Author: Ben Debski

Emigration: Ensure your assets travel with you

Posted on by Ben Debski

The value of the pound against the euro has declined by around 25% since mid-2007 despite recent euro weakness and the financial crises in Ireland and Greece. As a consequence, the cost of living for UK expats living in Europe has risen significantly during that time as they have seen their savings or pensions decrease in value.

At Moneycorp, we have registered a four-fold increase in enquiries from expats returning to the UK from Europe in 2010 compared to the previous year. In addition, the number of UK clients selling their properties in Europe has tripled during the same period.

As the government spending cuts come into force, and with GDP showing negative growth in the last quarter, this could have even more of an impact on sterling this year.

On the other hand, recent Moneycorp research reveals that 72 percent of Brits would still consider moving abroad. This points to a divide between people desiring a move overseas and the realities of doing so. For many expats in Europe, living abroad has proven too tough to maintain, but, the appetite back in the UK is still there to up sticks and settle in another country.

According to the research, Australia is the favoured destination for people longing for a new start, with over a quarter (27 percent) of those surveyed eyeing up a life down under. Oz is particularly popular amongst the middle-aged, with 33 percent of those individuals looking to move to Australia aged between 35 and 44. Other idyllic destinations include the USA (12 percent), Spain (nine percent), Canada (seven percent), France (seven percent) and New Zealand (four percent).

For many, the British weather is the clincher, with a quarter (24 percent) of those considering emigrating citing climate as one of the reasons for going. The most popular reason is general quality of life, with more than half (52 percent) of respondents suggesting that a lifestyle change would tempt them abroad. Other key factors in making the move  include the UK economy (16 percent) and the UK political environment (12 percent).

Government cuts and tax increases have made many people in the UK dream of starting a new life abroad we expect to see a rising number of enquiries to Moneycorp from those looking to make a new start in places such as Australia, the USA and Spain.

Employment opportunities abroad are also a strong factor for making the move, with a fifth (20 percent) looking at moving overseas for work reasons. This is particularly true for males, with double the amount of men citing their job as a reason for emigrating compared to women (27 percent compared to 14 percent).

While employment is a strong consideration for Brits thinking about emigrating, almost half (46 percent) do not necessarily believe that they would be able to get a better role overseas. Almost a fifth (19 percent) claimed that they will be looking to change profession when moving overseas, whilst a further 18 percent of those questioned expressed concern about not being able to find a job.

Fluctuating exchange rates are of little concern to Brits thinking of moving abroad, with only seven percent of respondents citing this as their main worry. This is despite two-thirds (66 percent) of individuals potentially needing to transfer money from the UK on a regular basis for a pension or salary.

At Moneycorp, we’d strongly advise anyone who is tempted to move abroad to put their finances first. The dream can be shattered if you haven’t thought about possible currency fluctuations and how you’ll transfer money to the country you are moving to. For instance, buying a house in Australia worth $250,000 will currently cost £27,000 more than it did this time last year due to changes in exchange rates.

A foreign exchange specialist like Moneycorp can give you free expert guidance on the currency markets, and help you transfer your funds when the rates are in your favour. Currency rates can be locked in for up to two years with a forward contract, which can help individuals to protect themselves against adverse currency fluctuations. Expats should, therefore, carefully consider their money transfer.


David Kearns is dealing manager at Moneycorp.

A riff in relations

Posted on by Ben Debski

As lightning flashed to the right of the plane, and the clouds parted to reveal the dark waters of Lake Geneva a few thousand feet below, a familiar musical riff popped uninvited into my head: Da da da, da da da nah.

And so it was, as the plane bobbed and lurched towards the airport, that Deep Purple’s greatest played on a loop in my brain, refusing to leave: Smo-ow-oke on the wa-aa-ter…
Forty years ago, Deep Purple wrote Smoke On The Water after watching their Swiss recording venue burn down. Someone had fired a smoke flare into the rattan ceiling of the venue, an act which has a cherished place in the Rock’N’Roll Hall Of Stupidity.

As I waited at the baggage carousel in Geneva airport, my own geographical stupidity dawned on me. The song was written about Montreux, 60 kilometres away at the opposite end of Lake Geneva.

Even so, that one line from the song about ‘the Lake Geneva shoreline’ had been enough to press Play on my mental jukebox.

Once that jukebox started playing, it could not be switched off. In the midst of a business meeting, in the shower, or in a hotel bed at 3am, the riff would come and get me: Da da da, da da DA NAH.

Just think of the money, time and creative energy expended over the years on cultivating Geneva’s image as one of the most chic, desirable and discreet business destinations in the world. Then think of how easily all that was swept away by a stray mental association.

Marcel Proust knew all about stray mental associations. The chronicler of the French bourgeoisie didn’t live in an era of Heavy Metal music or intercontinental air travel, for which he was probably grateful. He would likely have found both a little too noisy and unrefined for his tastes.

Now, it might seem a bit of a leap from Deep Purple to Marcel Proust. But Monsieur Proust did give us that most famous of all uninvited memory moments. If it was an episode of Friends, it would be titled The One With The Madeleine Biscuit.

To describe the episode as briefly as possible: one of Proust’s characters is enjoying tea and biscuits, when the flavour from the tiniest crumbs brings a host of childhood memories and sensations flooding back. (There, I think that’s another literary classic dealt with in short order.)
It’s my guess that most branding professionals, the people who create a city’s public image, must live in fear of these unintended Proustian moments happening in their audiences.
Put yourselves in the brand-creator’s (well-heeled) shoes for a moment.

You could, for instance, slave over the production of a wonderful cinema advert about London’s rich heritage of culture and business. You spend hours, days, weeks finding suitably tasteful music that fits the images. Then sit back and watch as the man in row 44 dips into his jumbo popcorn box and quietly hums Knees Up Mother Brown as he watches your ad.

Clever ad agencies can take this mental musical association game and play with it. Let me explain. It’s sometimes more effective to update and subvert the tunes and associations that already playing through the audience’s heads, rather than try to drown them out with something new. In other words, make something new that feels like you’ve known it all your life.

Jaguar Cars scored a tremendous hit with the Propellerheads song History Repeating, when they used it in the launch of the retro-styled S-Type model. Both the car and the song were contemporary, but rich with past associations. Both sold like hot cakes around the world.

It’s a neat trick if you can pull it off, as Proust might have put it.

Great things await those who can make instant classics that look, sound and feel as if they might have been with us all our lives. Whether it’s a song, a car or even a magazine, the past is a good place to start when you’re designing the future.
Meanwhile, don’t get me started about my weekend in Rio de Janeiro, with Barry Manilow’s Copacabana going round my head. Now that was a long 48 hours.

Hywel Jones is a television producer who has travelled the world with the BBC and ITV. He now runs the international broadcast and corporate TV production company hi.tv.

Portable perfection

Posted on by Ben Debski

Olympus Tough TG-610 www.olympus.com £250
The ultimate in rugged cameras, the TG-610 will withstand pretty much any adverse environment you can chuck at it. Freeze-proof at temperatures as low as -10oC, shockproof against falls from 1.5 meters and waterproof to depths of three meters, this tough little guy is perfect for skiing, snorkelling, rock climbing or those who just happen to be a bit clumsy. You’ll be glad to know that all this armour is protecting some serious technology inside. The TG-610 features a 14MP sensor, x3.6 wide optical zoom, HD recording and is even capable of capturing increasingly popular 3D pictures. Dual Image Stabilisation reduces blur while Olympus’s TruePic III captures ISO 80-1600You’ll also have fun with a full range of ‘Magic Filters’ with classic effects such as ‘Pop’, ‘Pinhole’ and ‘Watercolour for an artistic feel.

Calvin Klein 3D sunglasses www.sunglasseswarehouse.com $180
With the furore surrounding the introduction of 3D film and television, you seldom here about an essential piece of kit that makes the whole experience possible. 3D eyewear was initially marketed as cheap and disposable; something that you can discard on your exit from the cinema. Attitudes are however changing and fashionistas globally are beginning to say ‘nay’ to head gear that makes you look an extra from Back to the Future II. Roll on the Calvin Klein 3D sunglasses, the ultimate way to stay sharp in the dark. RealD certified to assure that you’re getting full 3D experience, this handsome pair even double up as a fully functioning pair of shadeswith full UV protection for added value. An ingenious mix of technology and fashion, the Calvin Klein 3D glasses allow you to flow seamlessly between your various 3D outings – without spoiling your look.

Kodak Playfull shop.kodak.co.uk TBC
Featuring an ultra-slim and chic design that fits right in your pocket, the Kodak Playful captures full 1090p HD video and 5mp digital images. Perfect for fast-paced or crowded environments, the Playfull represents the cutting edge in high-quality filming whilst being no-more intrusive than a modestly-sized MP3 player and weighing just 95g. While the internal 128MB memory may seem inadequate, the Playfull features a SD/SDHC card expansion slot for up to 32GB. Additionally, you’ll be able to edit your files on the go with the help of on-board software, which means you can apply effects and even pull stills from captured movies. A built in USB arm allows seamless transfer ability, as does the inclusion of Kodak’s share technology, which can instantly upload to popular websites including Facebook, Twitter and Flickr.

Samsung ultra compact 3D Blu-Ray player samsungusanews.com TBC
Samsung’s new generation of 3D Blu-Ray players are sleek, sophisticated and some of the most compact on the market. The newly announced BD-D7000 is the ultimate in Blu-ray portability, is no larger than an external CD writer, and covers a raft of features including the conversion of 2D to 3D content. Perfect for those on the move, the built in Wi-Fi and access to Samsung Apps also opens up media streaming opportunities from the likes of Netflix, YouTube and Pandora while a handy HDMI port allows connection for any HDTV or laptop on the move. The minimalist metal casing is fronted by a neat touch-button display and Samsung’s Ultra Fast Play technology significantly reduces loading times to make this player one of the fastest in the industry; up to 80 percent compared to speeds recorded previous models.

Ettinger double flat flasks and case www.ettinger.co.uk £376
Famed for its premium leather accessories and quintessentially British design, Ettinger presents the latest edition to the Lifestyle Collection. Modified for a contemporary look, this double flask set and case is based on a timeless antique design for the ultimate in travel chic. Two handsome stainless steel 4oz hip flasks feature a leather covering and screw tops while the case is crafted to your specifications by Ettinger. This means that the premium hide can be personalised to your taste. The sturdy casing also features an adjustable shoulder strap, silky pig suede lining and is available in a range of five colours. Perfect for short excursions into the wild or just to inject a stroke of finesse to any secluded picnic.

Polaroid GL10 instant mobile printer www.polaroid.com $149.99
While digital photography may have liberated inner artists around the globe, it has certainly proved a veritable dead-end for the millions of images now trapped inside hard drives. Enter the GL 10 instant Mobile Printer, which lives up to Polaroid’s reputation to provide instant and easy print outs of your mobile snaps on the go. This travel-sized device produces 3×4’’ photos with Polaroid’s Classic Border for that that retro feel, while intuitive design and functionality add to its portability. Connectivity is provided via Bluetooth or USB cable and the rechargeable battery will print up to 40 images before expiring. Stock for the photographs comes in the form of the new ZINK Imaging paper, which produces extremely sharp images.

Parrot AR Drone www.parrot.com £299
We can’t emphasise enough how much fun this quadricopter is to play with, and with a raft of ingenious features at your fingertips, it won’t be long before you’re skimming this gizmo round the office. With a fairly hefty price tag in a market now fairly abundant with flying gadgets, you’d hope that the AR Drone would have something new up its sleeve – and it certainly delivers in this department. Featuring two on-board cameras and Wi-Fi connection, the AR Drone can be controlled via an iPhone app. This means that data from the flight is streamed directly to your handset so control is possible even when out of sight whilst the app even comes with a real-time dog fighting app for group fun. Ultrasonic transmitters add vertical stability.

Marshall headphones minor www.play.com £49.99
Premium headphones are tipped to become all the rage in 2011 and this rocking pair from Marshall certainly stand out from the crowd. Aside from their handsome good looks, the Minor utilises a specially developed technology called Earclick, which secures the bud into position using your ear’s natural contours. Great for some serious head-banging action; they’ll stay firmly attached during any hard rock riff. Four interchangeable pads ensure that you’ll always get a snug fit while classy amp jack and presentation case leaves other headphones just looking plain. Another exciting feature for the Minor is the inclusion of a discreet in-line microphone and remote for use with mobile phones for added versatility.

York

Posted on by Ben Debski

Founded by the Romans in 71 AD, York has a rich and colourful history and has seen a number of significant battles through several invasions, not to mention the fact it was the birthplace of a certain Guy Fawkes. Today it is nicknamed the City of Festivals for the near continuous celebrations of everything from food to music to horse-racing.

Despite wearing nearly two millennia of history so elegantly on its sleeve – this was European City of Tourism in 2007 – there is a surprisingly youthful feel about the place. It’s been passed from Romans to Saxons to Vikings to Normans, all of whom have left their marks in the stones and masonry; see the cobbled walkways of the Shambles and the imposing gothic architecture of the York Minster. Yet the high student population of this popular university town has created a vibrant, pulsing atmosphere and within the old city walls there’s a different pub for every day of the year.

Where to stay
Few places top the 17th century red brick luxury accommodation of Middlethorpe Hall & Spa. Boutique Hotel Du Vin, in the historic Mount area, is laden with old school chic and subtle charm.

Where to eat
Whether you’re staying there or not, Hotel Du Vin is worth a visit for its bistro menu alone and Kenny Noble’s Ate O’Clock offers Mediterranean dining with local produce and a local twist. For something lighter and a little more traditional, Betty’s Café Tea Rooms are a great place for an afternoon snack.

What to see
York Minster, York Dungeons, the Jorvik Viking Centre and Yorkshire Museum are all excellent slices of history in a city laden with heritage. The National Railway Museum is more history but of a different era, and tells of York’s industrial heritage.

Engineered for excellence

Posted on by Ben Debski

The fun starts here…

Pro-DLX3 Rolling Tote
www.samsonite.com, £235
This new range of luggage from Samsonite coincides with the brand’s centenary and represents the very best in innovative and sleek design to cater for the demands of modern business. The Rolling Tote is conveniently cabin sized, (so no need to worry about accessing those precious documents on long flights) and comes fitted with an array of compartments for laptops, mobile phones and PDAs. A combination padlock ensures that all your valuables are in safe hands while a detachable shoulder strap adds to the portability of this neat package. As you’d expect from Samsonite, the materials used are of the finest quality, making this wonder bag a sound investment for years of business trips. Large shock-absorbing wheels are mounted near the outside edge of the case to allow for increased stability and effortless manoeuvrability.

Nintendo 3DS
www.nintendo.com, Y25,000
Launched in 2004, the original DS has done a pretty good job of luring bored commuters into the games market and this latest version promises a raft of new features in addition to the obvious 3D twist. The 3DS is the first dedicated gaming system to offer three dimensional  graphics independent of other 3D technology, utilising a process called autostereoscopy to produce the desired effect without glasses. Interestingly, one of the console’s two cameras is capable of capturing 3D images and film and Nintendo is rumoured to have entered into deals with producers such as Disney and Warner Bros for the release of 3D films. Gaming wise, more than 60 titles have been confirmed including old classics such as Mario Kart and Zelda.  Wii connectivity and WiFi also come as standard.

Caddy Aid GPS
www.caddyaid.com, £345
Recognised by many golfers, journalists and professional caddies to b e the best golf GPS distance finder in the world, CaddyAid is the only product which provides detailed photographs of each hole being played. The GPS range finder provides an unparalleled level of visual distance information via a colour computerised touch screen, which is particularly useful on blind shots. An automated readout shows the front and carry distances to any key point on the hole, even allowing you calculate any distance on the photograph from where you are standing. Great for seamless golfing outings without those tedious waits in between shots, the Caddy Aid is supported by 12 month subscriptions to your favourite courses via wireless software updates.

LP 2 Flash
www.ionaudio.com, £130
Reclaim the records gathering dust in the attic by converting them simply and efficiently into MP3s to play on your PC or on the move. Technophobes will be pleased to note that this process requires no connection to a computer as your precious collection will be transferred seamlessly on to one of the handy SD card or USB ports located at the front. Tracks will automatically be separated, so there’s no need to worry about the more frustrating aspects of digital archiving and it’s all nicely wrapped up with the inclusion of optional vinyl conversion software. The turntable itself is fully functional and can be hooked up to your existing sound system via the included cable to play your favourite 35s and 45s. You’ll even be able to archive other media such as tapes and minidiscs.

BeoSound 8
www.bang-olufsen.com, £895
Tired of listening to tinny music rattling from your media players? The Beosound 8 offers the breathtaking sound performance and innovative design that we’ve come to expect from Bang & Olufsen over the years. Highly flexible in application, this speaker system is one of the first that will play all of your Apple incarnations; including the iPad, which really makes it stand out from the crowd. A wall bracket adds to the versatility of this gizmo, meaning it has the potential to be placed in less conventional areas of the house, such as the kitchen or conservatory. This feature is supported by a manual room adaption switch which allows it to be placed anywhere without compromising sound performance. Another impressive function is the ability to network the speakers using the Apple Airport Express, conveniently allowing your music collection to be streamed from a PC or Mac.

SmartSwipe
www.smartswipe.ca, £69.99
Developed by NetSecure Technologies, Smartswipe is the world’s first truly secure personal credit card reader and allows you to swipe your cards via your PC just as you would in store. Plug the device into any USB port and begin shopping online as fast as you can swipe. Because conventional card security measures only protect data in transit from your computer to the shopping site, information stored on your hard drive is potentially vulnerable. Smartswipe secures this data before it enters your device and thus eliminates another point of entry for hackers and other malcontents. Convenience is key here, and you won’t be disappointed with the plug and play functionality. More importantly this handy little device delivers on its promise of saving you the time and keeping your details secure.

Rolex Submariner Date
www.rolex.com, £4,910
First produced in 1954 and synonymous with Bond film appearances over the years, the new Submariner Date is Rolex’s eagerly awaited reinvention of a timeless classic. Perfect for sea expeditions or those impromptu dives into hotel fountains, this sturdy time piece is built to resist water up to 300m with a 904L steel case. The new rendering features a slick ceramic ‘Cerachrom’ made from tough, corrosion resistant material. ‘If it aint broke don’t fix it’ goes the saying, and this is probably why Rolex has chosen to keep time with COSC-certified, self winding chronometer. The guidelock clasp has however been redesigned to allow for fine adjustment incrementally up to 21mm, meaning that it should fit snugly on to most suits, be they for diving or the more well-tailored kinds.

Gibson Dusk Tiger
www.gibson.com, £2,799
Gibson calls it the most astounding innovation in the history of the guitar, and if this baby can’t unleash your inner Hendrix then chances are that being  a rock god just isn’t for you. Featuring all of the luscious tone and effortless playability that you’d expect from from a Gibson guitar, the Dusk Tiger is rocking a stunning new look in exotic hard wood beaming with golden amber, dark chocolate hues and a redesigned fret board. Also featured are new, faster MCK and Robot Tuners, an automatic tuning system for the perfect sound. A four band parametric EQ allows for infinitely more tone shaping than a standard model and an eight-signal firewire output – one for each string and piezo pickup, means that you can digitally manipulate until your heart’s content.

Secret of a healthy holiday

Posted on by Ben Debski

Exploring the bustling markets of Marrakech, trekking across rugged terrain in the Andes or getting away from it all on a secluded beach in Copacabana, all boast an enviable travel itinerary. However, the thrill of an unfamiliar destination can quickly disappear when you’re caught with tummy troubles abroad. With this in mind, more and more travellers’ are discovering Bimuno, your tummy’s passport to happy travel.

Up to 11 million holidaymakers suffer from holiday diarrhoea every year, experiencing cramps, nausea, bloating, vomiting and even fever when they should be relaxing and enjoying their time away. While abroad, the local drinks, climate and even the stress of travelling itself can have an effect on the microflora balance in your digestive system.

Bimuno is a unique patented formulation specially developed for travellers by international experts in digestive health. Published scientific studies* have shown that Bimuno’s unique formula helps encourage and sustain a healthy level of your most beneficial ‘good’ gut bacteria. By maintaining a favourable balance of good bacteria you can help to fend off the infamous ‘Delly Belly’ and keep your tummy happy whilst abroad.

Available in a new discreet chewy pastille format, Bimuno is ideal for your suitcase or hand luggage. Bimuno should be taken daily seven days before your holiday and each day while you are away. Bimuno can be purchased on line at Bimuno.com or at selected Boots stores.

For more information on the benefits of Bimuno, visit www.bimuno.com

Deflation or inflation – which will win?

Posted on by Ben Debski

Most people must have thought recovery was inevitable, as surely the only way was up for the world’s economies, given the extent of the pull back we had seen in production and sales. But it is important to remember that the governments of the western world had thrown everything at their economies – including the kitchen sink – in an effort to kick start them. Also, it has to be remembered many companies destocked at the start of the crisis and some of the growth.

Here in the UK, the level of government debt grew significantly and our budget deficit spiralled out of control as they battled to save a number of banks and pump money into the economy. But this can’t go on forever and the new coalition government has made it clear that government costs have to be slashed and the books balanced as soon as possible.

Similar actions are being made elsewhere. The embattled southern states of the euro zone; Spain, Greece, Italy and Portugal, are implementing their own cuts in government spending and as such, we see businesses suffer and unemployment rising.

In the US, we saw the withdrawal of various incentives used to encourage people to consume when the “cash for clunkers” and the homebuyers tax credit were both withdrawn. The slump in house sales that followed the withdrawal of the homebuyers tax credit resulted in its reintroduction for a further six months – but the effect this time round is proving to be somewhat muted, with exiting house sales for July 2010 hitting a 15 year low.

And where has all this money that has been pumped into the banks ended up? Mainly in their balance sheets rather than being lent to their customers. There are a number of reasons for this.

The banks themselves have to rebuild their balance sheets to cover their losses, both actual and possible and they are also being forced to increase capital levels under new legislation. And the final reason is that their clients are borrowing less because their working capital requirements are reduced given the lower level of activity.So, we are now beginning to see most western economies beginning to falter and this is worrying their respective governments as it raises the spectre of deflation.

Pimco, one of the world’s biggest fund managers, has carried out two detailed analyses in the last 12 months on the state of the US economy with the aim of working out how likely the US is to suffer from deflation.First time round they calculated the chances at ten per cent. This time around they have calculated the chances at 25 percent. Quite an increase.

So why are the “powers that be” so scared of deflation? There are a number of reasons, but the one that stands out in my mind is an almost self reinforcing economic cycle that ends up in a deflation spiral. Consumers start saving because times are tough. This reduces consumption. Prices then come down as sellers try to stimulate demand. But consumers decide to hold off buying as they believe the goods will be cheaper next month. Sellers reduce prices further and consumers decide to delay buying yet again. So on it goes.

Okay, this is a very simplified economic model, but in many ways, it mirrors what has happened in Japan for the last two decades. It is also has a huge affect on employment which falls away as the sellers are unable to sell their goods and have to lay people off.

Japan has its lost generation of unemployed and a banking system that is still full of bad debts that should have been written off a long time ago.

So a lot to be frightened of if deflation comes to the economies of the western world, but how likely is this? As per the Pimco’s analysis, I think the likelihood of deflation is higher than people think. Consumers are scared. Clearly low interest rates are helping those with debts, but if economies aren’t growing and people’s jobs aren’t safe, all they will do is pay off those debts and start saving for a rainy day.

Governments have much less ammunition in their armoury than they did 12 months ago and will be unable to try and fund growth in the same aggressive way – and banks are rebuilding their broken balance sheets rather than lending.
So the alternatives seem fairly simple. A one in four chance of deflation – or a three in four chance of growth – albeit somewhat muted for the next few years.

Charles Purdy is a director at Smart Currency Exchange – international payment specialists. www.SmartCurrencyExchange.com; tel: +44 207 898 0541.

Unparalelled meeting facilities

Posted on by Ben Debski

Featuring breathtaking modern design throughout, the facilities span 3,720m² over three floors, and include 46 meeting rooms, four foyers, three lounges, one video conference room, guest offices, executive day rooms and two business service centres. The conference centre also provides direct access to Zurich Airport and is part of the sleek Radisson Blu Hotel, Zurich Airport, which opened its doors in late 2008 and has garnered an international reputation for its innovative, contemporary design and exceptional amenities.

Designed for maximum impact and flexibility, the conference centre is ideal for hosting board meetings for two people or conferences for up to 550 participants, and is particularly convenient for international travellers thanks to its direct connection with Zurich Airport’s arrival and departure terminals. To ensure the success of any business meeting, Radisson Blu’s experienced conferencing staff are always on hand. Advanced climate control, the latest presentation technology and free high-speed wireless Internet access are also available.

State-of-the-art conferences and events
Materials of the highest standard have been sourced to create an impressive and welcoming ambience on the conference floor, which houses 19 versatile function rooms with maximum capacity for 215 guests. Spread over 1,600m², this seventh floor event facility provides integrated audiovisual equipment to create the ideal setting for a wide variety of meetings, seminars and conferences. All rooms on this floor enjoy natural light, and some offer incredible views of Zurich Airport and the majestic Swiss mountains from the soundproof, panoramic windows. The central foyers feature live cooking stations, which add an extra dimension to this impressive area and are ideal for providing light culinary delights, as well as a diverse selection of themed coffee breaks and business lunches.

The stunning Zurich events facility on the first floor spans 800m² including the foyer and can be divided into four sections. This spacious area features a large 4.5m ceiling height and integrated LED ceiling lights to evoke the perfect atmosphere for any occasion, and is suitable for conferences holding up to 550 delegates, or gala dinners for 400 guests. To create an instant impression, the facility opens onto a magnificent foyer, which overlooks the hotel’s large atrium and is decorated with six eye-catching Santa & Cole lights made from laser-treated metal.

Convenient board meeting and business facilities
A beautifully designed, dedicated facility for holding small meetings and video conferences is available on the eighth floor of the conference centre. This 1,230m² area boasts 23 meeting rooms for up to 18 delegates, as well as exceptional business facilities. Displaying luxurious, yet relaxing, interiors, each of the 23 meeting rooms is individually designed to feature warm earth colours offset by high-quality materials such as wood, glass and copper panels. All rooms are flooded with natural light and include a Nespresso coffee machine, while some rooms offer magnificent views of the airport and air traffic control through the completely soundproof, ceiling-high windows. This floor is easily and discreetly reached via a covered walkway from public car park I at Zurich Airport, where the conference centre owns 26 parking spaces.

Six of the meeting rooms measure 22-23m² and accommodate up to eight people, while 13 larger meeting rooms measure 29-30m² and are ideal for up to 12 participants. The four board rooms are designed for a maximum of 18 people, measure between 61-66m² and have their own pre-function areas, which are perfect for breaks and lunches or as additional meeting rooms. Offering cost and time-saving benefits, the video-conferencing room can accommodate up to six participants.

The meeting facilities on this floor are complemented by three elegantly furnished guest offices, business lounges, a business centre with secretarial services, and two executive day rooms with a separate work area, daybed and a bathroom. A shower area is also available to meet the needs of business travellers who wish to make the most of their transit stop in Zurich.

A design hotel with a difference
The conference centre forms a key part of the first-class Radisson Blu Hotel, Zurich Airport, which was designed by the Italian star-architect Matteo Thun and the Zurich-based architects atelier ww Architekten SIA AG. Combining cutting-edge interiors with the latest technology, the hotel features 330 prestigious guest rooms and suites in four designs, an impressive Presidential Suite, two restaurants, a bar, fitness and sauna zone. An externally run, 2,000m² fitness and wellness area in the basement can also be accessed directly from the hotel.

Radisson Blu Hotel, Zurich Airport
www.radissonblu.com/hotel-zurichairport
events.zurich@radisson.blu.com
+41 44 800 44 40

The right conversation

Posted on by Ben Debski

Working away from the office is great in theory, but in practice it means noisy hotel lobbies, crowded restaurants and outdoor public places. Even home can be too noisy thanks to family life – especially when taking a call. That’s why the new Plantronics Voyager (R)  PRO UC Bluetooth (R) headset, featuring advanced noise cancelling technology, is a genuine advance.

Despite a relaxing and blurring of work-life boundaries, most professionals who rely on high-fidelity communication often struggle to get work done effectively, especially when acoustics are poor.

Plantronics’ EMEA managing director Philip Vanhoutte says the excitement about the Voyager PRO UC is due to its WindSmart (R) technology. “Imagine you’re outside taking a call on a windy street corner,” he says. “Because Voyager PRO UC combines a clever steel mesh with a combined gore fibre membrane, it manages to reduce wind noise dramatically. At the same time, algorithms intelligently decipher your voice from any wind noise to ensure you’re always heard clearly. This sort of technology is a solid line of defence from an acoustic point of view. Our competitors do not have this technology.”

The Plantronics Voyager PRO UC headset features multipoint technology allowing users to switch between mobile phone calls and PC calls at the touch of a button. And because it comes packaged with a plug-and-play Bluetooth USB adapter there are no cumbersome software setup processes: simply insert the adapter into your PC and start talking.
Mr Vanhoutte claims that technology delivering these types of real-life benefits makes Plantronics the global market leader in the headset market – and he wants to see these benefits reflected in increased (and deserved) global market share.

In praise of powerful conversations
Plantronics originally launched its first generation Voyager headset, the Voyager 510, several years ago. “It quickly became an instant classic,” explains Mr Vanhoutte. “One version worked with PCs, the other worked with mobiles. It was compatible with Microsoft or Cisco and Skype technology. It had a very loyal following, lasting many years.”
This first-gen Voyager offering also gave Plantronics huge insight into its customers. “The Voyager 510 helped us build up an incredibly accurate profile of our clients. Mainly they tend to be male executives or sales people. Anyone who is constantly on the move in often quite demanding situations. People also who do a lot of conference calls and who need generally to be shielded from unwanted noise.”

Plantronics drilled further into their customer base. The calls that clients were getting through their Voyager PRO equipment were regularly critical to their business. “Clearly there was a reason why they were investing in high performance acoustic technology while on the move. ”

So when the Voyager PRO UC – “UC” stands for unified communications – finally emerged as a fully-fledged production model, reviewers from a rash of top profile publications (including the Wall Street Journal and Forbes) were unanimous in their praise.

“Our Voyager PRO UC features a cleverly designed speaker that delivers full-spectrum audio, so conversations are richer and more vibrant,” says Mr Vanhoutte. “There’s also an adaptive 20-band equaliser integrated into the headset that delivers distortion-free audio. This works with AudioIQ2, the next-generation of Plantronics’ digital signal processing technology, to automatically adjust sound levels based on the noise level around the user to ensure maximum audibility.”

So there’s a reason – several, in fact – why the industry critics were so excited.

Stay connected, be heard
But who will benefit most from such technology? Mr Vanhoutte says Voyager PRO UC technology will see a big take-up from anyone regularly meeting clients on the move. “Many of our clients are lawyers, accountants and a broad range of company executives. Many are sales executives, often going from an inside to an outside environment. Typically they are people who are paid not for how many days they work or turn up at the office, but how effective they are on the job.”

What is regularly underestimated, says Vanhoutte, is how much the quality and tone of voice matters in professional on-the-move conversations. “We’ve commissioned studies that show that content in a conversation is only about 10 percent of the job. Tone of voice and being heard clearly accounts for the effectiveness of most professional conversations.”

This is even more important given that face-to-face conversations are increasingly conducted via Skype or other computer-based technology. Scrappy sound quality and speaking bluntly won’t get you far – and might even alienate you quickly from existing clients, or potential new ones.

“We now give training on acoustic intelligence,” says Vanhoutte. “That means not just using the handset and headset effectively. It’s about being aware of how much background noise you have. It’s about diction. The impact of speech is enormous… the vocal chords are the second most used muscle in the human body, so you need to use it carefully and intelligently.”

Plantronics calls this training “Speech Impact.” Simply put, it is highly focused training designed to improve a company’s performance by motivating staff to use mobile equipment better: very important when more and more people are mobile, autonomous and taking and making calls regardless of the environment they’re in.

It’s also about passing on how best to use this cutting-edge technology to more than the privileged few at the top of a company hierarchy. Exactly the sort of commitment you would expect from a company that helped carry the first words from the moon back to earth: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”

www.plantronics.com; tel: 0800 410 014

Why you need to be heard… and why you need to listen better
– Professionals are increasingly paid by results, not presence
– Smarter working is increasing – which means smarter communication is also increasing
– Greater amounts of tele-working means you’re more exposed to noise, wind and networks. You need equipment that can cope with all three factors
– It’s also about storytelling and the art of powerful conversations.
– Éand cost savings. Smarter working means less time travelling to the office, a reduced carbon print and is increasingly important for corporate and social responsibility criteria

The place to be

Posted on by Ben Debski

Part of Savoy Hotel and Resorts International, Soho Square is a unique concept in the Middle East: a pedestrian square mile that provides some of the area‘s finest cuisine, bars, shopping and entertainment for visitors from all around the world.

Large crowds have been attracted to Soho Square to enjoy concerts by top international artistes and more than a dozen top-class restaurants and bars, offering a variety and quality of cuisine from Europe to the Far East that has been endorsed by international restaurant critics and the numbers of guests making repeat visits. Each restaurant focuses on a particular theme and has a specialised resident chef with the appropriate knowledge and skill to ensure a memorable evening. Meals are prepared from the freshest foods, with local fish caught the same day and meats carefully selected.

The interior decor for each restaurant is stunning, with entire walls decorated with enchanting murals. Screens separate each room, showing a live feed of the beautiful coral reefs of the Red Sea. The restaurant Saffron offers the finest Middle Eastern dishes from the Lebanon to Morocco, while Mai Thai is the hottest, newest restaurant in the region, serving authentic Thai cuisine such as the famous Tom Yum shrimp and chicken soup. Zen serves traditional Cantonese meals created with oriental herbs and spices that have been imported especially for Soho Square, guaranteeing a distinctive and authentic flavour, and Bombay gourmet chef Tilakraj demonstrates his wholehearted devotion to Indian food with spiced curries and succulent meats cooked in his tandoori ovens.

Date with the night
Unique, sophisticated, exciting and fun, Soho Square hosts some of the best venues for dancing and socialising in Sharm El Sheikh. Mandarin is a chic and stylish lounge bar offering a great venue for evening drinking. Much focus has been placed on ambient lighting, which changes and blends throughout the night, creating a very cool atmosphere.

Ice Bar and Oxygen Bar are the first of their kind in Africa and among the coolest bars in the region; in the Ice Bar the walls, bar, seats, tables and even the glasses are made from ice, while the Oxygen Bar is the place to go to perk up after a night on the town, or to prepare for an evening’s dancing. The Piano Bar is the perfect place to see and be seen, with live bands many nights of the week and a dance instructor taking revellers through the latest moves. Pangea is Sharm’s first internationally staffed nightclub with British management, UK resident DJs and European hostesses. Four award winning barmen from London entertain throughout the night with their bottle fire juggling and cocktail mixing.

Soho Square bustles with people shopping for the newest fashions from top international designers, or picking up a few essentials from the pharmacy and general store. Whether browsing or buying there’s intriguing gold and silver jewellery from some of the oldest souks in Arabia and other shops offering the latest accessories from Italy and fashions from Turkey. Two shops specialise in leather bags and purses and a specialist carpet shop offers hand-made Persian rugs, souvenirs and T-shirts.

Other activities include the ice rink, which attracts young and old. Parties can book the rink and skating lessons are offered. Culturama Panorama is an innovative harmonised mix between a wealth of cultural and natural heritage information – a journey from 3000 BC to contemporary times. There’s also a popular 10-pin bowling alley for individuals and parties.

SOHO Square, Sharm El Sheikh, South Sinai, Egypt; tel: (+20-69) 3 602 752; fax: (+20-69) 3 602 753; mail@soho-sharm.com; www.soho-sharm.com

Rooms to inspire

Posted on by Ben Debski

Moscow is an impressive historical-cultural capital and a true pearl of the rich world heritage. Blending cherished national traditions and forward-thinking modern trends, the city has become an international hub for business, entertainment and shopping. This winning combination keeps visitors coming back for more; its lovers see Moscow not only as a place of great possibility, but also as an oasis of home-like hospitality.

Holidaymakers and business guests alike feel at home at the Mamaison All-Suites Spa Hotel Pokrovka Moscow. The upscale deluxe hotel opened its doors in 2007 to become the first Russian property within the Mamaison Hotels and Residences’ collection from famous European brand Orco Group. Exclusively designed by Jestico and Whiles, it is the first all-suites hotel in Moscow, featuring spacious rooms starting at 35sq m, the award-winning restaurant Numbers, and a state of the art Algotherm Spa. A full range of business services and the latest technical equipment are available 24 hours a day.

The hotel has 84 suites, with each suite category featuring a different layout, view and decoration. Interior design, inspired by the latest trends in residential style, has adopted and combined elements from the ‘modern’ thirties – openness and lots of light; and the fifties – pastel colours and round shapes. Warmth and sophistication are highlighted by high quality wooden parquet and homely furniture. The exclusively equipped suites are an ideal solution for a short break, a romantic getaway or a long-term business stay.

It is conveniently located on Pokrovka Street in the historical centre of Moscow. The Pokrovka area is one of the most important business areas of Moscow with upscale offices and chic cafes, restaurants and boutiques. Many historical and cultural attractions are within walking distance: the Kremlin, Red Square, the Bolshoi Theatre, Manezhnaya Square, Parliament Building, Tverskaya Street, Christ the Saviour Cathedral and the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts.

Upmarket, downtown
The hotel restaurant and bar Numbers is one of Moscow’s best restaurants. Its subtle, unexpected art deco design by famous St Petersburger Anton Gorlanov reflects a cool mix of traditional Europe with the hot, impulsive east. Admirers of creative cuisine and lovers of traditional gastronomy entertain themselves here with all kinds of delicious creative dishes in the best traditions of European gastronomy combined with Mediterranean motifs. The exquisiteness of the ambience is highlighted by music, with life jazz improvisations in popular smooth jazz style.

Every summer the restaurant opens its champagne terrace. Comfortable sofas with warm plaids and a great variety of seasonal cocktails and light appetisers are specially tailored for people who like to relax in a cosy and elegant atmosphere. The chef and the sommelier create a whole range of excellent appetisers, each of which is served with champagne.

The restaurant’s spacious hall can also be used in combination with the exclusive suites, meeting rooms, conference rooms and outdoor spaces for different parties, ceremonies, receptions and other events. The hotel offers top-class banqueting and leisure facilities for any requirement, with a full range of business centre services, including the latest technical equipment and meeting rooms with natural daylight. The 45-person boardroom is a modern and comfortable meeting space with large windows, ideal for seminars, presentations, training events and board meetings. The unique 30-person VIP lounge has an incredible author’s design and is an ideal place for a business meeting or special dinner in an exquisite surrounding.

Winding down
Mamaison All-Suites Spa Hotel Pokrovka’s spa, by legendary French brand Algotherm, is the eleventh masterpiece in the Algotherm collection of spa centres situated at the best resorts of the world.

The philosophy of Spa by Algotherm is harmony of body and soul. Special attention is given to the art of relaxation in this atmosphere of luxury and comfort: guests are entranced with delicate flower smells while soft music calms and appeases. The 800sq m spa is supplied with the latest equipment and technologies, with all the necessary features to deliver exclusive care programmes combining the comfort of a spa with thalassic therapy effectiveness.

Mamaison All-Suites Spa Hotel Pokrovka is an ultramodern and fully equipped hotel complex designed especially for people who need more than just a room while away from home. Boasting some of the most spacious and functional accommodation in Moscow, the elegant and tastefully decorated suites offer guests a unique combination of modern design and warm atmosphere. The name of the hotel – Mamaison or ‘my house’ – manifests the desire to escape from the traditional perception of a hotel as temporary accommodation by offering guests a feeling of cosiness and the comfort of a private home.

Mamaison All-Suites Spa Hotel Pokrovka, 40/2, Pokrovka str., Moscow, Russia, 105062; tel: +7 495 229 57 57; www.mamaison.com

Revel on the riverside

Posted on by Ben Debski

The Kempinski Hotel River Park Bratislava has a perfect location only minutes away from the Old Town, just a stone’s throw from Bratislava and Vienna international airports. The hotel is a dominant feature of the River Park complex, which has turned the Danube riverside into a trendy promenade with many shops, bars and restaurants. It is close to the best of everything in the city – historical monuments, shopping, and streets pulsating with life – and there is the green tranquillity of the floodplain forest along the river, ideal for jogging or cycling.

Designed by Erick van Egeraat, the award-winning Dutch architect, the L-shaped building encompasses 231 guestrooms, some of them with stunning views of the famous Danube river and the city skyline. There is a choice of Superior, Deluxe, Executive Club and Suite accommodations, crowned by the three bedroom, 450sq m Presidential Suite with a large terrace. All rooms are beautifully furnished and feature a large marble bathroom, a spacious seating and work area with full sized desk, and a king-sized bed. Additionally, all rooms are equipped with comprehensive facilities including free high speed internet access.

A feast for the eyes and soul, the Kempinski Hotel River Park offers inspired culinary creations to be enjoyed in a choice of unique settings. Arte Restaurant provides a dining experience that reflects the Bratislava lifestyle, offering an innovative and contemporary menu, an extensive international wine list, and friendly and highly efficient service.

Apart from the delicious menu and popular business lunches, the River Bank Brasserie offers a variety of grilled dishes including the best of freshwater fish and seafood. Additionally, guests can experience live carving and food preparation at the table, and enjoy dining on the summer terrace with a fine view of the Danube during the warmer months. After a long business day, guests can savour a smoke in the cosy atmosphere of the Churchill Cigar Club with a selection of the best spirits and tobaccos in the world.

The high standard of hotel services is enhanced by conference facilities of comfort and calibre suitable for hosting international congresses. The 11 conference rooms have the latest audiovisual and conference technology perfectly integrated into their design and complimentary high-speed internet; all of the rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows or terraces, offering stunning river views.

One of the most unique features of the Kempinski Hotel River Park is the rooftop Zion Spa and Health Club, offering 1,500sq m of luxurious space overlooking the water and greenery on the other side of the Danube river. The comprehensive spa menu offers fabulous services to fit any schedule, including the unique Alpha Sphere treatment – a combination of sound, light, and space providing an out-of-this-world deep relaxation experience.

Kempinski Hotel River Park Bratislava, Dvorakovo namestie 6, 811 02 Bratislava, Slovakia; tel: +421 2 32238 222; fax: +421 2 32238 333; reservations.bratislava@kempinski.com; www.kempinski.com/bratislava