Long Haul Meetings are on the Rise

After several years of meeting planners tending to arrange events close to home, there is a trend afoot for meetings to be held in more long haul destinations. In the past, concerns about budget and perceptions have led meeting planners to use nearby destinations, but improvements in the economy have allowed planners to consider creating meeting events further away from home.

“Holding meetings offshore can enhance return on investment, so it’s a positive shift,” said Mark Sergot, vice president, global sales, for Fairmont Hotels & Resorts. “Whether it’s bringing together colleagues spread over the globe for a strategy rollout or rewarding top team members, face-to-face interactions in a new setting definitely yield results worth taking home.”

“When planners expand their horizons to include destinations like China, Africa, Hawaii or Europe, they can create an environment that brings people together and draws the best out of them.” Fairmont reports that they have seen increased interest in destinations such as Hawaii, Europe, Kenya and United Arab Emirates.

To discuss potential destinations that will enhance your next meeting, contact Covington Meetings & Events or call 888-747-4197.

Source: Harvey Chipkin by travelmarketreport.com, 3.22.12