Jeanie Seehof, Docherty Incentives, Minneapolis
Event Overview: Docherty Incentives recently operated a very successful, customer-driven incentive that consisted of two back-to-back programs of 200 guests per week at the CasaMagna Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa.
Meetings West: What makes Puerto Vallarta an ideal place to gather?
Jeanie Seehof: Puerto Vallarta has fantastic weather year-round; a variety of activities, including an abundance of golf courses; great infrastructure as far as hotels and destination management companies; and amazing restaurants. But the best attribute about Puerto Vallarta versus other destinations in Mexico is the fact that is retains its Old World charm. It has the feel of Old Mexico with modern amenities.
Did you have any major concerns or misconceptions about Puerto Vallarta?
No, I did not have any reservations about operating programs in P.V. Mexico as a destination has become easier to work with, as the service levels have improved greatly. The staff in Mexico, and in particular Puerto Vallarta, really understands the North American market and the service levels expected.
Did you find the customs process efficient?
For guests, clearing immigration and customs is not a problem. It is fairly simple and no more difficult than any other destination. As far as shipments to Mexico, I highly recommend utilizing a customs broker such as CICSA. I have never had a problem when utilizing a broker but I would not recommend shipping on your own as we have had nightmares without the broker.
What kind of feedback did you receive from attendees about Puerto Vallarta?
They enjoyed the weather, the service, the activities and the gastronomy. Our attendees were very pleasantly surprised by the aforementioned, and the fact that P.V. is still very Mexican-feeling. They loved the cobblestone streets, the boardwalk (with the fun sculptures), the shops and the restaurants as they walked around downtown.
What were some of the memorable moments of the trip?
During our program, we started with a welcome dinner outside at the Marriott, with local artisans producing and selling their crafts. The highlight was a gentleman who paints on tiles with only his fingers. The next day, the guests enjoyed an Olympic team-building event, which included donkey polo and blind volleyball. This was hysterical! We also had a beach party, a Super Bowl Party and a gala dinner in the Marriott ballroom, where the highlight was the dance band complete with wigs and spandex. They had everyone on their feet dancing.
What off-site venues would you suggest?
We did most of our events at the Marriott, but we did do a dine-around in town utilizing restaurants such as Cafe des Artistes, La Palapa, Vista Grill, Trio and Tikul. They all worked very well with groups offering wonderful menus and were very flexible.
What kind of activities did you incorporate into the itinerary?
We had an activity day where all guests were offered a choice of the Marietas Islands, snorkeling and sailing, spa treatments, golf, an ATV tour, a canopy tour or sport fishing.
Are there any local suppliers you would recommend?
I worked with IVI Puerto Vallarta in the planning of these programs. Lindsay Cullen of IVI was amazing to work with. She is honest, hard working and extremely knowledgeable of the area. I could not have planned these events without her. Their staff on-site was amazing. No issue was too much for them.
Do you have any tips for other planners arranging events in Puerto Vallarta?
My first piece of advice would be to sell Puerto Vallarta! They will not be disappointed. I don’t think you can have a bad program there. Choose a hotel that meets the demographics of your group—all-inclusive versus EP, location, etc.—work with a reputable DMC and enjoy all that Puerto Vallarta has to offer.