Frequently Asked Questions about the Winter Management Conference

Where is WMC 2009 being held?
The Westin Grand Bahama Island Our Lucaya Resort and the Sheraton Grand Bahama Island Our Lucaya Resort. The conference center where the education is to take place is adjacent to the Westin.

What are the dates of WMC 2009?
The conference begins on Sunday, February 8th and ends Thursday, February 12th, 2009.

What are the hotel rates for attendees?
All rates are for Single/Double Occupancy. A mandatory per person, per day service charge of $8.00 and a $5.00 per person, per day resort fee are additional.

The Westin Grand Bahama Island Our Lucaya Resort

Ocean View: $269.00 per night plus tax
Marina View: $239.00 per night plus tax
Deluxe suite: $498 per night plus tax

Each guestroom features Westin’s famous Heavenly beds and Heavenly baths. All guestrooms include a full bath with tub and shower, individually-controlled A/C, high-speed internet access, cable TV, alarm clocks, complimentary in-room safes, mini-bar, coffee maker and in-room Starbucks coffee, iron and ironing board, hairdryer, plush bathrobes, and daily housekeeping. All rooms have full balcony.

The Sheraton Grand Bahama Island Our Lucaya Resort

Ocean View: $169.00 per night plus tax

Each guestroom features Sheraton’s famous Sweet Sleeper beds. All guestrooms include a full bath with tub and shower, A/C, refrigerator, cable TV, alarm clocks, complimentary in-room safe, coffee maker and in-room coffee, iron and ironing board, hairdryer, daily housekeeping, and turndown service. Choice of balcony or patio.

The group rate is good for 3 days before the event and 3 days after the event based on availability. Check in is at 3pm and check out is at 12 noon.

How do I make hotel reservations?
To register by phone, please call the Westin & Sheraton reservation line toll-free at 866-837-4187 and reference the Tree Care Industry Association for the preferred rate. Click here to make your hotel reservation online. We suggest you make your reservations early as space is limited and the group rate could sell out. To guarantee this rate, reservations must be made prior to January 7, 2009 (if rooms are still available).

Is the hotel child-friendly?
Yes! In fact they offer a complimentary Camp Lucaya with daily fun activities available for children. Some of the supervised activities include soccer, scavenger hunts and video game tournaments.

Is there a spa at the resort?
Located in the Westin resort, the Senses Spa is open daily and offers a full range of services, including numerous massage choices, a selection of facials and skin care treatments, manicure/pedicure, hair treatments, and more. Reservations are required. For more information or to book an appointment in advance, call the spa directly at (242) 350-5281.

Where do I fly into and how do I save money on my airline reservations?
Attendees should fly into Freeport International Airport (airport code FPO), which is a 15 minute transfer to the hotel. We suggest you check both online pricing and by calling airlines directly to compare, or book through your travel agent. Book early since seats are limited and restrictions may apply.

Is there a shuttle from the airport to the Westin & Sheraton Our Lucaya?
Currently, we are suggesting taxi to/from the airport. Should we contract out for individual transfers, we will enclose information and pricing in your WMC confirmation packet.

What are the entry requirements for travel to and from the Bahamas?
Travelers to and from the Caribbean, Bermuda, Panama, Mexico and Canada must have a valid passport.

What is the dress code?
Resort casual. Our planned evening events are outside and casual. Both the welcome reception held on Sunday night and the farewell reception will be held outdoors. On the golf course, men are required to wear shirts with a collar and women’s shorts must be mid-thigh in length and no tank tops.

Are there banks and ATM’s on the island?
Yes, there are banks and plenty of ATM’s on the island.

What is the time zone?
Local time in the Bahamas is Eastern Standard Time.

Where can I find more information about Grand Bahama Island?
Visit www.geographia.com/grandbahama. You’ll find restaurant and shopping information, maps, and lists of the attractions, casinos, and recreational activities available on the island.

When can I register for WMC 2009?
We are busy planning the educational sessions and optional activities. Online registration will be available in late summer. Keep checking our web site for more information!

If you have any questions about the Winter Management Conference, please contact Diane Morgan at Morgan@treecareindustry.org or call TCIA directly with your questions at 800-733-2622.