The experience economy is in full effect. New countries are opening up to international events trade, there’s a buzz around innovation and event technology, and the meetings and events industry is looking forward to impressive growth in 2019 (Look out for the 2019 Meetings and Events Future Trends report coming out in September). But with so many destinations to choose from how do you find the perfect spot? We’re sharing some insider tips on three destination hot spots for 2019. What are you waiting for? It’s time to get planning!
- Punta Cana
The Dominican Republic’s Punta Cana coastline has a beach that stretches for 32 glorious kilometers with the best-connected Caribbean airport, just a 30-minute drive away. Visitors can choose from 36,000 hotel rooms at sun-soaked resorts like Paradisus Punta Cana Resort and Paradisus Palma Real Golf and Spa, both fully geared with world-class conference facilities.
- Berlin
While many know Berlin as the hipster capital of the world, it’s fast becoming a must-visit destination for business travel and events. Offering state-of-the-art facilities, world-class dining and entertainment, and an unmistakable creative energy, the rough diamond of Germany is now attracting a new kind of traveler. Look around the city, and you’ll see the newly-instated head offices of corporate and investment companies, and slick tech start-ups interspersed with independent cafes and gritty street art.
If you want more of a Berliner style experience, hop on a Segway or into a mini hot rod. There is something for everyone. For art lovers, Berlin is where you can find some of the most eccentric graffiti painted on the sides of buildings like the East Side Gallery as well as hundreds of galleries and museums.
- Banff
A Canadian resort town known for its mountainous surroundings and clean, crisp air, nothing will motivate attendees more than a view out of a meeting room in Banff. Gather around an open fire or dip into the natural hot springs, a great way to get warm and for colleagues to get to know one another, whilst overlooking the glacial mountains – how surreal!
Turn that annual meeting or project get-together into an eye-opening experience. It’s the ideal balance of boutique-hopping along Banff Avenue and wild walks through the emerald forests of Banff National Park, created in 1885 and ranging over 6600 square km. Most delegates know the usual venues set aside but take their expectations to a whole new level by visiting Banff.