Disease Outbreak :: Epidemic Short Story Essays

Disease OutbreakAn inhuman sound disrupted my peaceful slumber. My eyes shifted belatedly toward my clock. The red numbers confirmed my suspicion. Christ, I thought to myself. 330 in the morning. This is going to be a bad day of work. I pushed my blankets dark of me and sat up in bed. To my left, the sheets were already pushed back and Marissa was nowhere to be seen. At first, I didnt make the connection I was too tired from operative 12-hour shifts at the hospital and thinking was non my number one priority right now. With another intense day ahead of me, I wanted all second of sleep I could perchance take. I was about to fall asleep when the noise shook my soul again. It reminded me of a chain-smoker who suffered from emphysema. Now fully awake, I walked towards the bathroom. The noise appeared to come from there and as I approached closer, my heart began to race. Marissa was doubled over on the bathroom ground, moaning in deep physical pain. I readily lifted up her body and held her in my arms. Her skin felt like fire as I held her up. She looked at me with glassy eyes and mumbled, Rick, I dont palpate too good. Just try to be quiet and let me take care of you. You probably have just a take over flu, nothing else. I was trying to convince myself more than her. Cautiously, I began to keep a simple checkup on her. Her pulse was racing, well above any healthy level. She appeared to suffer from hold pains and peered into the toilet and despite its soupy behavior still had the faint appearance of last nights dinner. Its just a stomach flu, right? That is what her symptoms told me, but something was wrong with it. Marissa was the accurate picture of health. She always liked to do nature walks, go to the gym regularly, and followed a balanced diet. Deep down, I knew that if it was the stomach flu, I would be woeful from it too. My mind jumped back to the hospital footlocker room wall where a notice hung in bold red letters W ARNING Be special cautious with patients showing flu and stomach flu like symptoms.Disease Outbreak Epidemic Short Story EssaysDisease OutbreakAn inhuman sound disrupted my peaceful slumber. My eyes shifted slowly toward my clock. The red numbers confirmed my suspicion. Christ, I thought to myself. 330 in the morning. This is going to be a bad day of work. I pushed my blankets off of me and sat up in bed. To my left, the sheets were already pushed back and Marissa was nowhere to be seen. At first, I didnt make the connection I was too tired from working 12-hour shifts at the hospital and thinking was not my number one priority right now. With another intense day ahead of me, I wanted every second of sleep I could possibly take. I was about to fall asleep when the noise shook my soul again. It reminded me of a chain-smoker who suffered from emphysema. Now fully awake, I walked towards the bathroom. The noise appeared to come from there and as I approached closer, my heart began to race. Marissa was doubled over on the bathroom ground, moaning in deep physical pain. I quickly lifted up her body and held her in my arms. Her skin felt like fire as I held her up. She looked at me with glassy eyes and mumbled, Rick, I dont feel too good. Just try to be quiet and let me take care of you. You probably have just a stomach flu, nothing else. I was trying to convince myself more than her. Cautiously, I began to keep a simple checkup on her. Her pulse was racing, well above any healthy level. She appeared to suffer from stomach pains and peered into the toilet and despite its soupy appearance still had the faint appearance of last nights dinner. Its just a stomach flu, right? That is what her symptoms told me, but something was wrong with it. Marissa was the perfect picture of health. She always liked to do nature walks, go to the gym regularly, and followed a balanced diet. Deep down, I knew that if it was the stomach flu, I would be suffer ing from it too. My mind jumped back to the hospital locker room wall where a notice hung in bold red letters WARNING Be extra cautious with patients showing flu and stomach flu like symptoms.

Julius Caesar :: essays research papers

Based on his thoughts and actions, how would you describe Caesar?In Act II Julius Caesar is barraged with warnings to bewilder home and not go to the Senate, but he ignores them. Calpurnia, his spouse, tells of a dream she had and fears for Caesars safety. The priests also warn Caesar. However, Decius is able to persuade Caesar to go to the Senate that morning. Considering his actions and thoughts in Act II, Caesar is a ruler who rejects superstitions and is c at one timerned astir(predicate) how he is perceived by others.As scene 2 opens, there is a thunder storm that sets an eerie tone. Calpurnia reveals her dream to Caesar and expresses concern for his safety. She then warns Caesar to stay home. Julius replies that the work of the mighty gods can not be avoided. He also contends that death is inescapable and therefore he will go to the Senate. His servant thereupon returns with the countersign that the priests likewise warn Caesar not to go out that morning. Caesar also discar ds the advice of the priests and asserts his bravery and superiority over others. Eventually, Calpurnia persuades him to stay at home. This shows Caesar as a man who is uncoerced to set aside his priorities to please his wife.Once Decius enters Julius is content to stay home. However, Decius manipulates Calpurnias dream into a positive one and starts to question Caesars manhood and power because he is xenophobic of the hallucinations of his wife. Caesar is now afraid and concerned of what the senators will think of him and fears that will see him as weak. This convinces Caesar to dismiss the warnings of his wife and the priests and go to the Senate.From his statements Caesar first concedes to his wife but once his considers the thoughts of others about him he decides to save face and attend the senate.Compare and contrast the motives that Brutus and Cassius have for wanting to kill Caesar.Brutus and Cassius, both conspirators against Caesar both have dramatically different views o n the reasons wherefore Caesar should be assassinated. Brutus is a main of morals, reason and honor while Cassius is deceitful and manipulative. Brutus seeks to glorify Rome and avoid tyranny by assassinating Caesar. Cassius wants to destroy his enemy and in earnest dislikes being under the control of a tyrant. As leaders in the Senate, Brutus and Cassius confederate to assassinate

Reformations of School Essay -- Essays Papers

Reformations of SchoolEducation plays a fundamental role in the development of any nation. History is witness that those nations who did non recognized the importance of genteelness were doomed, and education played a key role in the success of the developed nations. A successful country like America faces many challenges regarding education. some(prenominal) of these challenges are how to better achieve educational opportunity, and to find ways to deal with such problems and educational dilemmas for American children. To find the answers and solutions to these problems we can not ignore the chat of reforming of schools, preferably, new ways of education, restructuring of American schools, and recommendations to improve might be the only answer to these problems. In the following paragraphs, problems like weak curriculum and poor standards in the schools have been identified, and recommendations have been made to eliminate these problems. Also the problems and errors regarding t he distribution of funds by the government for the schools have been addressed, and recommendations have been made that these funding should be distributed e real bit and accordingly to the states. The federal government should take this issue more seriously and assist the states on a greater level.It is a very sad item that even now when we have entered the 21st century, a first world country like America which is supposed to be a role pose for the rest of the world is facing the problem of poor standards in their schools such as goals, expectations, and requirements. There is a great contradiction on peoples standards vs. the schools standards. People set high standards that are very hard and sometimes impossible to achieve by students and teachers, whereas some schools do not match these standards and even pass kids who cannot read or have poor educational skills. In order to have high academic standards there has to be high performance in public education systems. The system n eeds to be changed fundamentally. Teachers can play an important role and should come together on a common platform to achieve a common goal and that is the improved tone of education. Good communication between school, school boards, and school politics is very important, so teachers can be heard and listened to. School should only hire highly qualified and proficient teachers. Students are usually int... ...me states there is pentad times as much spending on students in some school districts as in others ($15,744 versus $2,932 during 1994-95 in Illinois, for example) (by Patricia Albjerg Graham, article1). If we observe the above data, it is very noticeable that federal government is playing a less active role in financing the education. One way to provide high quality of education is that federal government should get more involve with the current schooling system. Parents in general public can play their part and instead of criticizing the present system, they should elect the candidates in the government who give higher priority for the education and reserve more funds for the improvement and reforming of the school systems. BibliographyReferencesTextual Resourcesa) phrase 1 (Educational dilemma for Americans).b)Article 2 (Restoring the impulse to Dream).c)Article 3 (How to teach a children).d)Class notes.Non-textual Resourcesa)American School Board Journal (March 2000 issue).b)Http//education-world.com.c)Reforming American Education from the Bottom to the Top by Evans Clinchy.d)One on one conversation with parents.

Hot 107.1- Interview With A Radio Personality :: essays research papers

When Im in a car riding down the street thither is only one radio place that I really enjoy, KXHT 107.1. The music they play is quite specific. They atomic number 18 a hip-hop and R&B station that plays mostly southeastern groups. Hip-hop is quite new to me having really only gotten into it in the early years of high school were as I desire rock since childhood. It was for this reason and a some others that I decided to interview a personality from Hot 107 as they are nicknamed. Memphis is the first city that I have been to that has a station such as Hot 107 that plays only rap and R&B. Most other places will only have songs that are mainstream and then they are only played on the dance music stations. The other main reason I chose KXHT was its involvement on the campus at the University of Memphis.For my denomination I chose to interview one of the daytime radio personalities named Playboy. Playboy is actually a 25-year-old gentleman by the name of Tre Munson. For his current job, radio personality and procession assistant, he goes on the road and DJs for special events both live and not. Most recently he and another disc jockey, Kid Fresh, hosted a step delegate in front of the UC at the University. He has done parties, concerts, charity events, and many other functions. About two weeks ago he also covered the by and by party for Method Man and Red Man, two nationally known rap music artists.Though he has only worked at the station for a few years he has already started on his way up the corporate later. When he originally came to the station he did so by the means of just filling out a job application. He did not meet with success at his first couple of attempts. He actually had to go in and fill out quite a few and after that had to keep calling and pestering them until the finally offered him a job. Not the job he wanted, however, he was first just a support member for a street team. He felt that it was still a good way to get his metrical foot in the door and he would be able to show the station he could do more for them elsewhere.After a few months of street team he was finally selected to become a personality.

The Meaning Of An Inspector Calls by J.B. Priestley :: Papers

The Meaning Of An Inspector Calls by J.B. Priestley J.B.Priestleys An Inspector Calls is a good play that attacks the hearty problems of its time it contains all the ingredients of a well-made play. This is because it is very dramatic, and it has the attention of the audience. It gets this by the use of climaxes, the slow plot of a detective with persevering style. Despite this the reason is provoke with the darker side of the world. The play is Priestleys attempt to try to say this. Priestley sees the country as not very truthful and neglecting its responsibilities. The members of the Birling family are only concerned with them selves over others. They are responsible for the young wo valet de chambres death by treating her different and show what Priestley is trying to say, and is fighting against. An Inspector Calls is a well-made play because it contains umpteen factors that sustain attention of the audience. One of the factors that makes the p lay captivating is the use of climax, the way it keeps the audience on the edge of their seats all the way through it is rather slow to gather the plot and then finally has a powerful climax, for example the way the Inspector extracts small pieces of information from the family and slowly puts the picture unitedly and narrows it down to the guilty person as the climax. He misleads the family until they are all contradicting one another. He keeps the audience guessing all the way through the play, and as clues are solved the culprit becomes clearer, but as soon as one thinks he or she knows who it is Priestley cleverly switches to another character. This makes the audience very interested in the action that is happening. The strange appearance of the Inspector when the Birlings are having a celebration party, and Mr Birling is giving a speech on how the modern man should be. The Inspector steps in almost as he was prepared to challenge Mr Birling thi s seems to bring up facts about the

The Meaning Of An Inspector Calls by J.B. Priestley :: Papers

The Meaning Of An Inspector Calls by J.B. Priestley J.B.Priestleys An Inspector Calls is a cheeseparing play that attacks the social problems of its time it contains all the ingredients of a superior play. This is because it is very dramatic, and it has the attention of the earshot. It gets this by the use of climaxes, the slow plot of a detective with hang in style. Despite this the author is concerned with the darker side of the world. The play is Priestleys attempt to try to say this. Priestley sees the country as not very truthful and neglecting its responsibilities. The members of the Birling family atomic number 18 only concerned with them selves over others. They are responsible for the young womans death by treating her different and show what Priestley is trying to say, and is fighting against. An Inspector Calls is a well-made play because it contains many factors that sustain attention of the audience. One of the factors that makes the play captivating is the use of climax, the track it keeps the audience on the edge of their seats all the look through it is quite slow to gather the plot and then finally has a powerful climax, for example the way the Inspector extracts small pieces of information from the family and slow puts the picture together and narrows it down to the guilty person as the climax. He misleads the family until they are all contradicting one another. He keeps the audience guessing all the way through the play, and as clues are solved the culprit becomes clearer, but as soon as one thinks he or she knows who it is Priestley cleverly switches to another character. This makes the audience very interested in the action that is happening. The strange appearance of the Inspector when the Birlings are having a celebration party, and Mr Birling is giving a speech on how the modern man should be. The Inspector steps in almost as he was prepared to challenge Mr Birling t his seems to bring up facts about the

Physics Lost Insulation

Why loft insulation is needed? Loft insulation is the most cost-effective energy efficiency measure that can be installed. It can narrow heating costs up to 20%. The purpose of them is to hold the heat below within the property, reducing heat loss to the crown void and outside but also reducing the amount of heating needed to maintain the property at an ideal temperature. With insulation, the property will be impassioneder, more comfortable and it will cost less to heat. How loft insulation reduces heat loss? Heat will always flow from a warm area to a cold one.The colder it is outside, the faster heat from your home will escape into surrounding air. Glass fibre is laid across the loft to reduce heat transfer out of the roof. Glass fibre traps air and trapped air is a poor conductor therefore reduces heat transfer from the pileus to the loft by convection and conduction. How the thicknesses of the loft insulation affect heat loss? As you increase the level of insulation in the lo ft, it will slow the direct of heat loss and maintain the comfortable temperature for longer.Installing 290mm thick insulation can save up to approximately 20%, compared to thin insulation which is only 14% The pay back time is long term Generally, loft insulation cuts lofts u value rom around 2. 3 (for an uninsulated loft) to 0. 16 W/m2K, a reduction of around 95%. A more specific example is sheep wool. It shows for sheep wool over 140mm, it has a U value of 0. 16 compared to over 250mm, it has a U value of 0. 11 showing how thickness can affect heat loss greatly.

Filipinization Essay Essay

Explain the impact brought about by the rise of Ilustrados and the Filipino Clergy in the Philippine Nationalist Movement and their influence to Rizal.The most s healthfuled Ilustrados were Graciano Lpez Jaena, Marcelo H. del Pilar, Mariano Ponce, Antonio Luna and Jos Rizal, the Philippine national hero. Rizals novels Noli Me Tangere (Touch Me Not) and El filibusterismo (The Subversive) exposed to the world the injustices imposed on Filipinos under the Spanish compound regime.In the beginning, Rizal and his fellow Ilustrados preferred not to win independence from Spain, instead they yearned legal equality for bothPeninsulares and nativesIndios, Insulares, and mestizos, among othersin the colony. Among the political, religious and economic reforms demanded by the Ilustrados were that the Philippines be represented in the Cortes and be considered as a province of Spain and the secularization of the parishes.However, in 1872, nationalist sentiment grew strongest, when three Filipino pr iests, charged with leading a military rise up at an arsenal inCavite, near Manila, were penalise by the Spanish authorities. The event and other repressive acts outraged the Ilustrados. Because of his anti-clerical writings and activities, Rizal was executed on December 30, 1896. His execution propelled the Ilustrados . This also prompted unity among the Ilustrados and Andrs Bonifacios radical Katipunan. Philippine policies by the United States reinforced the dominant position of the Ilustrados indoors Filipino society. Friar estates were sold to the Ilustrados and most g everywherenment positions were offered to them.The Cavite Mutiny of 1872 was an uprising of military personnel of Fort San Felipe, the Spanish arsenal in Cavite, Philippines on January 20, 1872. approximately 200 soldiers and laborers rose up in the belief that it would elevate to a national uprising. The mutiny was unsuccessful, and government soldiers executed many of the participants and began to crack down on a burgeoning nationalist movement. Many scholars believe that the Cavite Mutiny of 1872 was the beginning of Filipino nationalism that would eventually lead to thePhilippine Revolution of 1896.The primary cause of the mutiny is believed to be an order from Governor-General Rafael de Izquierdo to subject the soldiers of the Engineering and Artillery Corps to personal taxes, from which they were previously exempt. The taxes required them to pay a m whiztary sum as well as to perform forced labor called, polo y servicio. The mutiny was sparked on January 20, when the laborers received their pay and realized the taxes as well as the falla, the fine one paid to be exempt from forced labor, had been deducted from their salaries.Secularization is a process by which the society is slowly transforming from that having close identification with the religious institution to a more separated relationship. This was considered to be the dawn of Philippine Nationalism, particularly after the e xecution of Gomburza.The Gomburza headed the secularization movement. They advocated the right of the Filipino secular clergy over the assignment of parishes quite than giving them to the newly arrived Spanish friars in the country. The seculars were those who were not bound by monastic vows or rules. They were discriminated by the Dominicans, Jesuits, Franciscans and Recollects. The Filipino priests then were assigned as assistants to Spanish friars.Secularism began in 1861 when the parishes of Mindanao originally managed by the Recollect friars were handed to the Jesuits. The Jesuits were expelled from the Philippines in 1768 because of the conflict they had between the European leaders. However, they returned to the country in 1861 and regain power over the Mindanao parishes from the Recollects who took over during their absence. The Recollects were bestowed the parishes of Manila and Cavite by the colonial government to appeased their loss. The original administrators of the pa rishes, the Filipino secular priests, naturally protested.Sourceshttp//en.wikipilipinas.org/index.php?title=Secularizationhttp//en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ilustradohttp//en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1872_Cavite_mutinyhttp//en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Filipino_nationalismhttp//www.megaessays.com/viewpaper/28063.htmlhttp//en.wikipilipinas.org/index.php?title=History_of_the_Philippines_(1521-1898)

Effect of Drum Pad Machines on Today’s Musicians and their Performances Essay

The chief use of dumbfounds and percussion keeps a songs rhythm intact. Under a layering series of melodies and additional harmonies, the direction in varying yet calculated overall tempo of a song is maneuvered through with(predicate) as the percussionists perk changes. The natural pulse of the song is kept by the medicineal intelligence quotient through the musicians ear. But with the ever-enduring evolution of technology in music and vice-versa, electronic percussion equipment and devices have boomed through different artists melodic expression and have impacted divers(a) evolution among genres, especially and significantly on hold executings.It seems like the powerful beats and thumps of a tralatitiously played dumbfound fit have indeed found a rival in loops and grooves of electronic percussion. It can be argued that, with the introduction of this, specifically with deck out blow a fuses, automobiles, and software, it has an effect on live music which fair elimin ates a key human contributory destiny integral in percussions to song and exploit. Effects of Drum Pad Machines on Todays Musicians and their performancesIn every live musical performance, the percussion segment of the music being delivered by a musician or group of musicians fundamentally serves as the pulse and momentum for a song, and the song changes as the performance develops. Moreover, it considerably serves as the main musical queue as the pace of the song slowly builds up for an array of artistically audible outbursts or surprisingly dies down for a more instant tone-tempo change effect as required in a performanceadding sense of presentation and colorful musical tones within.In this generations music scene, the rise of gun barrel pad machines have ushered in electronic loops and grooves for musicians convenience in song composition, song rehearsals and more importantly, even upon live performances. Definition of a Drum, Drum Kit, and Drum Pad Machine The most common image of a drum or whatsoever form of drums of which many hold could be believed to be anything that is round, and as a series of striking motion hits are applied to, go is produced. Though this is somewhat true from what truly a drum is, it is non completely accurate. As explained by Drumdojo.com (2008) A drum is any cylindrical intent (shell) or object with an open top that has a membrane normally called a head or skin stretched across it, this is known as a membranophone. The drum is in love on the membrane to produce a tone (n p. ). In a drum kit, which is traditionally and mainly used by drummer-musicians in live bands and performances as the main provider for a songs percussion ingredients, it essentially consists of percussion instruments generally including but not limited to bass drum, operated with a clean pedal, snare drum, cymbals, and toms (Drumdojo.com, 2008, n p. ). A drum machine is basically considered to be an electronic musical gadget, the main intent of w hich is to mimic a traditional drums kitfrom every single instrument belonging to a kit and with every single sound it is capable of producing. Effects of Using Drum Pad Machines make it Despite the certain differentiations between drum pad machines and traditional percussion instruments such as a drum set, the option of choosing to use a drum pad machine truly lies within the motive and intent of various artists and their expression amongst genres.However, one must understand that with a drum pad machine, in that respect are certain overlooked limitations it holds which in turn constrain the artists over-all performance. Since a drum pad machine is a developed piece of technology, a robotlike gadget and a traditional drum kits is crafted through key specifications of size, material, and everything else in between. There would always be a direct comparison, and it could be said that a drum pad machine creation is fuelled by convenience and technology in music, while the drum kits creation is duly developed for the art and light of music.As the comparison builds, it would more often than not end only in how musically and significantly restrictive a drum pad machine is to a live performance. With a drum pad machine, the player is considered rather mechanical than artistic. Since the beats, grooves, and loop are pre-programmed and just available for drum pad machine players use on the machine, there is somewhat a reduction of the live aspect of a live performance. Buttons and pads available in the drum pad machine can be meddled and pressed by anyone.Thus, there are fewer requirements of truly learning the electronic instrument which translates to even lesser basis of substantiating a drum pad machine player to be skillful in anyway. In terms of a musicians confidence, since a drum machine could indeed be so compact, there would be much faith in its utilization, but there is a ignore aspect of being confident in playing live which is the essence of any live performance. In addition, it is known that with the use of a manual and belike minimal practice, anyone could claim the throne being a skilled drum pad machine musician.Being in this age of accessible information, all these turn out on and are known by the fans and music enthusiasts who attend live musical performances. Using drum pad machines in a live performance could be translated to perfect pitches and tones since there are already pre-set programming which rather does the work for the artist as opposed to fatigue that could take place as a percussionist performs via hands or sticks. But with this, the use of such only removes the human aspect of artistic expression and justifies a live performance to be strictly a calculation.Fatigue is part of any and every live performance because it only shows that the artists express themselves to be able to refer with their audienceit whitethorn be a factor, but is not a good enough reason to compromise an aspect for a live performance . Hence, using a drum pad machine instead of live percussion instrument defeats the purpose of a live performance, for it limits not only individual musical fills and additions a musician may place to highlight style, but it also reduces artistic improvisation that is usually found in a live performance.There is also other important feature which drum pad machines falls short off in a live performance. In varying world cultures which entail diverse musical genres, a drum machine would hold to be off-putting in almost every sense. Musically, almost all cultures in the world holds a percussion instrument of their own which sets not only as a brand of the music they have, but more importantly is part of their cultural and flag-waving(prenominal) identity. For instance, Arabic music is known for the role of percussion instruments like the tabla (University of Florida. com, 2008, n. p. ).Al-Hammar (1999) describes the tabla as an hour-glass shaped drum which is traditionally make of cl ay, but more recently, it has been made of metal. The head is made of fish, goat or other animal skins, and it has also largely been replaced by a plastic substitute (n. p. ). In a live performance, it is rather unpatriotic and to every extent be only a poor imitation and expression of Arabic music in performing such hymns from their culture through a drum machineto purposely mechanize a cultures music. It is rather a futile attempt to replace the original sound produced from a distinctive percussion instrument.The main discrepancy lies not in perceived purpose but by intended function. In terms of serving their purpose, both can be of true service in providing the percussion for songs but vary in live performances. The major advantage which a traditional drum kit or a live percussion instrument may hold is of decisive disadvantage for the drum pad machine. Since different percussion instruments comprise a drum kit, particular specifications for each could be done, made, and assem bled most fittingly for the musicians unique and artistic style of playingin terms of tuning, material used, alloy utilized, etc.More importantly, with a drum kit and other live percussion instruments being played in a performance, a definitive and distinctive sound for the percussion line could be identified. Significantly, the genuine trademark of the artist is imbedded within a song which is indeed crucial in any musical form of expression. Nevertheless, it could be rebutted that aside from being handy and portable as compared to a drum set, the compact drum pad machine holds tone and tempo programming that a drum kit has, and more all is just a click, touch, or button away.However, its perceived purpose is also its key weakness because the various percussion tones found in the drum pad machines electronic memory chips is produced mainly not by the artist but essentially by the machine, as compared to the authentically noteworthy contribution by a musician in performance as the p arts of a drum kit or a percussion instrument is played. The musician playing would pour on and express the themes and emotions of the song and connect with the audience with every commanding yet calculated strike, with every forceful and fierce kick, and every dominant splash.This visual and musical performance experience is not as illuminating or animated as a drum machine player pressing buttons on a drum pad machine. Thus, drum pad machines constrict the overall aspect of a live musical performance and do hold back the artists live execution. References Al-Hammar, A. (1999). The Arabic Music. The Time Machine, College of Education, University of Florida. Retrieved November 25, 2008 from http//www. coe. ufl. edu/webtech/Timemachine/music/Arabic/answer. htm. Drumdojo. com. (2008). Equipment. Drumdojo. com. Retrieved November 24, 2008 from http//www. drumdojo. com/equipment. htm.

Innocence in Catcher in the Rye Essay

In JD Salingers Catcher in the Rye, Holden Caulfield is a boy aimlessly traveling New York City later being expelled from a classy boarding school. Holden poses a great deal of trepidation when it comes to sexual relationships, especially those of Jane and merry. Furthermore, Holden tends to misjudge the maturity of his fellow characters. The combination of this misconception, the strain between sexual trepidation, and an adult life with adult relationships, results in confusion for him. In Holdens life, there have only been a few peck hes cherished more than his childhood neighbor, Jane Gallagher.They were close childhood friends, and when his roommate Stradlater brings her up years later in high school, all he can talk about is the innocent fun they used to have playing checkers, watching her dance ballet in the summer heat, and how her Doberman always came into his yard. However, he also reminisces on how her boozehound stepfather would always run around the goddam house naked (42). He suspects that her stepfather had harassed Jane, who had a terrific figure, and he wouldntve put it past that cur (103).This really bothers Holden, as does when Stradlater insinuates that he made sexual advances onto Jane on their date. To Holden, sexual encounters mean an adulteration of artlessness, and he hates that Stradlater or Janes stepfather may have change Jane. Many times, Holden promises himself that he outa go down and say hello to her (40), or that he should give old Jane a buzz (195), notwithstanding he neer does. Subconsciously, he fears that Jane will have handsome up, and calling her or seeing her will surely alter the boylike, innocent, checkers-playing version of Jane that he has in his mind.This is confusing for Holden because Jane has grown up, yet he still thinks of her as a little girl, not the grown woman that she is. Holden knew that she wouldnt let Stradlater get to first base with her, but it drove him crazy anyway (104). This shows Holdens potential misconception of Janes innocence. It is unlikely for a post-teenage young woman to be as sheltered and have as much innocence as she did when she was a little girl. However, this is something Holden cannot grasp.This dilemma is a direct result of Holdens irrational respect for innocence, influenced by sexual confrontations in Holdens past. When Holden agrees to have a prostitute come to his room in the hotel, he is soon greeted by Sunny at his door. Holden is immediately unimpressed with Sunnys maturity how she was jiggling this one foot up and down, she never said thank you, and she had this tiny little wheeny-whiny voice (123). He also notices that she appears very young, and said things that were really childish.This ends up making him feel more depressed than sexy (123), and he decides not to have sex with her after all. The depiction of this young girl making money as a prostitute seems to upset Holden, and he ultimately concludes that having sex with her would spo il her innocence. This is where Holden is again misguided. Just as it is unlikely for Jane to retain the same degree of innocence through the years, it is improbable that Sunny, being a prostitute, will have not had sex with many people in the past, therefore preserving her innocence.But all Holden can see in Sunny is the childish and immature, which results in a conflicted view of the world. The importance of innocence to Holden is something that results in restiveness towards others sexual identity and activity. His perspective of Jane and Sunnys innocence is also misguided to the point where he sees innocence in them when there is none. Overall, the importance of innocence to Holden results in contention that is less than innocent.

Foreign Market Entry Strategy – Four Seasons in Brazil

pic pic iv indu place Hotels and Resorts St grazegic Marketing Plan for Entry into Rio de Janeiro, brazil nut pic EXECUTIVE SUMMARY quadruple Seasons Hotels and Resort is the conceptions premier extravagance hotel management ac fraternity. It is currently operating 83 hotels in 35 countries and has build an unriv on the wholeed report for reliability, trust and conjunction with its guests ( cardinal Seasons, 2010). As the hotel mogul prep ars to enter brazil-nut tree, this news report narrates in detail the foodstuffing plan four any(prenominal) Seasons will down in the topical anaesthetic anesthetic geopolitical environment.brazil nuts present political, legal, social and sparing state draws the conclusion that acquiring a topical anaesthetic sumptuosity hotelier while utilizing its business resources like a partner in crime, is the best mode of entry for tetrad Seasons. Fasanos grandiose topical anaesthetic anesthetic grime recognition as a world-class hotel ier and partnership with brazil-nut treeian true(a)-estate developer, JHSF, earns it an judgmentl potbellydidate for cardinal Seasons market entry system. Exceptional ainized client expediency, an integral part of four Seasons brand image and strategy, is standardized and will be directly transferred when entering Rio de Janeiro.acquiring Fasanos hotel in Rio de Janeiro, while simultaneously re prep each(prenominal) of its existing staff members will accomplish quaternity Seasons chief(prenominal) objectives when entering brazil-nut tree which ack straightawayledge 1. Providing a standardized service Four Seasons target market has come to receive and bear, while showcasing an trustworthy brazilian catch for its guests. 2. Establishing a genuine tieion with the local community and dateing brazil-nut treeian polish to ensure a sustainable business transactionhip for future expansion. 3. Utilizing the most ffective and efficient market strategy to expedite Four Seasons entrance into Brazil. To guarantee a booming entry into this new growth market, two co-ordinated Communications Campaign strategies will be put into place to reach out to the local community and outside(a) consumer base. TABLE OF CONTENTS I. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY1 II. TABLE OF CONTENTS2 III. COMPANY AND SERVICE OVERVIEW3 A. iv SEASONS HISTORY3 B. young DEVELOPMENTS3 IV. marketplace ATTRACTIVENESS ASSESSMENT5 A. ENVIRONMENT OVERVIEW5 1. CULTURAL ENVIRONMENT5 2. POLITICAL ENVIRONMENT8 3.ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT10 4. LEGAL ENVIRONMENT12 B. COMPETITIVE ANALYSIS14 1. MAJOR COMPETITORS14 2. SWOT ANALYSIS FOR FOUR SEASONS21 C. POTENTIAL TARGET MARKET ASSESSMENT22 1. FOUR SEASONS GUEST DEMOGRAPHICS22 2. TARGET SEGMENTS23 V. MARKET ENTRY STRATEGY25 VI. MARKETING MIX PLAN28 A. BRAND STRATEGY28 B. PRODUCT/SERVICE29 C. PRICE34 D. PLACE35 E. ADVERTISING AND OTHER PROMOTION35 1. Integrated Communications Campaign for Brazilians35 2. Integrated Communicates Campaign for International Travele rs37 3. FIFA public Cup 2014 & Summer Olympic Games 201640VII. CONCLUSION & RECOMMENDED RESEARCH40 A. SECONDARY RESEARCH41 B. PRIMARY RESEARCH41 1. SURVEYS41 2. FOCUS GROUP42 3. IN-DEPTH INTERVIEWS43 4. OBSERVATION STUDIES43 VIII. REFERENCES44 COMPANY AND SERVICE OVERVIEW 1 FOUR SEASONS HISTORY Isadore Sharp, founder of The Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, rumpdid his first hotel in Toronto, Canada in 1961. A modest hotel with 125 affordable rooms, The Four Seasons Motor Hotel marked the ascendent of a new kind of hotel in which every customer would be directed as a special guest.Within ten years, three hotels had been capable in Canada, leading to the opening of the smart sets first hotel abroad in London, England in 1970. Over time, Four Seasons made four strategic decisions that make the main diaphragms of the guild. The first pillar, quality, was chosen during the initial expansion abroad in the 1970s, to continuously meet guest expectations from star hotel to the cl ose. Four Seasons as a brand would introduce exceptional quality with a condense on being the best hotel in each location. The second strategic decision was to build Four Seasons competitive advantage in service.Four Seasons was recognized for its superior service with the opening of its first branded U. S. hotel in Washington, DC in 1979. During the 1980s, Four Seasons continued to expand and introduce flagship hotels throughout the US. The brand name began to develop and a distinct brand image was created. The third pillar, culture, would bunk a important role in the growth of a quick brand name. The unified culture became based on the Golden Rule, which Mr. Sharp defines as to deal with new(prenominal)spartners, customers, coworkers, everyoneas we would want them to deal with us (Martin, 2008).In 1985, Four Seasons added branded mystic residences to their hotels and began to transition from a hotel owner to solely a hotel management company. With the change, the fourth pi llar evolved to grow as a management company and build a brand name synonymous with quality (Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts- About Us Four Seasons History, 2010). Since, Four Seasons has created a brand name worth much to a greater extent than its real estate by asserting the best service to extravagance travelers round the world.Four Seasons has consistently innovated the services offered at its hotels over the years, becoming the first to offer shampoo in the shower, 24-hour room service, bathrobes, cleaning and pressing services, a two-line shout in each guest room, a sanitary-lit desk, a full-service spa and 24-hour secretarial services (Martin, 2008). In 1986, the company went general and was listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange. A unafraid brand name allowed the Four Seasons to engage in a series of successful hotel openings crossways the world in the 1990s and into the new millennium.The company has little by little expanded its portfolio of doctors to embroil 83 hotels and resorts in 35 countries and continues to grow in both size and recognition today. Every hotel, from Cairo to Chiang Mai to Milan, demonstrates the four pillars that Mr. Sharp has built the Four Seasons brand upon. 2 RECENT DEVELOPMENTS Headquartered in Toronto, Canada, Four Seasons Hotel and Resorts became the first puffy hotel company to manage hotels through real estate owners and developers. In 2007, Four Seasons Hotels returned to secluded ownership, with Bill Gates and Saudi Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal each owning 47. % of the company, and Mr. Sharp owning the remaining 5% (Segal, 2009). The purchase was based on the decision to expand more(prenominal) than aggressively, specifically into regions non conducive to public companies (OBrien, 2008). With operations in 35 countries, it has been extremely successful abroad and will continue to expand into new markets in the future the Chinese and Indian markets be predicted to play a vital role in the future of the com pany (Four Seasons CEO Sees Luxury Trajectory, 2009).As a hotel management company, Four Seasons has complete control over all hotel operations, participates in the designing of new hotels, and earns approximately 3% of revenue from hotel owners in rise to power to collecting fees to cover orbiculate sales, marketing, and reservations (OBrien, 2008). The major decision makers in the company plate currently are ? Isadore Sharp Founder, chairman, and CEO ? Kathleen Taylor professorship and COO ? Jim FitzGibbon President Worldwide Hotel Operations ? Nick Mutton Executive Vice President Human Resources and Administration ?Scott Woroch Executive Vice President Worldwide Development ? buttocks Davison CFO and Executive Vice President Residential ? Antoine Corinthios President Europe/Middle East/Africa ? Susan Helstab Exective Vice President Marketing (Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts- About Us unified Bios, 2010). Four Seasons is continuously recognized as an outstanding company winn ing awards year after year. Four Seasons has remained on Fortunes 100 extravagantly hat Companies to Work For every year since 1998, for a total of twelve consecutive years (Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts- About Us Four Seasons History, 2010).Twenty-two of the Four Seasons properties grant also been recognized for excellence in the hospitality industry with the AAA Five Diamond award in 2010 (2010 AAA/CAA Five Diamond Lodgings). This is a very prestigious award, presented only to 0. 27% of the 60,000 Diamond Rated lodgings and restaurants throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, truly setting Four Seasons Hotels apart from its competitors (Five Diamond purity Winning Hotels and Restaurants, 2010).The thirtieth anniversary issue of the Robb Report,published in 2006, included the Four Seasons on its list of the most exclusive brands of all time on board different luxury brands such as Rolls Royce, Tiffanys and Louis Vuitton (Four Seasons Hotels and Resort s- About Us Four Seasons History, 2010). CondeNast Traveler also consistently recognizes the Four Seasons as a leader in the hospitality industry. OnCondeNast Travelers Global Top 100 List, eighteen Four Seasons hotels get under ones skin been included, which is triple the arrive of the next most-listed hotel chain (Martin, 2008).By incorporating the four pillars into its business strategy, the Four Seasons has developed into one of the most-recognized prestigious brands in spite of appearance the hospitality industry. Through its constant focus on refined customer service in all markets, Four Seasons creates a brand that is immediately associated with exceeding customer needs and expectations in every location. Mr. Sharp summarized the idea by saying If you dont meet it every time, you dont take up a brand (Four Seasons CEO Sees Luxury Trajectory, 2009).The architecture of a hotel is irrelevant beca physical exertion any competitor can replicate it, however the employees of t he Four Seasons oppositeiate the company by constantly delivering the premier service promised to the guests, hence, creating the strong brand image travelers associate with Four Seasons. In addition to providing timely and sophisticated service, employees are trained to personalize the service delivery through customer name recognition and offering unique services to match guest preferences.Training employees to deliver customized service has been a greater challenge, because personal service is non something you can dictate as a policy. It comes from the culture (OBrien, 2008). Mr. Sharp explains the effect of a strong corporate culture on the guests how you treat your employees is how you expect them to treat the customer (OBrien, 2008). Brand integrity, coupled with the corporate pride in pipe downed in 30,000 employees worldwide, is what allows Four Seasons to charge a premium price.The company has become legendary for its unmovable standards, despite economic recessions, be lieving that altering room prices will diminish the brand. Four Seasons loyal guests continually pay premium prices because they are confident the superior service that is expected will be delivered. Each Four Seasons Hotel and Resort strives to achieve the ideal balance of adaptation to the local environment and standardization of the service. Four Seasons Hotels are built after across-the-board research of the market and farming to adapt to the local style and create an authentic experience for guests.The company does non m separate(a) a uniform style that is common in many competitors such as The Ritz Carlton. While the hotel is built to reflect the local culture, service is standardized across all Four Seasons properties. This is a key factor to the adaptation/standardization balance as service is go outed the companys sustainable competitive advantage. Guests expect to receive the same lofty-quality service at every Four Seasons hotel, despite being in a different count ry. Room rates also vary at different properties, taking into account seasonality, economic factors of the host country, and exchange rates.However, each hotel offers a fairly large price range to reflect the different types of rooms and suites useable in the station. MARKET ATTRACTIVENESS ASSESSMENT 1 ENVIRONMENT OVERVIEW 1 CULTURAL ENVIRONMENT 1 HOFSTEDE CULTURAL DIMENSIONS Country PDI IDV MAS UAI LTO CANADA 39 80 52 48 23 BRAZIL 69 38 49 76 65 URUGUAY 61 36 38 100 (Geert Hofstede Cultural Dimensions, 2009) Although three main target segments for Four Seasons in Brazil are non-Brazilian nationals, the company must ac companionship cultural differences to be properly vigilant to select, train, and compensate local employees and positively interact with local businesses.Local smasheds are vital to Four Seasons business model since they have prodigious control over word-of-mouth promotion for the hotel. In severalize to receive customers for conferences, catering or special events, a lasting kin needs to be built with firms in the local environment. Additionally, it is important to understand cultural dimensions to be successful in acquiring the tangible aspects of the business that are locally sourced. accord to Hofstede measures, Canada and Brazil vary drastically on all cultural dimensions excluding masculinity.Compared to Canada, Brazil has a very mettlesome Power Distance index (Geert Hofstede Cultural Dimensions, 2009). As a result, the Four Seasons Introductory Training political platform (FSITP) may need to be modified. Currently, all new employees representing different levels of the organization, including housekeepers, department managers, non-paid interns, etc. , are placed into one large group for FSITP. Since local Brazilians expect a sharp division among subordinates and supervisors (Gillespie, Jeannet, & Hennessey, 2007), separate training schedules may be instituted to account for differences in responsibilities.This could pose a onerous challenge because the training program is very standardized and is one of the components that provide the service competitive advantage. On account of strict boundaries between subordinates and supervisors, lower-level employees are not as cheerful with empowerment than those in low power distance cultures (Gillespie, Jeannet, & Hennessey, 2007). The Four Seasons managers may want to shoot providing narrow and clear job descriptions. If narrow job descriptions are constructed, managers must establish monitoring systems to void bureaucratic inefficiencies. The greatest difference between Canada and Brazil is on the Individualism ranking. Compared to Canada, Brazil is a highly state-controlled culture. (Geert Hofstede Cultural Dimensions, 2009) This facet creates a solid challenge in dealing with local businesses, whether clients or suppliers. Building and maintaining a relationship demands a substantial amount of time and effort devoted to face-to-face meetings. It is not an easy task to form a business contract with Brazilians without creating a relationship.This task is increasingly difficult because Brazil is also a high un authoritativety overturnance culture (Geert Hofstede Cultural Dimensions, 2009). In these circumstances, it would be extremely wise to partner with a Brazilian representative. By capitalizing on a local representatives already established personal and business contacts, Four Seasons can conserve a great amount of resources. As it would be almost im executable for a local representative to provide every contact, a significant amount of time needs to be allocated for long negotiations and contact make.Although Brazil and Canada drastically differ in Hofstede cultural dimensions, it is important to recognize Four Seasons as a profitable multinational company. It has successful experience conducting its business model across various geographic areas, including Latin America. While the Four Seasons should not replicate their strategy entirely, it would be unwise to not utensil prior knowledge gains from countries, such as Uruguay, that are culturally very similar to Brazil. 2 EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM The average number of years of procreation for the population entering the workforce is five (Fraga & Bowler, eds. , 2008).Lack of a properly trained workforce could negatively impact the internal operations of the Four Seasons. Strangely, Brazils public universities are excellent in contrast to the countrys under-resourced primary and secondary schools (Fraga & Bowler, eds. , 2008). fitly, Four Seasons should portion out partnering with local universities to provide internships, job opportunities, or management training programs. asunder from managers, Brazils poor education standards may not adversely affect Four Seasons because the company heavily emphasizes personality, rather than work experience, in recruiting and selection.Instead, Four Seasons relies on its comprehensive training program to provide the skills necessary to perform demand tasks and meet the companys core standards. 3 GENDER ISSUES Common among several Latin American countries is the notion of machismo, the belief that males are superior to females (Doing business in Brazil, 2007). Machismo is perpetuated through society with the assignment of traditional roles to men and women. While this view has deep been challenged due to the influx of Brazilian women into both higher education and the workforce (Doing line in Brazil, 2007), managers should be aware that it exists.Furthermore, many customers of Four Seasons will be from foreign countries where the same gender norms are not present. 4 NORMATIVE BUSINESS PRACTICES Recognizing that normative business practices vary across borders will be frigid in succeeding in the Brazilian market, as Brazilian local businesses comprise one of Four Seasons target markets. In addition, acquainted(predicate)ity with the business culture can affect the outcome with essenti al local suppliers. Foreign managers can earn the respect of local associates and illustrate the importance of their relationship by engaging in the local business customs.Upon meeting an associate for the first time, men should shake hands accompanied by a pat on the shoulder or arm and women should give a kiss on each cheek (Doing Business in Brazil, 2007). While Brazilians are very informal and prefer to be addressed by their first name, some sort of title such as Doctor or Professor usually accustoms it (Brazil First have-to doe with or Title? , 2008). Brazilians tend to be extremely extroverted and friendly and close physical contact while conversing is considered normal (Brazil Conversation, 2008) also, be prepared for personal questions.Gifts are not necessary at a first meeting (Brazil Gift Giving, 2010). Since the majority of employees will be Brazilian nationals, normative business practices affect the Four Seasons internal operations in addition to outside relationships. Due to the countrys collectivist nature, Brazilians do not work at private desks, but instead, share a large space with several coworkers (Doing Business in Brazil, 2007). If the Four Seasons structures the work environment accordingly, managers must realize that shared workspace results in a constant mix of personal and work-related conversations and plan deadlines accordingly.Besides workspace, Brazils collectivist culture also impacts break schedule. Brazilians usually take their lunch breaks simultaneously (Doing Business in Brazil, 2007). If the Four Seasons agrees to this practice, scheduling will need to account for huge shift changes. A Canadian business manager will be horrify if unaware of the routine aspects of a business meeting. Meetings do not begin on time a meeting normally begins twenty to xxx minutes past the agreed upon time. Once a meeting commences, the setting is very informal.A large portion of time at the onset is dedicated to personal conversations. Thro ughout the meeting, it is not unusual for attendees to take phone calls or leave the room. (Doing Business in Brazil, 2007) Hence, meetings do not serve as an efficient thoroughfare to establish an immediate outcome. Negotiations require time, as Brazilian managers prefer to discuss agreements or disputes among themselves privately this stems from the collectivist and feminine nature of the culture (Gillespie, Jeannet, & Hennessey, 2007).These differences can be curtailed with the answer of a local representative, however, each non-Brazilian manager must acknowledge the lengthy time required to close a deal in order to provide true to life(predicate) schedule projections and deadlines. 2 POLITICAL ENVIRONMENT 1 POLTICAL SYSTEM Brazil instituted a federal republic system of government in 1985 following the end of military rule. The structure grants a substantial power to the elected president who holds office for four years with the opportunity for one special term if reelected.T he president reserves the right to elect his/her cabinet, while the people elect members of Congress. Congress represents Brazils twenty-six states and sole federal dominion of Brasilia through two groups an 81-seat Senate and a 513-member Chamber of Duties. Within Congress, majority power constantly transitions as representatives switch political parties often. (Background Note Brazil, 2010) 2 POLTICAL power Currently, Luiz Inacio da silva is nearing the end of his second term of presidency.The upcoming election is scheduled for October 3, 2010 for a new president. President Luiz Inacio da Silva is using his popularity among Brazilian citizens to support candidate Dilma Rousseff. Rousseffs main opponent, Jose Serra, currently holds an early poll advantage. Regardless of the winner of the October election, the Four Seasons will not be significantly affected as both candidates are expected to continue economic reform and the privatization of industries. (The Economic perception Un it conference, 2010) 3 DOING BUSINESS IN RANKINGS Canada Brazil Rank Doing Business 2010 Doing Business 2010 Ease of Doing Business 8 129 Starting a Business 2 126 Dealing with Construction Permits 29 113 Employing Workers 17 138 Registering Property 35 one hundred twenty Getting Credit 30 87 Protecting Investors 5 73 Paying Taxes 28 150 Trading Across Borders 38 100 Enforcing Contracts 58 100 Closing a Business 4 131 (The World Bank Group, 2010) While conducting business in its home country is much easier than it is in Brazil, Four Seasons operates in more than thirty-five countries, two of which, India and Syria, rank below Brazil in Ease of Doing Business (The World Bank Group, 2010). Seeing as the Four Seasons is a successful multinational enterprise with deep pockets, the struggle to receive credit in Brazil does present a considerable hurdle for the company.To avoid difficulties related to trading across borders, Four Seasons should obtain necessary tangibl e components of its operations from local suppliers. In addition, local products will facilitate a severe relationship with the local environment as well as provide a more authentic experience for guests. Areas that would be of trouble to Four Seasons include enforcing contracts, dealing with construction permits and registering property within Brazil. Fortunately, because the company specializes solely in management, much of the responsibilities associated to troublesome aspects will be shifted to their partner. A local Brazilian partner would be optimal since strong networking and contacts can help alleviate the burdens related to obtaining contracts and permits.Although Brazil is characterized as a new growth market, the World Bank Groups Doing Business Rankings demonstrate Brazils institutional weaknesses that are more align with a developing market. For instance, employing workers is extremely difficult within Brazil compared to the rest of the world. A want of transaction fa cilitators, such as executive headhunters, makes it extremely taxing to locate and recruit employees that possess the necessary skills to be successful at Four Seasons. This absence especially poses a challenge to Four Seasons because its sustainable competitive advantage of superior customer service is facilitated through its employees. Although not as difficult as employing workers, enforcing contracts presents a significant threat to businesses operating within Brazil.Due to a lack of adjudicators, firms will find it arduous to manipulate payment or reliability of contractual partners. This problem is further exacerbated by the nonexistence of credibility enhancers and informational analyzers that assist with partner selection. 4 POLITICAL RISK According to The Coface Group, Brazil received an A4 in both Country Rating Risk and Business Climate Risk (2010). An A4 rating indicates an unstable political and economic environment (The Coface Group, 2010). Volatile conditions pose a n enormous threat to Four Seasons due to the amount of direct investment needed to offer its service. Unlike a product offering, the Four Seasons does not have the ability to immediately exit, or temporarily leave, the market.In an effort to curtail the effects of drastic changes, Four Seasons should create a managerial position solely dedicated to environmental starening. This person should be aware of the significant changes and how they will affect company forecasts. An unstable environment can greatly deter customers from visiting the Four Seasons, especially the primary target segment of brand loyal guests. If a brand loyal guest is interested in visiting Latin America, they have the option of staying in a Four Seasons located in Costa Rica, Mexico, Argentina, or Uruguay if Brazil appears dangerous and/or unsafe. 5 CORRUPTION Transparency International ranked Brazil 75 out of 180 countries with a score of 3. 7 out of 10 0 represents high depravity (2009).Despite the Four Seas ons experience in highly corrupt countries such as China, Argentina, Egypt, India, Mexico and Syria (Transparency International, 2009), Four Seasons must adequately prepare for the effects of corruption in Brazil. It should incorporate the knowledge gained from the past by consulting senior managers manifold in highly corrupt countries to produce contingency plans. However, it is important that the company recognizes differences between countries. For this, Four Seasons should consider using a Brazilian partner. A local partner possesses knowledge of the local community and business environment and can offer an insider perspective on solving obstacles that arise out of corruption.Furthermore, a local partner holds local contacts that may be utilized to sidestep corrupt organizations or dealings. 6 FOREIGN RELATIONS Brazil body open and friendly toward the majority of countries, especially its South American neighbors. Recently, Brazil has foc apply on expanding relations with its neighbors through associations such as the Latin American Integration Association (ALADI), the Union of South American Nations (UNASUL), and Mercosur, a customs union between Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Brazil, with Chile, Bolivia, Peru, Colombia, and Ecuador as associate members. (Background Note Brazil, 2010) Openness toward foreign nations ensures embargoes, or other forms of impediments, will not disrupt imports.While Four Seasons should procure components from local suppliers to enhance its relationship with the environment, the company does not need to spend time concerned over delivery of its imported supplies. For imported aspects, Four Seasons should examine countries that are involved in the Mercosur customs union to take advantage of less costly tariffs and/or taxes. Apart from products, Brazils openness ensures that travelers will not confront burdensome procedures to enter the country or hostility from Brazilian citizens when visiting. 3 ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT 1 OVE RVIEW Due to a shift toward market liberalization, Brazil has more than doubled its deal out flows in the past four years.While portfolio investment has change magnitude, foreign direct investment inflows hit record levels in 2007 and 2008. However, in 2008, Brazil registered its first current-account deficit in five years as a result of a sudden increase in imports. President Luiz Inacio da Silva has focused on a floating exchange rate, inflation targeting, and primary fiscal surpluses to enhance macroeconomic policies, and therefore, increase Brazils global competitiveness. These factors have lead Brazils economy to shift toward a more service-oriented market. Nevertheless, the agricultural sector and diverse industrial base continue to function as enormous drivers of growth. (Fraga & Bowler, eds. , 2008) 2 CURRENCYThe modern real was introduced on July 1, 1994 to stabilize the broader Brazilian economy. When introduced, the real was set equivalent to 1 unidade real de valor, a non-circulating cash which ultimately set the real equivalent to 1 US dollar. Initially, the real climbed against many major currencies. Strong capital in-flows supported a strong real through late 1995. By 1996, the Central Bank of Brazil instituted tight controls over the real to bring the currencys value down. The currency depreciated tardily through 1998, but the Central Bank relaxed controls in 1999 and the real experienced a sudden devaluation. From 1999 to 2002, the currency remained relatively volatile vis-a-vis major orld currencies. By mid-2002, the real reached an all-time low against the Canadian dollar, along with many major currencies, including the US dollar. The presidential election in late 2002 brought long needed stableness to the Brazilian currency. From late 2002 to October 2008, the real slowly appreciated against the Canadian dollar and other major currencies. When the financial crisis hit in late 2008, the currency bounced from rates not seen since 2001 to around R$2C$1. Since the crisis, the currency has again been slowly appreciating against the Canadian dollar. In recent months, the real has been slightly depreciating against the Canadian dollar.Overall, the Brazilian real be a relatively stable currency, especially among Latin American currencies. This will benefit the Four Seasons, as it repatriates profits to headquarters and pays local suppliers. However, as with any foreign currency especially those in new growth markets immunity from fluctuation isnt a rule. New regimes can negatively affect currency, as well as Brazils significant current account deficit, significant government spending on the World Cup and Olympics and susceptibility to inflation. Four Seasons plans on pricing in US dollars, which appeals to many of its target markets and is consistent with Four Seasons across the globe. 3 INFLATIONSince 2003, Brazil has been successful in easing inflation pressures on account of strict monetary policy and an appreciatio n of the Real (Fraga & Bowler, eds. , 2008). Yet recently, inflation has rose in recent months owing mainly to the global recession as well as increased wages and inertial pressures within the country. The Central Bank of Brazil has set a target of 4. 5% for 2010. The Economic Intelligence Unit is optimistic, predicting that inflation will fall 4. 8% to 2. 5% between 2010 and 2011. (The Economic Intelligence Unit Group, 2010) Four Seasons must constantly monitor the inflation rate once within Brazil. If the EIU is correct, a 2. 3% change in the inflation rate will have an enormous impact on the operations (The Economic Intelligence Unit Group, 2010).Brazil will need to constantly change their prices in order to keep up with large-scale changes. Fortunately, the majority of price postings occur through the companys website allowing the company to avoid immense costs required to reprint materials. Higher inflation translates into higher prices not only for Four Seasons guests, but als o for components the hotel buys from local suppliers or imports from other countries. Additionally, Four Seasons may consider using employee contracts that adjust for inflation to curb anger associated with loss of purchasing power. Luckily, the EIU predicts inflation to decrease and remain relatively stable in the future at 2. % (The Economic Intelligence Unit Group, 2010), limiting negative consequences incurred by operations. 4 LABOR CODES The Brazilian government requires all companies, foreign and domestic, to provide specific elements to its employees including thirty days of annual leave, an annual bonus equal to one months salary, and severance pay if dismissed without a cause. Additionally, if a firm employs more than three employees, Brazilian nationals must account for two-thirds of the total employees and payroll. Brazil has instituted a system of labor courts to handle workplace disputes involving working conditions, wages, dismissal, etc. (The section of Commerce, 200 9) It would be ill advised to ignore government employment requirements.Not only would the company risk being forced out of the market, Four Seasons would incur a tarnished reputation within the global arena. When hiring and scheduling future employees, Four Seasons must account for each individuals thirty days of leave the firm must decide whether it will assign vacation time or negotiate with employees for specific requests. If two-thirds of payroll must be distributed to Brazilian nationals, Four Seasons should scan the local environment for senior management positions, as these executives tend to comprise a large portion of pay. As Four Seasons offers a service requiring an legions of different workers, the company must find a way to ooperate with highly unionized Brazilian workforce currently, over 16,000 unions exist who are very well organized and are not hesitant to use aggressive methods (The Department of Commerce, 2009). A local partner may possess pertinent information to help alleviate any contentions that may arise. 5 INFRASTRUCTURE President Luiz Inacio da Silva announced the Growth Acceleration Plan in 2007, which committed a US $296 million investment in infrastructure by the end of 2010. Although the GAP is promising, Brazils infrastructure remains one of the largest obstacles within the economy. brusk quality and numerous deficiencies remain in roads, ports and airports no passenger trains travel outside the suburbs of major cities and only 12. 5% of the existing roads are paved. (The Department of Commerce, 2009)While the 2016 Summer Olympics should increase incentives for private companies to improve infrastructure, Four Seasons must contemplate the effects of a poor transportation system. It may want to consider sourcing the majority of its tangible components from nearby local suppliers to ensure secure and fast delivery. Furthermore, imports are more likely to be priced higher on account of the inefficiencies within the infrastructure . A foreign direct investment is an option to increase efficiency and satisfaction Four Seasons should investigate options near the hotel in addition to routes travelers predominately use. For example, it could form a strategic alliance with another firm to enhance the roads to and from the airport. 4 LEGAL ENVIRONMENT 1 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTYBrazil is a signer to various agreementsTrade Related Aspects of expert Property (TRIPS) Agreement, the Bern Convention on Artistic Property, the Patent Cooperation Treaty, and the Paris Convention on Protection of Intellectual Propertycommitting the government to stringent protection of intellectual property rights. The decision to take part in international contracts was the countrys first realistic step toward putting an end to issues such as copyright infringement, however, piracy and counterfeiting remains a problem within Brazil. (The Department of Commerce, 2009) While Four Seasons does not possess a substantial amount of intellectual p roperty that would threaten its existence, it does need to consider violations when procuring components for its hotel, particularly authentic furniture, decorations and artwork.It would be wise for Four Seasons to implement a system used to differentiate genuine pieces from others. 2 ENTRY MODE Four Seasons, or any foreign or domestic private entity, may establish, own, and dispose of business entities allowing the company to chose any entry mode grounded solely in its own decision making (The Department of Commerce, 2009). Although a lack of government regulation offers the firm freedom of choice, it would be extremely useful to use a local representative to own the hotel building itself. As previously mentioned, Brazil is a highly collectivist culture that requires an extensive amount of time dedicated to relationship building to be successful in procuring supplies, building contracts, permits, etc.A local partner possesses established networks that can be utilized to sidestep r egulations and corruption in addition to knowledge specific to the Brazilian environment. 3 IMPORTS Brazil imports are subject to three separate taxes Import Duty (II), Federal Industrialized Product tax (IPI) and the State Merchandise and emolument Circulation tax (ICMS) (The Department of Commerce, 2009). Because both the IPI and ICMS are value-added taxes (The Department of Commerce, 2009), imports end up becoming very expensive for customers. Unless a specific tangible component is unfavourable to the success of Four Seasons, it would be in the countrys best interest to purchase supplies from local businesses to avoid high prices pushed down to the customer because of high taxes.High import taxes paired with Brazils poor infrastructure will threaten the safe and efficient obtainment of products. If the Four Seasons depends on certain aspects from headquarters, or another Four Seasons location, it should be aware that the foreign entity must register with Foreign Trade Secretar iat (SECEX) in order to conduct trade with Brazil. 4 TRADE AGREEMENTS Brazil has established bilateral investment agreements with numerous countries including Belgium, Luxembourg, Chile, Cuba, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Republic of Korea, Netherlands, Portugal, Switzerland, United Kingdom and Venezuela however, the Brazilian Congress has not yet sign any of these. (The Department of Commerce, 2009)Brazil has signed Mercosur, a regional trade agreement, between itself and Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Brazil, with Chile, Bolivia, Peru, Colombia, and Ecuador as associate members (The Department of Commerce, 2009). If imports are required, Brazil should heavily consider sourcing from countries involved to significantly decrease costs associated with imports. Furthermore, Brazil maintains a double taxation with Canada, making imports from its headquarters extremely expensive. 5 LABELING Labeling requirements should not present Four Seasons with a notable barrier. Fir stly, the primary focus of the company is services, not products. Besides the gift shop and food menus, Brazil will rarely encounter barriers in labeling. Secondly, The Brazilian Customer Protection Code does not call for unconventional or outlandish.Specifically, labeling must provide the consumer with precise and easily readable information around the products quality, quantity, composition, price, guarantee, shelf life, origin, and risks to the consumers health and safety (The Department of Commerce, 2009). The only hurdle Four Seasons may encounter relating to labeling is a Lusitanian shift and metric equivalent to the requirements listed above. 6 PROMOTION Direct mail is e unite in Brazil as a very useful method for scope Brazilian consumers citizens receive an average of 9. 3 pieces of direct mail every month and 74% of Brazilians prefer direct mail to create awareness of a new product or service (The Department of Commerce, 2009). Four Seasons is encouraged to use direct mail to target local businesses and community members within its promotional aspect of its marketing campaign.It should especially use Veja, the most popular magazine in Brail with an average of one million copies dispersed a week, and Folha de Sao Paulo, the largest paper with an average of 317,000 copies distributed Monday through Friday and 400,00 on Sunday (The Department of Commerce, 2009). Media in Brail is still heavily controlled through the public sector foreign ownership is peculiar(a) to 49% (The Department of Commerce, 2009). This should not affect Four Seasons greatly since the company avoids advertisements in mass media outlets. Also, the majority of Four Seasons target segments does not reside in Brazil. 2 COMPETITIVE ANALYSIS Many multinationals, especially Four Seasons traditional competitors, have yet to enter the Brazilian market or only have a small presence in Rio de Janeiro.Additionally, there are only a small number of luxury local brands in Rio de Janeiro t hat are receptive of competing with Four Seasons. In many regards, Brazil remains a relatively untapped market, though a number of international brands have recently begun eyeing the market, including Hilton. With the increased opportunity in Brazil, now more than ever may be a great time to enter the young market, armed with the experience intentional through other brands ventures. 1 MAJOR COMPETITORS 1 PESTANA HOTELS AND RESORTS (PORTUGAL) Pestana is Portugals largest tourism and leisure group, operating 41 hotels across 3 continents in countries with former compound ties to Portugal (Pestana, n. d. ).Pestana entered Brazil via Rio de Janeiro in 1999 with a local partner, Renato Albuquerque Group (Grupo da Madeira investe US$25 milhoes no Brasil, 1999). Rather than building a new establishment, the company acquired the Carlton Rio Atlantica hotel, modernized the establishment, and added a new business center to attract business travelers (Grupo Pestana lanca cartao no Rio, 2001) . Since 1999, Pestana has been heavily investing in Brazil and considers Rio de Janeiro a focal point for the company (Grupo Pestana lanca cartao no Rio, 2001). By 2001, Brazil accounted for 20% of Pestanas hotel business (Grupo Pestana reforca atuacao no Pais, 2001). By 2004, the company had opened 6 hotels across Brazil with the stated final stage of opening 10 more hotels within the next 10 years.The companys significant investment in the market $110 million by 2004 has brought increased legitimacy and credibility to the Brazilian market as an opportunity for luxury and business travel, according to Francisco Rabelo, financing director for Bank of Northeastern Brazil. This significant growth has been fueled by the companys success in the country the company has achieved an average annual return of 31% on its investments and the country is already its best performing territory in Pestanas portfolio. The Director of the Finance and Investment Promotion Department of Brazils Tour ism Ministry said the group was one of the largest hotel groups in Brazil by 2005 the company was expected to have 400,000 room-nights in the country, more than any other hotel chain (Renata, 2006).One of Pestanas most palpable assets is its intimate understanding of Lusitanian culture, being a Portuguese company. Brazils cultural and colonial ties to Portugal make the Brazilian market a particularly attractive market for Pestana, and as the companys exceptional returns have present, Pestana is taking full advantage of its country-of-origin effects. With the companys high knowledge of local culture and Brazils cultural similarity to Portugal, the company is able to keep the services within Brazil appear as very localized without adapting its standardized services much. This is a trend Pestana has demonstrated in the past, as it only enters markets with cultural ties to its home market (Pestana, n. d. ).In this sense, Pestana can maintain a relatively standardized offering while appearing to be adapting to the local context. This intimate knowledge of Brazilian culture will be rewarding, as other multinationals dont have access to or credibility with local culture. another(prenominal) unique advantage that Pestana has is its ability to build pousadas within Brazil. Pousadas are boutique, luxury hotels that encapsulate Portuguese culture. Until 2003, the Portuguese government was responsible for developing and managing the hotels. Pestana bought the sole rights to building pousadas from the Portuguese government in 2003, though the government maintains highly involved in overseeing each new pousada to ensure it meets minimum standards (Pousadas de Portugal, n. d. ).Pestana has expressed interest in bringing these unique products to Brazil and completed the construction of one in 1999. The company plans on expanding its offerings in the coming years in tandem with its commitment to building 10 hotels in the coming 10 years (Renata, 2006). These hotels automa tically connect with locals and foreigners abroad who want an authentic experience in Brazil. No other hotel chain can emulate these boutique hotels even localizing a hotel as much as practicable wont replicate a pousada as it wont have the unique stamp by the Portuguese government. Moreover, pousadas are often located in historic buildings, making them even more of an attractive destination (Pousadas de Portugal, n. d. ).Pousadas have the possibility of attracting travelers interested in an authentic experience without the risk of traveling to an unknown hotel. Travelers can experience luxurious accommodations and proven service in the local context of pure and authentic Portuguese culture, service and food. In fact, Brazils Minister of Tourism has said that pousads will attract a higher class of tourists who are willing to pay additional gold for the unique experience (Renata, 2006). Another strength Pestana has demonstrated is its ability to connect with locals and operate eff iciently within the local political and economic environment. Across Brazil, Pestana has demonstrated a tendency to enter cities by acquiring local hotels, as it did in Rio de Janeiro and Natal.This ensures that the hotels Pestana operates have a distinctly local flair and enable the company to penetrate the market quicker, avoiding lengthy construction times. The company also enters local markets with local partners, though it uses different partners in different cities. This willingness to share ownership gives the company powerful local allies and gives the company legitimacy among locals. These are important strengths, as many other multinationals are less successful at navigating Brazils complicated and corrupt government. Moreover, entering a market with a local partner shifts risk and offers the company invaluable local knowledge.A possible weakness the group has is its organizational structure. The group maintains an International Division Organization structure. While Pesta na only operates in markets based on the Portuguese culture, countries with similar histories still vary greatly in terms of market power, government regulation and destination type. By clumping all international destinations under one group, the company may fail to fully take advantage of each market or understand each market. The companys lack of resources committed solely to Brazil may enable competitors to build a structure that is more flexible and responsive to trends and changes within the Brazilian market.Further, as the company begins expanding outside Brazil into other South American countries, the company may continue to dilute its attention to Brazil, thereby rendering many of its potential strengths as much less poignant. A final weakness of the company is its intense focus on growth. Between its 10 hotels in 10 years policy in Brazil, and its overarching 30 hotels in 30 years policy, Pestana may begin to focus on quantity above quality. While the companys unique produc ts and intimate knowledge of Portuguese culture may attract luxury travelers at first, maintaining the high quality and service standards demanded by the business traveler and luxury leisure traveler may to be difficult amidst such an emphasis on growth.Finally, as the number of hotels owned by Pestana surges, the company may saturate the market and devalue the impertinence of its brand. The hotels may become less alluring and less of a destination as they become ubiquitous and commonplace. 2 STARWOOD HOTELS & RESORTS (UNITED STATES) AND GOLDEN TULIP HOSPITALITY (SWITZERLAND) Starwood is one of the worlds largest and most geographically diverse hotel and leisure companies. The company is primarily a hotel management corporation, responsible for luxury brands The Luxury Collection, Regis, W and Le Meridien and other midrange brands Westin, Sheraton and Element (Starwood Hotels & Resorts). Until recently, the companys sole exposure to Rio de Janeiro was its three Sheraton hotels, two of which lacked a spa.While the hotels have meeting faculties, the hotels dont appear in trade magazines as specifically targeting the business community. As such, these three hotels are not considered to be in direct competition to the Four Seasons because they do not focus on any of our target markets. On June 12, 2009, Starwood acquired Golden Tulip Hospitality, a global hospitality company with a strong focus on the corporate traveler. Tulip manages three hotel chains, including the upscale Golden Tulip, which focuses on business travelers, and the luxurious Royal Tulip, which focuses on leisure travelers (Golden Tulip Hospitality). Tulip has one property in Rio de Janeiro, the Golden Tulip Ipanema Plaza.The property has a spa and complete business center. The hotels focus on corporate travel finally endorses Starwood as a viable competitor in the Rio de Janeiro market. Tulip is a unique hotel insomuch as it relies on international standards of service, yet has been relatively successful at integrating local flavors into its brand. The company advertises its local touches through its publicize campaign, International standards, local flavors. Tulips worldwide presence also lends it strong appeal and acceptance worldwide, especially among the luxury and business traveler. This is, in part, due to its global standards of service that international travelers have come to know and rely on.Tulips ability to incorporate local culture into a standardized brand is a powerful competitive advantage. Maintaining standard levels of service is important to the international traveler, as it assures him/her what to expect when traveling and builds brand blondness. However, by maintaining these standards and adding local culture into each property, Tulip finds a middle ground between standardization and adaptation. This is a strategy that enables the company to remain flexible to local demands and local clients, but also cater to international travelers. One strength of the Starwoods acquisition of Tulip is Tulips acceptance among the international elite group.Until the acquisition, Starwoods two luxury brands St. Regis and the Luxury Collection did not have properties in Brazil. This acquisition gives Starwood immediate penetration into Rio with a familiar and proven portfolio of properties. With Starwoods and Tulips combined international experience, the group can effectively begin targeting the elite traveler more vigorously. Co-branding opportunities and brand extension opportunities also exist, as both hotel companies have more luxurious brands they could deploy in Rio de Janeiro if the Golden Tulip proves successful. Moreover, Starwoods large reserve of loyal guests gives the combined company an automatic target market from which to draw.A final strength of the merger is Starwoods and Tulips global footprint and established luxury brands lend it credence among the international elite. The companys brand equity is an important strategic asset that can be used to connect with world travelers and attract them to their properties in Brazil. Starwoods skill at managing a portfolio of multiple brands is important, as Tulip becomes another brand that Starwood can leverage, advertise and use to attract travelers. One potential weakness of the merger is the possibility that incongruous corporate cultures may stymie the companies ability to synergize strengths and build a comprehensive network.As with any merger, it takes time to fully integrate a new company into an existing company, and Starwood must be able to keep Tulips corporate culture in tact if it hopes to reap the benefits of the companys strengths. If Starwood tries to change or adapt Tulip too much, it will lose Tulips connections with the business traveler and the companys unique ability to combine international standards with local adaptation. Starwood must focus on maintaining Tulips brand identity and equity, while simultaneously merging the company into it s portfolio to fully realize a competitive advantage. Another possible weakness is Starwoods confine exposure to the Brazilian market, especially Rio de Janeiros luxury market.While Tulip has been in Brazil for some time, and both companies have experience in the luxury segment, Starwood is less familiar with the luxury hotel segment in Brazil than some of its existing competitors. This lack of experience could prove to be harmful if Starwood is not careful in executing operations, especially since the Brazilian market has proven to be difficult for international brands to tap. Starwood and Tulip both lack a positive country-of-origin effect, as the Brazilian market has proven to be fiercely loyal to local and Portuguese brands. Assuming that the namesake of its hotels will make the company successful could prove to be an unsuccessful route for the company to head. MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL (UNITED STATES) Marriott is one of the worlds largest lodging companies with over 3,000 hotels spread across 67 countries. Marriott primarily franchises under an array of brands, including the luxurious J. W. Marriott and Ritz Carlton and other full-service and other mid-tier hotels (Marriott). Marriott entered Rio de Janeiro in 2001, focusing its efforts on attracting luxury business travelers to respond to the countrys bourgeoning market (Hotels check into Brazil). The opening of the J. W. Marriott in 2001 marked the citys first new five-star resort in over 12 years (A new Rio de Janeiro Marriott Hotel, 2001). The J. W.Marriott is one of Brazils two multinational hotels on Travel + Leisures Worlds beaver Hotels 2010 list, a comprehensive listing on the worlds 500 best hotels (T+L 500 Worlds Best Hotels 2010, n. d. ). The hotel offers a full-service spa, executive floor, complete business facilities and banquet halls and on-site restaurants. Before opening the hotel, Marriott sold off its stake in the hotel with the help of a local consulting firm. However, the acquisition of land along with the initial costs and design were all sponsored by Marriott without the specific help of locals. Marriott retained control over management of the hotel (Rede Marriott e Odebrecht colocam hotel carioca a venda).Marriott is the largest and most recognized multinational brand currently in Brazil. The J. W. Marriott brand, in particular, has resonance with our target markets, especially luxury travelers, as demonstrated by its placement on the Travel + Leisure rankings. This is a powerful asset, as the combination of brand equity, name recognition and recognized quality may connect with luxury world travelers. Moreover, the companys worldwide presence and name recognition may also resonate with business travelers who are already familiar with the brand and trust the hotel to be a quality establishment. A major weakness the hotel faces also stems from its name. Like other multinational chains discussed, Brazilians prefer local hotels.The negative country-of-origin effe cts have hurt Marriott, as US flags are not necessarily familiar locally since Brazilians exposure to these brands is significantly more limited and Brazilians tend to be attracted to local brands. This is a weakness the company faces when targeting local visitors and businesses, another target market that the Four Seasons is hoping to target. Another weakness Marriott faces is its lack of local partnerships. When entering the market, Marriott did not search for a partner. This is in stark contrast to other successful chains, especially since Marriott lacks experience in the Brazilian market overall. According to the CEO In order to move forward, we will need to find common ground with the Brazilian business model and probably take some equity positions in some of the developments to gain market knowledge and brand acknowledgement.A second option is to enter with our existing relationships through local partners to implement our manage-franchise business model (ONeill & Chao, 2008). Coming from a country with significantly different normative business practices and limited exposure to Brazilian culture despite its significant international presence has proven a difficult obstacle for Marriott. This is an important weakness to consider for all multinational companies, especially those unfamiliar with the Brazilian marketplace. A final weakness Marriott faces is its pricing structure, which is higher than many of its competitors. While the hotel has higher rankings than other multinationals, if the benefits of the brand are not properly communicated, the hotel may seem overpriced.Moreover, if the hotel does not distinguish itself as luxurious, the company may face problems persuading international travelers to choose an American hotel chain over a more localized chain. 4 COPACABANA castle BY ORIENT-EXPRESS HOTELS (BERMUDA) The Copacabana rook is a historic, luxury hotel built in 1923. It is considered by many around the world as the place to stay in Rio (Doy le, 2009). The Copacabana rook is one of three hotels on Travel + Leisures Worlds Best Hotels 2010 list located in Brazil (T+L 500 Worlds Best Hotels 2010, n. d. ). Additionally, the hotel is a member of the 5 Star Alliance, an online travel agency that partners with the worlds most luxurious hotels.Owned by the Guinle family of Rio de Janiero until 1989, the hotel is now owned by Orient-Express (Five Star Alliance, n. d. ). Orient-Express purchases individual luxury hotels across the globe. The company does not advertise itself as a chain, rather positioning each property individually. Properties are managed locally every hotelhas its own name and personality (Orient-Express, n. d. ). Following its purchase, Orient-Express renovated the hotel, outfitting the fifth floor as an executive business center to focus on business travelers. The hotel includes meeting facilities and banquet facilities, all aimed at business travelers needs (Five Star Alliance, n. d. ).The hotel also focuse s significantly on elite travelers, as its reputation for service and quality attract politicians, royalty and actors. The hotel has a complete spa and two restaurants, neither of which serves Brazilian cuisine (Five Star Alliance, n. d. ). An important advantage the Copacabana Palace has is its legacy and long-term association with Brazil. From its beginnings, the company has been intertwined into local culture. The owners were local and today, Orient-Express continues to manage the hotel as an independent property. Many view the hotel as the nations superior local option, and foreigners who want an authentic experience may opt to stay at the Copacabana Palace over other multinational chains.The hotels brand equity is particularly strong, as it is a clear favorite among elite travelers. The companys increased focus on business travelers further expands the hotels brand equity and product scope. Another strength the Copacabana Palace is its long history in Rio de Janeiro. The compa nys experiences in Rio de Janeiro give it a level of knowledge foreign multinationals cant match. Moreover, the companys success in Rio de Janeiro reflects its ability to work within the countrys legal and political structure. As investment increases in Rio de Janeiro and new multinational chains enter the market, Copacabanas deep understanding of local cultures and the regulatory environment will be exponentially more valuable.While the company is known to Brazilians and the well-traveled elite, a lack of a true multinational brand name may stymie some elite travelers. Not only does the company lack a network of brand loyal patrons, the lack of an internationally recognized brand name may make some travelers hesitant. Additionally, the hotels high price may make other, more familiar options more appealing to travelers, who are sure of the level of quality to expect. 5 FASANO HOTELS (BRAZIL) Fasano is one of the few remaining local competitors yet to be acquired. The company was est ablished in 1982 as a world-class restaurant the company remains recognized for its culinary achievements.The restaurant pioneered the gastronomic movement in Brazil and continues to uphold its elegant blend of contemporary and traditional Brazilian cuisine. In 2003, Fasano opened its first hotel in Sao Paulo. In the same year, Fasano became a member of the Leading Small Hotels of the World (Five-Star Alliance) and was ranked as one of the worlds 50 best hotels in Travel + Leisure (Fasano, 2010). Fasano opened a hotel in Rio de Janeiro in 2007 amid great hype and reviews, eclipsing the fabled Copacabana Palace as the top play den for Brazils rich and famous (Beehner). From its foundation to the finishing touches, Fasano is a local competitor. This is a significant strength the hotel has, as its numerous restaurants all share the spirit of Fasanos famed culinary expertise.The hotel is designed in Bossa Nova-chic style and Brazilian touches compliment every aspect of the hotel. More t han any competitor, Fasano remains a localized and focused hotelier, and has limited experience outside the growing Brazilian market. Fasano is a travelers only real option, when he/she wants to stay at a local, luxury resort. Every other luxury boutique hotel has been acquired or is at a different tier of service than Four Seasons. Another strength Fasano has is its long-term, strategic partnership with real-estate developer JHSF. This has given Fasano access to the Brazilian market and enabled the company to take less risky positions in its hotels as JHSF has a 50. 1% stake in the hotel.This also frees up capital for other ventures, as the company is currently building additional properties in Brazil and Uruguay. A possible weakness of Fasano is its lack of experience managing hotels and meeting the expectations of guests, especially foreigners. As Brazils most expensive hotel, the elite guests who frequent Fasano have incredibly high expectations. While multinationals have experi ences with such clientele, Fasano does not have the same expertise in dealing with this segment and may be overextending its existing resources in an undertake to compete with world-class contenders. Indeed, excitement over the hotel has faded since its opening in 2007 and the company continues to charge a significant premium over every other Brazilian hotel.Another weakness is the companys

Behavioral Influences on Health

It can be argued that various behavioural, mental, socioethnical and lifestyle factors argon connect to the various causes of homosexual mortality. Rationally, the root causes of various diseases that cause kind death be associated with these factors. Therefore, we can argue on the point of view on how these factors are link up to human wellness and the spread of various diseases that ultimately causes mortality.At one level, behavioral human factors can be argued as the characteristic phenomena of behavioral conceptions that may ternion to nail downing diseases. In this respect, human behavior could be argued in terms the relationship with the peer groups, morality, sexual behavior, attitudes towards oneself, virtues and moral obligations. Various ill-behavioral conceptions and tendencies kick in been know to act as the root cause of various diseases.For example, peer pressure may result to deviance, alcoholism, smoking and other conceptions (Joseph, 2005) From the implicat ions of these behaviors therefore, various diseases much(prenominal) as diabetes, cancer, and other internal disorders and ailments that are strong causatives of human mortality tend to occur. The strength and the models of a mortalal behavior can therefore determine the proneness with which he/she can contract certain slayer diseases and ailments at the expense of other behavioral patterns.The levels of morality which is shaped by the behavioral models can be a factor towards which killer diseases like HIV-AIDs and other sexually transmitted diseases and ailments that are vulnerable in causing mortality can be transmitted. mental factors are the human related factors that shape and determine the standards of ones health. Various studies in health psychology have depicted a close relationship in the midst of the cognition, personality, perception, interpersonal relationships and personal emotions towards human health related issues.Various psychological disorders that arise a s a result of disruption in the psychological context of a person have been known to cause mortality. The principal researches done on both clinical and health psychology has revealed various diseases that are psychologically related and which are of nifty stir to human health. The human psychological development is a complex autonomy that is attributed to both the mental and the cognitive personality.Various attributes are of great impact to the psychological provisions of a person that causes disability in the functional layout of ones psychological dispensation. Research studies have shown that the rate of mortality as a result of psychological disorders is increasingly becoming more (Benjamin, 2003) Sociocultural factors fix to the morphologic factors within the family footage or the society which shapes and determines the contexts of a persons health. These structural settings dictate the functionality, reply and behavior of a person within such a social context.Within the family setting, various health related factors may arise such as level of dietary, physical health, family pressure, and various influences such as the level of education, income, and living standards. Either, various cultural parameters may shape the nature of human health. These embarrass cultural integration, family relations, cultural stereotypes and other factors. The nature of the sociocultural attributes has been of great influence in shaping the contexts of human health and possibilities of contracting diseases that cause death (Ann, 1998)Lifestyles refer to the modalities of persons way of life. It is set by various factors such as level of education, family backgrounds, level of income, cultural factors and other. Generally, the nature of a persons or families lifestyles may be attributes towards contracting diseases, the ability of seeking medical attention and the vulnerability of achieving control and preventive measures. Consequently, a persons health is determined p referential by the standards and levels of his/her lifestyles. (James, Simon, 2006)Behavioral Influences on HealthIt can be argued that various behavioral, psychological, sociocultural and lifestyle factors are related to the various causes of human mortality. Rationally, the root causes of various diseases that cause human death are associated with these factors. Therefore, we can argue on the point of view on how these factors are related to human health and the spread of various diseases that ultimately causes mortality. At one level, behavioral human factors can be argued as the characteristic phenomena of behavioral conceptions that may lead to contracting diseases.In this respect, human behavior could be argued in terms the relationship with the peer groups, morality, sexual behavior, attitudes towards oneself, virtues and moral obligations. Various ill-behavioral conceptions and tendencies have been known to act as the root cause of various diseases. For example, peer pressur e may result to deviance, alcoholism, smoking and other conceptions (Joseph, 2005) From the implications of these behaviors therefore, various diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and other internal disorders and ailments that are strong causatives of human mortality tend to occur.The strength and the models of a personal behavior can therefore determine the propensity with which he/she can contract certain killer diseases and ailments at the expense of other behavioral patterns. The levels of morality which is shaped by the behavioral models can be a factor towards which killer diseases like HIV-AIDs and other sexually transmitted diseases and ailments that are vulnerable in causing mortality can be transmitted. Psychological factors are the human related factors that shape and determine the standards of ones health.Various studies in health psychology have depicted a close relationship between the cognition, personality, perception, interpersonal relationships and personal emotions towards human health related issues. Various psychological disorders that arise as a result of disruption in the psychological context of a person have been known to cause mortality. The principal researches done on both clinical and health psychology has revealed various diseases that are psychologically related and which are of great impact to human health.The human psychological development is a complex autonomy that is attributed to both the mental and the cognitive personality. Various attributes are of great impact to the psychological provisions of a person that causes disability in the functional layout of ones psychological dispensation. Research studies have shown that the rate of mortality as a result of psychological disorders is increasingly becoming more (Benjamin, 2003) Sociocultural factors refer to the structural factors within the family footage or the society which shapes and determines the contexts of a persons health.These structural settings dictate the functio nality, response and behavior of a person within such a social context. Within the family setting, various health related factors may arise such as level of dietary, physical health, family pressure, and various influences such as the level of education, income, and living standards. Either, various cultural parameters may shape the nature of human health. These include cultural integration, family relations, cultural stereotypes and other factors.The nature of the sociocultural attributes has been of great influence in shaping the contexts of human health and possibilities of contracting diseases that cause death (Ann, 1998) Lifestyles refer to the modalities of persons way of life. It is determined by various factors such as level of education, family backgrounds, level of income, cultural factors and other. Generally, the nature of a persons or families lifestyles may be attributes towards contracting diseases, the ability of seeking medical attention and the vulnerability of ach ieving control and preventive measures.Consequently, a persons health is determined preferential by the standards and levels of his/her lifestyles. (James, Simon, 2006) Reference Ann, F. (1998). Human Health and Diseases. New York, Heinemann Benjamin. G. C. (2003) Reducing unhealthy Behaviors Where do we start? American journal f public health, Vol. 93 James, R & Simon, G (2006) What is Human Health. London, Routledge Joseph, k (2005) Social Inequalities towards Human Health, Journal of Pediatrics,