Deep in the Heart

The numbers are in, and from bookings and delegate spend to capital investment and economic development, virtually every Lone Star State destination is reporting robust, often record, group growth and returns. In true Texas frontier spirit, the drive is on for even more.

Sports Report

Lone Star Feast

Mexico’s 32 states promise tremendous diversity when it comes to flavors and specialties. In Cancun, much of the cuisine is inspired by neighboring Yucatan, including many dishes made with pork, such as cochinita pibil or lechon. Executive Chef Juan Zahoul Retes at The Grand at Moon Palace Cancun and Executive Chef Sergio Zarate of the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun share their takes on the local culinary scene.

Caribbean chefs are putting their stamps on the culinary delights of their islands, garnished with influences from all over the world.

Entertaining outings and team-bonding opportunities are available throughout Washington for groups interested in a fun evening away from the convention center or host hotel. Among the possibilities? Everything from escape rooms and group dining to laser tag, mixology classes and bioluminescent sea kayaking will positively punctuate a day of meetings in the Evergreen State.

In recent years the wellness component of a meeting agenda has come to encompass a great deal more than arranging a block of spa appointments for attendees. Nowhere is this more evident than in Hawaii, where approaches to healing and well-being are deeply woven into the fabric of local culture and traditions. At resorts throughout the islands, planners will find wellness-related activities limited only by the imagination.

There’s more to Los Angeles’ star status than its resident lineup of celebrities. The Downtown, Mid-City and Miracle Mile areas, along with nearby West Hollywood, boast an ever expanding list of arts and culture off-site venues that prove the depth of talent endemic to this SoCal centerpiece.

With a recent surge of growth, the cities of Southwest Michigan are ready to host more groups and events. New-builds and property restorations are drawing locals and visitors alike back to the downtown neighborhoods. Recently opened hotels have added to room counts, with more properties expected to debut later this year and early next, and convention center and venue projects are adding even more meeting square footage to this region.