

OVER 60 OFF Euro Lodge Clapham London

Doubles amp TwinsRate normally pound110Book from just pound40 with Infotel

OVER 60 OFF

28

Hilton Renew Group Partnership for 2011

The name Hilton is one of the few which are truly synonymous with the hotel industry Inching ever closer to hitting the century mark from the year founder Conrad bought his first hotel in Texas the brand has already cemented itself in history That didnrsquot seem to stop Hilton from undergoing a subtle yet impressive rebrand program in 2010 Hilton Hotels became Hilton Hotels amp Resorts with an updated logo to draw attention to areas which may not be obvious to those outside the industry

The new identity places more emphasis on the grouprsquos leisure

portfolio harmonising well with the recent lsquoStay Hilton Go Everywherelsquo campaign which drew attention to Hiltons lsquosignaturelsquo resorts around the world

Being a family with ten sub brands parent brand Hilton Hotels Corps 2009 rename and rebrand to Hilton Worldwide was essential for the company to re-establish themselves and as President amp CEO Christopher Nassetta recently told USA Today ldquofocus on being the pre-eminent hospitality companyWe thought the name Hilton Worldwide is more reflective of who we arerdquo

Findmeaconference are

delighted to announce that this month Hilton Hotels

and Resorts have renewed more Hilton hotels into their Venue Group

Partnership

Old logoNew logo

Browse Hilton Hotels amp Resorts

Hilton renew further venues into their Findmeaconference Group Partnership

Delegate rates start at

Just pound35

TO BOOK CALL ONE OF OUR AGENTS ON 01775 843411

29

Hilton BasingstokeDelegate rates start at pound65

Hilton BracknellDelegate rates start at pound75

Hilton St Annersquos ManorDelegate rates start at pound35

Hilton Newbury NorthDelegate rates start at pound65

Hilton Newbury CentreDelegate rates start at pound65

Hilton CobhamDelegate rates start at pound80

Hilton CroydonDelegate rates start at pound40

Hilton SouthamptonDelegate rates start at pound50

Hilton PortsmouthDelegate rates start at pound40

Hilton Avisford ParkDelegate rates start at pound85

See the entire collection

Click here

April Overview TO BOOK CALL ONE OF OUR AGENTS ON 01775 843411

East Midlands Conference Centre

Blue Mountain Conference Centre

Pride Park Stadium

Royal Armouries

Merchant Taylors Hall

CCT Venues - Canary Wharf

CCT Venues - Smithfield

The River Centre

Hilton Bath City

Hilton Brighton Metropole

Hilton Dartford Bridge

Hilton Bristol

Hilton Warwick

Hilton East Midlands Airport

Hilton Nottingham

Hilton Puckrup Hall

Hilton Birmingham Bromsgrove

Hilton Leicester

Hilton Coventry

Hilton Northampton

Hilton Newport

Hilton Basingstoke

Hilton Bracknell

Hilton St Annes Manor

Hilton Newbury North

Hilton Newbury Centre

Hilton Cobham

Hilton Croydon

Hilton Southampton

Hilton Portsmouth

Hilton Avisford Park

Hilton Swindon

Hilton Maidstone

All because it just worksIn total 55 venues renewed their annual Findmeaconference Partnership last month - all for a further year of success

30

31

Also

Britannia Hotels continuesits Group Venue Partnership by renewing 22 Venues with Findmeaconference for a further year

You can browse all Britannia hotels including the 22 Partner venues at their new Group Homepage See here

Read more

32

Feature Offers TO BOOK CALL ONE OF OUR AGENTS ON 01775 843411

Special rates for meetings held in April Hilton Bristol

With Hilton Bristol within easy each of both M4 amp M5 this hotel is an ideal venue to hold your meeting Hold your meeting in April and receive special conference rates

Day delegate from pound3500pp including main meeting room tea amp coffee breaks lunch options mineral water and delegate stationery Book a 24-hour rate from pound13000pp to include the above and overnight stay 3 course dinner and breakfast the following day All rates include VAT

Read More

With over 200 venue offers available to pick from - yoursquore bound to find a deal thatrsquos suitable for you at

findmeaconferencecomoffers

Our new offer search facility allows you to search by date or offer type - meaning you can really pinpoint your deals to your own requirements

Venue Offers ampDiscounts

Wembley StadiumBook your event to take place at any time between now and the end of May 2011 and enjoy an amazing 50 discount off our published room hire rates 50

off published rates

Feature Offers TO BOOK CALL ONE OF OUR AGENTS ON 01775 843411

Read More

London Marriott West India QuaySPRING DAY DELEGATE OFFERValid until 6 May 2011Special day delegate rate from just pound69 per person

Read More

Match Day Meetings at Arsenal FCOur Matchday Meetings Package is an exciting new offer enabling you to host a meeting followed by an Arsenal mid-week fixture at Emirates Stadium

Read More33

34

Feature Offers TO BOOK CALL ONE OF OUR AGENTS ON 01775 843411

Free venue hirefor all dinner meetings until June 30th

Read More

Imperial College LondonSouth Kensington

2 for 1on themed conference refreshment breaks

Robinson CollegeCambridge

To promote our exciting new refreshment break

menus we are offering ldquo2 for the price of 1rdquo on our themed breaks Use these breaks to energise and reinvigorate your delegates and to keep your event interesting and memorable Light and healthy options also available

Read More

Large Day Meetings at Rookery Hall Hotel

from just pound29 per delegate

Rookery Hall Hotel amp SpaNantwich

Read More

Book your next large meeting into the Worleston Suite at Rookery Hall Hotel and benefit from a fantastic Day Delegate offer of pound2900 The meeting room has natural daylight

35

Feature Offers TO BOOK CALL ONE OF OUR AGENTS ON 01775 843411

1 in every 5 go freeat Barceloacute Hotels Read More

Has your venue got anoffer to promote

If so email the details to marketingfindmeaconferencecom

and wersquoll be in touch

Feature Offers TO BOOK CALL ONE OF OUR AGENTS ON 01775 843411

City of Manchester StadiumSpecial offer for April 2011

50 off Room hire

Read More

Spring rates at The BelfryDiscounted rates start at just pound45 per delegate

Read More36

Who doesnrsquot likePick lsquonrsquo Mix

Forget the April showers this Easter Chelsea Football Club are offering some irresistible treats

Find out More

37

Feature Offers TO BOOK CALL ONE OF OUR AGENTS ON 01775 843411

3 go freeat Thistle Marble Arch

Read More

iPodiPadiWinat Park InnNorthampton

Read More

1 night stay36 holes to playat The Belfry

Read More

Book and confirm a meeting or event at the Park Inn Northampton before 31st December 2011 and win

bull For bookings over pound2000- an iPod Nanobull For bookings over pound3000- an iPod Touchbull For bookings over pound6000 choose either an iPad or iPhone

Take a TourPart 1 - Introducing the brand new findmeaconference website

Introducing the new findmeaconferencecom

We explain whatrsquos at the core of the visual changes and functional improvements

So whatrsquos new

On first impressions the new findmeaconferencecom may just look like itrsquos received a bit of a face lift and we donrsquot deny it does look stunning But the most rigorous improvements wersquove implemented are on performance amp searching Over the next few pages and issues wersquoll show and explain exactly why findmeaconferencecom is the leading venue sourcing solution on the web

Introducing the new findmeaconferencecom

41

Broaden your searchShould you find your search returns venues which donrsquot suit your requirements you can increase your search radius in the search box or alternatively select the location breadcrumbs at the top of each page to broaden your search to county region or even country level

Even complicated searches which return few or no exact matches will consistently suggest alternative venues which come as close as possible to matching your specifications

lsquoVenues you may also likersquoWe now provide you with a list of alternative venues to consider whenever you perform a search These are represented in the right column as lsquovenues you may also likersquo

Searching Findmeaconference makes it possible for our customers to find great venues quickly and easily

Search by a multitude of categories - so just type in name or location information you feel could help drill down your search and Findmeaconference will look for venues which fall under that criteriaSearches can be by- Venue name or part of the name (ie Radisson Stansted Radisson Stansted) - Town City or County - Region (ie East Midlands North East England

Introducing the new findmeaconferencecom

New affordable advertising opportunities on findmeaconference and elsewhere

43

Preferred VenuesFindmeaconference aims to provide you with preferred venues for every area of the UK When you search for venues by location we provide you with a clear overview of our preferred venues

Quick amp easy conference enquiriesOur updated enquiry feature allows you to shortlist venues and make an enquiry without ever leaving your current page Your search or details pages darken and the enquiry form appears at the front

Group VenuesAs a Venue Group Partner all of your properties benefit from heightened exposure on our Group Directory a fully branded Group Homepage and branded Venue pagesPremium Listing on our Group Directory

Our Group Directory promotes all venue groups on our records but as Group Partner your venue receives our Premium Group Listing - which introduces your own group logo and features each of your Partner Venues - giving your venues a new level of exposure as well as a visual edge over your competition

Browse Venue Groups

Next month

Let us email you when next monthrsquos magazine is available

We explain whatrsquos at the core of the visual changes and functional improvements

So whatrsquos new

On first impressions the new findmeaconferencecom may just look like itrsquos received a bit of a face lift and we donrsquot deny it does look stunning But the most rigorous improvements wersquove implemented are on performance amp searching Over the next few pages and issues wersquoll show and explain exactly why findmeaconferencecom is the leading venue sourcing solution on the web

Introducing the new findmeaconferencecom

41

Broaden your searchShould you find your search returns venues which donrsquot suit your requirements you can increase your search radius in the search box or alternatively select the location breadcrumbs at the top of each page to broaden your search to county region or even country level

Even complicated searches which return few or no exact matches will consistently suggest alternative venues which come as close as possible to matching your specifications

lsquoVenues you may also likersquoWe now provide you with a list of alternative venues to consider whenever you perform a search These are represented in the right column as lsquovenues you may also likersquo

Searching Findmeaconference makes it possible for our customers to find great venues quickly and easily

Search by a multitude of categories - so just type in name or location information you feel could help drill down your search and Findmeaconference will look for venues which fall under that criteriaSearches can be by- Venue name or part of the name (ie Radisson Stansted Radisson Stansted) - Town City or County - Region (ie East Midlands North East England

Introducing the new findmeaconferencecom

New affordable advertising opportunities on findmeaconference and elsewhere

43

Preferred VenuesFindmeaconference aims to provide you with preferred venues for every area of the UK When you search for venues by location we provide you with a clear overview of our preferred venues

Quick amp easy conference enquiriesOur updated enquiry feature allows you to shortlist venues and make an enquiry without ever leaving your current page Your search or details pages darken and the enquiry form appears at the front

Group VenuesAs a Venue Group Partner all of your properties benefit from heightened exposure on our Group Directory a fully branded Group Homepage and branded Venue pagesPremium Listing on our Group Directory

Our Group Directory promotes all venue groups on our records but as Group Partner your venue receives our Premium Group Listing - which introduces your own group logo and features each of your Partner Venues - giving your venues a new level of exposure as well as a visual edge over your competition

Browse Venue Groups

Next month

Let us email you when next monthrsquos magazine is available

Introducing the new findmeaconferencecom

41

Broaden your searchShould you find your search returns venues which donrsquot suit your requirements you can increase your search radius in the search box or alternatively select the location breadcrumbs at the top of each page to broaden your search to county region or even country level

Even complicated searches which return few or no exact matches will consistently suggest alternative venues which come as close as possible to matching your specifications

lsquoVenues you may also likersquoWe now provide you with a list of alternative venues to consider whenever you perform a search These are represented in the right column as lsquovenues you may also likersquo

Searching Findmeaconference makes it possible for our customers to find great venues quickly and easily

Search by a multitude of categories - so just type in name or location information you feel could help drill down your search and Findmeaconference will look for venues which fall under that criteriaSearches can be by- Venue name or part of the name (ie Radisson Stansted Radisson Stansted) - Town City or County - Region (ie East Midlands North East England

Introducing the new findmeaconferencecom

New affordable advertising opportunities on findmeaconference and elsewhere

43

Preferred VenuesFindmeaconference aims to provide you with preferred venues for every area of the UK When you search for venues by location we provide you with a clear overview of our preferred venues

Quick amp easy conference enquiriesOur updated enquiry feature allows you to shortlist venues and make an enquiry without ever leaving your current page Your search or details pages darken and the enquiry form appears at the front

Group VenuesAs a Venue Group Partner all of your properties benefit from heightened exposure on our Group Directory a fully branded Group Homepage and branded Venue pagesPremium Listing on our Group Directory

Our Group Directory promotes all venue groups on our records but as Group Partner your venue receives our Premium Group Listing - which introduces your own group logo and features each of your Partner Venues - giving your venues a new level of exposure as well as a visual edge over your competition

Browse Venue Groups

Next month

Let us email you when next monthrsquos magazine is available

41

Broaden your searchShould you find your search returns venues which donrsquot suit your requirements you can increase your search radius in the search box or alternatively select the location breadcrumbs at the top of each page to broaden your search to county region or even country level

Even complicated searches which return few or no exact matches will consistently suggest alternative venues which come as close as possible to matching your specifications

lsquoVenues you may also likersquoWe now provide you with a list of alternative venues to consider whenever you perform a search These are represented in the right column as lsquovenues you may also likersquo

Searching Findmeaconference makes it possible for our customers to find great venues quickly and easily

Search by a multitude of categories - so just type in name or location information you feel could help drill down your search and Findmeaconference will look for venues which fall under that criteriaSearches can be by- Venue name or part of the name (ie Radisson Stansted Radisson Stansted) - Town City or County - Region (ie East Midlands North East England

Introducing the new findmeaconferencecom

New affordable advertising opportunities on findmeaconference and elsewhere

43

Preferred VenuesFindmeaconference aims to provide you with preferred venues for every area of the UK When you search for venues by location we provide you with a clear overview of our preferred venues

Quick amp easy conference enquiriesOur updated enquiry feature allows you to shortlist venues and make an enquiry without ever leaving your current page Your search or details pages darken and the enquiry form appears at the front

Group VenuesAs a Venue Group Partner all of your properties benefit from heightened exposure on our Group Directory a fully branded Group Homepage and branded Venue pagesPremium Listing on our Group Directory

Our Group Directory promotes all venue groups on our records but as Group Partner your venue receives our Premium Group Listing - which introduces your own group logo and features each of your Partner Venues - giving your venues a new level of exposure as well as a visual edge over your competition

Browse Venue Groups

Next month

Let us email you when next monthrsquos magazine is available

Introducing the new findmeaconferencecom

New affordable advertising opportunities on findmeaconference and elsewhere

43

Preferred VenuesFindmeaconference aims to provide you with preferred venues for every area of the UK When you search for venues by location we provide you with a clear overview of our preferred venues

Quick amp easy conference enquiriesOur updated enquiry feature allows you to shortlist venues and make an enquiry without ever leaving your current page Your search or details pages darken and the enquiry form appears at the front

Group VenuesAs a Venue Group Partner all of your properties benefit from heightened exposure on our Group Directory a fully branded Group Homepage and branded Venue pagesPremium Listing on our Group Directory

Our Group Directory promotes all venue groups on our records but as Group Partner your venue receives our Premium Group Listing - which introduces your own group logo and features each of your Partner Venues - giving your venues a new level of exposure as well as a visual edge over your competition

Browse Venue Groups

Next month

Let us email you when next monthrsquos magazine is available

New affordable advertising opportunities on findmeaconference and elsewhere

43

Preferred VenuesFindmeaconference aims to provide you with preferred venues for every area of the UK When you search for venues by location we provide you with a clear overview of our preferred venues

Quick amp easy conference enquiriesOur updated enquiry feature allows you to shortlist venues and make an enquiry without ever leaving your current page Your search or details pages darken and the enquiry form appears at the front

Group VenuesAs a Venue Group Partner all of your properties benefit from heightened exposure on our Group Directory a fully branded Group Homepage and branded Venue pagesPremium Listing on our Group Directory

Our Group Directory promotes all venue groups on our records but as Group Partner your venue receives our Premium Group Listing - which introduces your own group logo and features each of your Partner Venues - giving your venues a new level of exposure as well as a visual edge over your competition

Browse Venue Groups

Next month

Let us email you when next monthrsquos magazine is available

Where on Earth is the Boss

Our Crazy CEO catches a bus to America in the name of charity

On 27th March 2011 Ann Cordner began mounting the steps of a coach which is set to travel through Europe into Moscow

This is only the start of a three month adventure taking her through some of the most remote and beautiful areas of the world

Described as her lsquoepic adventure over land from London to New Yorkrsquo the 87 day trip began on Sunday March 27th at Cleopatras Needle where she took her seat on the Oz Bus a company dedicated to providing wonderful adventurous travel to destinations such as Australia Beijing Bangkok Africa South America and in Annrsquos case - New York USA

But how and why would someone decide to do such a thing Ann explains ldquoThe madness started when my friend mentioned that she knew a guy who was on an Ozbus trip and writing a blog I read the blog thought lsquoI could do thatrsquo and then made the most stupid mistake of my life I started telling people that I was going Before I knew what was happening I had paid my deposit met Nick (the blog writer) ordered a rucksack arranged my vaccinations and committed myself to three months of crazinessrdquo

45

Extracts from Annrsquos Travel Blog

London UK Day before departure

Yesterday we heard on the news that there was going to be a TUC Rally protesting against Government spending cuts The march was to take place in central London the biggest for decades with an expected turnout of 250000 We decided to leave early before things heated up Good decision

At midday several hundred marchers dressed in black wearing masks with many carrying batons

and sticks passed by our hotel They were obviously intent on trouble

Sure enough we later heard that the Socialist Workers Party had thrown Molotov cocktails tear gas and ammonia filled light bulbs at the police They also attacked banks and shops So far there have been 13 arrests but the night is yet young Not an auspicious start to our adventure

First thing on a bitterly cold Sunday morning we reported in at our departure location as instructed

No bus

We waited nearly an hour and we still donrsquot know why The Latvian driver never blessed us with an explanation

I hope this inauspicious start isnrsquot going to be a sign of things to comeSo mid afternoon on the 1st day 1st stop Bruges 1st hostel Charlie Rocket 1st experience of hostel living 1st experience of community sleeping

Our guide Michele warned us that this hostel was ldquoquite basicrdquo It was but on the upside extremely friendly The experienced travellers in our group tell me that hostel living does tend to be more friendly than staying in hotels and if this hostel was anything to go by I would say that is the case Bruges is a beautiful medieval town and we all wished we could have stayed longer There was time for a gentle afternoon stroll in the warm afternoon sunshine and a very nice evening meal in a local restaurant I had a local dish of Flemish Beef Stew washed down with a glass of delicious Kermalite Beer

Ann writes from Bruges Belgium

27MARCH

26MARCH

46

47

29MARCH

When we set off from London yesterday morning Michele our group leader said that we would bond and become like family Pat agreed She is an Oz-Bus veteran and said that on a previous trip she had been on they started off with two couples and by the time they reached their destination two had become seven There have subsequently been several weddings and a set of twins Please God donrsquot give me the twin option I did believe that we would bond but didnrsquot realise that it would happen quite so quickly We are already comfortable enough with each other to hurl a few insults around without insulting each other (if

you know what I mean) I always think that this is the mark of true friendship

So today we left Heidelberg at 8 am and arrived in Prague mid-afternoon We are staying in a modern hostel with excellent facilities so we should be comfortable for a couple of days although we dont have the swimming pool sauna and washing facilities that we have been promised Time to riot folks

Tomorrow we go on a guided walk of the city and Irsquom sure there will be plenty of ldquohappeningsrdquo This is going to be a very exciting trip

Ann writes from

Prague Czech Republic

3APRIL

Ann writes from

Warsaw Poland

The big story for me personally was that a Der Spiegel journalist asked if he could interview me and then arranged for a free lance PhotoJournalist to meet the coach in Warsaw When we arrived much to my embarrassment the photographer focussed mainly on me

My guess is that I make a good ldquohuman interestrdquo story - An elderly lady with 4 children 10 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren schlepping over land and sea from London to New York The weird thing was that Der Spiegel have commissioned one photograph (how long does that take 1 minute) This guy met the bus at about 3 pm and after we had dumped our luggage he accompanied us to a local restaurant where Linda had a coffee I had a beer and he had raw mince

He kept clicking away at me all the way there all the time we were there and then all the way back from there

When we got back to the hostel I was so relieved that the ordeal had ended and went to say goodbye when he broke the news that he would wait for me

to refresh myself and meet up with us again when we went out to eat at 7pm Drat and double drat

Whew the ordeal was finally over But no He said he would take more shots as we were leaving in the morning

And there he was again at 7 am Click click click again until we boarded the bus Whew again but no he climbed onto the bus and clicked away again until he finally decided that he had enough shots to fulfill his assignment What was that all about

He was actually a very interesting guy I asked what his speciality was and he said social photo journalism He had worked for the Independent in London for several years and he loves the UK It would have been good to have met him in different circumstances because he must have many many fascinating stories to tell His name is Witold Krassowski and his website address is witoldkrassowskicom As soon as I have the time and WiFi access it will be my mission to look him up

Read Annrsquos Travel Blog here

On 27th March 2011 Ann Cordner began mounting the steps of a coach which is set to travel through Europe into Moscow

This is only the start of a three month adventure taking her through some of the most remote and beautiful areas of the world

Described as her lsquoepic adventure over land from London to New Yorkrsquo the 87 day trip began on Sunday March 27th at Cleopatras Needle where she took her seat on the Oz Bus a company dedicated to providing wonderful adventurous travel to destinations such as Australia Beijing Bangkok Africa South America and in Annrsquos case - New York USA

But how and why would someone decide to do such a thing Ann explains ldquoThe madness started when my friend mentioned that she knew a guy who was on an Ozbus trip and writing a blog I read the blog thought lsquoI could do thatrsquo and then made the most stupid mistake of my life I started telling people that I was going Before I knew what was happening I had paid my deposit met Nick (the blog writer) ordered a rucksack arranged my vaccinations and committed myself to three months of crazinessrdquo

45

Extracts from Annrsquos Travel Blog

London UK Day before departure

Yesterday we heard on the news that there was going to be a TUC Rally protesting against Government spending cuts The march was to take place in central London the biggest for decades with an expected turnout of 250000 We decided to leave early before things heated up Good decision

At midday several hundred marchers dressed in black wearing masks with many carrying batons

and sticks passed by our hotel They were obviously intent on trouble

Sure enough we later heard that the Socialist Workers Party had thrown Molotov cocktails tear gas and ammonia filled light bulbs at the police They also attacked banks and shops So far there have been 13 arrests but the night is yet young Not an auspicious start to our adventure

First thing on a bitterly cold Sunday morning we reported in at our departure location as instructed

No bus

We waited nearly an hour and we still donrsquot know why The Latvian driver never blessed us with an explanation

I hope this inauspicious start isnrsquot going to be a sign of things to comeSo mid afternoon on the 1st day 1st stop Bruges 1st hostel Charlie Rocket 1st experience of hostel living 1st experience of community sleeping

Our guide Michele warned us that this hostel was ldquoquite basicrdquo It was but on the upside extremely friendly The experienced travellers in our group tell me that hostel living does tend to be more friendly than staying in hotels and if this hostel was anything to go by I would say that is the case Bruges is a beautiful medieval town and we all wished we could have stayed longer There was time for a gentle afternoon stroll in the warm afternoon sunshine and a very nice evening meal in a local restaurant I had a local dish of Flemish Beef Stew washed down with a glass of delicious Kermalite Beer

Ann writes from Bruges Belgium

27MARCH

26MARCH

46

47

29MARCH

When we set off from London yesterday morning Michele our group leader said that we would bond and become like family Pat agreed She is an Oz-Bus veteran and said that on a previous trip she had been on they started off with two couples and by the time they reached their destination two had become seven There have subsequently been several weddings and a set of twins Please God donrsquot give me the twin option I did believe that we would bond but didnrsquot realise that it would happen quite so quickly We are already comfortable enough with each other to hurl a few insults around without insulting each other (if

you know what I mean) I always think that this is the mark of true friendship

So today we left Heidelberg at 8 am and arrived in Prague mid-afternoon We are staying in a modern hostel with excellent facilities so we should be comfortable for a couple of days although we dont have the swimming pool sauna and washing facilities that we have been promised Time to riot folks

Tomorrow we go on a guided walk of the city and Irsquom sure there will be plenty of ldquohappeningsrdquo This is going to be a very exciting trip

Ann writes from

Prague Czech Republic

3APRIL

Ann writes from

Warsaw Poland

The big story for me personally was that a Der Spiegel journalist asked if he could interview me and then arranged for a free lance PhotoJournalist to meet the coach in Warsaw When we arrived much to my embarrassment the photographer focussed mainly on me

My guess is that I make a good ldquohuman interestrdquo story - An elderly lady with 4 children 10 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren schlepping over land and sea from London to New York The weird thing was that Der Spiegel have commissioned one photograph (how long does that take 1 minute) This guy met the bus at about 3 pm and after we had dumped our luggage he accompanied us to a local restaurant where Linda had a coffee I had a beer and he had raw mince

He kept clicking away at me all the way there all the time we were there and then all the way back from there

When we got back to the hostel I was so relieved that the ordeal had ended and went to say goodbye when he broke the news that he would wait for me

to refresh myself and meet up with us again when we went out to eat at 7pm Drat and double drat

Whew the ordeal was finally over But no He said he would take more shots as we were leaving in the morning

And there he was again at 7 am Click click click again until we boarded the bus Whew again but no he climbed onto the bus and clicked away again until he finally decided that he had enough shots to fulfill his assignment What was that all about

He was actually a very interesting guy I asked what his speciality was and he said social photo journalism He had worked for the Independent in London for several years and he loves the UK It would have been good to have met him in different circumstances because he must have many many fascinating stories to tell His name is Witold Krassowski and his website address is witoldkrassowskicom As soon as I have the time and WiFi access it will be my mission to look him up

Read Annrsquos Travel Blog here

Extracts from Annrsquos Travel Blog

London UK Day before departure

Yesterday we heard on the news that there was going to be a TUC Rally protesting against Government spending cuts The march was to take place in central London the biggest for decades with an expected turnout of 250000 We decided to leave early before things heated up Good decision

At midday several hundred marchers dressed in black wearing masks with many carrying batons

and sticks passed by our hotel They were obviously intent on trouble

Sure enough we later heard that the Socialist Workers Party had thrown Molotov cocktails tear gas and ammonia filled light bulbs at the police They also attacked banks and shops So far there have been 13 arrests but the night is yet young Not an auspicious start to our adventure

First thing on a bitterly cold Sunday morning we reported in at our departure location as instructed

No bus

We waited nearly an hour and we still donrsquot know why The Latvian driver never blessed us with an explanation

I hope this inauspicious start isnrsquot going to be a sign of things to comeSo mid afternoon on the 1st day 1st stop Bruges 1st hostel Charlie Rocket 1st experience of hostel living 1st experience of community sleeping

Our guide Michele warned us that this hostel was ldquoquite basicrdquo It was but on the upside extremely friendly The experienced travellers in our group tell me that hostel living does tend to be more friendly than staying in hotels and if this hostel was anything to go by I would say that is the case Bruges is a beautiful medieval town and we all wished we could have stayed longer There was time for a gentle afternoon stroll in the warm afternoon sunshine and a very nice evening meal in a local restaurant I had a local dish of Flemish Beef Stew washed down with a glass of delicious Kermalite Beer

Ann writes from Bruges Belgium

27MARCH

26MARCH

46

47

29MARCH

When we set off from London yesterday morning Michele our group leader said that we would bond and become like family Pat agreed She is an Oz-Bus veteran and said that on a previous trip she had been on they started off with two couples and by the time they reached their destination two had become seven There have subsequently been several weddings and a set of twins Please God donrsquot give me the twin option I did believe that we would bond but didnrsquot realise that it would happen quite so quickly We are already comfortable enough with each other to hurl a few insults around without insulting each other (if

you know what I mean) I always think that this is the mark of true friendship

So today we left Heidelberg at 8 am and arrived in Prague mid-afternoon We are staying in a modern hostel with excellent facilities so we should be comfortable for a couple of days although we dont have the swimming pool sauna and washing facilities that we have been promised Time to riot folks

Tomorrow we go on a guided walk of the city and Irsquom sure there will be plenty of ldquohappeningsrdquo This is going to be a very exciting trip

Ann writes from

Prague Czech Republic

3APRIL

Ann writes from

Warsaw Poland

The big story for me personally was that a Der Spiegel journalist asked if he could interview me and then arranged for a free lance PhotoJournalist to meet the coach in Warsaw When we arrived much to my embarrassment the photographer focussed mainly on me

My guess is that I make a good ldquohuman interestrdquo story - An elderly lady with 4 children 10 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren schlepping over land and sea from London to New York The weird thing was that Der Spiegel have commissioned one photograph (how long does that take 1 minute) This guy met the bus at about 3 pm and after we had dumped our luggage he accompanied us to a local restaurant where Linda had a coffee I had a beer and he had raw mince

He kept clicking away at me all the way there all the time we were there and then all the way back from there

When we got back to the hostel I was so relieved that the ordeal had ended and went to say goodbye when he broke the news that he would wait for me

to refresh myself and meet up with us again when we went out to eat at 7pm Drat and double drat

Whew the ordeal was finally over But no He said he would take more shots as we were leaving in the morning

And there he was again at 7 am Click click click again until we boarded the bus Whew again but no he climbed onto the bus and clicked away again until he finally decided that he had enough shots to fulfill his assignment What was that all about

He was actually a very interesting guy I asked what his speciality was and he said social photo journalism He had worked for the Independent in London for several years and he loves the UK It would have been good to have met him in different circumstances because he must have many many fascinating stories to tell His name is Witold Krassowski and his website address is witoldkrassowskicom As soon as I have the time and WiFi access it will be my mission to look him up

Read Annrsquos Travel Blog here

47

29MARCH

When we set off from London yesterday morning Michele our group leader said that we would bond and become like family Pat agreed She is an Oz-Bus veteran and said that on a previous trip she had been on they started off with two couples and by the time they reached their destination two had become seven There have subsequently been several weddings and a set of twins Please God donrsquot give me the twin option I did believe that we would bond but didnrsquot realise that it would happen quite so quickly We are already comfortable enough with each other to hurl a few insults around without insulting each other (if

you know what I mean) I always think that this is the mark of true friendship

So today we left Heidelberg at 8 am and arrived in Prague mid-afternoon We are staying in a modern hostel with excellent facilities so we should be comfortable for a couple of days although we dont have the swimming pool sauna and washing facilities that we have been promised Time to riot folks

Tomorrow we go on a guided walk of the city and Irsquom sure there will be plenty of ldquohappeningsrdquo This is going to be a very exciting trip

Ann writes from

Prague Czech Republic

3APRIL

Ann writes from

Warsaw Poland

The big story for me personally was that a Der Spiegel journalist asked if he could interview me and then arranged for a free lance PhotoJournalist to meet the coach in Warsaw When we arrived much to my embarrassment the photographer focussed mainly on me

My guess is that I make a good ldquohuman interestrdquo story - An elderly lady with 4 children 10 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren schlepping over land and sea from London to New York The weird thing was that Der Spiegel have commissioned one photograph (how long does that take 1 minute) This guy met the bus at about 3 pm and after we had dumped our luggage he accompanied us to a local restaurant where Linda had a coffee I had a beer and he had raw mince

He kept clicking away at me all the way there all the time we were there and then all the way back from there

When we got back to the hostel I was so relieved that the ordeal had ended and went to say goodbye when he broke the news that he would wait for me

to refresh myself and meet up with us again when we went out to eat at 7pm Drat and double drat

Whew the ordeal was finally over But no He said he would take more shots as we were leaving in the morning

And there he was again at 7 am Click click click again until we boarded the bus Whew again but no he climbed onto the bus and clicked away again until he finally decided that he had enough shots to fulfill his assignment What was that all about

He was actually a very interesting guy I asked what his speciality was and he said social photo journalism He had worked for the Independent in London for several years and he loves the UK It would have been good to have met him in different circumstances because he must have many many fascinating stories to tell His name is Witold Krassowski and his website address is witoldkrassowskicom As soon as I have the time and WiFi access it will be my mission to look him up

Read Annrsquos Travel Blog here

Venue Advertisement TO BOOK CALL ONE OF OUR AGENTS ON 01775 843411

Royal ArmouriesLeeds

Read More

One of the countryrsquos leading corporate venues

Clumber Park Hotel amp Spa WorksopDelegate rates from

pound4500

Nestling on the edge of Sherwood Forest

is the newly upgraded Clumber Park Hotel and Spa Set in a haven of

unrivalled tranquillity and natural beauty the hotels prime location makes it an ideal base for exploring the county

49

Venue Advertisements

Phyllis Court ClubHenley on ThamesDelegate rates from

pound4600

Established in 1906 as a private

members club Phyllis Court Club is ideally located on the banks of the

Thames peacefully situated in the heart of the Thames Valley overlooking the picturesque town of Henley on

ThamesRead More

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TO BOOK CALL ONE OF OUR AGENTS ON 01775 843411

Old Swan amp Minster MillWitney

Offering a versatile venue whereby we combine pristine tranquillity

Delegate Rates from

pound3500

Read More

Ambassadors BloomsburyEuston

Delegate Rates from

pound5500

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Novotel Manchester Centre

Novotel Manchester Centre is perfectly located in the centre of Manchester less than 1km from Piccadilly Station making it an ideal corporate venue for business and private needs in Manchester

For all your business and conference requirements Novotel Manchester Centre is not only close to the Conference Quarter of Manchester but also enjoys great access to central Manchesters shopping and nightlife

Comprising 5 modern and contemporary conference meeting rooms Novotel Manchester Centres dedicated conference centre enables up to 90 delegates theatre style to enjoy the superb conference facilities of this central Manchester venue assistance is provided from the sales office and welcome desk throughout your event

All conference meeting rooms at Novotel Manchester Centre have natural daylight soundproofing air conditioning WiFi access and an extensive range of audiovisual equipment to ensure your corporate event is a success

Novotel Manchester Centres conference lounge located on the first floor enables corporate delegates to enjoy views over the city In addition there are 2 accessible rooms on the ground floor of the Novotel Manchester Centre including an executive boardroom for 12 and a private dining room for 24

51

TO BOOK CALL ONE OF OUR AGENTS ON 01775 843411

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Venue Advertisement

In 2001 we launched a dedicated conference venue sourcing website where venues are able to showcase their facilities and provide a level of detail that includes meetingfunction room layouts virtual tours special offers amp much more We have our own conference Reservations Department who use this site when arranging conferences on behalf of our clients

With over 10000 conference venues meeting rooms and training centres to choose from the venue finding tool on our Findmeaconferencecom website is a powerful and flexible advanced search tool that enables

the user to search by location venue name amp venue style Our site delivers detailed up to date profiles based on the users exact requirements in seconds If yoursquore looking for a venue thatrsquos a little more unique our venues include

bull Premier league football groundsbull Historic castlesbull Theme parksbull Ships and yachts

As well as venues for business meetings Findmeaconference also caters for the leisure client with venues for weddings birthday parties reunions etc

About Us TO BOOK CALL ONE OF OUR AGENTS ON 01775 843411

Findmeahotelroom was established in 2004 and developed specifically for the corporate market to offer an individual service for corporate clients providing them with a full

account management strategy for accommodation

Findmeahotelroom has access to over 110000 hotels worldwide and offers a wide range of services including dedicated Account Management consolidated billing and extensive tailor made Management Information ReportsAccommodation choices

are available to view online where detailed information including location rates room descriptions and photographs are stored

Clients can use our experienced Corporate Account Team to manage their travel plans ensuring their specific requirements are understood and that the accommodation sourced meets those specifications Our expertise in sourcing accommodation means our clients can concentrate on their core business feeling confident their travel arrangements will be made on time and within budget

Many thanks Emma

you all make my life

so easyI much prefer getting you to sort

out my hotel bookings

as it saves me timerdquo

Call Findmeahotelroom on

01775 843414Lines open 830am - 530pm Monday to Friday

01775 843411Lines open 830am - 530pm Monday to Friday

What information do we require when you make your enquiryDates preferred location of event numbers attending layout catering requirements any syndicate or breakout rooms equipment accommodation budget name telephone number company name address and email address

53

Findmeaconference

A step by step guide

1 Contact us Call 01775 843410 or email us

2 Our findmeaconference agents experienced venue finding specialists will be on hand to take your enquiry explaining that we are a completely free service and there are absolutely no costs to our clients

3 An agent will confirm your venue requirements and gather all relevant information

4Your specific venue requirements are passed to our dedicated venue booking specialists

5We then email you our proposal with a minimum of 3 venues for you to compare and choose from However there is no limit so if you want us to review more then we will

6Within 3 days of your enquiry if we have not already heard from you we will gather your feedback and ensure we have met your requirements

7Once we have your confirmation we secure the booking and liaise with all the relevant parties on your behalf

82 weeks prior to the event we will make a pre-conference call in order to confirm numbers etc

91 week after the event we will make a post conference call to gather your feedback on the service facilities and venue

Your eventtakes place

What information do we require when you make your enquiryDates preferred location of event numbers attending layout catering requirements any syndicate or breakout rooms equipment accommodation budget name telephone number company name address and email address

53

Findmeaconference

A step by step guide

1 Contact us Call 01775 843410 or email us

2 Our findmeaconference agents experienced venue finding specialists will be on hand to take your enquiry explaining that we are a completely free service and there are absolutely no costs to our clients

3 An agent will confirm your venue requirements and gather all relevant information

4Your specific venue requirements are passed to our dedicated venue booking specialists

5We then email you our proposal with a minimum of 3 venues for you to compare and choose from However there is no limit so if you want us to review more then we will

6Within 3 days of your enquiry if we have not already heard from you we will gather your feedback and ensure we have met your requirements

7Once we have your confirmation we secure the booking and liaise with all the relevant parties on your behalf

82 weeks prior to the event we will make a pre-conference call in order to confirm numbers etc

91 week after the event we will make a post conference call to gather your feedback on the service facilities and venue

Your eventtakes place

Infotel Solutions Ltd

54

Meet the team

Mary Vicky Jenny Yasmin

Corporate Reservations

Emma Alex Sarah Rory

Conference Venues

Accommodation

Rosie Camilla Jodie Jenna Becky

Infotel HotelReservations

55

IT Marketing

RobClientServer Programmer

EdPrograms Analyst

StewartWeb Programmer

MartinMarketing Manager

LukeDesigner

Accounts amp Client Services

JackieAccountsManager

BarbaraCredit Control

ClaireQuality Auditor

Sarah EGroup Accounts Manager

Kim BVenue Account Manager

DanDesigner

Jackie DSenior Sales Executive

BabsHotel Sales Executive

CherylHotel Sales Executive

Board of Directors Director in training

AnnFounder

SusieCommercial Director

KimberleyOperations Director

TanyaSales Director

Georgina

MagsCorporate Account Manager

PamelaSenior Account Manager

NatashaCorporate Account Manager

StephanieVenue Client Services

KellyHotel Client Services

Find out more about us at wwwinfotelsolutionscom

55

IT Marketing

RobClientServer Programmer

EdPrograms Analyst

StewartWeb Programmer

MartinMarketing Manager

LukeDesigner

Accounts amp Client Services

JackieAccountsManager

BarbaraCredit Control

ClaireQuality Auditor

Sarah EGroup Accounts Manager

Kim BVenue Account Manager

DanDesigner

Jackie DSenior Sales Executive

BabsHotel Sales Executive

CherylHotel Sales Executive

Board of Directors Director in training

AnnFounder

SusieCommercial Director

KimberleyOperations Director

TanyaSales Director

Georgina

MagsCorporate Account Manager

PamelaSenior Account Manager

NatashaCorporate Account Manager

StephanieVenue Client Services

KellyHotel Client Services

Find out more about us at wwwinfotelsolutionscom

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