Dear %%First_Name_%%

This is one you've got to read! Forget the other ezines in your inbox, you'll find all you need to know about the meetings and events industry right here! Every two months "The Word" by Ovation will be delivered to your inbox (unless, of course horror of horrors, you decide to "unsubscribe"!) providing you with the best and most up to date information about the world's most happening destinations. Soon to be present in 17 locations, Ovation uniquely combines global knowledge and local expertise to bring you cutting edge destination management in all the places you need to be.

In this issue of the Word we introduce two of our most popular destinations - Italy and China. Michael Libotte of Ovation Italy shares his top ten Must Do's for your next Italian adventure and puts himself in the spotlight so you can learn all about him.

The Ovation Bear updates us on the latest from OB's Global adventures and shares some interesting and amusing tales, and f inally, we are offering you the chance to win a wonderful two night stay in one of Italy's most luxurious hideaways, La Posta Vecchia!

Happy reading!

Pat and Padraic

La Dolce Vita, A Taste of Italy Chianti, castles and carbonara may be 3 good reasons to visit Italy but there's much more to this wonderful destination than fine wines and gourmet food. Timeless art treasures, stunning Renaissance buildings, endless cultural attractions and sophisticated shopping from iconic fashion houses enhance Italy's special allure. Leading our team at Ovation Italy is Michael Libotte whose passion for the meetings and incentive business is legendary. Constantly seeking out new experiences, here Michael shares his 'top ten' for your next trip to Italy. Meet Michael Libotte A 20 year veteran of the hotel and DMC industry, Michael's ability to find practical and creative solutions for clients is legendary. Whether it is managing large scale logistics for association congresses or sourcing the perfect linen and decor for a high end motivational experience, Michael has done it all - on time, on budget, with passion and expertise. But who is the man behind this charmingly shy and disarmingly humble veneer......click here to find out more China - the land of contrasts Since Beijing dazzled the world with the stunning spectacle of the 2008 Summer Olympics, China is firmly fixed as a 'must visit' destination. It seems everyone is talking about this exciting destination which is practically unrivalled in the sheer variety it offers for meetings and incentives. From cities that seem to fizz with energy to the meandering marvel of the Great Wall and isolated Ming Dynasty villages, this country of contrasts will not disappoint. Raymond Qian of Ovation China is waiting to introduce you to this dynamic destination Click here and take a look at a 6 night incentive experience in Beijing and Shanghai from Ovation China The Life and Times of Ovation Bear For those of you who have yet to meet Ovation Bear let us introduce you...Ovation Bear AKA "OB" debuted at EIBTM 2008 and since then, has been busy travelling the globe visiting several of our destinations and meeting many weird and wonderful people. Cute cuddly and often controversial, OB has an opinion on everything and isn't shy about sharing it. Catch up on OB's latest travel news and amusing stories by clicking here. Competition Time   You've read Michael's top tips for a trip to Italy, now here's your chance to plan your own trip. We're offering a two night stay for two people with breakfast in the luxury hideaway villa of La Posta Vecchia. Former summer home of American billionaire Paul Getty, this Relais Chateau gem enjoys a spectacular setting on the Tyrrhenian Sea. To be in with a chance of winning this wonderful prize please send your answer to the following question to  irene.coghlan@ovationdmc.com by Friday May 29th 2009. What country has Ovation Bear visited most recently? See you at IMEX 2009 The essential worldwide exhibition for incentive travel, meeting and event planners, IMEX will convene in Frankfurt May 26th -28th and Ovation Global will be there. Come visit OB and the gang at stand D145 - we will have some exciting news to share! To confirm an appointment with one of the Ovation team please contact Catherine at catherine.bodley@ovationdmc.com   Did you know Ovation Global DMC will soon be operating in 17 destinations worldwide?