Global DMC Partners (GDP), the largest global network of independent DMCs and specialized event service providers, unveiled its 2024 Global Destination Index, highlighting the most-popular meeting and incentive destinations around the world.
Cities are selected based on leads and RFPs received for programs happening in 2024 across GDP’s worldwide DMC partners.
The top 10 MICE destinations for 2024 ranked as follows:
Top 10 U.S. MICE Destinations:
- Chicago
- Washington, D.C.
- New York
- Las Vegas
- Nashville
- Dallas
- Miami
- Orlando
- Austin, TX
- San Diego
The Top 10 International MICE Destinations:
- Paris
- Barcelona
- Amsterdam
- London
- Lisbon
- Athens
- Madrid
- Vienna
- Rome
- Berlin
“It’s interesting to see the new destinations that have made this year’s list, as well as the changing order in popularity of the top 10, particularly as our industry is a great indicator of the world’s economic strength and where the most business is being done,” said Global DMC Partners President and CEO Catherine Chaulet. “We’ve also seen an increased interest in secondary destinations with an uptick in leads for 2024 or 2025, as compared to prior years.”
Some top secondary destinations include Japan, Hawaiʻi, Costa Rica, Saint Lucia, Emilia-Romagna Region in Italy (Bologna, Parma and Modena), Greek Islands (including Corgu, Aegina and Milos), and Midwestern U.S. cities such as Minneapolis, Kansas City and Louisville.
“Our partners are sharing insights with us about the popularity of the French Riviera; for example, groups can land in Nice and within half an hour be in Monaco on one side and in Cannes on the other side,” Chaulet added. “These three key cities offer great event infrastructure and amazing hotels, surrounded by picture-perfect villages, boutique hotels and vineyards.”
Chaulet singled out Spain as a rising incentive travel destination.
“A partner in Spain shared the increased interest they’ve seen in cities such as Málaga, Sevilla and Valencia. With seasonal daily direct flights from New York, and the opening of stylish four- and five-star hotels in its charming city center, Málaga has risen to the top of the rankings for hosting small to medium-sized groups in Spain,” Chaulet said.
“As the Green European Capital 2024, Valencia is gaining recognition for its excellent value and versatility as an event destination, with competitively priced hotels and unique venues,” Chaulet continued. “And last, but not least, Sevilla stands out as one of Spain's premier MICE destinations for 2024, blending traditional charm with cutting-edge venues, ideal for events of any size, particularly large congresses and conferences.”
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