As meeting and event budgets look set to grow in 2025, with 90% of event planners feeling positive about the current state of the events industry, destinations will be competing for a share of this optimism and business. Yet what makes a good destination great for events?
A city’s ability to attract and retain meetings and events professionals is dependent on infrastructure, accessibility and overall experience – because a great holiday spot doesn’t always make for a great business destination. So, when deciding where you should hold your next international event, take these 10 factors into account:
1. SAFETY
You want to ensure your group can travel with confidence, knowing they’re in a safe environment. That means a destination with well-lit streets, a good police presence, reliable public transportation, easily accessible emergency services and proximity to amenities such as restaurants, hotels and hospitals.
In addition, awareness of cybersecurity is essential. Attendees need to feel confident their personal and business data is protected while travelling.
2. BUDGET
While event managers can certainly accommodate budgetary constraints, destinations that offer group rates, tax incentives and flexible pricing will be more attractive.
3. INFRASTRUCTURE
The destination should have the infrastructure to support meetings and events, including adequate accommodation facilities; multi-functional event spaces with the requisite technology; a range of restaurants and/or catering to suit dietary requirements; and additional activities for accompanying spouses or family members.
4. TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS
Consider whether there are travel restrictions or visa requirements in place for the destination, particularly if your group includes delegates from several countries that may have varying conditions for visa applications.
5. EASE OF ACCESS
The location should be easy to reach by air, road and/or rail. You want your group to enjoy their journey as much as they do the event itself. Also consider whether networking after the event is required and if there are suitable venues nearby.
6. WEATHER
You’ll need to choose a destination at the right time of year, to avoid your meeting being disrupted by extreme weather conditions.
7. STAFFING
A skilled workforce is essential for a seamless event experience. Destinations with experienced staff, professional event managers and local teams will provide a better service and ensure a successful event.
8. TECHNOLOGY
Having the right tech means more than having access to the right equipment. You’ll also need reliable Wi-Fi, smart event apps and other technologies that allow attendees to stay in touch with others before, during and after the event.
9. SUSTAINABILITY
Choosing destinations that allow you to keep sustainability at the forefront of objectives will ensure your event’s carbon footprint remains lower. Consider your travel options to your chosen destination and explore what sustainable approaches the venues you plan to book have in place. That way, you can ensure they align with your own corporate ESG policies and keep your environmental impact to a minimum.
10. ENTERTAINMENTThe best destinations are those where there’s plenty to do and see. Local traditions and festivals are a great way to add a unique touch to events. And consider the cultural aspects of your destination and evaluate how they align with your event and group’s interests.
A FEW MORE TIPS FOR SEAMLESS EVENT MANAGEMENT…
Reed & Mackay Senior Director Meetings and Events Mandy Warwick highlights:
- Ensure you have the necessary technology, such as real-time attendance tracking and event scheduling software, for all meetings and events.
- Make sure you have a back-up plan in place for any unexpected incidents that may occur.
- Work with people that you can trust – they can be the difference between success and failure.
- Keep organised and use the right tools to facilitate communication.
Mail hellouae@reedmackay.com to discuss all your corporate travel and event management needs.
