MEETINGS SLOVENIA. Feel the people. Taste fresh ideas.

Transcription

1 SLOVENIA MEETINGS Feel the people. Taste fresh ideas.

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3 Introduction 04 Frequently Asked Questions 08 You Can Rely on Us / Your Partners in 10 Green + Compact + Easily Reachable + Diverse = Inspired by Passion 16 Made in with Love / Janez Suhadolc 18 A Passionate Eye on / Matevž Krivic 20 Addicted to Music / Janez Dovč 21 Devoted to Our Planet / Lučka Kajfež Bogataj 24 How Do They See Us 26 How Do We See Ourselves 30 Facts about Catalogue 32 List of Members of the n Convention Bureau 56 Index of Members by Standardisation Category Published by: n Convention Bureau, Ljubljana Tourist Board and Go Mice Editors: Natalija Bah Čad, Go Mice, Tatjana Radovič, Ljubljana Tourist Board / Convention Bureau Design: Propagarna d.o.o. Copy Editing: Tatjana Radovič, Wayne Tuttle, Alkemist Printing: Collegium Graphicum Photographs: archive of Ljubljana Tourist Board and n Tourist Board, archives of the members of the n Convention Bureau, Matjaž Krivic, Dragan Arrigler, Bojan Stepančič Circulation: 7000 Publication Date: May 2009

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5 FAQ Frequently Asked Questions FIVE QUESTIONS ON SLOVENIA, ANSWERED BY MIHA KOVAČIČ, DIRECTOR OF THE SLOVENIAN CONVENTION BUREAU Where is actually? is a Central European country clustered between rather larger neighbours Italy, Austria, Hungary and Croatia. Seen from high above, its shape reminds of a hen, which happily lives in a beautiful and natural environment encompassing the Alps, the Adriatic and the lowlands with many thermal springs. This means an incredible diversity on half the size of Switzerland all within short distances that even a hen can cover on foot Which language do you speak? has its own language that not many people speak apart from the two million Slovenes. It s a Slavic language with quite a few peculiarities, including the dual case. The first printed books in our language date from the mid-16th century. As a boutique nation, we can t really expect foreign visitors to know more than just a few survival words in n, and this is why we have to do much better by decently speaking at least one foreign language. English is the most favoured, but also German and Italian are widely spoken. Five things by which one remembers is the only country in the world that bears the word LOVE in its name. One can climb or even ski in the Alps and take a swim in the Adriatic Sea within the same day. The green colour: 56 % of is covered by forests. The genuine hospitality, which is a part of our tradition and Slavic heritage. This also means that we are generally ready to do more for a guest than what is promised on paper! The numberless underground caves more than 9,000 have been registered so far, with new ones still being discovered. Half joking, we could say that taking a stroll along the western rim of, in the Karst region, where caves abound, is nearly like walking on Emmenthal cheese... Which is the best characteristic of the Slovenes? My first thought is that we are hard-working people, both in the business and in the private sphere. This might be an influence of the Germanic culture, which comes as a historical consequence (the century-long rule of the Habsburgs over n lands). But the closeness of the Romance world plus the Slavic soul brings us passion, and it is true that in everything we do, either when we work or have fun. you can feel it And the advantages of as a meetings & incentive travel destination are? Many destinations (so do we) can boast an excellent, easy to reach location, state-of-the-art infrastructure, professional services, etc. We believe our advantage is the people working in our industry and wider, the often neglected but very important human factor. Our new advertisement summarises the main elements: n energy, team flexibility, 24h smile, personal touch and natural charm. The can was too small to add other positive qualities

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7 FAQ Frequently Asked Questions FIVE QUESTIONS ON LJUBLJANA (MEANING THE BELOVED ), ANSWERED BY TATJANA RADOVIČ, CONGRESS MANAGER, LJUBLJANA TOURIST BOARD / CONVENTION BUREAU How large is Ljubljana? I guess Ljubljana is just the right size to maintain a high quality of life. I can hardly see myself living in a smaller town, but I ve had the experience of living in a metropolis, which is why I appreciate even more the compact & cosy feel of my city. It s small enough to foster personal contacts also measured by the number of hello s one says while shopping on a Saturday at the picturesque central market or attending a concert. It s large enough, if talking of its spiritual energy, to attract the prime international names in arts and culture on its stages. Be it the institutional or the avant-garde ones. It s handy & small enough to be a true walking and cycling city. Its heart, as well as its creative potential, is extra large. How come the symbol of Ljubljana is a dragon? There has to be a fierce creature to protect the city from bad guys and nothing is more scary than a dragon! Maybe this is why Ljubljana is a really safe city. Jokes aside, as a (quite independent) woman I feel relaxed walking downtown on my own at late hours. You can t claim the same for many other cities but this might be because they don t have a dragon sitting on top of the castle tower in their coats-of-arms, as we do. We actually find dragons everywhere: in a legend about the foundation of Ljubljana (the poor beast got slain by Jason), captured in wrought-iron balustrades along the river, standing as mighty statues at the four corners of the famous (guess the name?) Dragon Bridge. They also live in many homes, as dragon(-ess) is the loving nickname we use for our mothers-in-law. What about the river, which meanders through Ljubljana? The Ljubljanica is a fascinating repository of the entire history on the grounds where my city developed. For centuries, it was an important traffic and trade route until a real road and eventually railway were built between Vienna and Trieste (1849). It also represented the last among navigable rivers that nearly connected the Black Sea to the Adriatic. The Ljubljanica is also known as the River of Seven Names: it is the lower stretch of a Karst river which, on its way to Ljubljana, disappears underground a number of times and springs again to the surface, each time under a different name. Today, its riverbanks in the downtown / Old Town area are among the most popular spots for socialising, as they are lined with many cosy cafes and restaurants. Not to mention how many romantic encounters and love stories the weeping willows alongside the river have witnessed over the time. What are you most proud of in Ljubljana? Since I am so fond of my city, I would need a few pages to list all the things which make me a proud Ljubljančanka. However, a neutral and credible source from abroad popped into my mind, as I felt really proud when, not so long ago, I read the news that follow. In the results of a recent social experiment conducted by reporters of the Reader s Digest magazine, Ljubljana stands out as the world s most honest city. To test honesty levels in the most populous cities of 32 countries across the world, RD reporters lost 30 mobile phones in each of them. Then they checked the nearest police stations and waited for calls from finders. The winning, or most honest city turned out to be Ljubljana, where 29 of 30 mobile phones were returned, followed on the chart by Toronto and Seoul. The congress that left the strongest mark on Ljubljana? They say that you never forget the first one I was by far not born yet at that time, since I am referring to the Congress of the Holy Alliance, which took place in Ljubljana in 1821, and whose resolutions changed the then political image of Europe after Napoleon s downfall. Not only did it assemble some of the great rulers of that time, but it lasted an incredible four months! The prominent guests and their entourage were also generous tourists who attended many a social event, specially designated to make Ljubljana, which then counted 20,000 residents, more glitzy. Many decades later, Congress Square, the Road of Two Emperors, the Inn of the Russian Tsar and the Bavarian Court still remind us of this historic event and congress

8 You Can Rely on Us Your Partners In THE»SLOVENIA MEETINGS«PUBLICATION PRESENTS AN OVERVIEW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SLOVENIAN CONVENTION BUREAU. THEIR PROFESSIONALISM HAS BEEN CONFIRMED THROUGH THE STANDARDISATION PROCESS. The standardisation of Meetings Industry suppliers in was first introduced in spring 2008, with a validity of three years. Among other, this project led by the n Convention Bureau is intended to simplify and shorten the client s search for venues and event organisers. In a transparent way, the client can get a clear insight into who is offering which service and a better overview of the quality of comparable services offered by individual service providers. A Convention & visitors bureau B PCO C DMC D Event agency E Congress & exhibition centre F Convention hotel G Hotel with conference facilities H Other congress services I Special venue J Other venues SLOVENIAN CONVENTION BUREAU The n Convention Bureau is a nonprofit organisation, offering free advice on the meeting and incentive options available in. It is your neutral partner when considering as a meeting and incentive destination, as well as being the central information point regarding meeting and incentive offers for the country. The 66 members include convention centres and hotels, PCO s, DMC s, the Ljubljana Convention Bureau and Maribor Tourist Board and other service providers. The advantages of are easy accessibility, the geographic and cultural diversity of the country, superb meeting facilities, exiting cuisine with excellent wines, the genuine hospitality of the people, and good value for money. LJUBLJANA TOURIST BOARD / CONVENTION BUREAU The Ljubljana Tourist Board s Convention Bureau is the prime source of neutral and qualified information on meetings facilities and services in the greater Ljubljana area, its main task being the related international promotion and marketing of the n capital, including the support to bids for international congresses. With an extensive knowledge on the meetings proposition, as well as the general tourist offer of the city, it provides professional and objective information on the destination and the key partners its service providers. The Ljubljana Tourist Board / Convention Bureau aims at being a valuable local adviser with many insiders tips, representing a shortcut to prospective meeting planners in finding the best solution or local partner for staging an event in Ljubljana. It does not operate on a membership basis and its support is free of charge. It works in close synergy with the n Convention Bureau

9 2 ND SOUTH EAST EUROPEAN EXHIBITION FOR MEETINGS, EVENTS & INCENTIVE TRAVEL Have a cup of coffee with us! CONVENTA AND 22 JANUARY 2010 GR - LJUBLJANA EXHIBITION AND CONVENTION CENTRE

10 Green + Compact + Easily Reachable + Diverse TO POSITION AND DESCRIBE SLOVENIA ONE COULD SAY IT LIES MIDWAY BETWEEN VENICE AND VIENNA: THE COLOURFUL MEDITERRANEAN WORLD BLENDS WITH THE MAJESTIC QUIET OF THE ALPS. THIS ALSO CORRESPONDS WITH THE CHARACTER OF ITS PEOPLE: THEY ARE VERY PROUD OF THEIR BOUTIQUE COUNTRY, WHICH CAN BE DEPICTED AS A CHOCOLATE BOX WITH A BIG ASSORTMENT OF DELIGHTS PLACED INSIDE

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12 Ljubljana A BRIEF OUTLINE The vastly forested, which is only half the size of Switzerland, can be easily reached by air, road and rail. The flight time from the major European hubs mostly doesn t exceed two hours. The main international airport is set 25 km from Ljubljana, and is currently served by around 250 direct scheduled flights per week, with a high share among them that are operated by Adria Airways, the national airline of and a regional member of the Star Alliance. However, even some airports across our borders, as Trieste, Graz, Klagenfurt and Zagreb, can well serve nearby destinations in as an alternative to Ljubljana. Maribor In 2004 joined the European Union and the Euro was introduced as its national currency in It is regarded as a safe, hospitable and friendly country offering a host of possibilities for holding conferences, meetings, or staging attractive incentives. Most of its meeting and hotel infrastructure is new or recently renovated, and available venues can cater for events with up to 2,000 delegates. DIVERSITY IS THE KEY WORD Soča River The locations are really diverse, offering a client the choice according to her or his preferences. This can be the enchanting capital, Ljubljana, or another historic city Maribor; to the west, a more recent town, Nova Gorica, which is the gambling and entertainment mecca of ; coastal resorts, the leading one being Portoroz; striking Alpine settings like Bled, the number one resort in the area, and Kranjska Gora, well-known by fans of skiing. Then come the spas with excellent wellness products, most of them set in lush rural surroundings. And let s not forget localities, or rather attractions, with specific characteristics, like the Lipica Stud Farm or the Postojna Caves

13 Over the last years, special attention has been paid to the constant upgrading of hotels and the quality of service, destination management and new tourist products, topped by investments into infrastructure including several convention facilities. When planning to hold an event in, whether a congress, a corporate meeting or an incentive, clients can rely on the expertise and professional support of local PCO, DMC and event agencies, and there are also several companies specialised in outdoor and teambuilding programmes. Their assistance can help a client in delivering a well-balanced and memorable experience to participants. WHERE TO MEET OR WHERE TO GO The compact and handy-sized allows a meeting planner to create a well diversified programme while staying in one destination. The short driving distances within the country are ideal to include different localities. Just as an example, for an event that is held in Ljubljana, one can plan a specially tailored visit of the Postojna Caves, including a concert and a drink in their fascinating underworld space, concluded by a buffet in a renovated mansion, which can welcome several hundred guests. The caves also offer unique team building or off the beaten track programmes in the underworld. Distancewise, it s just 45 minutes driving from Ljubljana or one hour from Portorož to offer delegates a wow-effect. can definitely be recommended as a fantastic destination for the great outdoors. Team-building and special activities encompass a wide array of programmes, such as canyoning, hydrospeed, kayaking and rafting on white waters, sailing, snowshoeing, sledding, ice-climbing, etc For it can be really said that the sky is the limit A good overview of ideas has recently been collected in a brochure named Ljubljana Tips for Incentives jointly published by the Kongres Magazine and the Ljubljana Tourist Board / Convention Bureau. It can be downloaded from incentives/. BREATHE TO THE URBAN BEAT Ljubljana The capital, that offers a blend of old charm and new cool, is a small, but stylish city of arts, music, history and gastronomy. With a population of 276,000, it is conveniently compact and a true walking city. It is therefore logistically easy to run programmes there, as almost everything is close at hand. In their free time, delegates like exploring the Old Town quarter, with its narrow cobbled streets and the Ljubljanica riverbanks that are lined with excellent restaurants (ideal for organising dine-arounds) and trendy bars. Over 50,000 university students largely contribute to the city s youthful image and urban creativity. Ljubljana s relaxing cafesociety atmosphere and interesting shopping options - from antiques to art galleries and designer clothes are also appreciated by its visitors. The conference facilities are well-structured, including the two largest venues in, Cankarjev dom Cultural and Congress Centre (max 2,000 seats, auditorium style) and the Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre (max. 2,200 seats theatre-style). Several well-run convention and meeting hotels in the 5 to 3 stars range, complement the two bigger players. Among them, the largest one, Grand Hotel Union, has function space offering a maximum plenary seating for 800 delegates, theatre-style. Excellent facilities for up to 400 delegates can be found at the Mons, Lev, Austria Trend Ljubljana and Slon Best Western Premier hotels, while a few others are equipped to host smaller events. Even some academic venues and business buildings are well equipped for hosting smaller to mid-sized conferences. A host of delightful special event venues mainly museums and galleries, are available, and probably the highest demand is for the Ljubljana Castle, which is of medieval origin. The castle dominates the city s skyline and offers flexible function areas both inside and out, plus a viewing tower. Maribor The second city in that sprawls along the Drava River and at the foot of the Pohorje Plateau, perfectly combines several attractive features: history, arts & culture, thermal water, ski slopes and vineyards at its outskirts. Coming to meeting facilities, the major player is the Terme Maribor company, which manages several hotels, including the 5-star Habakuk with a modern congress centre and an excellent thermal & spa product. A host of incentive and outdoor teambuilding experiences are related to the river and the great nature in the highlands. Maribor is not far from the Austrian border and the city of Graz, which is the closest airport with international connections. As a link to the latter, which was the European Capital of Culture in 2003, Maribor is the n candidate for this resounding title and event in Nova Gorica Nova Gorica developed after WW II just across the border from the Italian Gorizia. Today it is known as the town of roses (depicted in its coat-of-arms) that enjoy the mild local climate, and as the leading gaming and entertainment centre in the country. The HIT Group is the major player in the above context, and within their tourism portfolio we find the best-equipped hotels in the area, featuring casinos, conference facilities and wellness. Just a short drive away, the wine routes in the Goriška Brda hills, where some of our internationally most acclaimed wine growers come from, are an unexpected discovery. And so is the green hue of the Soča River, the queen of white-water sports in.

14 DIVE FROM THE ADRIATIC BLUE INTO THE MYSTERIOUS KARST Portorož Bled Portorož Portorož is the leading coastal resort that boasts a mild climate, lush vegetation and more than 100 years of tradition in the hospitality industry, which is reflected in its high-quality hotel infrastructure. This includes several 5- and 4-star properties with excellent meeting facilities. The largest convention hotel venue in Portorož and in (St. Bernardin, Adriatic Resort & Convention Center) can welcome up to 1,100 delegates theatre-style in the largest auditorium. The Lifeclass Hotels & Spa are notorious for their fantastic thermal and wellness products and offer the largest plenary seating for 520. And this resort also boasts the currently most luxurious hotel in, the Kempinski Palace Portorož. Many attractions are close at hand, even at a walking distance, such as the charming and historic town of Piran, once a fishing port. The Sečovlje saltpans where, as centuries ago, salt is still harvested manually, are a landscape park and a haven for ornithologists. Incentives themed on salt-picking can be organised there for smaller groups. Many other options are on the list from boat trips with fish picnics to yachting regattas, or even a day trip to Venice by catamaran. And Istria, with its vineyards, olive groves and truffles, is just behind the corner. The n Karst, featuring most of the 9,000 caves in the country, is regarded by many as one of the most beautiful underground worlds on the planet. Among them, the Skocjan Caves, that could be a fantastic film setting for the Lord of the Rings, is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. This region is also home to the famous Lipizzaner horses, and the Lipica Stud Farm has hotel seminar facilities and a golf course. THE ALPS MIRRORED IN THE LAKES Kranjska Gora Bled Lake Bled, the pearl of the Julian Alps, is one of the most famous attractions in and it is truly spectacular. It can be reached in less than an hour from the capital. An

15 ancient castle sits up high on a cliff boasting breathtaking views over the lake and mountains and can be used for events. Bled provides a wide array of accommodation and conference options from the 5- to the 3-star category, and as a destination can cater for meetings with up to 500 delegates. The major facilities are available in the Bled Congress Centre, as well as several 5- and 4-star properties managed by Sava Hotels & Resorts. Other hotel meeting locations include two Best Western Hotels, Kompas and Lovec, Astoria Hotel and the unique Vila Bled Hotel. Special assets of this destination include thermal water pools and wellness facilities at several hotels, plus the Bled Golf Course, which is ranked among the top 100 courses in Europe and offers an 18-hole and 9-hole course. Not far away, Kranjska Gora a popular ski and all-year-round resort, has in several hotels developed modern meeting facilities with a view to mountain peaks, ski fields and great outdoors. The majority of the properties are managed by HIT Alpinea. PLUNGE AND RELAX IN THE SPAS s spas are not yet well known throughout Europe, although they offer extraordinary natural assets in a green environment, as most of them are set in rural areas. There are 15 natural health resorts to choose between and they are all of a high standard. Several of them can provide very functional meeting facilities for medium-sized events, combined to relaxing and invigorating wellness programmes. To name a few - Terme Čatež, Terme Rogaška, Terme Olimia, Terme Krka, Terme Ptuj, etc. are established players on the market. Many of the spas are found in the north- to south eastern part of the country, often in wine-producing regions, whereby wine tasting is a natural experience while staying there. As remnants of the past, several ancient castles, now serving to cultural or hospitality purposes, are dotted around a few of them coming in the good company of golf courses. Pletna boat on Lake Bled This is just a taster of genuine local experiences that you should try out yourselves as to be able to say

16 Inspired by Passion Made in with Love SINCE WOOD IS A NATURAL RESOURCE OF OUR COUNTRY, IT S NO COINCIDENCE THAT WE SLOVENES HAVE ALWAYS BEEN MASTER CARPENTERS AND WOODWORKERS. TREES OF THE MOST VARIED SPECIES GROW FROM THE COAST IN THE WEST TO THE PLAINS OF PREKMURJE IN THE EAST. SLOVENE PRACTICALITY COMBINED WITH CREATIVITY AND IMAGINATION HAS RESULTED IN NUMEROUS PRODUCTS THAT HAVE WON AWARDS AT INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIONS. YOU HAVE PROBABLY ALREADY THOUGHT OF CHAIRS, WHICH CONFERENCE ROOMS AND THE HOSPITALITY BUSINESS CAN T DO WITHOUT. WE ARE PROUD OF OUR CRAFTSMEN WHO INSTILL THEIR WORK WITH SOUL. ONE OF THE BEST KNOWN IS PROF. JANEZ SUHADOLC, A DESIGNER OF EXTRAORDINARY CHAIRS. The RODNA GRUDA [ native soil ] chair was made for architect Boris Pogačnik, who lives and works in the United States. The walnut chair has inlaid semicircles of stones collected throughout. (Photograph: Dragan Arrigler) JANEZ SUHADOLC: On the nature of my work I was born on July 7, 1942, in Ljubljana,. This is where I went to school, where I work, where I married, and it s probably where I will die. My architectural training was so complete and thorough that it took me years after university to shake off the rationalism and functionalism the school nurtured so strictly. I have not yet quite decided what to do in my life: in addition to teaching at the University of Ljubljana, I periodically draw or paint, design interiors, or write for a variety of publications. In the cellar of the house where I live I have a carpentry workshop. I design and make various pieces of furniture from wood, mostly chairs. At almost a hundred, my mother often reminds me, When you are older, you ll understand (what life is all about). Maybe when I get to that stage I might seriously start to pursue some line of work in which I can achieve a professional level! Sometimes people ask me, What are you doing now? and I answer, Well, I m sawing, sanding, and polishing my last unfinished chair. Then I start wondering about the sense of doing this and realize I m doing it because I haven t learned to do anything else. By this I don t mean to generalize or underestimate my work, not at all, but I feel and know from my experience and memory that time creeps by elsewhere in ways I do not know, that I can t control, that I can t cope with, that I don t dare I m too old and somehow unskilled. Perhaps it will be given to me in some future lives. My attitude to international orientations in architecture and design is, to say the least, reserved. The majority of my fellow architects do not share my opinion, as they consider themselves globalists. They create in accordance with the style rules dictated by the big wide world. Modern architectural practice, which constantly swears by the well-known motto function defines form and proclaims boredom and emptiness as excellence and beauty, no longer interests me. I consider myself a regionalist. If I am a Slovene and not a German, a Persian, or a Hottentot and I speak Slovene, it seems to me only natural that I create and express myself in a n way. I am not obsessively proud of my national identity and I do not see being Slovene as a special blessing. I am inspired, however, by the messages of past

17 Janez Suhadolc with the very popular LAJT chair, which weights only two kilograms artistic creativity in, especially the genius of architect Jože Plečnik. My works may be old fashioned, kitschy, homely like the music of the Avseniks, s most popular polka band, unpractical for everyday use or industrial production all this and more may be true. But I should say that my works are distinctive and try to continue what could be called a n architectural and design style. I fancy that my works are done in harmony with s artistic tradition, and I fancy that such or similar works are found nowhere else in the world. The catalogue of my work contains almost 250 items, and every month I make two new items or prototypes. I have exhibited my work many times and have received a variety of acknowledgements and awards, among which I most value s Prešeren Award. And if I slowly and carefully reconsider: I close my eyes and I see this endless stockpile of wood changing into objects nobody cares about, into civilization s litter... but then my mind slips sideways: well, it s all the same if I make I don t know what, maybe another chair, something smaller... not especially large, something for farewell... and so it goes. Every task is worth full attention. This is proven by the maplewood PRUČKA footstool with a drawer. (Photograph: Dragan Arrigler)

18 Inspired by Passion A Passionate Eye on BORN IN 1972, MATJAŽ KRIVIC IS A PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YOUNGER GENERATION WHO HAS RECEIVED MANY EMINENT AWARDS FOR THE IMAGES CAPTURED BY HIS CAMERA. AMONG OTHER ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS, THE ROYAL GEOGRAPHICAL SOCIETY HAS TWICE NAMED HIM PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR. Krivic has traveled to most of the continents and shared his vision of the world with exhibition visitors in, the United States, China, Ireland, Russia, and at venues such as the Earth Temples open-air exhibition. Although of all countries he is enchanted most by Tibet, he always finds space among his photographs for. For Matjaž it is always a new beauty and full of secrets. His advice for photographers: For landscapes it is good if the photographer gets to the location a few hours before sunrise when the day is awakening... of course, sometimes I am just lucky! Often I climb into the mountains at four in the morning when it s minus ten degrees and then realize it s all for nothing. Usually I examine the location where I will photograph beforehand, I study the light, the moon, and I begin shooting. The rest is pure magic... AWARDS: GEOGRAPHICAL Photographer of the Year 2002 / First Prize / Overall Winner / London, UK GEOGRAPHICAL Photographer of the Year 2003 / First Prize / Category Landscape / London, UK PHOTO / Runner up 2003 / Reportage and Animals categories / Paris, France TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR 2003 / Judges Favourites Award / London, UK GEA Photographer of the Year 2001 / First Prize MAGDALENA International Festival of Visual Communications / Print Ads /

19 Sečovlje Saltpans View of Ljubljana from the Castle Hill Kekec Homestead in the Trenta Valley

20 Inspired by Passion Addicted to Music BORN IN 1980, ACCORDIONIST JANEZ DOVČ MADE HIS MUSICAL DEBUT AT THE AGE OF FIVE AND DEVOTED HIMSELF COMPLETELY TO MUSIC IN 2004 WHEN HE JOINED TERRAFOLK, ONE OF SLOVENIA S FOREMOST FOLK MUSIC GROUPS. IN THE MEANTIME, HE STUDIED PHYSICS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF LJUBLJANA AND AS A STUDENT PARTICIPATED IN INTERNATIONAL SCIENCE SYMPOSIUMS AND HELPED ESTABLISH A RESEARCH COMPANY. WITH THE TERRAFOLK GROUP HE DEVELOPED INTO AN OUTSTANDING STAGE AND STUDIO MUSICIAN AND TOURED A GOOD PART OF THE WORLD. HIS OWN COMPOSITIONS AND TRANSCRIPTIONS ARE PLAYED BY THE JARARAJA ENSEMBLE, WHICH HE ESTABLISHED AND REMAINS DEVOTED TO TODAY. To my great joy, music is not a possessive or jealous companion, and therefore along with the accordion I try all the other instruments that I encounter. With most of them I become an intimate friend and we happily entertain each other at every opportunity. Is the accordion the queen of instruments in? The accordion is a very young instrument, still in development. It has an extremely wide potential for expression. Because the accordion has a strong presence in, there are many who study how the accordion can be even more harmonious. Is s folk music influenced by the traditions of neighbouring countries? Folk music is a part of spatial information so it is logical that contact with other cultures results in evolution. With its cultural diversity, from the highlands of the north-east to the Adriatic coast and from Mount Triglav in the Alps to the hilly south, is a most fertile field for intercultural dialogue. Why did music win over physics? Song is a path and music is pathless; sound is everywhere and silence is in everything. From the Big Bang to the present, from Plato s sphere harmony to undulation between the smallest particles. Music is my mission, and a true fusion with the study of physics gives this mission a special framework. If I may quote the German philosopher and mathematician Gottfried Wilhelm Leibnitz: Music is an arithmetic operation in which the body is not aware that is counting. How do audiences abroad receive our folk music in your modern versions? The Jararaja group presents a flow of old patterns and instruments and a new musical sensibility and musical elements in a manner that respects and transmits the cultural and spiritual tradition. Sincere music always finds a way to the heart and touches audiences. Janez Dovč with Jararaja

21 Devoted to Our Planet LUČKA KAJFEŽ BOGATAJ, PHD, IS A PROFESSOR AT THE BIOTECHNICAL FACULTY IN LJUBLJANA, PRINCIPAL OF THE CHAIR OF AGROMETEOROLOGY AT THE SAME FACULTY AND ONE OF THE VICE CHAIRMEN OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE (IPCC) IN GENEVA, WHICH WAS AWARDED LAST YEAR S NOBEL PRIZE TOGETHER WITH AL GORE. Adjusting the tourism industry to climate change will be a circular and lasting process that requires a systematically considered approach, which needs to be economically valued. The meetings industry as such will be affected to a relatively lesser degree by climate change and will therefore expand, which means there will be more competition. A genuine slogan for the future is well defined by less can be more. There might not be such a mass participation to major scientific congresses anymore, although really important decisions cannot be reached at a distance. You need the contact with people, which only meetings can enable. Research and academic work frequently entails travel and various scientific gatherings. Given today s fast pace of life, these must be as effective and focussed as possible. The location of meetings is therefore very important: not too far from airports and other traffic connections, and in a stress-free setting as natural and safe as possible. since it offers all of these features and more, as well as friendly, communicative, and resourceful people who add a positive stamp to any meeting. It is therefore no surprise that many of my colleagues from European and other universities who visit often ask, When are we going next to meet in? Green, rich with rivers and streams, and blessed with diverse climates, is ideal for organising academic meetings

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23 KOMPAS DESTINATION MANAGEMENT COMPANY Pražakova 4, 1514 Ljubljana, Contact: Barbara Kladnik Phone: Fax: barbara.kladnik@kompas.si

24 How Do They See Us? We have asked some foreign professionals who already had the chance to experience to share their impressions with us. Sylvie Marques Regional Vice President Southern Europe HelmsBriscoe is a beautiful destination, the country is very diverse, and the infrastructure to accommodate the MICE clientele (hotels, restaurants, venues, public spaces...) is up to date. My experience in is that the people in the hospitality business are very professional: they listen to you and are very keen to answer your needs and meet your requirements. They are also very friendly. To me it s a nice mix between Swiss and Italian people in terms of professionalism and warmth. My tips: for an incentive programme I would recommend Portorož, while for a scientific meeting Ljubljana is the best location, with the University and all the conference hotels and congress centres at hand. Riccardo Jannoni Sebastianini, Secretary General APIMONDIA International Federation of Beekeepers Association. offers many attractions both to the beekeeper for its advanced beekeeping sector, lush nature, abundance of nectar flora and the uncontaminated landscape and to the tourist for its rich historical background and architecture of its cities and villages. The multilingual and cosmopolitan features so typical of were also very attractive to us in view of meeting the needs of more than participants to our congress that literally came from every corner of the world. Ljubljana in itself was also the ideal city that is neither too big nor too little to play host to our international event with all the essential facilities and services ready at hand. Ljubljana hosted the Apimondia Congress in 2003 and will host the Apimedica & Apiquality Forum in

25 Paul Kennedy Group Exhibition Director Meetings & Incentive Events Reed Travel Exhibitions Mr. Kennedy attended Conventa, the 1st Meetings and Incentive Travel Show for South East Europe My own judgement of Conventa is very similar to that of the hosted buyers: Excellent organisation. Sensational catering during the show and highly enjoyable and effective networking events. International guests were greeted with style and the standard of hospitality was simply outstanding. Oskar Vahervuori Finnish incentives consultant and tour leader (Lapland, Russia, Spain, Italy, France, Holland, United Kingdom, and recently also ) For Finnish incentive/mice operators such as my main employer Fincentive House, is above all four things: fresh (clean environment and also for most people a new alternative), compact (you can really get a picture of the whole country and experience its highlights during a long weekend), and easy-to-reach (good flight and other connections). For corporate clients, we especially appreciate the personal safety. We Finns like a combination of humbleness and humour people who provide service with a smile and with pride. The quality of service is matched by the right attitude. In some countries where I have worked, these things can t be taken for granted. These are the reasons I constantly keep on the shortlist of venue recommendations for our clients. My personal tips: the Julian Alps, the lakes (we have 200,000 and has only a few but I still recommend them because they are so romantic), the Škocjan Caves, and Ljubljana. Also, s Mediterranean coast is a cozy and original alternative, especially for those Mediterranean aficionados who don t want the hectic Cannes show-off atmosphere. Forget the rush of the international mega airports and endless museum queues, just relax and enjoy the pure nature of both and the Slovenes.

26 How Do We See Ourselves? Maja Vinder Adria Airways flight attendant The passengers on our planes, coming to for the first time, are mostly interested in what Slovenes are like, how we receive foreigners and what our food is like. The answer is simple, as Slovenes are always delighted to entertain guests from abroad. We gladly help them getting around, we advise them on where to go and what to see and make them feel welcome. In almost every town and city, there are wellmarked tourist information centres where everybody will certainly receive valuable suggestions. The language is no obstacle either, as the majority speak at least English. This generally applies to all people working in the hospitality business. Our colleagues working in the hospitality business and the meetings industry share with us some of their experiences and pinpoint some advantages of, and its people. We tell them to try our diverse specialties, which vary from region to region, and of course our high quality wines. Our geniality and friendliness are the little things that undoubtedly make the traveller s day. The passengers often say If all ns are as friendly as the flight attendants, we will undoubtedly have a good time and come back for more. Tjaša Lampe Event Manager Hotel Habakuk, Maribor As a middle-sized city, Maribor offers great advantages that will appeal to our guests as well as modern congress infrastructure for middle-sized events with several hundred participants. Mainly due to the friendly people and the attractive environment of Maribor, a historical city of wine and sun, no one will leave uninspired. Among our standard programmes, we find great interest in the tour and degustation in one of the largest wine cellars in Central Europe, rafting on the Drava River, and certainly skiing and activities on the snow on the slopes of the nearby Pohorje mountains. The logistics of transportation is the most frequent concern of foreign event organisers. However, such worry is unnecessary since we know the shortest routes to the Ljubljana and Maribor airports and will happily offer to organize transportation for our clients

27 Mateja Legat Marketing Manager for MICE, Sava Hotels Bled Organisers of conferences and incentive events sometimes arrive on inspection visits with a certain amount of doubt, probably inspired by bad experiences elsewhere. Bled itself makes the first favourable impression, which is further enhanced by the closeness of the airport, the attractiveness of the hotels, the good nature of the staff, the wide range of options for organising additional activities, etc. The dot on the i is added by the dedication of our event organisers who never allow guests to feel abandoned. It s very important to us that our organisers are seen as reliable partners whose recommendations are viewed as a contribution to a successful event. Together with our partners we have prepared a choice of programmes for various events. Guests visiting Bled for the first time naturally cannot be allowed to miss a ride on the lake in a traditional pletna boat, a tour of the island and Bled Castle, and above all the magical impression left by the evening presentation of the Legend of the Sunken Bell or a performance by a soprano from a pletna floating on the lake. Tine Strajnar Personal waiter for the Queen of England during the lunch at Ljubljana Castle on October 22, 2008, Vivo Catering I had the unique opportunity of being on the Vivo catering team that served the British Queen. After the event, we received Her Majesty s praise via the British Embassy that the lunch was simply impeccable. I think we impressed the British protocol service with our politeness, and of course with the excellently prepared food and service. I often work at events where there are many guests from foreign countries, and there are always some guests who are interested in n wines. I happily tell them about our excellent winegrowers, and given s small size, I am especially proud of the diversity of our wines, which are increasingly recognized abroad. We are also proud of s traditional dishes, and I think that when traditional Slovene cuisine is presented it should include kranjske klobase (Kranj-style sausage), visoška pečenka (Visoko-style pork roast), krvavice (blood sausage), pražen krompir (fried potatoes), ajdovi žganci (buckwheat groats), prekmurska gibanica (a layered dessert from Prekmurje), and of course, s famous potica (a rolled cake with walnut, tarragon, or other filling).

28 Alenka Kregar Professional Congress Organizer, Cankarjev dom, Congress and Cultural Centre I believe that congress events are becoming the parade horse of s tourism. There is no longer any question about the excellence of s congress infrastructure, and we can boast of modern technological equipment and facilities in congress centres and hotels as well as professional congress organisers whose skills and knowledge we have built on thirty years of experience. Thus we can guarantee the smooth organisation of even the largest congresses, which for us means up to two thousand participants. In both my private and professional life I enjoy events, variety, contact with people, and creative ideas, and the work of organising congresses is written on my skin since they are never boring or routine. We must be more aware that such events strengthen the position and reputation of not only as a congress destination but also as much more. For acquiring more major world-class events, successfully executed congresses are an excellent reference since with every new project we demonstrate that we can accomplish everything entrusted to us successfully and well. A good reputation reaches to the ninth village, and as they say, the world today is only a global village. Borut Nikolaš General Manager Maya - travel agency for active holidays, team building and incentive programmes Companies that choose our team building programmes in the Upper Soča River Valley are looking for an unbeatable experience that in addition to enhancing the motivation, communication, and organisation of teams also offers a unique working environment linked to nature and tradition. Because of its very location and everything connected to it, our programmes are impossible to duplicate anywhere else in the world. For example, the most popular one, Along the Trails of the Soča (Isonzo) Front, exploits the historical sites linked to this famous World War I battlefield. My favourite programmes combine practical team tasks with mental and physical challenges. Most are linked to water and the Soča River, but ultimately fun and entertainment adapted to the wishes of our clients are our most important goals. There has been no lack of entertaining and funny events in the last ten years. We once booked an entire hotel for a British company. At the request of the organizer, we set off the fire alarm at five o clock in the morning you can imagine how everyone fled from their rooms! so that in spite of a very late night of fun, everyone got to the airport on time

29 Blaž Ahčan Head of Operations, Kompas DMC The construction of new stretches of motorway has made travelling across more pleasant and rapid. Travelling in Kompas DMC s safe and modern vehicles is a part of the standard. There are also the little things that count, such as Internet access, international daily newspapers, refreshing drinks and other additional services provided with a smile along with the standard package. The guests appreciate and remember that. It is the tiny details that shape the guests final impression. s most recognisable sights, such as Ljubljana, Bled and the Postojna Cave have been supplemented with new locations on the coast and the Dolenjska, Štajerska and Prekmurje regions. This has been done in cooperation with local, regional and national tourist organisations and other service providers as well, due to the requirements of some of our clients. We can thus ensure a sufficient number of innovative products and contents for an incentive trip or accompanying programme to a congress or conference anywhere in. Our aims for the future are clear: innovative content, high quality and at an acceptable price. The expectations of organisers and participants will continue to grow and our work will become even more demanding. But that s OK, because we love doing it!

30 Facts about Republic of State: Democratic parliamentary republic since June 25, 1991, member of the European Union since May 1, 2004 Population: (June 30, 2008) Size: km2 Capital: Ljubljana, 267,000 residents Official language: n, in some nationally mixed border areas also Italian and Hungarian Currency: EUR (from January 1, 2007) Neighbouring states: Austria, Italy, Hungary, Croatia Highest mountain: Triglav 2,864 m More information can be found at:

31 Distances from the capital to other localities: Ljubljana Bled 50 km 40 minutes driving Ljubljana Maribor 120 km 1 h 15 minutes driving Ljubljana Portorož 120 km 1 h 15 minutes driving The longest diagonal across is covered within three and a half hours driving. Main airport: Jože Pučnik Ljubljana Airport Distances from Ljubljana Airport to major meeting destinations: Ljubljana Bled Maribor Portorož 25 km 35 km 145 km 140 km Flight connections with the highest frequences from Ljubljana Airport to major European cities: Weekdays Weekends Flight time Amsterdam 1 to 2 times a day 1 a day 2 h Brussels 4 times a day 1 to 3 times a day 1 h 50 min Budapest 2 times a day 1 a day 50 min Frankfurt 4 times a day 2 to 3 times a day 1 h 25 min Istanbul 1 to 3 time a day 2 to 3 times a day 3h London 2 to 3 times a day 2 to 3 times a day 1 h 20 min Moscow 1 time a day 1 time a day 2h 55 min Munich 4 times a day 3 times a day 1 h Paris 4 times a day 3 to 4 times a day 2 h Prague 2 times a day 2 times on Sundays 1h 25 min Tirana 1 time a day 1 time a day 1h 25 min Vienna 3 to 4 times a day 3 to 4 times a day 50 min Zurich 3 times a day 2 to 3 times a day 1 h Distances from the neighbouring airports by road: AUSTRIA Graz Airport to Maribor 60 km to Ljubljana 187 km Some of the spas in north east can be well accssesed via Graz. Klagenfurt Airport to Bled 130 km to Kranjska Gora 60 km to Ljubljana 85 km Conference venues in north (Alpine) can be well accessed via Klagenfurt Airport. Vienna International Airport to Maribor 255 km to Ljubljana 380 km CROATIA Zagreb Airport to Maribor 120 km to Ljubljana 140 km Conference venues in south east (notably some of the spas) can be well accessed via Zagreb Airport. ITALY Trieste Ronchi Airport to Portorož to Nova Gorica to Ljubljana 65 km 35 km 130 km Venice Marco Polo Airport to Portorož 188 km to Nova Gorica 130 km to Ljubljana 230 km Other destinatons with non-stop connections: Athens, Barcelona, Belgrade, Bucharest, Copenhagen, Dublin, Helsinki, Kiev, Madrid, Manchester, Ohrid, Podgorica, Pristina, Sarajevo, Skopje, Stockholm, Tel Aviv, Warsaw. More information at

32 For All Kinds of Business Meetings Our internationally acclaimed company in the area of business tourism will help you organise a scientific, corporate and incentive events, congresses and conferences. And not only that, we will also consult you on destination & congress centres marketing. Looking for a location for 10 or participants? We can find it anywhere in the world for you. In co-operation with international venue finding agency HelmsBriscoe GO MICE d.o.o., tihova 4, SI-1000 Ljubljana, T+386 (0) , E: info@go-mice.eu,

33 List of Members of the n Convention Bureau n Tourist Board n Tourist Board (STB) is the official national tourist organisation responsible for: planning and performing the promotion of our country as a tourist destination linking the existing products and programmes of national importance and advancing the progress of new ones the establishment of an integral tourist information infastructure executing research and development projects Contact person: Karmen Novarlic e: karmen.novarlic@slovenia.info n Tourist Board Dunajska cesta 156, 1000 Ljubljana, T: +386 (0) n Convention Bureau, a green, young and dynamic Central European country proud of its long-standing tourism tradition and genuine hospitality, offers an extensive range of conference & incentive travel products and services. The n Convention Bureau is a non-profit organisation acting as a professional intermediary, with the aim to assist clients in finding objective information on destinations, meeting venues and service providers. The n Convention Bureau currently has 66 members, while the n Tourist Board and Adria Airways the national airline, are its strategic partners. Contact person: Miha Kovačič e: miha.kovacic@slovenia-convention.com n Convention Bureau Dunajska cesta 156, 1000 Ljubljana T: Category A - Convention & visitors bureau Ljubljana Tourist Board / Convention Bureau The Ljubljana Tourist Board is the official destination marketing organisation for the capital and its wider area. It operates in close cooperation with the local tourism providers and other key stakeholders with the aim of strengthening Ljubljana s image and position both on the national and international leisure travel and convention markets. Its Convention Bureau is the prime source of expert and neutral advice on meeting venues, suppliers and services in the city, which can welcome meetings for up to 2,000 delegates. Contact person: Tatjana Radovič e: tatjana.radovic@visitljubljana.si Ljubljana Tourist Board / Convention Bureau Krekov trg 10, 1000 Ljubljana, T: +386 (0) Category A - Convention & visitors bureau Maribor Tourist Board* The Maribor Tourist Board is a local tourist organisation that operates in the field of promoting tourism, designing comprehensive tourist offers, encouraging the development of tourist infrastructures, promotion and platform marketing of comprehensive tourist offers, and providing information for visitors. It maintains links with the tourist industry and other local communities in the region of the Maribor-Pohorje tourist destination. Contact person: Bernarda Karo e: bernarda.karo@maribor.si MARIBOR TOURIST BOARD Partizanska c.47, 2000 Maribor, T: Category A - Convention & visitors bureau * Standardisation in process

34 Albatros Bled Albatros Bled, the first privately owned congress and tourist agency in, is one of s leading PCO s with 23 years of experience. It provides complete financial management of congresses, conferences, meetings, and other events and their coordination, technical equipment, and supervision. It designs and implements tailor-made tourist programmes in association with experienced professional local partners. Customers receive value-for-money personal treatment and individual solutions. The offer is rounded off with technical support services and incentive programmes. Contact person: Boris Ljubič e: boris@albatros-bled.com ALBATROS BLED Congress Tourist Agency Ribenska 2, 4260 Bled, T: +386 (0) Category B - Professional congress organiser Category C - DMC & incentive agency Auditoria Auditoria offer full-service congress, exhibition and event management in and abroad. Auditoria only deal with the organization of professional events. The company acts as a consultant to the client, implementing its decisions whilst utilizing the experience and knowledge it has gained over last 15 years organizing congresses, conferences, seminars, symposia, exhibitions, motivation building and social events. Category B - Professional congress organiser Category D - Event agency Contact person: Srečo Peterlič e: sreco.peterlic@auditoria.si Auditoria Event Management Malnarjeva 10, 1000 Ljubljana, T: +386 (0) Cankarjev dom, Cultural and Congress Centre Cankarjev dom Cultural and Congress Centre lies in the heart of Ljubljana, within walking distance from all major hotels and the city s attractive Old Town. With 22 multipurpose halls, a maximum capacity of 2,000 delegates in the plenary hall and 3,500 sq m of exhibition space is the largest congress centre in. Cankarjev dom has recently undergone extensive renovations. The Centre s expert team can organize an integral event, from concept to implementation, or provide only specific services. Category B - Professional congress organiser Category E - Congress & exhibition centre Contact person: Dusica Todorovič e: dusica.todorovic@cd-cc.si CANKARJEV DOM, Cultural and Congress Centre Prešernova cesta 10, 4280 Ljubljana, T: (0) Go Mice* GO MICE - consulting, marketing and management company for the meetings & incentive industry. Our services: Organisation of association & corporate events. HelmsBriscoe International venue search agency representation Consultancy - Transfer of knowledge and experience for achieving optimal business results Marketing - Solutions for marketing of congress centres and destinations as well as communication of your congresses and business events. Publishing KONGRES magazine and other publications Contact person: Gorazd Čad e: gorazd.cad@go-mice.eu Go mice Štihova ulica 4, 1000 Ljubljana, T: +386 (0) Category B - Professional congress organiser * Standardisation in process

35 Intours INTOURS DMC is a dynamic and responsible team, full of innovative suggestions, creative ideas, smart solutions and cost effective proposals. Lot of satisfied clients from all over the Europe and USA are proving we have the knowledge and experiences. We have complete overview of the destination and you will be surprised how diverse and interesting is and how much it has to offer. Discover and Feel, do it with INTOURS DMC! Contact person: Tomaž Krušič e: tomaz.krusic@intours-dmc.si Intours DMC / Demaco Dalmatinova 3, 1000 Ljubljana, T: +386 (0) Category C - DMC & incentive agency Kompas Where else in the world could your valued clients spend a mere four days and experience such a diversity? is a wealth of riches. With more than 50 years of experience and the highest customer satisfaction scores, Kompas business and incentive trips are a smart choice for you. We aim to organize programmes, that are creative, original and memorable. All our suppliers are carefully chosen and our staff is with you throughout the programme. The company is ICCA member. Contact person: Tina Možina e: tina.mozina@kompas.si Kompas d.d. Pražakova 4, 1514 Ljubljana, T: +386 (0) Category C - DMC & incentive agency Liberty Incentives & Congresses Whether you want to enjoy the sea, the culture, the cuisine, the lakes & mountains of the country, the professional team of Liberty Incentive & Congresses can make it happen. They are professional consultants on hand to provide expert knowledge and a personalised service to assist you with every stage of the organisation of your function, from planning to implementation. They pride themselves on attention to detail to ensure that, whatever the client s requirements, an experience may be tailor-made to meet and exceed your expectations. Category C - DMC & incentive agency Contact person: Bostjan Horjak e: bostjan@liberty-slovenia.com LIBERTY INCENTIVES & CONGRESSES SLOVENIA Robbova 2, 1000 Ljubljana T: +386 (0) , +386 (0) M tours Bled M tours is an incoming tourist agency specialised in tailor made programmes for individual travellers, business events, social meetings, and organised groups. The M tours team creates and performs ground services such as accommodation booking, assistance with congresses, transport services, and provides comprehensive and specialised tours in. Its highly qualified staff assure you a successful business event. M tours has considerable experience in organising major high profile events, meetings, conferences, and incentives. Contact person: Miro Mulej e: mtours@mtours.net M tours Bled Prešernova c.3, 4260 Bled, T: +386 (0) Category C - DMC & incentive agency

36 Eventus Agency Eventus Agency is a company for communication and event management. The agency is specialised in the strategic management of corporate, educational, promotional and concert events. The basic activity of the agency is to design and perform events for both general and business public. We also perform other marketing activities, featuring professional support from distinguished and high-quality outsourcers. The objectives of the agency are a high-quality, professional, thorough and cost-effective event organisation in accordance with the client s expectations. Contact person: Mateja Kodermac Ovsenik e: info@agencija-eventus.si Eventus Agency Jezerska cesta 108c, 4000 Kranj, T: +386 (0) Promo Agency Promo is an event management specialist which provides incentive and teambuilding programmes, while also carrying out promotions and presentations. Organisational and technical support for a variety of events and all types of meetings is available. The first-to-last service includes total flexibility in line with clients needs and wishes for the most demanding of functions such as multimedia events. Promo is a member of an international video rental system. Contact person: Marko Križnik e: marko@promo-ag.si Promo Agency Mesarska 4D, 1000 Ljubljana, T: +386 (0) Category D - Event agency Koren Sports Koren Sports is a leading specialist in the field of outdoor events, notably team-building and incentive programmes for groups of 10 to 500 participants. A highly motivated team of dynamic instructors guides you safely through challenges as diverse as adrenaline adventures, group motivational events, and sports activities. Social events and themed evenings complete the range of services available. The programme is designed and tailor-made in line with the client s wishes. Koren Sports also own and manage three Adrenaline parks, two Adventure parks, and two unique Igloo hotel villages (Best Tourism Project in 2008). Category D - Event agency Contact person: Matija Koren e: info@koren-sports.si Koren Sports, outdoor & incenitve specialist Pot na Bistrisko planino 10, 4290 Tržič, T: +386 (0) KorenSports Lifetrek Events LIFETREK Events provides the most creative and unique corporate events, incentives, team building, creative meetings and conference. We give people what they need for success. Lifetrek Events was founded in 1998 to give our customers a stimulating experience through dynamic participation events. Having run over 300 events around, Croatia and beyond we have the experience, the knowledge and the expertise to ensure that your event will run smoothly from start to finish. Contact person: Matej Mejovsek e: matej@lifetrek.si Lifetrek Events Partizanska cesta 18, 4000 Kranj, T: Category D - Event agency

37 Maya Travel Agency* The Maya Travel Agency is proud to have organised and run more than 300 all-inclusive business programmes and events for companies from and from further afield. We have been building our tradition and earning our clients` trust since We specialise in professional yet fun team-building programmes, incentive programmes, and business events both large and small. Our team at Maya combines professionalism, creativity, entertainment, and a good sense of humour. Contact person: Borut Nikolaš e: borut@maya.si Maya Travel Agency Padlih borcev 1, 5220 Tolmin, T: +386 (0) Category D - Event agency * Standardisation in process TBA - Teambuilding Academy* Teambuilding Academy (TBA) is an international organization dedicated to the preparation and implementation of innovative, modern, and quality team-building programmes. Our trainers are specially qualified to guide the group dynamics of participants to one goal: strengthening the ties between members of teams. While we offer a very diverse selection of standard programmes, most of them can be especially modified to meet our customer s individual requirements. Our aim is to bring teamwork in your organization to the next level. Contact person: Gregor Levič e: gregor@tba.si Teambuilding Academy Brilejeva ulica 3, 1000 Ljubljana, T: Category D - Event agency * Standardisation in process GR Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre GR Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre has a rich tradition and experience ever since its establishment in It is the largest congress and events centre in. The Centre was complitely renovated for the occasion of the 13th OSCE ministerial council at It comprises 20 multifunctional halls on 12,680 m2 which can be arranged to suit delegates m2 of external surfaces enable activities outside. GR is located in the centre of Ljubljana. Category E - Congress & exhibition centre Category H - Other congress services suppliers Contact person: Luka Zajc e: luka.zajc@gr-sejem.si GR Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre Dunajska 18, 1000 Ljubljana, T: +386 (0) Bernardin Group The Bernardin Group comprises four resorts and one city hotel on the n coast in a quiet and natural environment where the blue Adriatic reaches far into the very heart of Central Europe. It offers 10 hotels with a total of 1,703 hotel rooms and a total of 3,340 seats in 31 multifunctional meeting rooms, all with state-of-the-art technical equipment and natural daylight. The largest of the convention rooms seats 1,100 delegates theatre style. Additional attractions: wellness centres and casinos. Contact person: Mojca Gobina e: mojca.gobina@h-bernardin.si Bernardin Group Obala 2, 6320 Portorož, T: +386 (0) Category F - Convention hotel Category G - Hotel with conference facilities

38 Grand Hotel Union The Grand Hotel Union, one of the most beautiful and elegant hotels in the region. It has a 100-year tradition of hosting successful events and prominent guests and boasts a premier location in the very heart of Ljubljana. The hotel has 327 most spacious & comfortable rooms. It is also renowned for its fine cuisine. In addition, it is the largest hotel convention centre in the capital of, and is justifiably proud of its stunning main hall The Grand Union Hall which may accommodate up to 850 delegates. Additional space is provided in as many as 20 other halls and rooms for 10 to 270 guests. Contact person: Nuša Šolar e: nusa.solar@gh-union.si Grand Hotel Union Miklošičeva 1, 1000 Ljubljana T: (0) Category F - Convention hotel Category G - Hotel with conference facilities Mons, Hotel & Congress Centre, Ljubljana The Mons is the first design hotel in. This modern venue on the Ljubljana bypass, a mere 10 minutes from the city centre, has 111 modern, air-conditioned and well-furnished guestrooms and three suites. The congress centre comprises seven halls, which may be combined to accommodate up to 420 delegates and are equipped with the latest technical conveniences. A professional team is on hand to help you with the organisation of your event. The hotel has two restaurants offering selected n and international cuisine. Contact person: Vesna Lešnik e: vesna.lesnik@hotel.mons.si Mons, Hotel & Congress Centre, Ljubljana Pot za Brdom 55, 1000 Ljubljana, T: +386 (0) Category F - Convention hotel Terme Maribor The Habakuk Hotel is at the foot of the forested Pohorje Plateau, a 10-minute drive from the centre of Maribor. The hotel offers 140 comfortable double rooms and suites. The Convention Centre Habakuk comprises nine conference halls, the largest of which can accommodate up to 430 delegates, and several multi-functional areas. Total relaxation of its clients is the aim of the hotel s Wellness Centre, which includes swimming pools, whirlpools with thermal water, saunas and steam baths, a solarium, a gymnasium, and a Beauty Centre. Category F - Convention hotel Category G - Hotel with conference facilities Contact person: Tjaša Lampe e: tjasa.lampe@termemb.si Terme Maribor, Hotel Habakuk Pohorska ulica 59, 2000 Maribor, T: ww.termemb.si Austria Trend Hotel Ljubljana The Austria Trend Hotel is a new hotel-casino complex on the northern edge of Ljubljana, conveniently positioned between the city centre and the international airport. The hotel with 214 rooms and suites is technologically equipped to remarkable standards and boasts a conference room catering for up to 450 delegates, which can be partitioned into 3 sections, as well as 3 break-out rooms suitable for 15 to 40 guests. The Sense Wellness Centre is an additional asset, providing saunas, massages, and a large Jacuzzi. Contact person: Jernej Osterman e: jernej.osterman@austria-trend.at Austria Trend Hotel Ljubljana Dunajska 154, 1000 Ljubljana, T: +386 (0) Category G - Hotel with conference facilities

39 Best Western Kompas Hotel Bled & Premier Hotel Lovec Best Western Premier Hotel LOVEC and Best Western Hotel KOMPAS are situated in the centre of Bled, only a few steps from the magnificent lake. They offer 155 comfortable rooms and 8 fully equipped conference rooms with great views, modern wellness centres with saunas, whirlpools, etc. The highly praised cuisine complements an excellent service. Category G - Hotel with conference facilities Contact person: Dejan Žlender e: dejan.zlender@kompas-lovec.eu Best Western Hotel Kompas Best Western Premier Hotel Lovec Cankarjeva cesta 2, 4260 Bled, T: +386 (4) , +386 (0) Best Western Premier Hotel Slon Best Western Premier Hotel Slon Ljubljana boasts over 450 years of tradition and combines comfortable accommodation, congress facilities and excellent cuisine at an elite location in the city center. With the recent renovation, the property has acquired stylish, flexible and multi-functional conference spaces with a maximum capacity for 200 delegates in theatrestyle seating and neatly refurbished accommodation rooms. The modernisation also features new technical equipment. Particular attention is being paid to details and amenities that enhance the hotel s service quality. Contact person: Nataša Keršič e: natasa.kersic@hotelslon.com Best Western Premier Hotel Slon Slovenska cesta 34, 1000 Ljubljana, T: +386 (0) , +386 (0) Category G - Hotel with conference facilities City Hotel Ljubljana The City Hotel is at your disposal with 86 new rooms and 111 refurbished rooms 3*, 3 deluxe suites, car park with 25 parking spaces on basement level, 4 conference halls, library, terrace bar, internet corner, bar, restaurant and kids corner. Three star hotel has 200 diverse rooms which differ in size, number of beds, equipment (with or without air conditioning), comfort, quietness and view. For you and your guests we would be glad to help with a variety of additional activities. Contact person: Špela Marolt e: spela.marolt@cityhotel.si City Hotel Ljubljana Dalmatinova 15, 1000 Ljubljana, T: Category G - Hotel with conference facilities Dvor Jezeršek* Dvor Jezeršek 1768, Zgornji Brnik 63. the nearly 250 years old Hočevar Homestead in the middle of the Zgornji Brnik village has been converted into a modern, 18-bedroom hotel that can accommodate 40 guests, and boasts a restaurant, café and wine cellar. The hotel, located next to a stream that springs under Mt Krvavec, is an ideal setting for gatherings, meetings, congresses, celebrations, promotional events, weddings and banquets. In addition to hosting various presentations and cultural events, it also various presentations and cultural events, it also houses the Taste Culinary Centre. Contact person: Luka Jezeršek e: info@dvor-jezersek.si Jezeršek gostinstvo Zgornji Brnik 63, 4207 Cerklje na Gorenjskem, T: +386 (0) Category G - Hotel with conference facilities * Standardisation in process

40 Hit Alpinea The Hit Alpinea group in Kranjska Gora comprises five hotels, which offer a total of 600 guestrooms. Their quiet locations in the resort make them a favourite venue for those wishing to hold an event in the peaceful environment of the Julian Alps. The conference facilities of the Hit Alpinea are suitable for the organisation of both smaller and larger meetings, providing space for up to 360 delegates in as many as 20 halls in four hotels. The casino, the newly-opened Centre for Relaxation at the Kompas Hotel, the Aqua Larix water park, and a wide offer of additional services cater for the well-being of the guests. Contact person: Polonca Bačnar e: events@hitholidays-kg.si Hit Alpinea Borovška cesta 99, 4280 Kranjska Gora, T: +386 (0) Category G - Hotel with conference facilities HIT Nova Gorica HIT d.d. is located in Nova Gorica, a renowned gaming, entertainment, leisure, sport, and congress destination on the Italian border. The new Spa Perla wellness centre represents an important completion of Europe s largest gaming and entertainment centre. The Perla Casinò & Hotel is distinguished by a thoughtful combination of entertainment, games, culinary specialties, comfortable accommodation possibilities, and a creative working environment. Its conference centre offers capacities for 280 to 350 people, and several smaller meeting rooms are also available. Contact person: Nelida Nemec e: nelida.nemec@hit.si Hit Nova Gorica Delpinova 7a, 5000 Nova Gorica, T: +386 (0) www. hit.si Category G - Hotel with conference facilities Hotel Astoria Bled Situated below the medieval castle, the newly refurbished Hotel Astoria is close to the centre of the resort and just 300 meters from Lake Bled. The Astoria Hotel is well known for the quality of service and cuisine provided by its friendly staff. The Hotel Astoria also owns the Castle Bled Restaurant. Besides 72 modernly equipped rooms, we offer congress services in four technically equipped conference rooms. The location is ideal for seminars, consultations, business meetings, educational programmes, team building programmes, etc. Contact person: Alisa Cerič e: alisa.ceric@vgs-bled.si Hotel Astoria Bled Prešernova 44, 4260 Bled, T: Category G - Hotel with conference facilities Kempinski Palace Portorož* The luxury hotel Kempinski Palace is located in Portorož, a small paradise directly on the coast of the Adriatic Sea not far from the medieval pearl, the town of Piran. The hotel boasts 164 Superior & Deluxe rooms and 17 exclusive suites. All rooms offer air-conditioning, a modern audio-video system including an LCD TV, phone, and wireless Internet access. The hotel offers state-of-the art facilities for conferences, team building programmes, product presentation, and gala dinners with 6 meeting rooms and a unique ballroom for up to 254 people. Contact person: Marcos Torres Mueller e: marcos.torres@kempinski.com Kempinski Palace Portorož Obala 45, 6320 Portorož, T: +386 (0) Category G - Hotel with conference facilities * Standardisation in process

41 Hotel Kokra Hotel Kokra and Brdo Congress Centre are renowned for the organisation of business meetings at the highest level. Brdo is tailoring itself increasingly to the business world by offering the possibility of organising different congresses, conferences, meetings, and formal and informal events and celebrations. Our guests are won over by the exceptional location and the high quality of our service. The estate with an absorbing history lies close to the n capital and only a few kilometres from the international airport. Contact person: Mateja Markič e: mateja.markic@gov.si Hotel Kokra - JGZ Brdo Predoslje 39, 4000 Kranj, T: +386 (0) Category G - Hotel with conference facilities Hotel Lek Kranjska Gora is the largest ski resort in, as well as offering extensive year-round activities. A stay at the Hotel Lek in Kranjska Gora will help you get away from the stress of modern living and leave you feeling recharged. Staying at the Hotel Lek is attractive in any season, and guests have endless opportunities for entertainment, leisure, and recreation. The pools, saunas, tennis courts, pleasant rooms, and friendly helpful staff will all contribute to the memory of a wonderful stay. One large conference hall and smaller meeting rooms with modern equipment offer the possibility of organizing almost any kind of event. Contact person: Sandra Fiorelli e: sandra.fiorelli@hotel-lek.si Hotel Lek Vršiška 38, 4280 Kranjska Gora, T: +386 (0) Category G - Hotel with conference facilities Hotel Lev A landmark of elegance, the Hotel Lev is located in the centre of Ljubljana not far from the Old Town s sights and business district. And thanks to its location, all major points of interest are within walking distance while it is also easily accessible from the motorway. Select from the impressive array of 173 rooms with a view of green Tivoli Park or of the city centre on the other side. Hold your meetings or presentations in our renovated and flexible congress hall (capacity 380 seats) or in a breakout rooms of different size on the 13th floor. Contact person: Luka Velepič e: luka.velepic@hotel-lev.si Hotel Lev Vošnjakova 1, 1000 Ljubljana, T: +386 (0) Category G - Hotel with conference facilities Hotel Paka The Paka Hotel is a business and conference hotel with 52 guestrooms. The hotel s conference centre has six halls suitable for the organisation of seminars, conferences, and other business gatherings. The largest conference room can accommodate up to 250 guests, while the smaller ones provide space for 20 to 100 people. Category G - Hotel with conference facilities Contact person: Stanko Brunšek e: stanko.brunsek@hotelpaka.com Hotel Paka Rudarska 1, 3320 Velenje, T: +386 (0) HOTEL PAKA

42 Hotel Plesnik* Hotel Plesnik lies at the heart of the Logarska dolina valley where modern comfort is united with the friendly ambience of a country house. It has 30 rooms with an additional 11 rooms in its Vila Palenk annex. Business meetings in the embrace of unspoilt nature acquire an entirely new scope. Besides visits to various sights, hiking, mountaineering, archery, and biking, we also offer animation programmes. Or one can simply relax in our swimming pool, sauna, whirlpool and solarium, or enjoy all kinds of hand massage. Contact person: Mojca Pavletič e: hotel@plesnik.si Hotel Plesnik Logarska dolina 10, 3335 Solčava, T: +386 (0) Category G - Hotel with conference facilities * Standardisation in process LifeClass Hotels & Spa The LifeClass Hotels & Spa in Portorož consists of the fivestar Grand Hotel Portorož and five four-star hotels with a total of 799 rooms. The Portus Convention Centre comprises 10 multifunctional halls accommodating from 20 to 550 delegates. The main features of the hotel group are the Terme & Wellness LifeClass complex consisting of 7 centres (Shakti Ayurveda, Thalasso, Wai Thai, Beauty, Medical, Physiotherapy, and Thermal Recreational), the Sauna Park, and extensive indoor and outdoor pool facilities. Contact person: Maša Podbevšek e: masa.podbevsek@lifeclass.net Istrabenz turizem Obala 33, 6320 Portorož, T: +386 (0) Category F - Convention hotel Category G - Hotel with conference facilities M Hotel The M Hotel has a quiet yet convenient location close to both the city centre and the motorway network, making it attractive to those travelling from near and far. 154 rooms with modern facilities and flexible conference units accommodating up to 100 underline its suitability for smaller functions. Category G - Hotel with conference facilities Contact person: Matjaž Marčan e: matjaz.marcan@m-hotel.si M hotel Derčeva 4, 1000 Ljubljana, T: +386 (0) LJUBLJANA SLOVENIA Rogaška Hotels & Lotus Wellness Centre The Grand Sava Hotel and the Zagreb Hotel are at the top of the 4 star category in Rogaška Slatina. Rogaška Congress Centre has a hall for 300 guests that can also be divided by walls to form three smaller units (100 people each) with modern AV equipmen; close by are the Lobby bar and several smaller halls. Additional facilities are available the Rogaška Cultural Centre with 400 seats. Also on offer for the complete pleasure of guests are the new Kristal restaurant, the Kaiser a la carte restaurant, and the Lotus Wellness Centre. Contact person: Matej Jugovar e: matej@hotel-sava-rogaska.si Rogaška Hotels & Lotus Wellness centre Zdraviliški trg 6, 3250 Rogaška Slatina, T: +386 (0) Category G - Hotel with conference facilities

43 Sava Hoteli Bled Bled has long been an attractive setting for important meetings and events. The Sava Hoteli Bled group offers a complete package of the highest quality conference services. 21 conference rooms with capacities from 40 to 350 delegates, 6 hotels with over 660 guestrooms, 10 restaurants with tempting cuisine, exceptional wellness services, and the professional and experienced staff guarantee the success of any business or diplomatic event. Contact person: Monika Poklukar e: monika.poklukar@hotelibled.com Sava Hoteli Bled Cankarjeva 6, 4260 Bled, T: +386 (0) Category G - Hotel with conference facilities Suite Hotel Klass* It is no coincidence that we offer such luxury. The Klass Hotel offers the highest number of the most modern suites in the alpine resort of Kranjska Gora. Time to relax is marked with comfort and convenience. Allow yourself to be pampered in a pleasant bar and on a terrace with a stunning view of the Julian Alps. We invite you to relax in the luxury of the four-star Klass Hotel set in the midst of s Julian Alps and Triglav National Park. Contact person: mag. Magda Bučič e: magda@hotelklass.si Suite Hotel Klass Bezje 14, 4280 Kranjska Gora, T: +386 (0) Category G - Hotel with conference facilities * Standardisation in process Terme 3000 Moravske Toplice* Situated in the northeast, TERME 3000, a spa resort with 45 years of tradition and high professional competence in all fields of work, offers a perfect setting for meetings and events tourism. The 18-hole golf course is an ideal place to conclude successful business conventions. More than 5,000 m2 of pool areas and sports facilities offer a perfect background for effective team buildings. If stress relief is requested, sophisticated wellness centres or simply hiking tours along the picturesque vineyards will do the trick. All in all, TERME 3000 is an interesting incentive destination. Contact person: Slavica Rešeta e: slavica.reseta@terme3000.si Terme 3000 Moravske Toplice Kranjčeva 12, 9226 Moravske toplice, T: +386 (0) Category G - Hotel with conference facilities * Standardisation in process Terme Čatež Terme Čatež - health resort, water park and modern congress The Terme Čatež health resort, water park, and modern congress centre can accommodate up to 900 guests in three hotels: Terme****, Toplice****, and Čatež***. After a busy day you can relax in the Wellness Centre, the sauna park, or the Winter & Summer Thermal Riviera. For passionate golfers, playing golf at the Mokrice Castle golf course will be a real challenge. The medieval Mokrice Castle has been converted into a top class hotel (29 guestrooms, 8 golf suites, and 2 conference rooms for 40 and 60 participants). Contact person: Gregor Žibert e: gregor.zibert@terme-catez.si Terme Čatež Topliška c. 35, 8251 Čatež ob Savi, T: +386 (0) Category G - Hotel with conference facilities

44 Terme Dobrna* The Dobrna Spa is a contemporary and dynamic health resort and tourist centre. The health resort merges gifts of nature with contemporary medical science, which places it at the very top of n tourism. The famous tradition that goes back to the 15th century, the climate and an amazing natural environment, relaxation, quality care and services, companionship and recreation all these are factors that have long attracted guests from around the world. Dobrna is certainly a place to which guests like returning to. Contact person: Andrej Klanjšek e: andrej.klanjsek@terme-dobrna.si Terme Dobrna Dobrna 50, 3204 Dobrna, T: +386 (0) Category G - Hotel with conference facilities * Standardisation in process Terme Krka* Terme Krka is one of the leading tourism companies in and comprises two health and spa centres in Dolenjske Toplice and Šmarješke Toplice, the Otočec Hotels with the famous Otočec Castle and golf course, the Krka Hotel in Novo mesto, and the seaside centre Thalasso Strunjan. In all its business units Terme Krka offers plenty of opportunities for organizing seminars, symposia, meetings, training sessions, and social or business gatherings. Contact person: Petra Florjančič e: petra.florjancic@terme-krka.si Terme Krka Ljubljanska cesta 26, 8000 Novo mesto, T: (0) Category G - Hotel with conference facilities * Standardisation in process Terme Olimia Terme Olimia overlooks the winding Sotla River, which has long been renowned as a source of health and vitality. As you enter the Wellness Hotel Sotelia with its 135 double rooms, 4 apartments, and 6 suites, it seems as if you are entering heart of nature. The astounding scenery and the healing springs have been attracting health seeking visitors for years. Olimia Conference Centre is designed as a multi-functional area appropriate for hosting various types of events. The Wellness Centre Orhidelia, the most luxurious swimming pool and sauna complex in, opened in April Contact person: Alenka Brglez e: alenka.brglez@terme-olimia.com Terme Olimia Zdraviliška cesta 24, 3254 Podčetrtek, T: +386 (0) Category G - Hotel with conference facilities Terme Ptuj* The new Grand Hotel Primus**** in Ptuj is crowned with the Roman tradition and the thermal luxury of the Antique period. Multifunctional conference halls and seminar rooms are suitable for meetings of 20 to 200 people. Modern technical equipment assures the organisers as well as the participants top performance of various events. Your business day may also be enhanced with exquisite culinary delights from the Roman period; visit the Gemina XIII club and indulge yourself at the Valens Augusta Wellness Centre. Contact person: Peter Pušenjak e: peter.pusenjak@terme-ptuj.si Terme Ptuj Pot v toplice 9, 2250 Ptuj, T: +386 (0) Category G - Hotel with conference facilities * Standardisation in process

45 Terme Spa Rogaška The Terme Spa Rogaška group offers four four-star hotels with a total of 359 rooms. The all-round offer comprises one modern and three beautifully restored historic hotels. Conference facilities are provided at the Grand Hotel Rogaška, the highlight of which is the Crystal Hall with its memorable traditional ambience. The Crystal Hall can accommodate up to 350 delegates theatre-style, and there are two additional halls for 250 and 40 guests each. Contact person: Metka Krumpak e: marketing@terme-rogaska.si Terme Spa Rogaška Zdraviliški trg 12, 3250 Rogaška Slatina, T: +386 (0) Category G - Hotel with conference facilities Unitur Rogla, Terme Zreče* There are many advantages offered by centers Rogla and Terme Zreče: both locations can pride themselves on a peacefuly and relaxing environment. Thus, organisers of various meetings and courses of education can be certain, that their guests will be focussed on the event, organised especially for them. Conference hall capacities are adjusted according to accomodation requirements, all the halls have daylight, both locations are easy to access, variety of accompanying activities, free parking, individual treatment and help with organisation is offered as well. Contact person: Breda Einfalt e: breda.einfalt@unitur.eu Terme Zreče - Unior Cesta na Roglo 15, 3214 Zreče, T: +386 (0) Category G - Hotel with conference facilities * Standardisation in process Zdravilišče Radenci - Spa Resort The Radenci Health Resort complex consists of two interconnected hotels, the 4-star Radin and the 3-star Izvir. In addition to offering services aimed at the guests health and wellbeing, it also boasts a congress centre that includes six modern conference halls and meeting rooms. The largest of these can accommodate up to 230 delegates theatre-style. The broad offer of the health resort includes a swimming pool complex, a sauna centre, various medical and wellness treatments in the Corrium Medico Wellness Centre, an ayurvedic centre, and a beauty and massage centre. Contact person: Miha Veberič e: miha.veberic@zdravilisce-radenci.si Zdravilišče Radenci Spa Radenci Zdraviliško naselje 12, 9252 Radenci, T: +386 (0) Category G - Hotel with conference facilities Adria Airways Adria Airways is the n national airline, a successful European network carrier with a modern fleet and more than 46 years of experience. In 2004 Adria joined the strategic international airline group Star Alliance as regional member. We are ideally placed for those organizing conferences, congresses and other events, being able to operate as their official carrier, and offering special concessions for participants and organizers. Adria Airways - Home above the clouds. Category H - Other congress services suppliers Contact person: Alen Mlekuž e: alen.mlekuz@adria.si Adria Airways Kuzmičeva 7, 1000 Ljubljana T: F:

46 ABC rent a car Europcar In 2001, ABC rent a car joined the Europcar network and thus extended their car rental services all around the world. They offer high quality car rental service, chauffeur service, V.I.P. transfers, and tour transfers. Since 1994, ABC rent a car had been active as a travel agency. With its own cars, minibuses, and drivers, the agency is perfect for those who are looking for tailor made holidays. ABC rent a car also specialises in holidays at tourist farms and trips on the old-timer steam train. Contact person: Tadej Dolenc e: sales@europcar.si ABC rent a car Europcar Celovška cesta 268, 1000 Ljubljana, T: Category H - Other congress services suppliers Avis Rent A Car Alpe no. 1 are proud to be an important part of the ever growing Avis Europe family and are experts in car hire and leasing services. short and long term vehicle rentals. Their high quality English speaking staff advise clients, offer help with technical problems and additional information on accommodation, destinations and routes. A 24-hour service is provided from offices in 8 offices around. Avis are happy to arrange free-of-charge car deliveries to your hotel or any other location within a 20 km radius of any of their offices. Contact person: Andrej Cergolj e: andrej.cergolj@avis.si Avis Rent A Car Verovškova 60a, 1000 Ljubljana, T: +386 (0) Category H - Other congress services suppliers Ljubljana Airport Ljubljana Airport is s largest and most central, being strategically located in the middle of the country. Its excellent highway connections make most destinations in the country easily and quickly accessible. Its compact size ensures that guests and luggage are quickly processed. Additional services include a modern well-equipped conference room suitable for up to 120. Category H - Other congress services suppliers Category J - Other venues Contact person: Sabina Mezeg e: sabina.mezeg@lju-airport.si Ljubljana Airport Zg. Brnik 130 a, 4210 Brnik, T: (0) Alkemist Translation Company* In addition to written translations into 80 languages, the Alkemist Translation Company provides its clients experienced interpreters for simultaneous and consecutive interpretation. We are proud this year to present our own technical equipment for simultaneous translation manufactured by BOSCH. We have thus become the only provider of a complete and comprehensive translation service in. Category H - Other congress services suppliers Contact person: Igor Gorše e: igor.gorse@alkemist.si Alkemist Translation Company Obirska 4, 1000 Ljubljana, T: +386 (0) * Standardisation in process

47 Jezeršek Catering The Jezeršek family have been specialist caterers and organisers of a great variety of culinary receptions, banquets, and other functions for more than twenty years. The family company offers an opportunity to enjoy outstanding cuisine in its own luxurious premises, providing guests with unforgettable hospitality, décor, and service. Alternatively, the Jezeršeks have a long tradition of catering for any event in a location of the client s choice from forest clearings, meadows, and karst caves to museums and ships. Contact person: Maja Jezeršek e: maja@gmail.com Jezeršek Catering Sora 1a, 1215 Medvode T: +386 (0) Category H - Other congress services suppliers Vivo Catering Vivo Catering is at the top of n catering services with a successful 15-year tradition. It boasts international experience and provides catering both in and abroad and specialises in organising event catering. It is famous for its tasty and original dishes and their touch of artistic presentation. Vivo Catering can feast a thousand guests or more at different locations at the same time. With the increasing congressrelated business in, the company is more and more present at such events. Contact person: Mateja Čemažar e: jerneja.kamnikar@vivo.si Vivo Catering Pot na Fužine 2, 1000 Ljubljana T: +386 (0) Category H -Other congress services suppliers Omega IC* Omega IC specialises in developing solutions that make event organisation easier. Our main product ClickOnEvent.com is a web-based application for event management. It can be reached anytime from anywhere at It includes flexible online registration forms, website templates, online event management, automatic attendee follow up, unlimited types of registration fees, room reservations, transfer orders, other services, several payment methods, financial tracking, and real-time reports. Contact person: Veronika Šmid e: veronika.smid@omegaic.si Omega IC Kranjska cesta 4, 4240 Radovljica, T: +386 (0) Category H - Other congress services suppliers * Standardisation in process Robotrade Robotrade is a leading provider of simultaneous interpretation equipment and conference microphones in the country. The range of services also includes rental of tour guide systems, whispering systems, sound systems, projection facilities such as LCD projectors, screens, and plasma displays, VCR/ DVD players, PCs, and laptops. Robotrade source and employ professional interpreters while providing all-round professional technical support services of the highest quality at any destination in. Contact person: Robert Omovšek e: info@robotrade.si Robotrade Grajska cesta 18, 4260 Bled, T: +386 (0) Category H - Other congress services suppliers

48 RS Klan RS Klan provides services in the field of IT and communication strategies. As part of its desire to be a leader in the field, it designs new products and services providing competitive advantages to its partners. RS Klan has a full offer including complete web design solutions for meetings and congresses and tailor-made web surveys. Category H - Other congress services suppliers Contact person: Andrej Šolinc e: andrej@rsklan.com RS Klan, Jazbec & Co. Peruzzijeva 84b, 1000 Ljubljana, T: +386 (0) I N T E R N E T A R E P E O P L E S M O L J U D J E SIQ n Institute of Quality and Metrology* SIQ builds upon knowledge, complete solutions, partner relations, independence, and impartiality. In this spirit we test, certify products and systems, calibrate measuring devices, assess and certify management systems in companies, and pass on our experience and knowledge. For more than 45 years our driving force has been the belief that our activities contribute to the development of a society that based on knowledge and high quality services and products will provide the conditions for a higher quality of life. Contact person: Tine Lavrič e: pr@siq.si SIQ n Institute of Quality and Metrology Tržaška 2, 1000 Ljubljana, T: Category H - Other congress services suppliers * Standardisation in process Kongres Magazine / Go Mice Kongres Magazine is the meetings industry magazine of Southeast Europe. Its basic aim is to inform about events, novelties and trends in the industry, to present the region s offer, good practice case studies and to give advice to events organisers. Kongres magazine is published in English and n, five times a year including a special edition dedicated to the Conventa Show. Kongres magazine is distributed to addresses around Europe and is available also as an on-line edition. Contact person: Danaja Besnard e: danaja.besnard@go-mice.eu Kongres Magazine / Go Mice Štihova 4, 1000 Ljubljana, T: +386 (0) Category H - Other congress services suppliers The Times The Times is the leading n monthly in English. The Times offers a critical, in-depth and vivid analysis of the social and economic image of. The second part of the newspaper focuses on tourism, culture, sports, recreation and other lifestylerelated entertainment topics. Developed in 2006, the top-level networking event organization is now one of the core acctivities of the company. The Times is mainly dealing with in-house events. Contact person: Marko Stijepič e: marketing@sloveniatimes.com The Times Trg MDB 12, 1000 Ljubljana, T: +386 (0) Category H - Other congress services suppliers

49 Turistica - Faculty of Tourism Studies Portorose Turistica, the Faculty of Tourism Studies in Portorož, is s leading education institution in the field of tourism. Its speciality is the Encuentros, a centre for business and social meetings offering ten lecture rooms of various sizes, some of them with magnificent views of the sea. The rooms are furnished with state-of-the-art equipment; the largest even having interpretation booths available. Complete accompanying services and professional assistance are available for event organisation. Contact person: Marijana Sikošek e: marijana.sikosek@turistica.si Turistica Faculty of Tourism Studies Portorose Obala 11a, 6320 Portorož, T: (0) Category H - Other congress services suppliers Turizem Kras - Postojna Cave The world-famous Postojna Cave is one of the most popular tourist attractions in this part of Europe. Together with Jamski Dvorec ( Cave Mansion ) it is a fascinating setting for a memorable business meeting, reception, seminar, conference, cultural event, concert, or culinary experience. The mansion on a platform at the cave entrance is an event venue itself. Jamski Dvorec is fragrant with the aromas of Slovene cuisine and the secrets of the culinary art of the Notranjska-Karst region. Here you will encounter dishes prepared according to old recipes but in a modern guise. Contact person: Tamara Miljković e: tamara.miljkovic@turizem-kras.si Turizem Kras Jamska cesta 30, 6230 Postojna, T: +386 (0) Category H - Other congress services suppliers Category I - Special venue Bled Culture Institute* Congress organisation in Bled has a long tradition and is an important part of the resort s tourist assets. The Bled Festival Hall has hosted scientific and professional congresses, corporate and business meetings, political meetings, and sporting events. The Festival Hall is located in a peaceful setting on the shore of Lake Bled within easy walking distance of all the major hotels. Getting around in Bled is easy, and by organising your event in Bled you can avoid traffic jams and exhausting city traffic. Category I - Special venue Category J - Other venues Contact person: Lea Ferjan e: info@zkbled.si Bled Congress Centre Bled Culture Institute Cesta svobode 11, 4260 Bled, T: +386 (0) * Standardisation in process Festival Ljubljana Ljubljana Castle is a fabulous historical location with modern meeting and banquet facilities. Receptions for up to 800 people can be organised in the large courtyard. Internally, it has 7 fascinating rooms, which can accommodate up to 500 for standing receptions. The Križanke Summer Theatre with its 700-year history is used for an array of artistic events and is the stage for premier standing receptions. The complex comprises four separate spaces, the largest of which is the open-air theatre that can welcome up to 1,300 guests theatre-style. Contact person: Maja Pangršič e: maja.pangrsic@ljubljanafestival.si Festival Ljubljana Trg francoske revolucije 1, 1000 Ljubljana, T: Category I - Special venue

50 Lipica Stud Farm With a rich cultural heritage, the Lipica Stud Farm is one of the oldest stud farms in the world and is home to about 400 Lipizzaner horses. In combination with conference facilities, many possibilities exist for organising conferences, business meetings, receptions, incentive programmes, team building, sport events, picnics, product launches, and thematic events. Visitors can explore and admire the unusual countryside and its wonders and enjoy the real life of the stud farm that reflects centuries of horse breeding tradition. Contact person: Minka Dolič e: minka.dolic@lipica.org Lipica Stud Farm Lipica 5, 6210 Sežana, T: +386 (0) Category I - Special venue Vila Bled Vila Bled, a former presidential residence on the shores of Lake Bled, offers 31 spacious rooms and suites with wonderful lake and garden views. The emphasis of its exquisite restaurant is on delicious treats from French, Mediterranean, and n cuisines. A special feature of its larger meeting hall, which can accommodate up to 100 guests, is an enormous fresco depicting WWII. Vila Bled also offers a wellness studio, a lakeside lido, and the Belvedere Pavilion, a superb venue for receptions. Contact person: Petra Čuk e: petra.cuk@sportina-turizem.si Vila Bled Cesta svobode 26, 4260 Bled, T: +386 (0) Category I - Special venue Avditorij Portorož The Avditorij Portorož Convention Centre is close to the bustling centre of Portorož. The main hall seats a maximum of 500 delegates. In addition, there are four smaller meeting rooms with capacities ranging from 50 to 110. The venue is adjacent to the large amphitheatre-style open-air theatre, which accommodates almost 1,800. In nearby Piran, Avditorij Portorož also manages the Tartini Theatre, which is an exquisite venue for social events, musical performances and receptions. Contact person: Mojmir Suhar e: info@avditorij.si Avditorij Portorož Portorose Senčna pot 10, 6320 Portorož, T: +386 (0) Category J - Other venues Dolenjske Toplice Cultural & Congress Centre The newly built Congress Centre offers modernly furnished rooms for cultural events, congresses, seminars, and other meetings. The Dolenjske Toplice basin is surrounded on the south by the mysterious Kočevski rog forests and on all other sides by low hills covered with vineyards and cottages. The beautiful forest surrounding the town offers many possibilities for sports and the exploration of natural beauty. Accommodation is available in several nearby hotels. Contact person: Bojan Potočar e: jp.ekkc@amis.net Kongresni center Dolenjske Toplice Sokolski trg 4, 8350 Dolenjske Toplice, T: +386 (0) Category J - Other venues

51 BEST WESTERN PREMIER

52 KOMPAS DESIGN

53 Destination Management Company

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56 Index of Members by Standardisation Category Standard. Web Max. No. No. Name category address Locality plenary of meeting of hotel capacity rooms rooms A - CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU n Tourist Board - Ljubljana n Convention Bureau A Ljubljana Ljubljana Tourist Board / Convention Bureau A Ljubljana Maribor Tourist Board* A Maribor B - PCO Albatros Bled B Bled Auditoria B Ljubljana Cankarjev dom, Cultural and Congress Centre B Ljubljana Go Mice* B Ljubljana C - DMC Albatros Bled C Bled Intours C Ljubljana Kompas C Ljubljana Liberty Incentive & Congresses C Ljubljana M tours Bled C Bled D - EVENT AGENCY Eventus Agency - Kranj Promo Agency D Ljubljana Auditoria D Ljubljana Koren Sports D Tržič Lifetrek Events D Kranj Maya Travel Agency* D Tolmin TBA - Teambuilding Academy* D Ljubljana E - CONGRESS & EXHIBITION CENTRE Cankarjev dom, Cultural and Congress Centre E Ljubljana GR Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre E Ljubljana F - CONVENTION HOTEL Bernardin Group - Resorts & Hotels F Portorož Grand Hotel Union F Ljubljana LifeClass Hotels & Spa F Portorož Mons - Hotel & Congress Centre Ljubljana F Ljubljana Terme Maribor F Maribor G - HOTEL WITH CONFERENCE FACILITIES Austria Trend Hotel Ljubljana G Ljubljana Bernardin Group Resorts & Hotels G Portorož Best Western Kompas & BW Premier Hotel Lovec G Bled Best Western Premier Hotel Slon G Ljubljana City Hotel Ljubljana G Ljubljana Dvor Jezeršek* G Cerklje na Gorenjskem Grand Hotel Union G Ljubljana HIT Alpinea G Kranjska Gora HIT Nova Gorica G Nova Gorica Hotel Astoria Bled G Bled Kempinski Palace Portorož* G Portorož

57 Standard. Web Max. No. No. Name category address Locality plenary of meeting of hotel capacity rooms rooms Hotel Kokra G Kranj Hotel Lek G Kranjska gora Hotel Lev G Ljubljana Hotel Paka G Velenje Hotel Plesnik * G Solčava LifeClass Hotels & Spa G Portorož M Hotel G Ljubljana Rogaška Hotels & Lotus Terme G Rogaška Slatina Sava Hoteli Bled G Bled Suite Hotel Klass* G Kranjska Gora Terme 3000 Moravske Toplice* G Moravske Toplice Terme Čatež G catez.si Čatež ob Savi Terme Dobrna* G Dobrna Terme Krka* G Novo Mesto Terme Maribor G Maribor Terme Olimia G Podčetrtek Terme Ptuj* G Ptuj Terme Spa Rogaška G Rogaška Slatina Unitur Rogla, Terme Zreče* G Zreče Zdravilišče Radenci Spa Radenci G Radenci H - OTHER CONGRESS SERVICES Adria Airways H Ljubljana ABC rent a car, Europcar Slovenija H Ljubljana Avis rent a car H Ljubljana Aerodrom Ljubljana - Jože Pučnik Airport H Brnik Alkemist Translation Company* H Ljubljana Catering Jezeršek H Medvode GR Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre H Ljubljana Vivo Catering H Ljubljana Omega IC* H Radovljica Robotrade H Bled RS Klan, Jazbec & Co., H Ljubljana SIQ n Institute of Quality and Metrology* H Ljubljana Go Mice - Kongres Magazine H Ljubljana The Times H Ljubljana Turistica - Faculty of Tourism Studies H Portorož Turizem Kras - Postojna Cave H Postojna I - SPECIAL VENUE Bled Culture Institute Congress Centre Bled I Bled Festival Ljubljana I Ljubljana Lipica Stud Farm I Sežana Turizem Kras - Postojnska jama I Postojna Vila Bled I Bled J - OTHER VENUES Aerodrom Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport J Brnik Avditorij Portorož J Portorož Bled Culture Institute - Congress Centre Bled J Bled Dolenjske Toplice Cultural & Congress Centre J Dolenjske Toplice *Standardisation in process

58 n Meetings Industry Standards The n Convention Bureau has set standards for its members, the n meetings industry suppliers, to help simplify and shorten the Client s venue- or event organiser finding process. An acquired certificate indicates that the suppliers / members have proven their quality by passing the certification process and are by the SCB s estimation a trustworthy partner. Advantages of the standardisation easier choice between industry suppliers easier comparability among the suppliers sufficient transparency uniform treatment for comparable categories of members professional relations quality of services three years validity of the certificates continuous evaluation. Categories A to D and category H are congress service providers, while categories E to G and category I and J are function venues or / and accommodation providers. More information: n Convention Bureau - SCB Dunajska cesta Ljubljana T: E: info@slovenia-convention.com Multipurpose centre with halls ranging from 20 to 2,000 seats PCO TRADITION, EXPERTISE AND PERSONAL APPROACH TRY US! Member of ICCA and IAPCO Cankarjev dom Cultural and Congress Centre Prešernova cesta 10, 1000 Ljubljana, T F E congress@cd-cc.si W

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60 6 Meeting halls 3 Meeting rooms Large spaces with natural light Perfect location for road shows EMBRACED BY NATURE SLOVENIA SI-1000 Ljubljana l Pot za Brdom 55 T 386 (0) info@hotel.mons.si

61 Cave Mansion - congress and meeting paradise The Cave Mansion by the Postojna cave is a special event venue and a culinary paradise, and opens its doors to all who wish to combine the full spectrum of brand-new sensations into an unforgettable whole. The Mansion is the ideal venue for a wide variety of exclusive events. Turizem KRAS, destination management d. d.,

62 A recently refurbished conference and event venue with 45 years of tradition. Fully equipped Conference Centre with flexible facilities ranging from 380 to 15 seats. Exquisite culinary experiences for all events and budgets. Privileged downtown location offering 173 guestrooms. Professional service that matches the number of stars! Vošnjakova 1, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenija t: +386 (1) , w: e:

63 SLOVENIA FORYOU Feel the presence of nature. Taste the harmony of diversity. Come and take a closer look: Pivka Landscape.