Have It Your Way at the Courtyard Tampa Westshore/Airport...

Monday, April 23, 2012 by

Hello there folks! Jerm here with an update for you on a recent visit we took to visit our friends over at the Courtyard Tampa Westshore/Airport!

The GoBoard at the CourtyardThis was my first visit and I was really looking forward to it, as I have always heard great things about Courtyard properties so I knew I was in for a treat. Believe me when I say, that the Courtyard hotel offers the perfect location, close to area attractions and just three miles from the airport.

When you talk about state of the art, it all starts with the lobby at this place. Never seen such cool items that enhance the guest experience quite like this!

The state-of-the-art lobby features a new, more personal arrival experience that is sure to delight even the most traveled road warrior. Some of the highlights include:

  • GoBoard® - The signature GoBoard®, an interactive, touch screen informational display panel, located in the lobby, allows you to access driving directions, view local weather, find a local restaurant, and catch up on all the latest news. Did I mention its all TOUCHSCREEN! How awesome is that exactly.
  • Business Library - Get connected with free high-speed Internet access, as well as complimentary printing services.
  • Media Pods - For more privacy, guests can work or relax in one of the comfortable media pods, featuring free wireless high-speed Internet access, power outlets for cell phone chargers and laptops, and a flat-screen TV with personal remote control.
  • Theater Lounge - At the end of the day, enjoy a little time outside the room by relaxing in our Theater Lounge. This area is perfect for watching that all-important sporting event and more.

Enough talk about technology, lets talk about where you will spend most of your time... the room! Whether you like King Bedrooms, Double Bed Guest rooms, or Suites, these guys got you taken care of for when you are ready to get to the room and relax from a long day of travel, or long day of exploring Tampa Bay!

Suite Living at the Courtyard MarriottThe spacious suite guest rooms feature separate living rooms and additional amenities including a TV in each room, microwave, mini-refrigerator and dry bar. I laid down on one of the beds, and was almost asleep five minutes later, so when you think comfortable beds, think Courtyard!

Each room is also equipped with complimentary high-speed wireless Internet access also, while sticking to that technology theme.

If you are looking to unwind and get away from technology for a second, the patio and outdoor space enables guests to unwind in cozy comfort, enjoy the outdoors, retreat from the hustle and bustle and even be inspired to work outdoors. On a beautiful day like today, there is no place I'd rather be.

If you are in the need to put food in your belly, they got you covered as well! The Bistro provides high quality, freshly prepared meals and beverages in a quick serve café environment. Breakfast features Starbucks coffee and a wide selection of pastries, egg sandwiches, and healthy fruit and yogurt parfaits. In the evening, The Bistro offers fresh hot sandwiches, entrée salads, soups and a selection of craft beers and quality wines.

All in all, its a pretty sweet option if you are looking for a great place to lay your head, while enjoying tons of awesome amenities. For more info, be sure to check out their website and get to booking!

Be sure to check it out on your travels and stay tuned in for more updates on things to do in Tampa Bay!

Tour de France Wine Dinner Presented by Sommelier Michael Rugers at Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar!

Thursday, April 19, 2012 by

Fleming's Prime Steakhouse &  Wine BarHello foodie and drinky fans! Jerm here to tell you about another funtastic event happening over in the Westshore District!

Join our friends over at Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar for a memorable evening of wine appreciation as we explore the fabulous heritage of French food and wine through an exceptional five-course dinner.

Each course will be paired with a notable wine from one of France's top growing regions. For those of you who are like me and may not be as familiar with your wine (or your French), you'll be joined by Michael Rugers, long-time director of wine and spirits for Bern's Steak House, Tavern on the Green and the Russian Tea Room. 

Just to wet your whistle, here is a look at some of the offerings you can begin to look forward to:
 

FRIDAY, APRIL 27th, 6:30 PM
$125 PER GUEST, ALL-INCLUSIVE*
CALL 813-874-WINE (9463) TO RESERVE

FIRST COURSE: PROVENCE
Crispy Goat Cheese Salad
perfumed d'anjou pears, balsamic-honey reduction
and ginger-essence vinaigrette
JEAN-LUC COLOMBO, Cape Bleue Rosé
Côteaux d'Aix en Provence, 2010

SECOND COURSE: BURGUNDY
Cream of Tomato Soup
camembert cheese foam, basil-infused oil
LOUIS LATOUR, Meursault, 2009

THIRD COURSE: BURGUNDY
Crusted Swordfish Provencal
potato gaufrette, lemon brown-butter-infused
spring vegetables
LOUIS LATOUR, Côte de Beaune-Villages, 2009

FOURTH COURSE: BORDEAUX
Slow-Braised Lamb Shank
gruyère-potato croquettes, rosemary jus
CHÂTEAU MALMAISON, Moulis, 2008
90 pts. Wine Spectator (2006 vintage)

DESSERT: RHÔNE VALLEY
Tarte Tatin
goat cheese gelato, pink-peppercorn anglaise
JEAN-LUC COLOMBO, Les Fées Brunes
Crozes-Hermitage, 2009 — 90 pts. Wine Spectator

Space is limited for this special wine event, and with a lineup of wines like this, rest assured this one will sell-out quickly!

Please call early to reserve your seat! We'll be back with more updates on Tampa Bay dining, wine and foodie related items so be checking back early and often!

#FrozenFour Hockey Fans, Book Your Stay in Tampa Bay!

Thursday, March 29, 2012 by

Frozen Four Hockey in Tampa BayHey there College Hockey fans! We're one week away from the puck dropping at the Tampa Bay Times Forum for the 2012 NCAA Frozen Four Hockey Championships in Tampa Bay!

I hope that all you fans are as excited as we are here in Tampa Bay to host all you Golden Gopher, Eagle, Bulldog, and Dutchmen fans! Here is a list of the fan hotels so you can go ahead and get to booking your stay in Tampa Bay!

These rates are subject to change and will fill up fast so be sure to contact the hotel first to confirm! When making your reservations, be sure to mention the promo code “College Hockey Fan Housing” to receive discounted rate. All hotel rates listed below do not include tax rate of 12% (subject to change without notice).

For information on these properties, visit: http://www.visittampabay.com/visitors/hotels/ visit our website for a comprehensive listing!

Downtown Accommodations (approx. 1 mile from Forum)

Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Tampa
102 E Cass St. Tampa, FL 33602
(813) 229-1100
Rate: $199.00

Howard Johnson Plaza Downtown
111 W Fortune St. Tampa, FL 33602
(813) 223-1351
Rate: $99.00

Residence Inn by Marriott Downtown Tampa
101 East Tyler St. Tampa, FL 33602
(813) 221-4224
Rate: $219.00

Westshore/Airport Accommodations

Renaissance Tampa Hotel International Plaza
4200 Jim Walter Blvd. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 877-9200
Rate: $144.00

Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay
2900 Bayport Dr. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 874-1234
Rate: $129.00 - $179.00

Intercontinental Tampa
4860 W Kennedy Blvd. Tampa, FL 33609
(813) 286-4400
Rate: $134.00

Marriott Tampa Westshore
1001 N. Westshore Blvd. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 287-2555
Rate: $185.00

The Westin Tampa Bay
7627 Courtney Campbell Cswy. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 281-0000
Rate: $145.00 - $185.00

Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore
5303 W Kennedy Blvd. Tampa, FL 33609
(813) 289-1950
Rate: $129.00 - $139.00

Doubletree Hotel Tampa Airport Westshore
4500 W. Cypress St. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 879-4800
Rate: $89.00

Ramada Tampa Airport Westshore Hotel
1200 N Westshore Blvd. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 282-3636
Rate: $79.00

Embassy Suites Hotel Tampa Westshore
555 N Westshore Blvd. Tampa, FL 33609
(813) 875-1555
Rate: $169.00 - $189.00
    Mainsail Suites Hotel and Conference Center
5108 Eisenhower Blvd. Tampa, FL 33634
(813) 243-2600
Rate: $129.00 - $149.00

Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore
2225 N Lois Ave. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 877-6688
Rate: $99.00 - $109.00

Wyndham Tampa Westshore
700 N Westshore Blvd. Tampa, FL 33609
(813) 289-8200
Rate: $134.00

Sheraton Suites Tampa Airport Westshore
4400 West Cypress Street, Tampa, Florida 33607
813.357.6126
Rate: $99.00

Doubletree Guest Suites Tampa Bay
3050 N Rocky Point Dr. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 888-8800
Rate: $129.00 - $169.00

Chase Waterfront Suite Hotel
3075 North Rocky Point Drive East, Tampa Florida 33607
(813) 281-5677
Rate: $129.00 - $199.00

Hyatt Place Tampa Westshore
4811 W Main St. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 282-1037
Rate: $134.00 - $154.00

Emerald Greens Golf Resort
13941 Clubhouse Dr. Tampa, FL 33618
(813) 961-9400
Rate: $209.00

Sailport Waterfront Suites
2506 N Rocky Point Dr. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 281-9599
Rate: $129.00

That's all for now, but keep checking back with us for more College Hockey related updates!

Partner Visit “Blooms” Fun!

Wednesday, March 7, 2012 by

Good Afternoon! JoLynn here to share about our recent visit to Buds, Blooms & Beyond, a Tampa Bay & Company partner!

As a family owned and operated business serving the greater Tampa area, we learned first-hand how they offer only the finest floral arrangements and gifts, backed by service that is friendly and most importantly, prompt!

If you’re looking for high-style floral arrangements and gift baskets, to European/dish gardens or tropicals, they’re the company to call! We also learned they have serviced the Tampa Bay Buccaneers florals for over seven years. Chances are if you’ve been in Raymond James Stadium for a Bucs game, you’ve enjoyed their arrangements!


Their shop serves Tampa, Safety Harbor, Odessa, Oldsmar, Lutz, Temple Terrace, Davis Islands, Palm Harbor, Brandon, Carrollwood, Ybor City, and MacDill AFB.

Doubletree is Known for More Than The Cookies...

Wednesday, March 7, 2012 by

Good Afternoon from the Sunny Paradise of Tampa!  Sherri here to share about our recent visit to the Doubletree Suites Tampa Bay

The Doubletree Suites Tampa Bay is an all-suite Tampa hotel located on the water overlooking Tampa Bay in the Rocky Point Business district area and moments from the Westshore Shopping Mall.  

On Monday afternoon a group of us toured the Doubletree Suites Tampa with Chris Pitcock, Sales Manager during our visit we experienced the beautifully appointed guest suites featuring separate living rooms and spacious bedrooms with Sweet Dreams sleep experience bedding.  Many of the suites feature views of the pool area and beautiful Tampa Bay.

Also, we lounged on the sundeck by crystal clear bay waters surrounding a heated, outdoor pool, which overlooks the Tampa Bay Wildlife Preserve, where you’ll catch a glimpse of Florida bird and marine life population. This hotel offers complimentary scheduled airport shuttle service to Tampa International Airport. 

Please take some time to visit the Doubletree Suites Tampa for your next business or relaxing trip to Tampa Bay.

Check back frequently with us for more information on Tampa Bay Hotels.

Tampa to Host Stadium Jumping, Inc.’s 2012 Equestrian Series!

Friday, February 10, 2012 by

Hey Sports Fans, Tony here to share some exciting news from the Equestrian world! For two weeks, the world’s top equestrian will gather in Tampa for Stadium Jumping, Inc.’s 2012 Tampa Equestrian Series, set to run from March 28-April 7, 2012.

The series will begin with the Tampa Bay Classic CSI, to be held March 28-April 1 at the Bob Thomas Equestrian Center at the Florida State Fairgrounds. The Tournament of Champions CSI will follow, April 3-7, also at the Bob Thomas Equestrian Center. In addition to these events, the FEI World Cup Qualifier CSI 2*-W Grand Prix of Tampa will take place on Sunday, April 1. This will be the final qualifying event for the 2012 World Cup Finals in Hertogenbosch in the Netherlands.

The 2012 Equestrian Series will culminate at Raymond James Stadium with the 40th Annual $200,000 Gene Mische American Invitational presented by G&C Farm. The event, one of the premier show jumping events in the U.S., is set for April 7.

That's all for now. Stay tuned for more news on what's coming up in Tampa Bay Sports!

Tampa Bay & Company Partners Hiring

Tuesday, February 7, 2012 by
Tampa Bay & CompanyHey everyone, Katy back to let you know about some great job opportunities in the Tampa Bay area. We are constantly updating our Partner Job Postings portion of our website with new positions so be sure to check it out, especially if you are on the job hunt!

Some of our most recent Partner Job Postings are...

Toffee To Go
Positions Available:
Administrative Assistant

DoubleTree by Hilton Tampa-Airport Westshore

Positions Available:
Executive Meeting Manager
Brand Standards & Culture Training Manager
Housekeeping Supervisor
Night Auditor
Line Cook
Cafeteria Cook
Housekeepers
Housekeeping House Persons
Dishwashers


Click HERE for more information on these jobs and to view other job postings from our partners. Enjoy! Stay tuned in for more updates on job related things to do in Tampa Bay!

Social Fresh East Comes Back to Tampa Bay and the DoubleTree Tampa Airport - Westshore Hotel...

Wednesday, January 4, 2012 by
Social Fresh East 2012

Social Fresh is coming back to Tampa Bay! Social Fresh EAST 2012 will be the first of a new focus for Social Fresh conferences. What does that mean for you the attendee? It means bigger name speakers, drilling down into better content, and inviting more people to the party! And i'm always down for great learning sessions followed by a party afterwards!

For the third year running our friends over at the DoubleTree Tampa Airport Westshore will be the gracious hosts for what is becoming an annual event! Join founder Jason Keath and tons of great speakers in Tampa, FL on February 6-7 for 2 days of advanced social media training from companies like Ford, RadioShack, Nordstrom and more.

Just some of the speakers on had are industry thought leaders like Jay Baer (Of Convince & Convert) and Christopher Penn (of WhatCounts)!

In addition to the group of great speakers, take the time to mix, mingle and network with the smartest social media professionals in the country!

We'll be dropping in to give more updates as we draw closer to the event, so keep checking back for this and more updates on tech related things to do in Tampa Bay and Tampa Bay area events!

Dining & Nightlife at It's Best Mojito Restaurant and Lounge To Bring in the New Year...

Saturday, December 31, 2011 by
Mojito Restaurant & LoungeHappy New Year to All! Jerm here with an update on a new hot-spot I came across last night! Now you may remember a few months back I was telling you about this new spot that was to be opening in the Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore. If your memory isn't quite what it used to be, here is a refresher.

Well it's about that time as not only will the next 24 hours bring us a new year, but it will also bring a grand opening of Mojito Restaurant & Lounge! This New Year's Eve, the rhythmic sounds of Latin & American music will be coming from this Westshore District  restaurant!

It's a grand opening you don’t want to miss folks! With no cover, live entertainment, great food & drinks specials and take the elevator home guest room rates, Mojito will ensure you enjoy this night and welcome 2012 with style!

I was able to stop by and get a sneak preview and folks let me tell you that this place is not only beautiful on the inside, but also a great place to relax and have some drinks and grub! I can fully admit that before I stepped in the doors, I was fully expecting the traditional sit down restaurant, but Mojito is that and so much more!

Whether you want to sit down and have dinner, hit the bar for happy hour, watch sports on big screen tv's, or even listen to live music Mojito should be on your list of things to do! I just wanted a low key evening to sit down watch the games and have some dinner so I order a few items off of the menu and spent the evening relaxing and trying my hardest not to dance to the upbeat musical selections overhead. Trust me its not easy eating and dancing at the same time!

Empanadas CriollasThis menu is pretty fierce and full of Spanish themed delights that will make the ol mouth water when reading the menu! I started off with the Empanadas Criollas which is a delightful Flank Steak Cresent Turnover(s) Served with Salsa Criolla.

Sticking with the protein theme I next decided to take a stab at the Chimichurri Steak. Need I say delicious! How does grilled marinated skirty steak served with chimichurri sauce sound to you! I added some black beans and rice to the mix and I was indeed a happy camper!

Now onto dessert it was! I was in the mood for chocolate, so what better choice than some good ol Warm Chocolate Lava Cake and Vanilla Gelato! I'm not much of a dessert guy, but this was simply delicious and I'd highly recommend it!

Now I didn't have anything to drink this evening, but when it comes to drink menus, Mojito has you covered no matter what your taste. There are so many drink options here I am not sure how the bartenders keep up with it to be honest! See what I mean below:
You have to check this one out folks and let me know what you think! That's all for now, but stay tuned in for more updates on Tampa Bay dining and New Year's related things to do in Tampa Bay!

Be Sure to Check-In at Player's Sports Pub...

Friday, December 30, 2011 by
Hello folks! Jerm here with another update for you on some good foodie spots! I stopped by the DoubleTree Tampa Airport Westshore the other day to grab a bite to eat at Player's Sport's Pub!

Mango BBQ WingsThis place isn't just your typical bar food guys, as the award-winning menu includes your favorites and more, like Delicious, 100% Certified Black Angus burgers are served on Costanza rolls imported from New York, prime rib sliders and so many other menu options!

The Starting Lineup includes a huge selection of appetizers, including smothered nachos, jumbo wings and an amazing 3 cheese spinach artichoke dip.

I decided to pop in for a quick bite to eat and had the amazing Mango BBQ chicken wings and they were almost too pretty to eat! Don't believe me, then take a look at the photo to your right!

Check-In SpecialsWhat makes the wings and all of the other menu items so awesome is that checking in on Foursquare at Player's will get you some sweet appetizer and other menu specials!

When I checked in, I got half off of my appetizer! Best thing about the specials is that they change often so you are always getting an awesome deal!

In addition to the wings, I got some Kobe Beef sliders and fries to go, and boy were those bad boys good! I would have taken a photo, but I ate them before I could snap the pic! Oh well, I'll for sure be back again and I promise to take a pic before I get the ol grub on!

If you are looking for drinks, then look no more as the bartenders at Players Sports Pub have got you covered with a full liquor bar, great selection of wines and signature draft beers. Looking for a mojito? Look no further as you can choose From the finest mixed berry mojitos!

Players offers a unique, double bar design with hard wood floors, 14 HDTV's, a 120" projection television and a superb sound system. They subscribe to all major sports packages and televise special events.

All in all folks you can't go wrong here. Its also a great place to watch all the games this bowl season including the upcoming Outback Bowl, if you won't be making it to Raymond James Stadium!

That's it for now, but stay tuned in for more updates on Tampa Bay dining and things to do in Tampa Bay!

The InterContinental Tampa Scores with "Outback Bowl" package

Tuesday, December 13, 2011 by

interconHey everyone.  Travis here with great Tampa Bay Hotel information surrounding the Outback Bowl, which is on January 2 this year!  The InterContinental Tampa is offering their "Outback Bowl" package for all fans coming in for the game this year. 

Starting at just $135* per night (Two night minimum. Rate is for two adults and does not include tax), fans can get in on the action just minutes from Raymond James Stadium.  A Shula’s Steak House mug will also be included that can be taken down to the lobby’s “No Name Lounge” for one free domestic beer during the stay. The package also includes the breakfast buffet for two and complimentary parking in the hotel’s covered garage. The “Outback Bowl” package is only available from December 29th – January 2nd, 2012.

In case you've never stayed at the InterContinental Tampa before, here's some info: The AAA Four Diamond InterContinental Tampa is the ultimate escape with a rooftop pool; a state-of-the-art fitness center; and outstanding on-site dining at the world-famous Shula’s Steak House. Guests can also enjoy gourmet Illy coffee products and “fare on the go” at Caffé, and an extensive cocktail menu at Shula’s No Name Lounge. The InterContinental Tampa offers complimentary wireless high-speed internet in guestrooms and public areas of the hotel, as well as complimentary transportation to the nearby airport. 

Remember, the Georgia Bulldogs and Michigan State Spartans will kick off at 1 p.m. on January 2 in the Outback Bowl. For more information, please visit www.outbackbowl.com.

To reserve the “Outback Bowl” package at InterContinental Tampa, please call (866) 402-0758 and mention rate code ILKSC or visit www.intercontampa.com.

Have fun everyone, and we'll see you in Tampa for the 26th Annual Outback Bowl.  And keep checking back for more updates, as well as info on great things to do in Tampa Bay, and other Tampa Bay area events. 

26th Annual Outback Bowl - "Dawg" face Spartans in Tampa Bay

Tuesday, December 13, 2011 by

outback bowlHey everyone.  Travis back with great gridiron things to do in Tampa Bay.  One of my favorite events of the year is the Outback Bowl!  Although our hometown USF Bulls can't play (it's a matchup between the SEC and Big Ten Conferences), we still have some of the country's best teams face off in Tampa Bay! 

This year, the Michigan State Spartans and Georgia Bulldogs will square-off in the Outback Bowl on January 2 in Tampa. That's right, the game is Jan. 2 this year!  It is a match-up of two 10-win Division Champions from two of the most prestigious conferences in college football. The Spartans are ranked 12th in the AP Poll while the Bulldogs are ranked 18th. It's hard to believe that we have two top 20 teams coming to Tampa Bay!

If you've ever been to an Outback Bowl in Tampa Bay, you know there are a lot of events to participate in surrounding the game, including parades, beach days, and much, much more.  You can find all of those events and information at www.OutbackBowl.com.  But we'll also be back with more updates about what's happening surrounding the game. 

But remember, the Outback Bowl will be played on January 2, kickoff at 1PM, at Raymond James Stadium. Tickets are on sale through Ticketmaster..just call (813) 287-8844 or 1-800-745-3000, or head over to www.ticketmaster.com. And if you just want your tickets in your hand, then tickets can also be purchased at any Ticketmaster outlet in the state of Florida.

And like I said, keep checking back here for more updates, or head over to www.OutbackBowl.com to get more details.  And we'll see you with more great Tampa Bay area events!

Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam at Raymond James Stadium Giveaway!

Monday, December 12, 2011 by
Hello there folks! Jerm here with some info on an awesome event coming back to Tampa Bay, as well as a giveaway to that same awesome event!

Monster Jam TampaOur friends over at Feld Motor Sports will host two Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam® events at Raymond James Stadium in 2012: Saturday, January 21 and Saturday, February 4, both at 7 p.m.  Each show will feature different monster truck lineups. We'll be giving on lucky winner a 4-pack of tickets to the January 21 show!

For those of you not familiar with the awesomeness of Monster Trucks, approximately 12 feet tall and about 12 feet wide, monster trucks are custom-designed machines that sit atop 66-inch-tall tires and weigh a minimum of 10,000 pounds. Built for short, high-powered bursts of speed, monster trucks generate 1,500 to 2,000 horsepower and are capable of speeds of up to 100 miles per hour. Monster trucks can fly up to 125 to 130 feet (a distance greater than 14 cars side by side) and up to 35 feet in the air.

Tickets for both shows start at $15, and they are on sale now at all Ticketmaster outlets, charge by phone at 800-745-3000, or on-line at www.ticketmaster.com.  Tickets will also be available at the Raymond James Stadium Box Office beginning January 9.

Fans now have the unique opportunity to purchase a 2-show ticket and save 20%.  Plus, fans can sit in the same seat for both shows.

Now after giving you all of that awesome info, lets get down to the giveaway! As always we are giving away 1 family 4-pack today and you can enter to win by interacting with us on Facebook or Twitter with the answers to three trivia questions below! Those with the correct answers will be thrown into a drawing where we will pick one winner! Got it? Good! Now on to the trivia:
  1. Name the first motor-sports event to be held at Raymond James Stadium?
  2. Name two of the five title sponsors for the event.
  3. True or False: Tom Meents, driver of Maximum Destruction is a professional monster truck driver and the only 5 time World Champion.
Alright guys, those questions should keep you stumped for a few, so be sure to post your answers on Facebook and/or Twitter to be in the drawing for the winner!

That's all for now folks but stay tuned in for more updates on things to do in Tampa Bay and Monster Truck related Tampa Bay Sports events!

InterContinental Tampa Offers Planners Up to a Million Priority Club Points...

Tuesday, September 20, 2011 by
Linda Mummert here with more exciting news for Meeting Planners......InterContinental Image

The InterContinental Tampa is offering meeting planners up to 500,000 Priority Club points for every meeting booked by October 31, 2011 and conducted by December 30, 2011. In 2012, planners may earn up to a million bonus points for every meeting booked by Jan. 31, 2012 and conducted between Jan.1 and Mar.31, 2012. Priority Club Meeting Reward Points can be used toward hotel nights, airline tickets, shopping, dining and more. Meeting planners must be Priority Club members prior to booking. For more information on planning your next meeting at InterContinental Tampa, please call (866) 915-1558 or visit www.intercontampa.com.


InterContinental Tampa is conveniently located in Tampa’s popular Westshore business and shopping district, convenient to downtown Tampa and Tampa International Airport.  With all of the amenities the InterContinental name ensures, the AAA Four Diamond property offers wireless high-speed internet throughout the entire hotel, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a full-service concierge program, and a rooftop pool with spectacular views of the bay and city.

The hotel also offers outstanding on-site dining at the world famous Shula's Steak House, as well as gourmet Illy coffee products and “fare on the go” at Caffé and an extensive cocktail menu at Shula’s No Name Lounge. That's it for now, but stay tuned in for more things to do in Tampa Bay!




The Independents’ Film Festival in Tampa!

Friday, September 2, 2011 by

Happy Friday Everyone, Alex here to let  you know about a film festival coming to Tampa in a couple of weeks!

The Independents’ Film Festival will be here on September 15 through September 17, 2011.  There is going to be a wonderful reception, screenings of different films, workshops, opportunities to ask questions and a fun closing party. You won’t want to miss out on this festival...

Below is a schedule of events for the Independents’ Film Festival.

Thursday, September 15, 2011IFF
VIP Reception at Wyndham Tampa Westshore Hotel 6  – 7:30 p.m 
FREE Award Winning Feature Film, the ah of life with Treasure (Ringling Animation) 9- 10p.m.

Friday, September 16, 2011
(Each Screening is $7.50)
Tour of Tampa Digital Studios. Free, requires Reservation. 11a.m.
Screening #1: 6– 7:30 p.m. 
Screening #2: 8 - 9:30 p.m.
Screening #3: 10:00– 11:30 p.m. 

Saturday, September 17, 2011: Morning and Afternoon
(Each event $7.50, except Headshot)
Workshop: #1: 10:15 am – 11:30: Camera Workshop: What Camera is Right for Your Project
Workshop: #2: 12:15 pm – 1:30 pm: Producing to Sell
Workshop: #3: 2:15 pm – 3:30 pm: Behind the Table: Confessions of a Casting Director
Professional Headshots by Kerry Brown: 3:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Screening: #1: 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
Screening: #2: 12:00 - 1:30 p.m.
Screening: #3: 2:00 pm – 3:30 p.m.

Saturday, September 17, 2011: Saturday Night Extravaganza
($25.00)
Champagne reception: 6:15 p.m.
Saturday Night Screening: 7:00- 9:35 pm
Awards and Filmmaker Q&A: 9:35 p.m.
Taste of Independence Party: 10:00 – 12 p.m.

Visit the Independents’ Film Festival website, http://independentsfilmfest.com/, for more information on particular screenings and events.

Have a wonderful weekend and check with us often for more updates on Tampa Bay Film!


Celebrating Convention Services Day!

Wednesday, August 31, 2011 by
Jane GodfreyLast week ACOM  [The Association for Convention Operations Management], celebrated its 2nd Annual National Celebrate Services Day.

Tampa was one of 30 major destinations across the country that acknowledged this day with an event to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of Convention Services professionals.  Tampa’s Awards Ceremony & Celebration took place at the Sail Pavilion and several outstanding Convention Services professionals were recognized with an Award of Excellence.

Among the honorees was Tampa Bay & Company very own Jane Godfrey! Jane Godfrey certainly embodies the principals of excellence required for this honor.  She is an outstanding resource and advocate for our partners, as well as a reliable & knowledgeable go-to person here at Tampa Bay & Company, not to mention how she also consistently garners extremely high survey scores from the meeting planners she works with and manages the Registration Staffing Team with great success!

Congratulations & kudos to Jane Godfrey and the other industry partner honorees from the Tampa Convention CenterSheraton Riverwalk and Wyndham Tampa Westshore.

ACOM is dedicated to advancing the practice of convention services management (CSM) in the meetings industry, and to preparing CSM professionals for their critical role in the growth and success of their organizations.

Be sure to stay tuned in for more updates on Tampa Bay conventions and meeting news…

Until the next time ... Think Tampa!

Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore Shines Once Again!

Monday, August 15, 2011 by
Crowne Plaza Tampa WestshoreGood morning all! Hope the weekend was a productive for you and today that you get started on a fine week!

I seem to find myself writing posts like this all the time, but when excellence comes along, you just have to talk about it right!

Our friends over at the Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore Hotel have done it again! Their Guest Service rankings came out late last week, and just in case you aren't familiar, these are It’s the surveys of guests and meeting planners that have stayed or worked with individual hotels. The Crown Plaza staff gets this report each quarter.

This latest report/newest rankings have the Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore not only ranked the #1 Crowne Plaza in the state of Florida but ranked the #1 Crowne Plaza in the country! Now how about dem apples! The hard working crew over there seem to have outdone themselves again, and shown time and time again what the definition of excellence is!

A bid round of applause and kudos to the hotel team and staff, as being #1 is a huge showing on how well the as a whole is performing.

That's all for now, but stay tuned in for more updates on our fabulous hotels in the westshore district and Tampa Bay meetings!

Tampa Learns the ABC’s of FEA...

Thursday, August 11, 2011 by
FEATampa Bay & Company National Sales Manager Dori Laack & Regional Account Executive, Jeff Gassaway along with Tourism Industry partner, Doubletree by Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore Hotel recently returned from Fraternity Executives Association Annual Conference in Chicago, IL.

There were over 400 attendees in the Windy City and all fraternity organizations from Alpha’s to Zeta’s were represented at the tradeshow, which was filled with wonderful networking opportunities that highlighted and showcased Tampa.  Team Tampa had a very successful trip in addition to receiving multiple RFP's, prospects and inquiries of Tampa, it was very enlightening to know how Florida/Tampa is coming back into rotation and with great anticipation Tampa Bay & Company will be participating at the FEA Annual Conference again next year! 


The Fraternity Executives Association is the professional association of men’s and women’s fraternity executives. It is dedicated to the common interests of its members and promotes, supports, and encourages the free discussion and exchange of ideas relating to college fraternal organizations. That’s all for now but stay informed and tuned in for more Tampa Bay conventions & meeting news and updates.

New Restaurant Coming to the Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore!

Tuesday, August 9, 2011 by
Mojito Crowne PlazaHello everyone! Jerm here with an update for you on a future addition to the Tampa Bay dining scene over in our famed westshore district!

Mojitos located in the award winning Crowne Plaza Hotel will be Tampa’s newest Latin restaurant and lounge! 

The experience of dining out should be that of attending a theater production where the players, props, lighting and rapport are integral components of the overall dramatic effect. At Mojitos, all if that production will be on display as this place is gonna be awesome!

When this atmospheric drama is paired with edgy, delicious Latin Cuisine, dining out at Mojitos restaurant & lounge becomes entertainment for all the senses.

Be sure to stay tuned for more on this one folks as we draw closer to the opening we'll be posting photos and letting you know when you can stop by and sample the place!

Wazoo This Weekend At Lowry Park Zoo!

Friday, August 5, 2011 by
Wazoo

Hello folks! Jerm here with an update on one of my favorite Tampa Bay area events coming up tomorrow at Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo!

Named a Top 10 Beer Festival in America by USA Today, WaZoo, presented by JJ Taylor Distributing, features Zoo-wide samplings of more than 250 beers and beverages from around the world.

The fun-times flow all night as you enjoy great food from Bay Area restaurants, Live Music, and encounters with some Zoo-Venturous guests.

Performances By:
Main Stage - "The Flats"
Wallaroo Station Band - "Audea"
Safari Africa Band - "Adam Randall & The French Ghost"
Safari Lodge (BBC presented by Blue Moon Brewing Co.) - Colt Clark

Restaurants On Site:
Datz Deli
Mitchell's Fish Market
Papa John's
Five Guys Burgers & Fries
Tijuana Flats
The Rack
Square 1 Burgers
Tampa Bay Brewing Company
Edible Arrangements
Westshore Pizza
Kona Grill
The Pub at International Plaza
Edible Arrangements
Grille 54
Lush Confections
Back9Dips

Be sure to get there early, as with a lineup of food and drink like this, its going to be packed let me tell ya! Hurry up and get your tickets if you haven't already done so!