{"id":26381,"date":"2025-03-13T11:25:54","date_gmt":"2025-03-13T11:25:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/reedmackay.com\/what-makes-a-good-destination-great-for-meetings"},"modified":"2025-12-12T16:50:11","modified_gmt":"2025-12-12T16:50:11","slug":"what-makes-a-good-destination-great-for-events","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/reedmackay.com\/us\/what-makes-a-good-destination-great-for-events","title":{"rendered":"What makes a good destination great for events?"},"content":{"rendered":"

As meeting and event budgets look set to grow in 2025<\/a>, 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?<\/p>\n

A city\u2019s ability to attract and retain meetings and events professionals is dependent on infrastructure, accessibility and overall experience \u2013 because a great holiday spot doesn\u2019t always make for a great business destination. So, when deciding where you should hold your next international event, take these 10 factors into account:<\/p>\n

1. SAFETY<\/h2>\n

You want to ensure your group can travel with confidence, knowing they\u2019re 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.<\/p>\n

In addition, awareness of cybersecurity is essential. Attendees need to feel confident their personal and business data is protected while travelling.<\/a><\/p>\n

2. BUDGET<\/h2>\n

While event managers can certainly accommodate budgetary constraints, destinations that offer group rates, tax incentives and flexible pricing will be more attractive.<\/p>\n

3. INFRASTRUCTURE<\/h2>\n

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.<\/p>\n

4. TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS<\/h2>\n

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.<\/p>\n

5.\u00a0EASE OF ACCESS<\/strong><\/h2>\n

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.<\/p>\n

6.\u00a0WEATHER<\/strong><\/h2>\n

You\u2019ll need to choose a destination at the right time of year, to avoid your meeting being disrupted by extreme weather conditions.<\/p>\n

7. STAFFING<\/strong><\/h2>\n

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.<\/p>\n

8.\u00a0TECHNOLOGY<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Having the right tech means more than having access to the right equipment. You\u2019ll 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.<\/p>\n

9. SUSTAINABILITY<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Choosing destinations that allow you to keep sustainability at the forefront of objectives will ensure your event\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n

\"\"10. ENTERTAINMENT<\/strong><\/figure>\n

The best destinations are those where there\u2019s 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\u2019s interests.<\/strong><\/p>\n

A FEW MORE TIPS FOR SEAMLESS EVENT MANAGEMENT<\/strong>\u2026<\/h3>\n

Reed & Mackay Senior Director Meetings and Events Mandy Warwick highlights:<\/p>\n