Register

Welcome

Congratulations and welcome to the President’s Club! This is the time each year when we recognize our achievements and look forward to new, exciting opportunities in the coming year.

We’re delighted to invite you to join us in Riviera Maya, Mexico to celebrate your accomplishments. Often referred to as the “Venice of the Caribbean,” the Riviera Maya will entice you with its tropical forest, rich culture, and amazing adventures. You’ll have plenty of time to relax, rejuvenate, and explore the scenic white sand beaches and azure Caribbean sea. We hope you enjoy all that we have planned!

While in Riviera Maya, you will be our guest at the Fairmont Mayakoba. Situated within 240 acres of tropical forest, intersected by crystal clear waterways and surrounded by a pristine Caribbean shoreline, this luxurious resort is the perfect setting to unwind and celebrate your success.

Please take some time to read through this site. It contains important travel and program information as well as valuable tips—everything you need to make the most of your idyllic Mexican adventure.

Contact Information

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact:

Mary Catherine Cornick
Events Manager | Corporate Marketing
Red Hat, Inc
Email: mcornick@redhat.com
Phone: 1 (919) 906–5195

For questions regarding air travel and registration please contact:
Paula Taylor at ATG
Email: rhpresidentsclub@atg.travel
Phone: 1 (855) 348–6334

For questions regarding hotel arrangements or activities, please contact:
Anna Carmody at ITA Group
Email: rhpresclub2016@itagroup.com


Daily Agenda

Thursday, June 2

Daytime attire: Travel
Evening attire: Resort casual

Airport check-in

Make sure your luggage is checked through to Cancun International Airport. The destination tag should read “CUN.” Please note that you will receive luggage tags in your informational packet. We ask that you attach these to your luggage prior to departure.

Arrival at Cancun International Airport

Members of the President’s Club travel staff will meet you at the airport. Please identify your luggage in the airport’s baggage claim area for the pre-tipped porters who will load it into transfer vehicles. Your travel staff will direct you to waiting transportation for your 40-minute transfer.

Check in at the Fairmont Mayakoba, Riviera Maya

You will need to check in at the front desk and show your passport as well as provide a credit card, which will allow you to charge incidentals to your room. Please be aware that if you use a debit card, the hotel may place a small hold on your funds. If you are concerned, ask before offering your debit card. The hotel accepts American Express, MasterCard, and Visa. Pre-tipped bell staff will deliver your bags to your hotel room. From the front desk, you will be directed to the President’s Club Registration Desk to pick up program information.

Check in time at the Fairmont Mayakoba is 4:00 p.m. Depending on your arrival time, you may not be able to check into your room right away. We recommend that you pack any items you will need immediately upon your arrival in your carry-on luggage so you can fully enjoy the day prior to check-in.

8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
President's Club Hospitality Desk
Convention Center Entrance

Check in at the President’s Club Registration Desk to receive your name badge, program materials, activity confirmation, and general resort information.

Afternoon at leisure

7:00 – 10:00 p.m.
President’s Club Welcome Reception
El Pueblito

Bienvenido! This evening, gather with fellow President’s Club guests to celebrate your arrival in Mexico. Enjoy refreshing cocktails, delicious food, and lively entertainment.


Friday, June 3

Daytime attire: Casual
Evening attire: Resort casual

Breakfast at leisure

Afternoon at leisure

Dinner and evening at leisure
Visit the President’s Club Hospitality Desk or the resort’s concierge desk for restaurant suggestions and reservation assistance.


Saturday, June 4

Daytime attire: Casual
Evening attire: Formal attire (suit and tie / cocktail dress or pants)

Breakfast at leisure

9:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Associate Meeting
Mimosa Ballroom

Red Hat associates only; guests are not permitted.

9:00 - 10:30 a.m.
Guest Meeting
Riviera 1

Guests are encouraged to attend.

10:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Team building activity

Red Hat associates and guests are encouraged to attend. Boxed lunch will be provided following the activity.

Afternoon at leisure

7:00 – 11:00 p.m.
Awards Dinner
Riviera Ballroom

Tonight, join the President’s Club group for an elegant awards dinner to celebrate the accomplishments that brought you to Mexico.


Sunday, June 5

Daytime attire: Casual
Evening attire: Resort casual

Pick up departure information

Please stop by the President’s Club Hospitality Desk sometime today to pick up information regarding departure procedures for tomorrow.

Breakfast at leisure

Hosted Activity

The day is yours for relaxation or adventure during a hosted activity of your choice, compliments of Red Hat. Activity selections should be made during registration.

6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Farewell Reception

As your time in Mexico comes to an end, gather once more with the President’s Club for drinks and hors d'ouevres.


Monday, June 6

Daytime attire: Travel

Breakfast at leisure

Hotel checkout

Please allow ample time to complete checkout procedures and to pay any incidental expenses on your room account. You may check out at the front desk or use the express checkout procedure provided at check-in.

Departure

Adios! You will be transferred to the airport and board your flight.


Trip inclusions

  • Round-trip economy class air transportation between your home city and Mexico for you and your guest
  • All necessary transfers and baggage handling between Cancun Airport and the Fairmont Mayakoba on Thursday, June 2 and Monday, June 6
  • Hotel accommodations, housekeeping gratuities, and porterage at the Fairmont Mayakoba, Thursday, June 2 – Monday, June 6 (4 nights)
  • Meal Plan for your entire stay (does not include Café Maya and the Clubhouse)
  • President’s Club Welcome Reception on Thursday, June 2
  • Team building activity on Saturday, June 4
  • Awards Dinner on Saturday, June 4
  • One hosted activity for you and your guest on Sunday, June 5, selected during registration (e.g. spa appointment, golf, etc.)
  • Farewell Dinner on Sunday, June 5
  • All taxes and gratuities for hosted program events

Personal expenses

Items such as meals on your own, optional tours, and activities not included in your program, extra bar charges, items removed from your in-room refrigerator and/or minibar, telephone calls, faxes, gift purchases, room service, laundry, Internet access, and any other items not specifically mentioned as included are your responsibility.

Preparing for departure

Flight information

Please be aware that the use of full-body scanners may create long lines at your airport’s security checkpoint. Due to these increased security measures, you should plan to arrive at the airport at least three hours prior to your flight departure. Please reconfirm your schedule with the airline 24 hours prior to your departure and find out how early you should arrive at the airport.

If you did not print your boarding pass at home from the airline’s website, an agent will give you one when you check in at the airline desk. At that time, you will need to present your passport. Keep your boarding pass and ID easily accessible, as you will need to present them at security and at your boarding gate.

Luggage: Carry-on

When packing, be sure to include all important and valuable items such as your identification, travel documents, jewelry, camera, and prescription medication in your carry-on bag. Also, pack a change of clothing in case your baggage is delayed.

Each passenger is permitted to carry one personal article (such as a purse or a briefcase) and one piece of luggage with them on the plane, provided the total dimension of the bag does not exceed 45 linear inches (length + width + height) and the weight does not exceed 40 pounds. The following restrictions apply for carry-on luggage:

  • Liquids: Remember to follow the 3-1-1 guidelines developed by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA): 3-ounce (or smaller) containers in 1 clear 1-quart plastic zip-top bag. You may carry on liquids purchased in the airport’s secure boarding area.
  • Medications: Always carry necessary prescription medication with you in your carry-on bag. Keep medication in its original container and declare to security officers.
  • Restricted items: In general, knives (including pocket knives), box cutters, and scissors are not allowed in carry-on luggage.

Air travel regulations established by the TSA are subject to change. For further information on permitted and prohibited items in checked and carry-on luggage, visit tsa.gov.

Luggage: Checked

Airlines have varying policies regarding checked baggage fees. Your luggage must adhere to the general limitations established by the airlines. In general, the following guidelines apply:

  • The total linear dimension of your checked luggage must not exceed 62 inches per bag.
  • The maximum weight per piece of checked luggage is 50 pounds.
  • You will be personally charged an additional fee by the airline for oversized or overweight luggage.

Luggage: Delayed, Lost or Damaged

Airline liability for lost luggage is limited; therefore, you may wish to consult your homeowners or renters insurance policy to see if your luggage is covered.

Here are some tips to help you avoid lost or delayed luggage:

  • Check in early
  • Leave contact information in each piece of luggage
  • Make your bags easily identifiable
  • Keep your baggage claim receipts

If you experience delayed, lost, or damaged luggage:

  • Report it immediately to the airline at your destination
  • Submit the baggage receipts given to you at check-in
  • Present a list of items packed, as well as any receipts for expensive items purchased during your trip

Luggage tags

Your President’s Club luggage tags will come in the mail as part of your pre-event packet. Please complete the name and address section and attach the tags to your luggage before leaving for the airport. These tags are essential in identifying you as a President’s Club guest to ground transportation personnel and hotel staff.

Medical precautions

It is always a good idea to consult your physician regarding your medical needs prior to departure. We also recommend packing all prescription medication in your carry-on luggage. Review your current medical insurance policies to determine what is covered away from home. If you are taking medication, we recommend that you carry a copy of your prescription plus a letter from your doctor in case you need additional supplies.

Travel documents

Citizens of the United States must have a passport to travel to Mexico. You are responsible for obtaining your passport. Please keep in mind:

  • Your passport must be valid at least six (6) months past the last day of your trip, June 6, 2016.
  • You should apply for your passport as soon as possible because processing can take up to six weeks. Rush service is available for an additional fee and takes up to three weeks.
  • Be aware that only passport books (not passport cards) may be used for international travel by air.
  • If your U.S. passport expired within the past 15 years, you may be able to renew it by mail.
  • Some countries require that your passport has two to four blank visa/stamp pages for entry, and airlines may not allow you to board if this requirement is not met. Since the U.S. State Department no longer offers additional pages for passports, you will need to renew if your passport book is full.
  • The name on your passport must exactly match the name on your airline ticket, including any middle name or middle initial.
  • It’s a good idea to take pictures of your passport with your mobile device or make color copies to keep at home and in your luggage. This will expedite the process of getting a replacement passport if it is lost or stolen while traveling.

Note: If you are not a U.S. citizen or you are traveling from a country outside of the United States, you will need to contact the appropriate foreign consulate to determine which travel identification documents you will need. Another good resource is Embassy Worldwide. For further information, contact the appropriate branch of your government.

If you are not a U.S. citizen or you are traveling from a country outside of the United States, you will need to contact the appropriate foreign consulate to determine which travel identification documents you will need.

Please note: The legal name on your passport must exactly match the name on your airline ticket, including any middle name or middle initial.


Program particulars

Attire

Casual to resort casual attire will be appropriate during your stay in Mexico. You may want to bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings and air-conditioned restaurants. Formal attire (suit and tie / cocktail dress or pants) will be appropriate for the Awards Dinner, while resort casual will be suitable for most other functions. Don’t forget to bring along your bathing suit, sunscreen, sunglasses, cover-up, bug spray and a hat if you plan on spending any time on the beach or by the pool.

Formal: Business suits for men; cocktail dresses or dress suits for women

Casual: Relaxed clothing, shorts, collarless shirts, swimwear, sandals or comfortable walking shoes

Resort casual: Walking shorts or casual slacks and polo-style shirts for men; walking shorts, casual slacks, skirts or sundresses for women

Travel: Leisurewear, layers for varying temperatures and comfortable walking shoes

Gratuities

Red Hat has provided ample gratuities for all services and meals included in your program, including gratuities for baggage handling and housekeeping. When pursuing activities on your own, it is appropriate to tip for all services provided.

Hospitality Desk

A President's Club Hospitality Desk will be located at the Fairmont Mayakoba. Your travel staff will be stationed there daily as a reliable source for answers to your questions and assistance with your needs. You are encouraged to check in at the hospitality desk daily for possible schedule changes and announcements.

Hours of operation
(times are subject to change)
Thursday, June 28:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Friday, June 38:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Saturday, June 48:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Sunday, June 58:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Monday, June 68:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Name badges

A name badge will be provided for both you and your guest on site. Please wear it to all group functions in order to identify yourself as an important guest of President’s Club and to help the travel staff better serve you.

Travel funds and credit cards

The safest and easiest method of carrying money on your trip is in the form of a credit/debit card. The following credit cards will be honored by the Fairmont Mayakoba as payment for incidental items charged to your room account: American Express, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa.

If you will be traveling internationally, it is a good idea to alert your credit card company of your trip. Many companies have fraud protection programs that automatically freeze the account when it is used in a foreign country.


Destination

Riviera Maya, Mexico

You are about to be enticed by Mexico’s crystal shores, crashing waves, tropical climate, rich culture, and once-in-a-lifetime adventures. Run your hand over smooth cut stone and touch the greatness of an ancient and spiritual civilization. Descend beneath still fresh waters as you enter a cenote, a secret labyrinth of a subterranean river. Discover the mysteries of cave diving, unique to this corner of the Caribbean. Let the soul of this place wash over you, leaving in its wake a sense of fulfillment and contentment.

The Riviera Maya extends along the Caribbean coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula from Puerto Morelos to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. Once home to small fishing villages, the Riviera Maya coastline has since been developed into a modern tourist corridor offering the very best of high-end luxury resorts, fine dining, nightlife, spa retreats, shopping and golf in Mexico. An ideal vacation destination, the Riviera Maya is home to some of the most stunningly beautiful beaches in all of Mexico with expansive stretches of powdery white sand lapped by the clear turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea.

Highlights

  • The Riviera Maya boasts the world's second largest coral reef, which is easily reached from Cozumel, a short trip from the resort. The warm, gentle Caribbean currents ensure the area is a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling.
  • Exploration of the mystical underwater cenotes (luminous caverns that were once a source of fresh water for the Mayans who inhabited the area), a visit to the Mayan ruins at Tulum, Coba or Chichen Itzá (one of the new Seven Wonders of The World), or an excursion to Sian Ka’an (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) will add a truly unique element to your stay.
  • Nearby, Playa del Carmen provides an exuberant nightlife, in addition to sophisticated boutiques and stores offering traditional Mexican handicrafts.

Currency

In Mexico, merchants and businesses are no longer allowed to change U.S. dollars for pesos, but they will tell you the location of the nearest currency exchange office. If you have U.S. dollars, there are some places where you can exchange them for Mexican pesos, for example:

  • Currency exchange offices: You will usually find a currency exchange counter at international airports throughout Mexico; these can be identified by the “Exchange” sign. You will have to show your passport in order to be able to exchange money. The exchange rate is usual shown as “buy” or “purchase”, which shows how many pesos you will receive for each dollar.
  • Banks: Not all banks provide the service of exchanging pesos and dollars, and some require you to have an account with them. Ask someone at your hotel to tell you about the location of the nearest bank where tourists can exchange their currency. You will also need a valid U.S. passport to make the exchange.
  • Automated Teller Machine: One of the most convenient ways to buy pesos is by using an ATM. You will often receive better exchange rates, even though you have to pay a service fee, as with most ATMs outside your bank network. Please do not accept any help from people who are not bank employees.
  • Credit card: If you have a credit card, you will find that it provides one of the best exchange rates. Although you will not receive pesos directly, your monthly balance usually shows the exchange rate you received on purchases made with the credit card.

Dining

Mexico is famed for its gastronomy. But beyond the tacos and guacamole of world renown, there are rich and various culinary traditions spanning the whole country. The tastes, smells and textures of traditional Mexican ingredients are an assault on the senses, especially the more exotic items such as maguey worms, ants and fried grasshoppers. But the subtle blend of flavors in dishes such as mole and traditional Mexican salsas are sure to delight the palates of even the most conservative diners.

On coming to Mexico, a taste of the regional cuisines of Yucatan and Oaxaca is a must. The gastronomy of Oaxaca is one of the most famous in Mexico, including its famous mole, tlayudas (long pizza-like tortillas with a variety of traditional toppings) and chapulines (grasshoppers) for the more adventurous. The Yucatecan cuisine offers fewer extremes, but can be relied upon for taste every time. Try the classic dish of cochinita pibil ('pibil' pork), a tasty sauce of pork, orange, red onion and a traditional annatto sauce, slow cooked in an oven just below the ground.

Electrical current

Mexico uses the same current and plug type (120-volt, 60-cycles A.C.) as the mainland United States.

Language

Spanish is the main language of Mexico.

Time zone

Mexico (Central)9:00 a.m.
Eastern Time (New York, D.C.)10:00 a.m.
Central Time (Chicago, Dallas, Memphis)9:00 a.m.
Mountain Time (Denver, Santa Fe)8:00 a.m.
Pacific Time (Los Angeles, Seattle, Las Vegas)7:00 a.m.

Weather

During your stay in Mexico, you can expect temperatures to reach an average high of 90°F and an average low of 75°F.


Accommodations

Fairmont Mayakoba, Riviera Maya


FAQ

  • Q: When will I receive a hotel confirmation?
    • A: All confirmed attendees will receive a hotel confirmation two weeks prior to the event dates.
  • Q: Will Red Hat cover meals before the air flight, during the flight, and the return trip?
    • A: Yes.
  • Q: Will Red Hat cover all extra baggage costs associated with the trip?
    • A: Only one bag per attendee; so a total of two per associate to cover the guest/spouse.
  • Q: If an associate needs to stay somewhere during a return trip home, will Red Hat cover the hotel and other associated costs?
    • A: Only if it is a part of the pre-approved itinerary or of course for emergencies.
  • Q: Will Red Hat cover other extras an associate may buy at an airport (newspaper, water, etc) during the travel time for this trip?
    • A: Normal travel expense policy should apply. For example, you can expense the water, but not newspapers/magazines.
  • Q: Are extensions allowed?
    • A: Yes, attendees can extend pre or post-event, but they are responsible for any expenses related to the extension. If you are interested in extending, please note this during registration and we can provide hotel recommendations based on availability and your travel dates.
  • Q: What attire is needed for the program?
    • A: Formal attire (suit and tie / cocktail dress or pants) is recommended for the Awards Dinner. Casual attire is recommended for all other program events.
  • Q: Do I need a passport and/or visa?
    • A: Citizens of the United States must have a passport to travel to Mexico. You are responsible for obtaining your passport. Please keep in mind: Your passport must be valid at least six (6) months past the last day of your trip, June 6, 2016. If you are not a U.S. citizen or you are traveling from a country outside of the United States, you will need to contact the appropriate foreign consulate to determine which travel identification documents you will need.
  • Q: Why does my airline ticket require my exact passport name?
    • A: If your airline ticket doesn't include your exact passport name spelled correctly, the airline will not let you check-in or board your flight and you may be required to buy a new ticket. Red Hat will not be responsible for an additional airline ticket if you do not spell your name correctly through the registration process.
  • Q: Can I bring more than one guest?
    • A: Red Hat will only cover the cost for one guest. If you choose to bring any additional guests, you will be responsible for any extra costs and logistics. Please note that only you and your one guest can partake in Red Hat sponsored activities. There is no buy-in cost opportunity for additional guests. Your guest must also be 18 years of age to partake in Red Hat sponsored activities.
  • Q: Is there an age requirement for my guest?
    • A: There is no age requirement for your guest. However, your guest must be 18 years of age to partake in any Red Hat sponsored activities.
  • Q: Should I be concerned about the Zika Virus?
    • A: The safety and security of our associates is of the utmost importance. As such, we’ve been monitoring communications from public health authorities on the Zika virus. You can find general information from the World Health Organization (WHO) on the Zika virus and recommended precautions on the WHO’s site (http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/zika/en/ ).

      Associates living in or traveling to the affected areas should follow the provided prevention guidelines. Public health officials presently recommend protecting yourself from mosquito and other insect bites by staying in air conditioned spaces, covering exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants/trousers and hats, and using an insect repellent designed to repel mosquitoes. Insect repellent is provided compliments of the hotel, in each room.

      If you have questions or would like to discuss, please contact the People Team (people-helpdesk@redhat.com).

      From the Fairmont Mayakoba:

      The following information has been provided by the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention), the WHO (World Health Organization) and the SESA (Mexico’s Ministry of Health):

      • Zika is a viral disease transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito.
      • 18 cases have been reported in Mexico, a country with a population of 120M, representing 0.00000015%
      • The 18 cases are in areas far from Quintana Roo
      • In Quintana Roo, to this date, no probable cases have been reported
      • The hotel has not had any reported cases of the disease from our guests or colleagues