Need a boardroom with a side of boutique luxury? Convene’s new parent company just made venue sourcing a whole lot simpler with full-service flagships and turnkey training spaces under one (stylish) roof.
Meanwhile, Michelin just gave hotels their own shiny rating system, and Tivoli Doelen Amsterdam is already two Keys deep. In China, Jincheng is reviving ancient villages as wellness retreats and in the U.S., the government shutdown is still sending turbulence through air traffic systems. Plus: a Maldives travel advisory that’s worth reading before you book that overwater bungalow.
Convene Hospitality Group Unites Convene and etc.venues
The meeting industry’s hospitality-first disruptor just got a parent. Convene has announced the formation of Convene Hospitality Group (CHG), a new umbrella organization bringing together its flagship premium meeting brand and etc.venues, which specializes in turnkey spaces for small meetings and corporate trainings. The move sets the stage for multi-brand growth across the global meetings and events landscape.
Led by Convene CEO and co-founder Ryan Simonetti, CHG’s mission is to create purpose-driven spaces that support everything from brand activations and offsites to multiday conferences and social events. “We uncovered multiple unique industry segments…and we are committed to serving the full spectrum of the meetings and events market,” Simonetti said.
Already the largest provider of dedicated meeting venues in the U.S. and U.K., CHG counts 38 global locations across nine cities, with more on the way. Whether you’re planning a breakout brainstorm or a high-stakes pitch, expect elevated service, hospitality-rooted design and flexible formats—plus in-house AV, catering and planning support across brands.
Tivoli Doelen Amsterdam Nabs Two Michelin Keys in Global Hotel Awards Debut
The Michelin Guide just checked into hotels—and Tivoli Doelen Amsterdam already has two shiny new Keys to show for it. At the inaugural Global Michelin Guide Hotels Ceremony in Paris, the historic canal-side property was awarded two Michelin Keys, the hospitality equivalent of “exceptional stay” status.
A proud moment for the team and the city, the award celebrates hotels that “go beyond comfort and service to deliver something truly memorable.” With its 16th-century pedigree, riverfront location and history as home to Rembrandt’s The Night Watch, Tivoli Doelen blends timeless Dutch elegance with five-star finesse.
“This recognition is a tribute to our dedicated team,” said General Manager Angelo Vassallo, “who work with passion and commitment every day to deliver a truly memorable stay for our guests.”
Now among the world’s most remarkable hotels, Tivoli Doelen earns its spot not just for style, but for its deep sense of place—creative, intimate, and distinctly Amsterdam.
Michelin’s stamp of approval gives planners a fresh reason to book boutique luxury in the heart of Europe, especially for groups that value artistry, atmosphere and canal views.
Jincheng Breathes New Life into Ancient Villages for a Wellness-First Future
Looking to blend wellness travel with cultural immersion? China’s Jincheng city may have cracked the code. Over the National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holiday, the city unveiled a bold new model for revitalizing ancient villages.
At the heart of the initiative are immersive red tourism experiences, digital-enhanced museums and living heritage demonstrations that reimagine history for modern travelers. “We’re advancing wellness tourism through a culture-tourism synergy,” said Jincheng’s Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism. “Culture shapes tourism experiences, and tourism promotes cultural vitality.”
So far, 18 villages have been transformed into A-level scenic areas, with standouts like the “Huangcheng Five Villages,” Yuchi Village, and Lianghu Village leading the way. Think Ming-era architecture, traditional wedding customs, eco-conscious retreats and even a Spirit Practice Center. It’s not just a vibe—it’s a strategy.
The result is a sustainable ecosystem that links heritage with healing, attracting visitors while boosting local livelihoods. For planners seeking next-gen incentive or retreat locales with built-in soul, Jincheng’s ancient alleyways may be your next frontier.
U.S. Government Shutdown Continues to Add Strain to Airline System
The ongoing U.S. government shutdown is stretching the aviation sector, with air traffic control delays multiplying and airline operations feeling the pinch, according to a report by The Associated Press.
Key impacts include slower gate-to-gate scheduling, increased flight delays and reduced staffing in essential federal agencies. Some airlines are preemptively canceling flights ahead of schedule to manage risk and maintain on-time performance.
For meeting and incentive planners, these disruptions underscore a renewed importance of buffer days, trusted local partners and alternative routing strategies. Venue contracts, ground logistics and guest arrival windows may all need revisiting in light of potential ripple effects across America’s skies.
U.S. Travelers Urged to “Exercise Increased Caution” in Maldives Amid Terror Risk
The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 2 advisory for the Maldives, cautioning that terrorist attacks may occur with little or no warning.
Tourist sites, transport hubs, markets and remote islands are named as possible targets, and authorities note that responses to incidents in outlying areas could be delayed.
To help travelers stay prepared, the advisory recommends enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), avoiding large gatherings, staying alert to local media and submitting the required traveler declaration via the IMUGA site no more than 96 hours before arrival.
Entry into the Maldives remains possible; visitors receive a free 30‑day visa upon arrival, provided they carry a valid passport, onward ticket and complete the electronic traveler form.
For meeting and incentive planners, this means factoring in extra buffer time, choosing centrally located resorts and having contingency plans in place for guest movement or gathering adjustments.
As always, Smart Travel will keep you posted on updates and travel advisories affecting your next group trip.
