04 Sep 09 Destinations for 2010

The April “Meetings and Conventions” Perfection in Planning supplement took an in-depth look at where planners were looking for their overseas destinations in 2010. Europe took the lead, with a whopping 51%. Canada and Mexico took second place with 38%. It’s the third in a row Europe was solidly in first place.

In some ways this is a stamp of approval for those of you who are looking at European destinations for your offshore meeting plans. However, it is also a call to action for those of you who have clients trying to save money.

Canada and Mexico, at second place, may be poised to provide better prices and service. Mexico has suffered recently from h1n1 flu scare as well as crime waves, but there are destinations that are perfectly safe–and the flu has moved out of Mexico for greener pastures (the U.S., for one).

Asia came in third, and yet offers beautiful scenery and top notch service in many destinations, including Vietnam. The Caribbean and Bermuda are tropical and laid back, and offer relaxing seaside destinations.

Africa, the Middle East, and other destinations that came in close to last also may be better choices, depending on your client’s needs. The bottom line is that you can save money and offer beautiful and interesting destinations at the same time. A little research can help you a lot, so don’t be afraid to put in a little time and stock up on alternative meeting targets.

Tags: Beautiful Scenery, Bermuda, Bottom Line, Caribbean, Choices, Conventions, Crime Waves, European Destinations, Flu, Greener Pastures, Laid Back, Little Time, Notch Service, Overseas Destinations, Planners, Scare, Seaside Destinations, Stamp Of Approval, Targets, Vietnam