Welcome to Orlando!

In this article, we will look at how things go when you arrive in Orlando and during the busy IAE week.

Orlando offers many attractions, so if you arrive in advance, maybe a visit to a local facility would be a great option to see a different outlook on what you do.  For example, Fun Spot America transformed an FEC with innovative Go-Karts into full amusement parks with wooden roller coasters.  The Disney Way is still a reference, and even if you can’t replicate the giant scale of the parks and hotels, we are sure you can find inspiration and new ways to do things.  Universal Studios Orlando has been on a roll and their use of IP a great success.  They also just opened a new water park, and that can give you ideas for your own.  SeaWorld is a reference for interactions with animals and how to combine thrill rides with animal exhibits.

Freedom Flyer at Fun Spot America in Orlando, FL.

Space Mountain, one of the icon at Walt Disney World.

The Incredible Hulk Coaster at Universal’s Islands of Adventure.

Manta at SeaWorld Orlando.

We strongly recommend picking up your event badges and event tickets on Monday even if you’re not attending classes.  Smaller lines and you will thoroughly be ready for the show floor opening on Tuesday.  Also, swing by the Press Office and drop off material such as press releases or USB keys with photos so that when media go by, they are already aware of who you are.  Also, you may meet members of the press in the lounge and get a direct contact with those who will help promote your product.  Even if you are not exhibiting, many media members have extensive knowledge of the industry and may help you.

The south Concourse of the Convention Center.  The event take over the whole North/South Concourse.

On Tuesday, we suggest arriving early and attending the Kick-Off event at the IAAPA Theater.  It is included with your badge, and in addition to the many guests in attendance, you will get an excellent overview of the year in the industry.  Local attractions provide some entertainment and it is also when the IAAPA Chairman of the Board present the ceremonial gavel to the next one for the upcoming year.

The 2014 Kickoff Event.

Here a few pointers about etiquette on the show floor:

• Photography and videotaping is not allowed on the show floor. If you wish to take a photo of a booth or product, you need explicit permission from the exhibitor.
• Media members with the appropriate badge can take photos. Videotaping has to be authorized by the press office and may involve having an IAAPA staff member as an escort.
• Stay in the aisles when walking around. Only step inside a booth when you have an interest and wish to either speak to someone or need to take a closer look.
• Be respectful about waiting lines. Commonly, exhibitors with a ride on demonstration will have a line set-up and before getting in, check with them to see if an appointment has to be booked.
• Food vendors sometimes offer samples. Again, be courteous when in line and only take what they give you.
• Make sure you that the business card you present is in good shape and not dirty or torn.
• Asian business etiquette states that when presenting a business card, hold it with both hands with your thumb and pointer finger. Close the other fingers and then show it in such a way that the other can read it while you offer  When receiving, make a point of reading it and then keeping it close at hand.  This shows that you have an interest in the person and did not forget him by directly putting the card in your pocket or holder.  By force of habit, it is how the writer presents his cards to anyone.
• Be courteous with the exhibitors. They are working long hours, and a friendly smile and comprehension will go a long way.
• When representing media, respect the privacy of other participants. Avoid pictures showing meetings and do not report who is involved in those discussions.

How to present a Business card.

Do you intend to do business in China? Having some business cards in Mandarin is quite respectful and will make you stand out.

We hope your first IAE experience is memorable and a great start to successful visits!