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RECON – The Global Real Estate Convention of Latin America International Council of Shopping Centers
Medellin Colombia, South America Medellin Convention and Visitors Bureau

Sponsored by:

Medellin, February 25, 2009

Mr. DOUGLAS LUGO Trade Exposition Planner International Council of Shopping Center New York

Over the last several years, Colombia has experienced a positivetransformation in terms of security, social reforms and business opportunities. These improvements have allowed the city of Medellin to grow in international business travel and become a world class example of social, cultural and urban renovation, with national and international recognition. Like few other cities in the region, Medellin offers one of the most enthralling travel experience for internationalvisitors, where they can easily access and enjoy a fascinating city, together with its extraordinary topography and nature, world-class accommodations and infrastructure, distinct cultural flavor, rich traditions, and above all, the warmth and friendliness of its people. The Government of Colombia, the Medellin Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the local authorities and citizens of Medellin arecommitted to positioning this wonderful city as a top corporate destination. We strongly believe that hosting the 2010 RECON - The Global Real Estate Convention of Latin America - will provide us a unique opportunity to showcase the city’s growth and its enormous potential in the real estate industry. Furthermore, we are convinced that the ICSC members and guests will discover a fertile ground forlucrative business projects, and will be captivated by the city’s unique magic and allure. Along in this information kit, you will find all the reasons why we believe Medellin will be an ideal destination to host the 2010 RECON - The Global Real Estate Convention of Latin America. You will find detailed information on the city’s infrastructure, logistical capabilities, and its expertise hostinghigh-level, international events that have drawn some of the world’s leading executives. The trade promotion office – PROEXPORT – in Colombia and the USA, as well as the Medellin CVB will be pleased to provide any further information you may need.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. Welcome to Colombia A. General Information B. Facts That Surpass Perception

II.

Why Medellin? A. Facilities and Venues B.Hotel Capacity C. Transportation D. Airport E. Security F. Nightlife and Gastronomy G. Places of Interest H. Shopping Centers in Medellin I. Experience in the MICE industry

I.

Welcome to Colombia

There is a place in the world where you run the risk of wanting to stay as soon as you get to know it. The place is called Colombia, a country that will charm you by its multiple destinations,with optimal conditions for all kind of events. You will find venues for large events and more modest meetings, all of them equipped with the best technology, offering an excellent service Although coffee and emeralds have made the country famous, Colombia is also the homeland of the El Dorado legend, the magical universe of Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s Macondo and the large figure sculptures andpaintings of Master Fernando Botero. You’ll hardly find a location with as much exuberant scenery and as many marked cultural contrasts and amusement options as Colombia. In addition to the incredible diversity and color that makes them excellent tourist destinations, Colombia’s main cities, Bogotá, Cali, Cartagena, Medellín, and Santa Marta, as well as the entire Café Triangle region (Armenia,Manizales and Pereira), are seats of large events and shows. These cities have excellent infrastructure for holding congresses, plus luxury hotels and convention centers with ample rooms and complementary services, which have led them to become the permanent seat of countless national and international events.

A. General Information Colombia is located on the northwestern end of South America, at...