The Guide to Hong Kong's Event Spaces
The Ultimate Guide to Hong Kong's Event Spaces
Hong Kong hosts over 80,000 events each year. From business meetings to global exhibitions, the city has something for everyone. This guide shows you how to locate the best event spaces Hong Kong offers. The ultimate guide to Hong Kong’s event spaces.
Hotel Ballrooms: Grandeur and Convenience
There are many hotel ballrooms which are a great choice for large scale MICE events. They offer in-house catering, preferred suppliers as well as having the accommodation onsite for people to stay.
The Landmark Mandarin Oriental
This conveniently located hotel is all luxury and the various event spaces can change to fit what you need. Their in-house tech and production makes it the perfect spot for presentations and conferences, and the team will assist you in everything from place cards to team building events.
The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong
The views from this hotel are amazing. You also get top-notch help. The ballrooms come in different sizes, so you can choose what fits your party.
Grand Hyatt Hong Kong
This hotel has a lot to offer, like a team that knows how to plan events. It is easy to get to, too. The Grand Hyatt provides a large range of options for different events.
Unique Venues: Thinking Outside the Ballroom
Want something different from regular ballrooms? Check out these unique places for a special feel. Create a memorable event with an atmosphere unlike any other.
PMQ
PMQ is a creative spot for creative companies. The spaces work well for art shows and workshops – and if you’re after artistic space, then PMQ can provide the right atmosphere.
Tai Kwun
Tai Kwun has a lot of history and now it hosts events like cultural shows and company parties. Tai Kwun offers a unique setting for impressive functions.
The Murray, Hong Kong, a Niccolo Hotel
This hotel has a modern design. It has places outside for cocktail hours and garden parties. Consider it for stylish event experiences.
Co-working Spaces: Modern and Flexible Solutions
Need something more cost-friendly? Co-working spaces could work for your events. They are great for smaller events and meetings.
WeWork
WeWork has many locations with meeting rooms. We Work allows for tech-required events and global meetings. Amenities are available at most locations. Consider it for a convenient meeting spot.
The Hive
The Hive feels like a community. They host events, and prices vary. It’s a good place to meet new people and host no-fuss events.
Garage Society
This place has unique spaces for events. They support new businesses, too. It’s a great place to connect with entrepreneurs.
Outdoor Locations: Breathtaking Views and Fresh Air
Outdoor events can be awesome. But, have a backup plan if it rains! These spots offer great outdoor experiences.
The Peak
The Peak has city views that will wow your guests. Evening events give for an incredible view. Plan an unforgettable event at this elevated locale.
Repulse Bay
A little outside of the city, this beachfront event space in Repulse Bay is great for MICE events. They are also good for relaxed get-togethers. The setting can’t be beat for a casual celebration.
Smithsfields brings you the latest global MICE news for event profs. We publish destination content, a global supplier directory, event inspiration and incentive travel insights.
Contact us at hello@smithsfields.com
The above information is for general guidance.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest news, travel tips and event industry insights.
Top Incentive Travel Destinations in North America
Top Incentive Travel Destinations in North America to Reward Your Team
Incentive travel: experiencing the reward of a lifetime because of hard work. We explore the best incentive travel destinations in North America for employee motivation and business growth. Incentive travel offers a real solution to employee engagement and we review the best in North America.
Las Vegas, Nevada: Where Business Meets Extravagance
Las Vegas is where work meets play. This city is all about luxury combined with 5 start hotels, experiences and restaurants to please everyone.
World-Class Entertainment and Dining
Get ready for shows that will blow your mind. From Cirque du Soleil to headlining musicians, there’s always something to see. Vegas offers the most incredible restaurants known and run by celebrity chefs. You can enjoy food from all over the planet. Dance the night away at top clubs with world-famous DJs.
High-End Accommodations and Amenities
Stay in hotels that redefine luxury. The Bellagio offers stunning fountains. The Venetian will transport you to Italy. These hotels offer spas, pools, and service that’s second to none.
Team-Building Activities and Excursions
Feel the rush at a race car driving experience or take a helicopter tour over the strip at night. An incentive day trip to the Grand Canyon is a must-do and is perfect for large groups and team building.
Miami, Florida: Sun, Sand, and Sophistication
Miami is a city of sun, sand, and culture. This city offers a lively feel that makes it perfect for reward experiences.
Beachfront Relaxation and Water Sports
Miami’s beaches are world-famous. Your group can enjoy the beaches for team building activities and sports events. Group activities include jet skiing, paddle-boarding or boat tours.
Cultural Experiences and Culinary Delights
Walk through the Art Deco District and see cool architecture. Visit Little Havana and feel Cuba’s vibe. Miami’s food scene is very diverse and you’ll find flavors from all over Latin America and the Caribbean.
Unique Team-Building Options
Set sail on a team-building adventure. Go snorkeling and see the underwater world. An Everglades tour lets you see amazing wildlife up close.
Banff, Canada: Adventure in the Canadian Rockies
Banff offers stunning mountain views and outdoor fun. It’s a place where you can recharge and reconnect with nature.
Outdoor Adventures and Natural Beauty
Go hiking on trails with incredible views. Depending on the time of the year, skiing here is popular here in Winter. Keep an eye out for wildlife like elk and bears, enjoying Banff’s natural beauty and attraction.
Luxury Lodges and Spa Retreats
Large groups have the opportunity to stay in lodges that mix luxury with nature. The Fairmont Banff Springs offers top-notch service and spas as well as wellness programs that will make you feel brand new.
Team-Oriented Activities
Go on guided hikes and learn about the area. Snowshoeing is a fun winter activity for teams. Ice climbing will challenge you and build teamwork.
New York City, New York: The Ultimate Urban Experience
Our favourite place in the world and the perfect spot for incentive travel groups. New York City buzzes with energy. This city offers culture, food, and shopping and is an ideal place for an unforgettable reward trip.
Broadway Shows and Cultural Landmarks
See a Broadway show or a local production in the city. Visit museums like the Met and the Museum of Modern Art. Explore historical sites like the Statue of Liberty.
Fine Dining and Rooftop Bars
Enjoy fine dining at some of the world’s best restaurants. New York’s rooftop bars offer stunning city views and offer incredible event spaces for team building and meetings. Read more about New York City’s best rooftop event spaces.
Exclusive Team-Building Activities
Get a private tour of a museum just for your team. Take a cooking class or venture behind the scenes at a famous landmark.
Scottsdale, Arizona: Desert Luxury and Outdoor Thrills
Scottsdale blends desert beauty with luxury. This city is great for golf, spas, and adventure.
Golfing and Relaxation
Play golf on championship courses with amazing views. Enjoy spa treatments that will relax and recharge your group.
Desert Adventures and Scenic Views
Hike on trails that show off the desert landscape. Take a hot air balloon ride and see the desert from above or venture on a jeep tour.
Unique Southwestern Experiences
Visit Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home. Learn about Native American culture at local centers. Explore Old Town Scottsdale’s shops and art galleries.
Conclusion
Incentive travel in North America offers amazing opportunities. These trips can boost team motivation and create lasting memories. Are you ready to plan your next incentive trip? Remember that incentive travel is changing. People want trips that are good for the planet. They also want experiences that are personal and unique.
Smithsfields brings you the latest global MICE news for event profs. We publish destination content, a global supplier directory, event inspiration and incentive travel insights.
Contact us at hello@smithsfields.com
The above information is for general guidance.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest news, travel tips and event industry insights.
New York City's Best Rooftop Venues: The Ultimate Guide
New York City's Best Rooftop Venues: The Ultimate Guide
As we slowly creep out of the winter months – we’re imagining sipping a perfectly crafted cocktail as the sun dips below the horizon. Nothing beats sun down with views of NYC and on that note – we’ll be helping you track down the best rooftop venue spaces in NYC for your next MICE event.
This is your guide to the best rooftop venues and meeting spaces in New York.
Rooftop Bars with Stunning Views
We’re famous for our incredible skyline. We’ve selected the best rooftop venues with the best view of the city.
230 Fifth Rooftop Bar
The rooftop garden at 230 Fifth is one of the most iconic spaces for an event in New York. Not to mention the direct view of the Empire State Building. Their onsite and experienced team can assist you with comprehensive event planning services including catering, audiovisual and decor arrangements.
This ideal spot for business events offers various amenities including furniture hires, smart projection, AV&PA and staging.
Bar SixtyFive at Rainbow Room
Perched high above Rockefeller Center, Bar SixtyFive is all about history and class. This upscale spot is perfect for a corporate celebration.
The 3,463 sq. foot space creates ‘a rooftop bar above the rest. Where cocktails and views create the perfect mix for memorable events.’
Westlight
Located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, it has panoramic views of both Manhattan and Brooklyn skylines.
This versatile, open-air venue offers event space for up to 240 guests.
Rooftop Restaurants for Private Dining
Private dining spaces in NYC are hard to find, unless you’re in the know. We combine delicious food with breathtaking views, exploring venues that offer the best of both worlds.
Gallow Green at The McKittrick Hotel
Gallow Green is not your average rooftop. It’s part of The McKittrick Hotel and home to “Sleep No More.” Their unique event spaces and full service event team will assist in creating impactful events.
This event space is only open during the summer months – so early coordination for MICE events is crucial.
The Roof at Park South
This relaxed, well designed event space is an ideal MICE event space in the city. Boasting stunning views of the New York City Skyline, The Roof offers semi-private and private gatherings ranging from 15 – 175 guests.
This event space is only open during the summer months – so early coordination for MICE events is crucial.
Rooftop Lounges for Drinks Receptions
We have scouted the best rooftop venue spaces for drinks receptions in the city. These relaxed rooftop lounges offer comfortable seating and a laid-back atmosphere.
The Ready Rooftop
Designed with murals, planters, casual seating, The Ready is the perfect ‘laidback’ spot for a corporate drinks reception in the city.
The Ready welcomes semi-private groups as small as 24, or up to 150 for a reception-style buyout. They offer expanded catering options and open bar packages for MICE event tailored to your requirements.
Harriet’s Rooftop & Lounge
Take in the most expansive views of the Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn Bridge from Harriet’s Rooftop at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge.
Harriet’s offers a unique event setting, with a dining experience poolside and party under the stars. The space can accommodate up to 350 guests and includes relaxed seating, creative catering, and incredible unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline.
Hidden Gem Rooftop Spots
Looking for something off the beaten path? These hidden gem rooftop venues offer a unique and authentic NYC experience.
Berry Park
Berry Park is a favorite among locals and less well known in MICE events. Located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, it has great views of the Manhattan skyline and is known for its laid-back atmosphere and extensive beer selection. This hidden gem offers a great amount of outdoor event space for your next corporate gathering.
‘The menu focuses on casual yet elevated eats from mouthwatering burgers to a wide selection of beers.’
Elsewhere Rooftop
Elsewhere Rooftop has a unique, artsy vibe and is known for its live music and creative events. Elsewhere offers vast event space and production featuring five rooms, three performance stages, and 24,000 square feet of indoor and open-air possibilities.
‘Supported by their world-class audio-visual equipment and professional staff, there’s no better place to stage even the most ambitious event or production concept.’
Smithsfields brings you the latest global MICE news for event profs. We publish destination content, a global supplier directory, event inspiration and incentive travel insights.
Contact us at hello@smithsfields.com
The above information is for general guidance.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest news, travel tips and event industry insights.
Workplace AI: How is artificial intelligence changing events and business travel?
Workplace AI: How is artificial intelligence changing events and business travel?
With the power of generative artificial intelligence (AI), workplace tasks and business travel will be, and is being transformed.
AI has the potential to enable access to experiences, security and wellbeing across diverse sectors including the event industry and business travel. We look at some examples of how generative AI-enabled technology is being used in the events and travel sector.
- AI face recognition and passes
- AI algorithms for consumer/attendee data
- AI hotel check ins
- Chatbots for agencies
- AI event budgetting
- Security and risk assessment
AI Revolution
Working towards streamlining events for not only the attendees, but the people planning the experiences. What we want to avoid is wasted money, generic experiences, and logistical headaches. But what if AI tech could fix these problems?
AI, or artificial intelligence, is changing things. It’s about machines learning and solving problems like humans. This includes things like understanding language and gathering data. Think smarter planning, better trips, and events that will WOW. You’ll see chances to improve how things are done, leading to better experiences for both planners and attendees.
AI-Powered Personalization
AI algorithms are like super-smart detectives. AI can analyze your past events, favorite activities, and what grabs the attention of your attendees. This data is then used to create travel plans and event schedules tailored just for you.
Imagine getting hotel suggestions that matches exactly what you’re looking for, or a conference schedule suggestion packed with recommended sessions for your guests. Targeted marketing campaigns become less stressful and more streamlined, allowing you to target the right people.
AI Chatbots for Customer Service
AI chatbots are like 24/7 virtual assistants. Chatbots allow you to save time reponding to website inquiries, can instantly reply to clients, help with bookings, issues travel updates, and guide your clients through any FAQs.
Implementing a chatbot gives your clients the quick support they need whilst you focus on the important stuff.
Sentiment Analysis and Feedback Management
AI can analyze customer reviews, social media posts, and surveys to understand how people feel about their experiences.
This sentiment analysis helps businesses find what they’re doing well and where they need to improve.
Streamlining Operations and Logistics with AI
AI isn’t just about making customers happy; it’s also about making things run smoother behind the scenes. It can optimize prices, schedules, and how resources are used.
Predictive Analytics for Demand Travel Forecasting
Flight and hotel prices change ALL THE TIME. AI can predict how many people will want flights, hotel rooms, and event tickets. This helps businesses set prices and manage their resources more effectively.
Airlines use AI to adjust ticket prices based on demand, and hotels optimize room rates based on how full they expect to be.
AI-Driven Route Optimization and Logistics
AI can figure out the best routes for travel and manage the logistics of events, like transportation and catering. This helps cut costs and make everything run like clockwork.
Delivery services use AI to plan the fastest routes, and event organizers use it to optimize setup and breakdown.
Automating Repetitive Tasks
Many tasks that used to take up valuable time can be automated using AI. It frees up employees to focus on more important things.
Think about automatic email responses, generated reports, and invoices being processed automatically. This not only boosts efficiency but also cuts down on costs.
AI in Event Planning and Management
AI is changing how events are planned and managed, from the initial stages to the analysis after the event.
AI-Powered Event Planning Tools
Software platforms now use AI to help with everything from choosing the perfect venue to recommending speakers and optimizing schedules.
AI tools can suggest the best layout for an event, identify speakers that match the theme and audience interests. These smart tools make event planning less stressful and more successful.
Enhancing Attendee Engagement with AI
AI can create interactive experiences for event attendees, like recommending content and connecting people with similar interests.
AI-driven matchmaking services can help attendees find and connect with others. AI can also make personalized event schedules. These smart features keep people engaged and make events more valuable.
Challenges and Considerations for AI Adoption
While AI offers huge benefits, there are challenges and ethical considerations to keep in mind.
Data Privacy and Security
It is vital to protect customer data and follow privacy regulations when using AI. People should understand how their data is being used.
Companies need to be careful about how they collect, store, and use data to maintain trust.
Job Displacement Concerns
AI could change the job market as well as highly benefitting your employees.
Companies can invest in training programs to help workers learn new skills and adjust to new roles.
Ethical Considerations
Using AI responsibly and avoiding bias in algorithms is key. It’s important to ensure that AI systems are fair and do not discriminate.
Conclusion
AI is revolutionizing the events and travel industries, leading to greater efficiency, personalization, and better customer experiences. It can optimize operations and enhance event planning.
Smithsfields brings you the latest global MICE news for event profs. We publish destination content, a global supplier directory, event inspiration and incentive travel insights.
Contact us at hello@smithsfields.com
The above information is for general guidance.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest news, travel tips and event industry insights.
Top Picks for Local DMCs: MICE Events in North & Central America
Corporate Events and Travel in North and Central America: The Top Picks for Local DMCs
Organising global events can be tricky if you don’t know the destination well. One of the primary reasons to partner with a Destination Management Company (DMC) is to utilize their expertise in local event management. This article gives you an insight into the DMCs in North & Central America. A DMC acts as as your local contact when planning a destination event and specializes supplier, activity and venue coordination in events including conferences, incentive trips, board meetings, retreats, exhibitions and team building.
A DMC will negotiate on behalf of international event planners. DMC’s are able to source the best suppliers at the best rate, using their local knowledge and network of established relationships.
Researching and contacting suppliers to help plan an event with you takes time. Without a personal relationship, it can be difficult to vet potential suppliers online. The advantage of working with a DMC is that they have already done the hard work for you. Established DMCs have spent years cultivating a trusted, high-quality network of local suppliers. They not only know who’s the best in the business, but also who will add value to your event.
We’ve made the event planning process event easier by recommending the top picks for DMCs in North and Central America.
**certain countries and states have not been included due to insufficient suppliers. If something is wrong, please let us know: Contact us.**
Antigua, Barbados and Antigua DMCs
Bahamas DMCs
Belize DMCs
Canada DMCs
Costa Rica DMCs
Cuba DMCs
Dominican Republic DMCs
Grenada DMCs
Guatemala DMCs
Jamaica DMCs
Mexico DMCs
Panama and Nicaragua DMCs
Saint Kitts and Nevis DMCs
Saint Lucia DMCs
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines DMCs
Trinidad and Tobago DMCs
United States of America DMCs
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Delaware
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Illinois
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Massachusetts
Michigan
Missouri
Montana
Nevada
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Washington
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Our goal is to help elevate your event planning experience by recommending the best suppliers, venues and programs available in your destination.
Follow us on Instagram for the latest news, travel tips and event industry insights.
The Best NYC Private Dining Spots for Team Events and Meetings
The Best NYC Private Dining Spots for Team Events and Meetings
Looking for an NYC private dining space for large groups? We’ve hunted down the best spaces that offer everything you need to host a team dinner or meeting in New York City. We’ve focused on venues that offer private dining spaces for over 25 guests varying in budget, location and cuisine.
Daniel
Location: Upper East - 60 E 65th St
Cuisine: French
Maximum Capacity: 90pax
$$$
source: Daniel NYC (https://www.danielnyc.com/gallery)
Locande Verde
Location: Tribeca
Cuisine: Italian
Maximum Capacity: 60pax
$$$
source: Locande Verde (https://www.locandaverdenyc.com/tribeca-menus)
Vinegar Hill House
Location: 72 Hudson Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Cuisine: American
Maximum Capacity: 32pax
$
source: Vinegar Hill House (https://www.instagram.com/p/C-7_Joxu_w5/?hl=en)
Kashkaval Garden
Location: Hells Kitchen
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Maximum Capacity: 45pax
$
source: Kashkavel Garden (https://www.instagram.com/p/DAROuqbvo1d/)
Time and Tide
Location: 48 E 26th St, New York, NY 10010
Cuisine: Seafood
Maximum Capacity: 40pax
$$$
source: Time and Tide (https://www.instagram.com/p/DAROuqbvo1d/)
Il Buco
Location: 47 Bond Street, New York, NY 10012
Cuisine: Italian
Maximum Capacity: 26pax
$$$$
source: Il Buco (https://ilbuco.com/pages/private-dining)
Gem Home
Location: 181 Mott St, New York, NY 10012
Cuisine: Coffee and cafe
Maximum Capacity: 40pax
$
source: Gem Home (https://www.instagram.com/p/DEsQNhcP_TG/?hl=en)
53
Location: 53 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019
Cuisine: Contemporary Asian
Maximum Capacity: 32pax
$$$$
Keep up to date with the best private dining spaces in New York City for groups, private events and team building.
Incentive Travel: South African Safari, Vineyards and Private Dining in Cape Town
MICE in South Africa: Private Dining in Cape Town, Authentic Safari and Vineyards of Franschhoek for Business Travel.
We are still not fully over the THRILL of our South African adventure. We kicked 2025 off with a bang and I’m not quite sure how I will ever fully look forward to a (usually freezing cold) January again. It’s been a journey – exploring incentive travel programs, world class venues, vineyard dining with views of the countryside, and coasting across the wild in a Jeep Wrangler, spotting lions, buffalo and zebra by very close (but very safe) optic.
We’re back and here to bring you everything we’ve learnt along the way, laying out the best venues, suppliers and DMC’s South Africa has to offer for your next MICE event.
Home to the Big Five, we give you both activity based insight into the incentive travel options in rural South Africa, as well as inspiration for where to host meetings and team building events in the bustling city of Cape Town. The biggest perk of South Africa is it being an ideal travel destination all year round.
This article is written based on your group accommodation being situated within Cape Town. All of our recommendations are for activities, venues and things to do within a reasonable distance from the city.
Experiences
- Hosted or Self-Drive Safari
- Various reserves including Melozhori and Aquilla approximately 2 to 3 hours drive from the city
- We would suggest booking private transport and stopping en route at one of the wonderful vineyards. Break up the journey (and enjoy the wine
We respectfully do not recommend the ‘day trip’ activity bookings that many travel websites try to push. Book lunch and wine tastings in advance. - Smithsfields recommends: Horseback Safari
- Franschhoek Wine Tram
- Departing from Franschhoek or Groot Drakenstein Terminal
- Approximately 60 minutes from the city by car
- All day activity including hop-on-hop-off scenic travel through the valleys
- Curated wine tastings and outstanding culinary experiences
- There are 5 separate tram lines to choose from offering independent routes to differing local vineyards
- Smithsfields Favourite Stop: Grande Provence
- Overnight stay or team build at the luxury Babylonstoren
- Multi award winning venue including Luxe 100 Best Awards 2022 and 2024, Best Hotel in South Africa
- Cellar tours, vineyard experiences and ground drives across the 750 hectares of farmland in the heart of historic winelands in the Drakenstein Valley
- Private dining up to 100 pax. View all event spaces, here
- Day group hike up to the Lion’s Head
- It’s free and the best way to see the entire city of Cape Town!
- Excellent team building adventure planning between 3-5 hours of walking (easy and moderate routes)
- Table Mountain also offers a long hike or the option to cable car to the top
- Smithsfields Recommends: Head for brunch at Jarryds to refuel after your hike!
MICE Venues
- Rooftop on Bree
- Our outdoor deck and balcony measure 150m2 and our indoor covered space is 250m2
- Maximum 120 pax
- Inhouse furniture, tech and 6m bar
- Cape Business Centre
- The largest space is the auditorium at 56m² and hosts up to 45 pax
- They also provide smaller meeting spaces and boardrooms for more intimate events
- Onsite catering, furniture and tech
- The Iconic Cape Business Centre is situated on the waters edge in the V&A Waterfront, Cruise Terminal
- One & Only
- Luxury hotel and event space located on the vibrant Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
- The Ballroom is the largest space and can host up to 140 pax
- Smaller meeting spaces and boardroom
- Full service event space including onsite catering, furniture and tech
- Lichtenstein Castle
- Unique, fully exclusive medieval castle overlooking the harbor in Hout Bay
- The ballroom has a capacity approximately 250 pax standing
- Five on-site accomodation rooms
- 30 mins (ish) from central Cape Town
- Cavalli Wine Estate
- Vineyard, picnics and oyster pairing in Stellenbosch
- Huge event space with a 600 cinema capacity conference room
- 40 mins (ish) from central Cape Town
Private Dining and Alternative Event Space
- Aubergine Cape Town
- Exclusive use of the restaurant or function venue
- Ability to host up to 80 pax
- Smaller private dining spaces for 10-50 guests
- Pigalle Cape Town
- ‘Cape Town’s largest indoor restaurant venue’, accommodating up to 350 pax
- Full in-house stage and resident jazz band and DJ
- Located by the V&A Waterfront
- The Silo Hotel
- The Wisdom Room is a glass-fronted private dining room which can comfortably host up to 22 guests
- Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner set menus
- Iconic luxury located on the V&A Waterfornt
Each region in South Africa is unique and beautiful in it’s own way. All destinations of SA offer a diverse range of landscapes, places of interest, activities and wonderful venues to explore. Cape Town was a fantastic base for us and we were able to enjoy the neighbouring wine valleys, luxury rural event spaces and the finest Big Five safari for incentive travel.
We’d love to hear from you if you’ve taken a business trip or incentive to South Africa.
Did we miss anything? Leave us a comment letting us know your favourite spots in SA.
Travel information
- Direct flights 14hrs
- GMT +7hrs
- Best all year round
DMCs
Ten things the ordinary tourist doesn't see in Manhattan: MICE and Incentives in the city
Ten things the ordinary tourist doesn’t see in Manhattan: MICE and Incentives in the city
- Brekkie at Little Ruby’s Cafe
Green eggs, ricotta hotcakes or a giant breakfast burrito – this spot has you covered for breakfast and brunch dishes to start the day off just right. Since 2002, Little Ruby’s has brought an Australian twist to Soho, East Village, Murray Hill, and West Village, offering locally sourced cuisine, specialty drinks, and delicious coffees. - A trip to the Hamptons
The summer playground for the rich and famous, and just two hours east of New York. Spend the day on the beach, take a bike ride through the residential blocks, or shop ’till you drop & lunch on the dunes. Finish the day at Shippy’s with a nice cold beer. - Sink some drinks in Alphabet City
Spend the evening exploring midtown east’s Alphabet City, where there are more dive bars than people. Enjoy some drinks and listen to the live music at Double Down Saloon. - Tai Chi in Central Park
There’s no better way to enjoy the park and break the ice for a group getting a work-out in overlooking Central Park. - Host a private dinner on the UES
Bring your group to an exclusive hire space on the upper east side. The Astor House offers private dining rooms, retreats, meetings and seminar spaces for 5-200 people. - Tour of the Metropolitan, Guggenheim, or another museum with a working artist
See the Museum through the artist’s eyes of his or hers favourite “Top Ten” works. - Robert De Niro’s personal Screening Room
This unique space is the perfect spot to host a group event or talk, or conduct a meeting prior to lunch in the actor’s restaurant – the TriBeCa Grill. - Ride the Yellow Water Taxi
Greet your guests from either JFK or EWR, and travel about 20 minutes to board a yellow water taxi for a two hour tour of the East River and the Hudson.
DMCs
Experience Marketing: The Finishing Touch for Busan’s MICE Industry with FTN
Experience Marketing: The Finishing Touch for Busan’s MICE Industry (FTN)
By
Busan’s MICE industry has matured significantly since the opening of BEXCO, the city’s landmark MICE venue, in 2001, and the establishment of the Convention Bureau in 2005.
To be recognized as an expert in any field, one typically needs at least 20 years of experience, and this principle applies to national industries as well.
With over 20 years of history, Busan’s MICE industry is now in need of a renaissance.
The end of COVID-19 has catalyzed the evolution of Busan’s MICE sector, which some are dubbing “MICE 2.0” in the era of the experience economy. The pandemic highlighted the convenience and vast potential of the online world, exemplified by platforms like Zoom and the metaverse. Traditional information sharing and product sales within the MICE context are no longer sufficient to meet the expectations of event-goers. To attract those accustomed to digital interaction, the MICE industry is evolving to emphasize unique local experiences, providing offerings that can only be enjoyed through physical attendance.
Busan’s MICE Marketing in the Experience Economy Era
As MICE event-goers around the world seek special real-life experiences, Busan’s MICE organizers are focusing on planning and marketing experiences that incorporate knowledge, content, and engaging activities. A notable example of this effort is the Busan International Footwear, Textile & Fashion Exhibition, held in October of last year.
The main exhibition took place at BEXCO, while the buyers’ dinner was hosted at Museum 1, Korea’s largest contemporary media art gallery. This unique venue provided visitors with an unforgettable experience, showcasing the identity of the Busan International Footwear, Textile & Fashion Exhibition through captivating media art.
Combining a region’s unique venues with MICE events is a strategy that offers event-goers more than just a program to attend—it provides them with an authentic local experience. Those who have enjoyed a distinctive experience in a region are likely to return for a longer stay. This highlights the significance of the Busan Convention Bureau’s efforts in selecting Busan Unique Venues.
In the second half of 2024, the Busan Convention Bureau identified 15 new unique venues, each well-suited for MICE events. These venues showcase Busan’s rich history and culture while offering dynamic leisure activities. They were chosen for their strong appeal to MICE event-goers. The Busan Unique Venues are collaborating with the city of Busan and local businesses to ensure that visitors have an unforgettable MICE experience.
Busan: The Destination for Unforgettable Experiences
Few cities can rival Busan’s diverse MICE infrastructure and growth potential. BEXCO, along with unique venues, stunning oceanfront leisure activities, five-star hotels, and resorts, collectively make up Busan’s world-class MICE ecosystem. As a comprehensive MICE city, Busan must integrate its MICE infrastructure with local tourism to offer event-goers a truly exceptional experience that encourages them to stay longer and return in the future. In this new era, Busan can embrace experience marketing to position itself as a leader in the global MICE industry.
Top 5 corporate retreat locations in Miami
1. Isla Bella Beach Resort
Located on the shore of Florida Keys, Isla Bella Beach Resort is a tropical haven featuring luxury and natural beauty.
The resort boasts 24 beautiful oceanfront acres with exquisite white sand and vibrant blue sea. The mile long waterfront property has been carefully designed within every room to exhibit a breathtaking ocean view as well as an expansive outdoor terrace to enjoy it throughout your stay. The resort is the perfect dining spot with a beautiful beach bar surrounded by palm trees, five resort pools, and access to fishing and adventurous activities.
The resort offers the most exciting water activities including snorkeling and paddle-boarding. For dinner, treat yourself to Mahina, a Polynesian-inspired restaurant, or enjoy the fantastic asian cuisine of Sushi Cabana.
Relax on the private beach or treat yourself at the resort spa.
2. Bungalows Key Largo
In the heart of the Florida Keys, Bungalows Key Largo offers an adults-only paradise for the ideal corporate retreat. This lush escape is an all-inclusive resort, nestled in a botanical garden. Spread along 1000 feet of ocean shoreline, the resort is just a few miles from the Gulf Stream. Each resort bungalow features outdoor tubs and stunning views.
There are 3 on-site restaurants including the waterfront restaurant Bogie and Bacall, or you can indulge in cooking classes or live music at the Hemingway Bar.
Treat yourself at the Zen Garden Spa, or discover the vibrant marine life during snorkeling or paddle boarding adventures.
3. Hawks Cay Resort
On the small, secluded island of Duck Key, bottlenose dolphins readily greet guests, and visitors and locals alike discover the best seaside dining, coastal living and aquatic adventures.
Hawks Cay Resort offers the ultimate tropical escape.
Coral Cay boasts a saltwater lagoon and private cabanas, perfect for team meetings, team building or brainstorming sessions.
Dine in at Angler and Ale, and enjoy the Key’s favorite dishes with a stunning ocean view.
The resort provides the ultimate spa experience at Calm Waters Spa, as well as offering various unique experiences like paddle-board yoga.
4. Shephard’s Beach Resort
Shephard’s Beach Resort is the ultimate spot for a vibrant corporate retreat by the water. The gulf-front resort offers elite rooms with private balconies and ocean views.
The Dolphin Room is a private venue for the perfect corporate meetings and celebrations. Complete with state of the art sound system and audio visual capabilities.
The resort’s Cove Kitchen and Bar provides a lively beachfront experience, serving cocktails and fresh seafood. Stop by Soak Pool and enjoy live music in the sun over team drinks.
The resort boasts two outdoor pools and a private beach.
Water sports enthusiasts can embark on jet ski rentals and parasailing adventures. Enjoy a team sunset cruise and dolphin-viewing boat trip.
5. The Brazilian Court Hotel
Located in Palm Beach, The Brazilian Court Hotel is a private and secluded space for your next corporate retreat.
A historic landmark infused throughout with Roaring 1920s glamour, the private, 80-room hotel is the classic Palm Beach luxury getaway. The high-style accommodations and impeccable service provides an unforgettable experience for your team.
Soak in the hot tub, sunbathe at the private beach, and take in the stunning tropical courtyards.
Guests are invited to enjoy the cuisine of internationally acclaimed chef Daniel Boulud at Café Boulud. Treat yourself at the Brazilian Court Salon or simply vanish into tranquility by the secluded outdoor pool. Spend your time relaxing in one of the tropically landscaped courtyards or by taking a warm walk and strolling down Worth Avenue.
The hotel features 3,500 sq. ft. of flexible indoor/outdoor event spaces, ideal for corporate events.
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