12/06/2019
Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa completed the renovation of its Indian Wells Conference Center. The project is part of the ongoing $21 million property-wide transformation. The conference center features 27,000 square feet of indoor function space and two outdoor terraces and is situated on 45 acres of landscape in the heart of the Coachella Valley.
12/06/2019
Accor announced the opening of Sofitel Mexico City Reforma on Paseo de la Reforma in the capital city. The hotel features 275 guest rooms, two dining experiences and three bars, a Sofitel Spa with L'Occitane, fitness center and indoor pool as well as more than 7,000 square feet of meetings and events space.
12/06/2019
Meetings industry veterans provide ways to keep knowledge and history in organizations and in the industry. They discuss how to retain talent as well as to identify new talent to mentor and nurture.
12/06/2019
When people retire—or reach a certain age and still working—the industry forgets to ask for input about who we were and what that means now.
12/06/2019
The tourism promotion effort of Buffalo, New York, carries the tagline “Unexpected Buffalo,” and during a recent trip to the northern Empire State city, Meetings Today got a taste of how the destination may surprise attendees with its eye-opening offerings. Read more.
12/05/2019
Meetings Today's Tyler Davidson describes the impact Patti Shock has had on the meetings industry, through the eyes of the people she's impacted, including Joan Eisentsodt, Tyra Warner, MaryAnne Bobrow, Dan Cormany and Dan Parks. Also, our Top 10 stories of 2019 and a podcast from Australia's Dreamtime 2019.
12/04/2019
The foundation for staying focused begins with what goes into your body, especially when you’re in an unfamiliar environment. Meeting planners are reevaluating menu options and schedules to avoid that autopilot mindset. Read more.
12/04/2019
Groups traveling to North Carolina’s Triad Region of Winston-Salem, Greensboro and High Point can avail themselves of many teambuilding options, from action-packed activities at a palatial former private estate to escape rooms, ropes courses and paintball tournaments. Read more.
12/04/2019
From meeting with astronauts and among rockets to networking at the Daytona International Speedway, there are a wealth of unique venues along Florida’s Space Coast and in Daytona Beach. Read more.
12/03/2019
Lead Destinations Content Strategist Danielle LeBreck sits down with Tourism Australia's Penny Lion during Dreamtime 2019 in Perth, Australia, to chat about how Australian destinations can help you plan one-of-a-kind incentive trips.
12/03/2019
Museums, public murals and arts festivals are just some of the many ways groups can experience the thriving arts scene in Kansas City. Read for six inspiring art experiences for groups convening in the city.
12/03/2019
From inspiring women leaders to contract checklists and new tech so wacky it’s genius, here are the Meetings Today articles you could not stop reading in 2019.
12/02/2019
Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort reopened after undergoing a $40 million renovation. Managed by Aimbridge Hospitality, the 336-room hotel is positioned on six acres of oceanfront real estate overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
12/02/2019
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa is undergoing a multimillion-dollar renovation to its guest rooms. The revamped accommodations will feature authentic Hawaiian touches with a modern twist that will allow guests to connect with Maui’s vibrant culture. The property is on 40 acres along Kaanapali Beach in Lahaina and the redesign is inspired by the heritage and authentic spirit of this location.
12/02/2019
Groups can partner with the Clearwater Marine Aquarium for CSR activities, event space, tours and more when meeting in Clearwater Beach, Florida. Read more.
12/02/2019
Behind meetings momentum and increasing product diversification in 2019, Atlantic City is more equipped than ever to host meeting and event groups. Read more about the destination’s strides and future offerings.
12/02/2019
Pioneering a signature sound that can only be described as “Cinematic Pop,” the music of GENTRI is transfused with lush, epic orchestrations and rich, dynamic three-part harmonies all composed by the group’s producer, Stephen Nelson. Find out how you can book them for your meetings and events.
12/01/2019
Selecting a destination for an event is an important decision to make. The team at Business Events Montréal (part of Tourisme Montréal) has been thinking about ways to mitigate uncertainty—and they’ve come up with a solution. They’ve recently unveiled basic guarantees to ensure that Montréal continues to be a top choice for events. It’s a simple, compelling idea that breaks new ground in the industry.
11/26/2019
Heka Health's Tony Salah, an innovator of wellness challenges that have been incorporated at large meeting industry events such as IMEX America, PCMA Convening Leaders and ASAE's Annual Meeting, explains how meeting planners can get their attendees competing in fitness challenges that will get their blood pumping and increase their overall engagement. Listen now.
11/25/2019
Meetings Today blogger Joan Eisenstodt and other meetings industry veterans remember their close friend, Patti Shock, a leader in meetings industry education who passed away November 22, 2019.
11/25/2019
Every meeting or event planner loves to look at the excellent design work of their colleagues, so with that in mind Meetings Today held an Awe-Inspiring Decor contest last fall. The winning submission came from PRA South Florida, who designed Nova Southeastern University’s annual Celebration of Excellence awards gala. Read more.
11/25/2019
Planning a golf activity during a meeting can present a variety of challenges for planners. Group golf program experts recommend incorporating user-friendly formats that will ensure everyone leaves the course satisfied after a day on the fairway. Read for three group golf formats you should use at your next golf event.
11/22/2019
From a massive transformation of its convention center to a food scene that is seizing its place on the world stage, California’s capital is stepping up as a meetings and conventions option that delivers attendee-pleasing Golden State goodness at an affordable price point. Read more.
11/22/2019
Hotels across the U.S. are opening in restored and renovated historic buildings that give the new properties a tie to the past. Here are four hotels that opened this past year in buildings that now have new life. Groups meeting onsite gain a glimpse into the destinations’ pasts while enjoying all the modern conveniences. Read more.
11/21/2019
As winter approaches and 2019 nears its close, Meetings Today took its last live event of the year to a warmer, sunnier locale: Clearwater Beach, Florida. Read more about the event and why we found it’s a meetings destination worth considering.
11/21/2019
Involving a CVB, or DMO, as they’re frequently called, at all stages of your meeting cycle is a sure way to save money. From site selection and securing essential city services to promotion and other myriad offerings, CVBs are in business to get your business.
Join Meetings Today and Bonnie Wallsh for this free one-hour webinar that will introduce you to the many ways CVBs can make your meetings more affordable, more exciting and easier in all phases of the planning cycle.
11/20/2019
This nationally recognized dog adoption program that started in the Westin Mission Hills lobby helps dogs find loving homes. Tom Scaramellino chats about this feel-good partnership with Animal Samaritans at Meetings Today LIVE event.
11/20/2019
Get your steps in and give back at the same time during the IAEE Expo! Expo! 2019. The Terence Donnelly Memorial 5K Run and One-Mile Walk will take place during the annual meeting and exhibition on Wednesday, December 4, at 6:30 a.m.
11/19/2019
The Grand Summit Hotel reopened following a renovation of the historic property. The 107 guest rooms and suites in its original 1929 building underwent a multimillion-dollar restoration.
11/18/2019
This fourth installment of Meetings Horror Stories includes a scantily clad singer at a beach event, an inebriated tennis player and a planner that ended up in a Las Vegas police station.
11/18/2019
The Skating Aratas perform death-defying roller-skating stunts for special events that will leave attendees at opening general sessions amazed. Read more.
11/18/2019
Naturopath and former meeting planner John Ayo shares his essential tips for meeting professionals to combat stress in one of the most stressful jobs in the world. From travel and nutrition tips to staying hydrated, meeting planners need to put their health and sanity first. Read more.
11/15/2019
Record visitor numbers in recent years have made State College, Pennsylvania, a reliable option for meeting planners. Haven’t been yet? Here’s a planner’s guide to the region’s best venues, food and beverage options and group activities. Read more.
11/15/2019
Cooking and cocktail classes, tastings and offsite events at the homes of local booze and beer purveyors, and private dining at restaurants with impressive event spaces are among the opportunities awaiting hungry and thirsty groups in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
11/14/2019
Sonesta International Hotels added the Royal Sonesta Chicago Riverfront to its portfolio. The property is in the heart of the windy city and centrally located to must-visit attractions, such as the Loop, Magnificent Mile, Millennium Park and the Theatre District.
11/14/2019
Courtyard by Marriott Edina Bloomington opened with 209 guest rooms and 8,100 square feet of meeting space. The hotel features the brand’s latest lobby design, where guests can enjoy an open and modern environment outside of their rooms.
11/14/2019
The Ritz-Carlton, Pune debuted in the city’s downtown and across from the Poona Golf Club. The hotel features 198 guest rooms and 35 suites. The Presidential Suite is spread across 3,154 square feet and includes two bedrooms, a walk in closet, a spacious living room and dining area, private bar and in-suite treatment room.
11/14/2019
Nicaragua welcomed the DoubleTree by Hilton Managua, a 147-room hotel in the Villa Fontana area of the country’s capital. After a more than $3 million renovation, the property offers contemporary guest rooms with natural colors inspired by the hotel’s surroundings—from lakes and volcanoes, to islands and mountains—along with decor from area artisans and artists.
11/14/2019
Hard Rock unveiled its fifth all-inclusive resort in Mexico's Baja Peninsula. Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos opened with 639 guest rooms, multiple dining outlets and 60,000 square feet of meeting and event space.
11/14/2019
Kalahari Resorts and Conventions doubled the size of its convention center offerings in the Pocono Mountains. The expansion, the second since the resort opened in 2015, adds 105,000 square feet to the convention center, bringing the total to 205,000 square feet.
11/14/2019
Courtyard by Marriott New York Midtown West opened in Midtown Manhattan. The 28-story hotel is located in the city’s Hudson Yards district, offering guests convenient access to the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, The High Line, Madison Square Garden and the Empire State Building.
11/14/2019
Meetings and hospitality veterans Joan Eisenstodt and Roger Rickard discuss the rather unenthusiastic current state of industry advocacy and how we can all get more involved to champion issues that directly impact our profession.
11/13/2019
You can expect to see licorice syrup, spicy tomato granita and orange wines across banquets, events, restaurants and bars in 2020, according to Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants’ sixth annual Culinary & Cocktails Trends Forecast. More than 130 chefs, sommeliers, general managers and bartenders from over 75 Kimpton restaurants and bars were surveyed to uncover the 2020 trends. Read more.
11/13/2019
Victoria, B.C.’s Wear2Start provides a CSR activity to help women access professional attire and grooming. Watch Jeanette Kelly talk about this program.
11/13/2019
Victoria, British Columbia-based Wear2Start Society gives a helping hand to assist local self-identified women in taking that first step to finding a job and launching a career by providing clothing, accessories, shoes, handbags and essential care items. The service, which is powered by donations, is free of charge to the client. Read more.
11/13/2019
Host your next event in one of these three St. Louis historic hotels. With stunning architecture and captivating pasts, these are ready-made for inspiring meetings.
11/13/2019
Strategic Meetings Management sounds great in theory but many organizations still struggle to understand what exactly it is and how to ultimately implement it. With this ambiguity, SMM is often misclassified as a complicated program that is hard to put together. In this webinar we will debunk the myth that SMM is intangibly complex by breaking it down into bite sized pieces that companies of any size can easily understand and adopt. Learn best practice and tried and true approaches as directed by Cvent SMM gurus.
11/12/2019
Shangri-La Hotel, Suzhou Yuanqu debuted in the city’s central business district of Suzhou Industrial Park (SIP). The 32-story hotel features 303 guest rooms and suites as well as 16 serviced residences with views of Jinji Lake and the city landscape.
11/12/2019
Preparation, wellness and environment play critical roles in performance and success. Those elements are also key as we look at productivity in the world of business meetings. As the hospitality industry continues to evolve and offer wellness alternatives and amenities for health-conscious travelers, the meetings industry is doing the same.
11/12/2019
The new St. Louis Aquarium opens inside historic Union Station in December 2019. Host your next meeting in its shark tank, interact with stingrays and more. Plus, Union Station adds more amenities like restaurants and an observation wheel.
11/11/2019
The Hotel Distil and Moxy Louisville Downtown opened on historic Whiskey Row, sharing the same building. Both hotels are Marriott branded and operated by White Lodging.
11/11/2019
From Huntington Beach down to Dana Point, these beaches in Orange County are a haven for small groups–offering quieter ocean views, luxury properties and beach activities.
11/11/2019
Renaissance Indian Wells reopened as Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa at Indian Wells following a multimillion-dollar design transformation. The property underwent a complete makeover of its 560 guest rooms including 103 suites. Also included in the project were remastered corridors, a new multi-story lobby, a new fitness center, pool-area enhancements and food and beverage innovations, including The Place lobby bar.
11/08/2019
11/08/2019
11/06/2019
Follow these 10 simple tips to greatly increase the impact of your meetings and events social media, from social media guru Alex Plaxen, of Little Bird Told Media. Read more.
11/06/2019
Stamats Communications business-to-business (B2B) publishing brand Meetings Today won a Folio: Eddie Award in the categories of best Full Issue: B2B, Travel/Transportation, for its October 2018 issue; and for Best Website/B2B, General for MeetingsToday.com. Read more.
11/06/2019
Florida is constantly upping its game for meetings, and the recent wave of developments in some of its most popular areas are making a big splash. Read more the latest openings and renovations in Southwest Florida.
11/05/2019
PCMA announced the locations of its 2022 and 2023 Convening Leaders event. The association selected Las Vegas and Caesars Entertainment’s new Caesars Forum conference center for the 2022 event and Columbus, Ohio, for its 2023 event. Read more.
11/05/2019
Executive retreats—where corporate leaders come together to get off site and discuss company problems, progress and goals—are often high stakes. Avoid stumbles out of the gate by recognizing common planner mistakes for this unique type of event. Read more.
11/04/2019
Body Marbling is a hydro-painting process in which drops of paint are added to a fluid surface, allowing individuals to dip their arms or body to transfer the marbled images onto their skin.
11/04/2019
Las Vegas entertainment industry experts show how meeting and event planners can tap into the city’s wealth of performers to add excitement to their events. Read more.
11/04/2019
At Green Bay’s Titletown, a mixed-use development just west of Lambeau Field, every day is game day. The community, developed by the Green Bay Packers, was designed for cheeseheads and visitors to unite for year-round entertainment, activities and experiences. Read more.
11/04/2019
Atlantic City, New Jersey’s ambitious new Tennessee Loop development, located in a formerly rough stretch of Tennessee Avenue, is luring meetings events off the Boardwalk with artisanal offerings and innovative local cuisine and crafted cocktails. Learn more.
11/04/2019
In a time when wellness has become an increasingly important part of the meetings landscape, one company is a step ahead when it comes to impactful programs that align the interests of everyone involved in an event—organizers, attendees and sponsors included. Read more.
11/04/2019
From Boston’s literary legacy and storied sports venues to revolutionary renaissance projects like Encore Boston Harbor, this historic American city’s spirit readies any meeting agenda for victory. Read more.
11/01/2019
The Central Station Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton opened in Memphis’ South Main District. The 123-room hotel transformed the city’s 105-year-old historic transportation hub and features architectural and design elements that honor the building’s—and neighborhood’s—history.
11/01/2019
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood debuted its Guitar Hotel as part of the property's $1.5 billion expansion. Complementing the 450-foot high Guitar Hotel are a Hard Rock Live performance venue for 7,000 attendees; 13.5-acre pool and lagoon experience with overwater cabanas; more than two dozen dining, lounge and entertainment options; and more than 150,000 square feet of meeting space.
11/01/2019
Circa Resort & Casino is coming to downtown Las Vegas, adding accommodations, meeting space and gaming to the Freemont Street Experiece area.
11/01/2019
The advantages of taking a meeting that is traditionally held in the U.S. across the border to Canada are many, from a currently favorable exchange rate to a division within the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) that is primed to make the transportation of materials go as smoothly as possible. Learn how to take advantage of the system.
11/01/2019
The Axis Hotel Moline, Tapestry Collection by Hilton opened in the historic Fifth Avenue building in downtown Moline. The hotel and historic art deco landmark was named for the location’s prominence on Fifth Avenue and 17th Street. When the Fifth Avenue building was originally constructed in 1929, the location was known as the main axis of Moline, connecting business, leisure and transportation.
11/01/2019
The Sacramento Convention Center is getting an extreme makeover featuring a dynamic center for conventions, meetings and cultural experiences. An expanded exhibit hall and new ballroom will enhance the usability of the space and add more options for meeting planners. With construction underway, the building is closed from August 2019-October 2020. The building will reopen in Fall 2020.
11/01/2019
A shot away from Whiskey Row, Louisville’s Only Waterfront HotelTM has quite the history. Originally a 60-room hotel, The Galt House Hotel's rich history dates as far back as the 1800’s. It was famed for being Louisville’s best hotel, known for hosting notable figures to the likes of Abraham Lincoln and Charles Dickens.
11/01/2019
Buzzing with artistry and rich culture, Sacramento is THE curator of vibrant meeting experiences. Here, the city’s flair for the arts is connected to its renowned festivals, high-end Broadway shows, museums, galleries, unique culinary experiences and much more.
11/01/2019
Los Angeles is home to the most unique, top-tier venues in the country. The county has over 300 museums, blockbuster entertainment centers, numerous outdoor venues and terrain that varies from the mountaintops to the beach. For an “Only in L.A.” experience that is sure to impress, check out just a sample of these spectacular meeting venues in Los Angeles.
11/01/2019
10/31/2019
Meetings Today held its Meetings Today LIVE Golf! event for meeting planners in Palm Springs, California, from October 27 to October 30, 2019. The Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort & Spa was the host hotel for the event.
10/31/2019
Besides benefiting those in need, volunteering can be instrumental in building one’s career, whether it be in the meetings, events and hospitality industries or not. Learn more about how volunteering has helped these four industry experts.
10/30/2019
When it comes to producing high-energy events, it doesn’t get any better than Los Angeles-based Extraordinary Events, which has been producing experiential and strategic special events for a wide range of clients for more than 30 years.
Aside from mind-blowing special effects projected at attendees, though, the real key is to get them contributing to and engaged in the action.
Join Meetings Today and Extraordinary Events’ Flo Miniscloux, director of production services, and Rick Turner, regional director of business development, to learn how you can inspire attendees to contribute their energy to turn on the electricity at your meetings and events.
10/29/2019
From biking in Portland to sand dune buggy tours and hikes around a national park, these are the best ways for meetings groups to bond outdoors in the Beaver State. Read more.
10/29/2019
California Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency on Sunday, Oct. 27, as multiple wildfires spread across the state. What does this mean for planners and attendees in these fire zones? Read more.
10/29/2019
Golfing is still a great way to conduct meetings and network. Learn some of the ways this outing has evolved and why scheduling your next golf event goes beyond the course from Mark Crabb with Greater Palm Springs CVB, interviewed at Meetings Today LIVE! Golf 2019.
10/28/2019
Craft beer is taking the spotlight at the Hyatt Ziva Cancun. The property is home to Tres Cerveza’s Brewery, the only microbrewery in an all-inclusive hotel. This onsite microbrewery not only offers attendees a taste of locally made beers—the resort has its own brewmaster and craft beer expert who brews in house—but the venue can also be used for meetings, breakouts and private events.
10/28/2019
Along with new, high-tech stadiums and arenas, sports and entertainment districts are becoming the norm for both large metropolitan areas and smaller destinations. Here are three new developments that are changing the landscape for their cities and neighborhoods as well as giving planners a variety of venues for meetings and events—sports related or not.
10/28/2019
Present-day visitors to Texas can travel back in time to experience the state’s history through these six event-capable, historic spots.
10/26/2019
Meetings Today's Tyler Davidson details some of the top stories on our website, including how one group weathered the California blackout--with tips for handling power outages--VISIT Milwaukee's hiring of Peggy Williams-Smith as president and CEO, and Jeff Heilman's podcast with Middleburg, Virginia's Goodstone Inn & Restaurant.
10/25/2019
Texas’ expansive history is preserved in its many museums, detailing the achievements of astronauts, oilmen, pioneers and war heroes. Experience its storied past by hosting an event in one of seven state treasures. Read more.
10/25/2019
The legal settlement from Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino Las Vegas resulting from the October 2017 mass shooting offers a number of lessons for the meetings and events industry regarding crisis management and risk mitigation. Learn more.
10/25/2019
10/25/2019
The deserts of Southwest U.S., in particular, are ripe for corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities for meeting groups who want to aid the environment while enjoying its reliably arid climate. Following are five desert CSR activities that have either given back to the ecosystem or worked in tandem with the environment to help its human residents.
10/25/2019
Teneo Hospitality Group added Nobu Hotels and four of its properties—Nobu Chicago, Nobu Hotel Caesars Palace Las Vegas, Nobu Miami and Nobu Los Cabos—to its U.S. and Mexico portfolios. Read more.
10/25/2019
10/24/2019
As Milwaukee gears up for an event-packed 2020, VISIT Milwaukee announced that Peggy Williams-Smith will be its new president and CEO after a months-long national search. She is a local Milwaukeean and the first woman to lead the organization. Read more.
10/24/2019
Virginia’s history, resorts and culture make it an attractive meetings destination in 2019. Read to discover the state’s best-in-class venues and other group offerings.
10/23/2019
Hard Rock International is offering groups a new way to mix teambuilding and corporate social responsibility at its hotel and casino properties through its partnership with Clean the World. Read more.
10/23/2019
We talked to Kevin Dana, executive director of marketing and product development at CORT Events, to get the scoop on what’s hot this season. And the answer is...Mediterranean Craft Style. Read more.
10/23/2019
The Texas convention center scene is a competitive market. With new developments stretching from the DFW Metroplex to West Texas, read the latest on the Lone Star State convention scene.
10/23/2019
Ahead of IMEX America 2019, Meetings Today content developer Kate Cripe got a sneak peek of the $375 million Caesars Forum. During a hard hat tour, she got a first hand look at how the conference center project, which is expected to open in March 2020, is progressing.
10/22/2019
Meetings Today Senior Contributor Jeff Heilman finds instant kinship and lasting memories at this exclusive group enclave in Virginia's horse and wine country. Check out Jeff's On the Scene story about his visit to the Goodstone Inn.
10/21/2019
Just in time for Halloween, our list of haunted hotels extends from coast to coast, each one teeming with stories of spirits to keep guests company while meeting there with a group. Whether guests are fans of fright or modern-day ghost hunters, we advise entering at their own risk when it comes to making a reservation with any of our picks below.
10/21/2019
Sheraton Kaua’i Coconut Beach Resort debuted its property-wide transformation, including 314 redesigned guest rooms, a new arrival experience, oceanfront bar and restaurants, fully reinvented public spaces, a reenergized pool scene and new programming.
10/21/2019
On the road for meetings in October? Add a little spookiness to the agenda while convening in some of America’s most-haunted big cities. Here’s our recommendations for ghost tours in Savannah, Georgia; Portland, Oregon; New Orleans; San Diego; and Chicago.
10/21/2019
Tucson received an UNESCO designation in 2015 as America’s first City of Gastronomy and has been a culinary leader ever since. Read on for seven ways groups can savor the Arizona city’s Sonoran cuisine.
10/21/2019
James Kerwin, executive chef of Renaissance Nashville Hotel’s Little Fib Restaurant, list 10 tips for creating a memorable food and beverage experience for meetings and events attendees, from the perspective of a restaurant veteran who has opened multiple dining venues. Read more to see how his F&B design musts can inform your next meeting or event.
10/21/2019
Jumping over nine feet in the air on next-generation pogo sticks while throwing down flips and incredible tricks, the Xpogo Stunt Team athletes create crowds in an instant and keep them engaged until the final bounce. Read more to see how they can add energy to your next event.
10/21/2019
Discover the all-inclusive difference with Palace Resorts Meetings and your events will never be the same again. Pay one flat rate for smart-tech facilities, fine à la carte dining, premium drinks, and five-star service every step of the way. We call it AWE-inclusive—and so will you.
10/17/2019
Hyatt Regency Hesperia Madrid opened on one of the city’s most iconic avenues, Paseo de la Castellana. The opening of this 169-room hotel marks the Hyatt Regency brand’s entry into Spain. The hotel’s guest rooms include 33 suites overlooking the Paseo de la Castellana.
10/17/2019
Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor reopened its doors after a six-month closure for renovations and refurbishments. 112 of the landmark property's 119 rooms and suites have been fully refurbished. Among the contemporary touches, spotlights have been added to brighten up the rooms, and power ports and USB charging stations have been fitted.
10/17/2019
The Ascend Hotel Collection by Choice Hotels International welcomed the Thousand Hills Golf Resort to its portfolio. Located within the Ozark Mountains in Branson, Mo., Thousand Hills Golf Resort is just blocks from the destination's Country Music Highway 76, which features dozens of live-performance theaters and over 100 restaurants.
10/17/2019
The 234-room Hyatt Centric The Liberties Dublin opened. The property is the first Hyatt branded hotel in Ireland. The hotel is located in The Liberties, one of Dublin’s most historic and vibrant areas which dates back to the 10th century. Guests will be within 10 minutes of a number of attractions.
10/17/2019
A massive planned power outage by Pacific Gas & Electric that affected nearly 750,000 Californians starting October 9 didn’t dampen the can-do spirit of the staff and groups at Napa, California’s Carneros Resort and Spa, who banded together to make “light” of a bad situation under the mantra “the show must go on.” Learn more.
10/17/2019
We all want to be the best, and it can sometimes be discouraging when you’re not seeing results. CrowdCompass wants to help you be the best you can possibly be, and to help we’ve compiled data from our customers who see the highest levels of app adoption and engagement. Not only will you see how you stack up against other CrowdCompass users, but you will learn the tips and tricks our highest achievers are using to see such great results. If you are not currently using a mobile event app, no problem! This webinar will help you see how you can most effectively implement mobile technology to increase engagement at your next event.
10/16/2019
MGM Resorts International sells Circus Circus Las Vegas and Bellagio Las Vegas. In the same announcement, made Tuesday, October 16, the company also said there is a deal with Blackstone Real Estate Income Trust to lease back the Bellagio property. Read more.
10/16/2019
Hyatt Place Flint/Grand Blanc opened in Michigan. The new hotel features 106 guest rooms, meeting and event space and 24-hour food offerings.
10/16/2019
San Antonio has many unique offsite venues for meetings and events. The historic Alamo and other popular tourist attractions double as event venues, including San Antonio Botanical Garden and the Witte Museum. Read on for all the options.
10/16/2019
Groups meeting at one of the many lakeside properties and venues in the Midwest often get splendid water views alongside their events, but for a true “lake meeting,” attendees can cruise the waterways aboard an array of vessels. Read about these four options for on-the-lake experiences in the Midwest.
10/16/2019
Nestled in northeast Pennsylvania, the Pocono Mountains region is an easy escape from the metropolitan areas of New York City and Philadelphia. In recent years, the region’s options for meeting groups has expanded with several large casino resorts, as well as retreat-like properties, but the small-town welcome remains strong.
10/15/2019
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa unveiled its $700 million expansion. The extensive renovation includes a new 14-story hotel tower, which add 562 guest rooms and three pools to the property. In total, the expanded Seminole Hard Rock Hotel offers approximately 800 guest rooms, including 86 suites.
10/15/2019
While many in the meetings, events and hospitality industry donate their time and money to helping the less fortunate in the communities in which they live and the destinations where they meet, entertainment producer Mark Sonder answered the call of his country by volunteering in the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.
10/15/2019
Conrad New York Midtown opened with 562 suites across 54 floors. This is the brand’s second New York City property and is located at the former site of The London NYC. Hospitality design firm Stonehill Taylor led the design. Following a complete hotel renovation, guest suites now more closely resemble a metropolitan pied-a-terre than a traditional NYC hotel room.
10/15/2019
Canopy by Hilton Ithaca Downtown opened steps from Ithaca Commons and within minutes from Ivy League Cornell University and Ithaca College. The seven-story, 131-room property’s design is inspired by the region’s lakes, waterfalls and forests, in addition to the local esteemed academic institutions.
10/15/2019
Whether it’s an internal executive committee meeting at your office or an annual sales meeting for 1,000 people, there must be a plan in place to make it a positive, collaborative experience for all attendees. It must be a plan that will keep attendees engaged, motivated and provide an ROI for their time spent in the meeting.
10/15/2019
Moxy Boston Downtown opened its doors in the heart of Boston’s Theater District. Guests are immediately greeted by the hotel’s food truck-inspired photo booth and tunes streaming from indie617, Boston’s indie rock radio station, which broadcasts its morning show live from Moxy Boston Downtown each day.
10/15/2019
Not having a one-on-one conversation with a speaker may seem like a risky proposition, but following are five tips from experts on how to hire a speaker without actually talking to them, in order to save time and create efficiencies. Read more and tell us if you agree!
10/14/2019
Meet AC President and CEO Jim Wood is stepping down as leader of the DMO at the end of 2019 to take care of his wife, who suffered a severe fall earlier this year. Meet AC’s Board of Directors will institute a nationwide search for a replacement.
10/14/2019
The Magnolia New Orleans Hotel completed its transformation and has come to life in New Orleans’s famous Central Business District. Formerly, the Omni Royal Crescent Hotel, the Magnolia New Orleans is a reimagined boutique experience, just steps from the French Quarter’s world-renowned nightlife and distinguished architecture. The property was originally built in 1863 and has stayed true to the area’s iconic history and offers a vivid reflection of the charm and mystery of New Orleans.
10/14/2019
C. Baldwin, Curio Collection by Hilton opened in Houston. Located at the western gateway of downtown, the 354-room property honors Charlotte Baldwin Allen, an instrumental figure in the early development of the city.
10/14/2019
As Savannah’s convention center prepares to expand, so do the up-and-coming city’s unique groups venues and experiences. Read more for a roundup of the best ways for visiting meetings delegates to experience Savannah, Georgia.
10/11/2019
Senior contributor Jeff Heilman reports on what groups meeting at Middleburg, Virginia’s Goodstone Inn & Restaurant can expect on their next visit. Read for meeting space details, culinary offerings and more.
10/10/2019
The new El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie debuted on October 11 on Netflix and is sure to bring fresh attention Albuquerque, which has welcomed several new meeting facility improvements, along with its counterparts Santa Fe and Taos.
10/10/2019
As Nashville’s tourism flourishes, so does the interest from meeting planners. Music City hotels are answering the call, offering new and reimagined spaces—here’s the latest at JW Marriott Nashville, Renaissance Nashville and Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center.
10/10/2019
Meetings Today Vice President & Chief Content Director Tyler Davidson shares a few yuks from his Laughter Yoga story with Sarah Routman, as well as the best places in Texas for groups to get barbecue, searing your attendees' selfies on pancakes and the importance of speaking up for our industry.
10/09/2019
Chicago is a city that is defined by its architecture, giving rise to the term “skyscraper” with the construction of the first steel-frame Home Insurance Building in 1885. The city is also home to several historic hotels that helped define the modern concept of meeting and convention accommodations.
10/09/2019
Laughter Yoga instructor Sarah Routman will have your meeting and convention attendees laughing with abandon, whether the purpose is as an icebreaker, for relieving stress or just forging a bond of camaraderie. Learn how you can get your attendees sharing the unbridled joy of a good group chuckle.
10/09/2019
Laughter yoga practitioner Sarah Routman shares a few yuks with Meetings Today's Tyler Davidson after her Laughter Lab session at IMEX America. Laughing loudly out of context, it seems, is a tonic that heals and invigorates attendees while creating bonds with their colleagues. Have a laugh on us!
10/09/2019
On a recent trip to St. Augustine and Ponte Vedra Beach, Senior Contributor Jennifer Juergens explores why Northeast Florida is such a treasure trove for outdoor group adventure.
10/09/2019
One of the most exciting entrants to the downtown Nashville market is the Fifth + Broadway development—a mixed-use office, residential and retailer space—that’s set to transform the already buzzing corner of Broadway.
10/09/2019
Today, organizations showcase their brand through experiential marketing by hosting and participating in events. Food and beverage is a vital component of these experiences and often the most prominently featured on social media. With increased attention on sustainable practices by participants, what do these events say about your business?
Join Meetings Today and Nancy J. Zavada, president of leading sustainable meetings and events company MeetGreen, to learn this year's hottest trends in sustainable food and service, how to lighten the carbon footprint of your menus, and how to negotiate menu items to save on your budget. Whether you are just starting out in sustainable events or a seasoned pro, this will be time well spent.
10/08/2019
See our top picks for the best Texas barbecue for groups to experience during their next Lone Star State meeting. From Houston and Austin to El Paso, this is your roadmap for sampling the state’s most treasured cuisine.
10/08/2019
Hershey, Harrisburg, Lancaster and York play an important role in the history of Pennsylvania and the United States. The culture and traditions of the early German setters, known as Pennsylvania Dutch, can be seen and experienced throughout the region today. Here are five ways groups can experience the area's rich history at meetings and events.
10/08/2019
Grand Hyatt at SFO opened as the only on-airport hotel at San Francisco International Airport. The hotel sits on 4.2 acres and features 351 guest rooms including 22 suites, 14,435 square feet of meeting and event space, two distinct culinary concepts and an art collection that was curated exclusively for the hotel by the San Francisco Arts Commission.
10/07/2019
We investigated the many hiking destinations in California and found the North Lake Tahoe and Greater Palm Springs areas have some of the best—and most accessible—hiking around for meetings groups.
10/07/2019
When it comes to meetings and conventions, Las Vegas is in a class by itself. Here are 10 reasons why Las Vegas has your meeting or convention top of mind.
10/07/2019
Meetings Today's Tyler Davidson offers up his experiences at Meetings Today Live! West in Victoria, British Columbia, and how this magical little English Colonial-style city fueled his love for travel. Also, Danielle LeBreck is reporting from Music City, USA—Nashville—during her press trip with Marriott's Convention & Resort Network.
10/07/2019
That old onsite photo booth has become so passé. Been, there. Done that. The Instagram gods are no longer pleased. Next up? How about getting your attendees’ mugs seared on a pancake onsite?!
10/04/2019
Joan Eisenstodt and others lend insight on why people—and the meetings industry, our industry—may be silent on issues that impact them directly or indirectly and actions they can take.
10/03/2019
MGM Resorts International reached a settlement with the victims of the October 2017 Las Vegas mass shooting. In a statement on October 3, 2019, MGM said it will pay between $735 and $800 million, depending on the number of claimants.
10/03/2019
An able mixologist at Westin Bear Mountain Golf Resort & Spa demonstrates the proper technique for mixing up a whiskey/whisky sour during Meetings Today LIVE! West in Victoria, B.C. Add this delicious recipe to your libation arsenal to add a fizzy, celebratory twist to your events.
10/03/2019
After a tour of Nashville's legendary Grand Ole Opry, Danielle LeBreck sat down to talk with tour operations manager Laura Leigh Jones Robertson about the famous country music venue's recently enhanced group tour offerings, event options and celebrity encounters—including Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn and Patty Loveless.
10/02/2019
Meeting planners can take advantage of dinner theater, waterfront restaurants, new food halls and more in North Carolina—from Greensboro to Wilmington.
10/02/2019
Meetings Today held its West LIVE! event for meeting planners in Victoria, British Columbia, from September 29 to October 2, 2019. Fairmont Empress was the host hotel for the event.
10/02/2019
Meetings Today's Tyler Davidson talks with Trippus Event Solutions' Martin Klofver about his company's utilization of facial recognition technology for Keller Williams Realty's Mega Camp 2019, and how this brave new tech may transform the industry and society. They also discuss privacy concerns and pushback.
10/02/2019
Kimpton Hotel Monaco Chicago unveiled a new look in its lobby, guest rooms and suites. The redesign of these spaces was inspired by Lake Michigan and the development along the Chicago Riverwalk, which is visible from the hotel’s window seats. The completion of the lobby project marked the final phase of the property’s renovation.
10/01/2019
Meeting breaks can be an affordable and efficient way to give attendees a refreshing energy boost between intensive sessions. Here are some top tips from planners on how to do them best.
10/01/2019
Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts debuted in Mexico with the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, transforming The Resort at Pedregal. The resort, which celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, was acquired by affiliates of Walton Street Capital Mexico. The new Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal is situated on a 24-acre site at the southernmost tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula.
10/01/2019
Creating engagement with attendees has become the driving force of modern meetings.
10/01/2019
Meetings Today LIVE! traveled to Victoria, British Columbia, for its annual West event at the Fairmont Empress, a historic hotel built in 1908 that features ornate and highly connected meeting and event space and close proximity to phenomenal off-site event venues such as the Royal B.C. Museum's First People's Gallery.
10/01/2019
Little Fib at Renaissance Nashville Hotel aims to "put the supper back in supper time" through its modern take on comfort food classics. Meetings Today's Danielle LeBreck sat down with Chef James Kerwin during a Marriott Convention & Resort Network press trip in Nashville, Tennessee, to discuss the restaurant's group catering options.
10/01/2019
Book your next event in Louisville, Kentucky at the Louisville Marriott Downtown. Located in the heart of Bourbon City, the hotel provides sophisticated amenities such as newly-designed guest accommodations, on-site dining at Porch Kitchen & Bar and a connection via skywalk to the Kentucky International Convention Center.
10/01/2019
10/01/2019
In Sacramento, we’re not just meeting expectations, we’re e x p a n d i n g them. The Sacramento Convention Center is undergoing an extreme makeover featuring a dynamic center for conventions, meetings and cultural experiences.
10/01/2019
With a little bit of this and a little bit of that, Dubuque, IA is the place in the Midwest for great meeting space mixed with trendy locations for entertaining and educating.
09/30/2019
Victoria, British Columbia, is one of those special destinations in North America that offers a modern flavor all its own while also reverberating with the past.
09/30/2019
The great outdoors and exceptional food are top among the attendance-builders for meetings in California. The perfect way for planners to incorporate both is to arrange an outdoor dining experience. Read on for how to plan a food truck park event in San Francisco, a farm-to-table meal in San Diego and more.
09/30/2019
Southern California is a region that insists on getting the group outside. From scavenger hunts and golf tournaments to waterborne adventures, these teambuilding ideas will give attendees a taste of SoCal’s great outdoors and yield your program rave reviews.
09/27/2019
LB Alliance Founder & CEO Zoe Moore explains why planners need to make including diverse participants—and speakers and vendors—a priority for their meetings and events.
09/27/2019
Laugh Healthy's Sarah Routman shares a simple smiling exercise to reduce stress.
09/26/2019
San Francisco and its surrounding Northern California communities set the stage for memorable offsite events. From city rooftops to picturesque wineries, these outdoor venues are sure to impress visiting groups.
09/26/2019
In my 40 years as a meeting professional, I’ve extensively used the services of CVBs/DMOs in organizing and executing events—and those events were better because of it.
09/26/2019
Z Resorts debuted Hotel ZaZa Austin in downtown’s Warehouse District. The hotel features a restaurant, craft cocktail bar, spa, rooftop pool and pool bar and ample meeting and event space.
09/25/2019
Orlando's hotel and event venues are constantly evolving. Between new openings, expansions and renovations, it can be hard to keep up. Here are some highlights of what's new in Orlando for 2019, starting with some big tourism news.
09/25/2019
Michael K. Krouse, CMP, CHME, CASE, President and CEO of the Greater Ontario Convention & Visitors Bureau, received the Tourism Advocacy Industry Leader award from California Travel Association (Cal Travel), which advocates on issues and legislation that affects the industry in the state.
09/25/2019
The options for eateries can be overwhelming in Orlando and its surrounding areas. We rounded up some of the best restaurants for groups right now.
09/25/2019
JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa completed a host of property renovations. The project included the lobby, Hashani Spa, JW Market, Salud Terrace and exterior enhancements.
09/25/2019
The only thing constant in our industry is change. This workshop will arm you with tactical strategies that will help you to negotiate and defend your organization in this evolving market. In this high-level workshop, attendees will review key contract clauses, negotiations tips and strategies on how to get to “YES” and review variables that help influence a hotels decision to accept your business.
09/24/2019
As one of the largest convention hotels in Orlando, Disney’s Swan and Dolphin makes updates to its property with meeting delegates in mind.
09/24/2019
Copper Mountain, a POWDR resort, began construction on a new 127-room hotel with an anticipated completion in 2020.
09/23/2019
Caesars Entertainment has sold its Las Vegas off-Strip Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino property for $516.3 million to the New York-based Imperial Companies real estate company. Caesars will continue to operate Rio for two years and pay an annualized rent of $45 million.
09/23/2019
Check out our articles, podcast episodes, videos and other coverage from IMEX America.
09/23/2019
Over a few sips of a Smoked Rye Manhattan, I sat down with Nicole Tilzer, director, Signia Hilton and Hilton Hotels & Resorts Brand Marketing, to talk about Hilton’s innovative new lobby bar concept and an update on the company’s new Signia brand.
09/23/2019
CWT Meetings & Events released its 2020 Future Trends Report at IMEX America 2019 in Las Vegas in September. The report details some exciting trends in the industry like digitalization, expanding markets and the surge of experiential events.
09/23/2019
Well, almost. On a visit to NYC, Playa Cativo Sales and Marketing Director Cesar Vargas talks with Meetings Today Senior Contributor Jeff Heilman about all the temptations of this boutique beachfront eco-lodge accessible only by boat in Costa Rica's rainforest.
09/20/2019
South Carolina is as golf friendly as it is meetings friendly. Read on for seven golf courses statewide that accommodate customized group tournaments as well as pre- and post-play receptions and banquets.
09/20/2019
Planners who are interested in booking a fun and engaging alternative to a traditional golf tournament are increasingly relying on Topgolf’s turnkey entertainment facilities for a new spin on the classic networking event. Topgolf has two locations in South Carolina, Topgolf Greenville and Topgolf Myrtle Beach.
09/19/2019
Tyler Davidson sat down at IMEX America with Jerry Harper, deputy director of the Phoenix Convention Center, to find out what's new in the destination and at the facility, as well as why the Sheraton Phoenix Downtown is used as test hotel for that brand's news innovations.
09/19/2019
Tourism Toronto announced the appointment of Scott Beck as President and CEO. Beck has served as the President and CEO of Visit Salt Lake in Salt Lake City, Utah, for the past 14 years and will begin his new role at Tourism Toronto on Oct. 15.
09/19/2019
Conrad Shenyang opened in the heart of the historic city that was home to the birth of the Qing Dynasty. The a 315-room hotel is situated at the top of Shenyang's tallest building, the iconic Forum 66, which is located in the Central Business District. It is owned by Hang Lung Properties and managed by Hilton.
09/19/2019
Intercontinental Hotels Group welcomes guests to the newly renovated Crowne Plaza Atlanta Perimeter at Ravinia. The hotel is located adjacent to IHG's Americas corporate headquarters and is the Americas flagship property for the brand.
09/19/2019
Detroit’s convention center, formerly known as Cobo Center, was officially renamed TCF Center. The center features 723,000 square feet of exhibit space. The 40,000-square-foot Grand Riverview Ballroom, which includes a stage lift, and more than 100 meeting and banquet rooms comprise 225,000 square feet meeting space.
09/19/2019
Cambria Hotels debuted in Milwaukee with the 132-room Cambria Hotel Milwaukee Downtown. The hotel provides easy access to the region's top business and entertainment destinations, including the Wisconsin Center convention complex, the Harley-Davidson Museum and Fiserv Forum arena.
09/19/2019
Hilton Garden Inn St. Cloud opened adjacent to The Park Event Center and less than 10 minutes from downtown St. Cloud. The hotel offers a variety of onsite dining options, including Mavericks Steak & Cocktails.
09/19/2019
Marriott International debuted Delta Hotels by Marriott in Middle East and Africa with Delta Hotels by Marriott Jumeirah Beach, Dubai. The property is located in Jumeirah Beach Residences with direct beach access and it rises tall between the Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Beach and The Walk, Dubai’s first shopping and dining promenade.
09/19/2019
The Biltmore Mayfair opened on Grosvenor Square in London. The 307-room hotel is steps from many iconic landmarks and offers views of the gardens of Grosvenor Square across the street. The hotel is also home to several restaurant concepts from Michelin-starred restaurateur Jason Atherton.
09/19/2019
Planners looking to add an authentic experience to a mountain destination meeting or event can turn to a brewery or distillery as a locally inspired offsite venue or group activity. These four establishments across the Western U.S. and Canada can quench any thirst.
09/19/2019
Graduate Fayetteville opened its doors in the city’s Downtown Square. The 234-room hotel is within walking distance to the University of Arkansas campus and surrounded by shops and restaurants. Graduate Fayetteville’s design contrasts the natural beauty of the Ozark Mountain Region with the creative energy that courses throughout Fayetteville.
09/19/2019
For San Francisco residents, such as myself, the greatest getaway secret outside of the city is available about a half-hour drive south in the coastal area around Half Moon Bay. This also holds true for meetings, which can access the bucolic area via the two major international airports in San Francisco and San Jose.
09/19/2019
Carté Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton opened its doors in San Diego’s Little Italy neighborhood. The 246-room property is located steps away from restaurants, the Embarcadero waterfront and the downtown business district.
09/18/2019
From tantalizing tastes and stimulating art to inspiring structures and fantasy islands, these New York state locales bring serious wow factors to meetings and events.
09/18/2019
Institute for Music Leadership Director James Doser explains how art and music are central to the ongoing revitalization of Rochester, New York.
09/18/2019
Moxy NYC East Village opened in the heart of Manhattan’s East Village directly across from Webster Hall, the legendary concert venue. The hotel features 286 guest rooms, co-working spaces, 13,000 square feet of meeting and event space and tech-savvy amenities as well as restaurants, bars, and cultural programming.