In the 19th century, Americans embraced the idea that the West was the land of opportunity. Horace Greeley, the author and newspaper editor, popularized the phrase “Go West, young man.” Although he was referring to migration west of the Rockies, Greeley’s romanticized belief that a better life awaits in the West can be readily applied to 21st-century Southwest Florida.

From the pristine, white-sand beaches to the moss-laden trees of the Everglades, there’s a quiet magic that hangs in the humid Florida air, beckoning guests to sit and stay a while. More affordable than the state’s east coast, Southwest Florida blends small-town charm with top-notch facilities for memorable meeting experiences.

Beyond boardrooms and ballrooms, there’s no shortage of activities to keep attendees entertained in Southwest Florida. During downtime, visitors can relax on more than 600 miles of Gulf Coast beaches, tee off at one of the region’s 150 golf courses and kayak on the open water. They can enjoy fresh seafood, search for wildlife on a swamp tour and indulge in retail therapy at one of the area’s European-style, open-air malls.

“We offer affordable luxury with world-class resorts, beaches and exciting adventure,” says Debi DeBenedetto, convention and visitors bureau sales and marketing manager for Naples Marco Island Everglades, Florida’s Paradise Coast. “Whether you’re kayaking or fishing the Everglades, taking a Waverunner tour of the Ten Thousand Islands, dolphin watching, yachting or relaxing in the spa or on a white sandy beach watching the sun go down, we invite you to go west to find your paradise.”

Further Reading:

Beer and Ball Games in Southwest Florida
3 Enticing Reasons to Plan a Meeting in Southwest Florida
Golfing, Kayaking and Offsites Galore in Southwest Florida
Major Meeting Venues: Southwest Florida