The July issue of Meetings & Conventions examines the competitive challenge faced by destinations that lack a headquarters hotel adjacent to their convention center(http://www.mcmag.com/on-the-cover.aspx?articleid=56951). With connecting the current rage in the world of face-to-face, the “number of rooms within walking distance” is an equally important site selection criteria. The more compact a room block, asserted Einstein, the easier it is to connect.

Exhibitors beware: National Travel Partners (NTP), a Las Vegas-based housing provider, is not the official housing company of the Chicago Annual Meeting of ASAE and the Center for Association Leadership. NTP has reportedly contacted a number of exhibitors, whose contact information is listed on the ASAE convention Web site.

“While it is not illegal for a travel firm or booking agent to solicit potential customers,” noted an e-mail alert from ASAE, “it can be difficult to determine the legitimacy of the offers…Those who opt for alternatives to the ASAE & The Center negotiated rates may find themselves at risk.”