VANCOUVER -- Vancouver's Convention & Exhibition Centre is the first repeat winner of an award for "World's Best Convention Centre." It won the same award in 2002. "I congratulate the convention centre on its success in this global marketplace. With an expanded facility opening in spring 2009, even more delegates will be able to attend larger conventions in a showcase facility," said Bill Bennett, Minister of Tourism, Culture and the Arts. The International Association of Congress Centres (AIPC) announced the award earlier this month at its annual conference in Singapore. It's based on survey responses by customers about their experiences in convention centres around the world, including initial sales contacts, event management, customer relations, technology, food and beverage and the building facility itself. Vancouver's convention centre expansion -- now under constructions will triple the size of the facility.

© The Vancouver Sun 2008