Thinking about planning your next meeting or incentive at sea? Celebrity Cruises just revealed a fleet-wide refresh that’s worth a look. Wish you could pool all those airline miles in one place? JetBlue and United are teaming up in a new partnership that could make that dream a little closer to reality. Feel like the future of travel is already here? So does Trip.com, which just rolled out a $100 million fund to fuel innovation and sustainability.

As always, Smart Travel has you covered with the latest travel and tourism headlines you need to know.

U.S. Updates France Travel Advisory with Safety Reminders

The U.S. State Department has reissued its Level 2 travel advisory for France, encouraging travelers to exercise increased caution due to terrorism threats, civil unrest and a rise in pickpocketing and phone theft. The advisory, updated May 28, highlights that theft is especially common in crowded areas like airports, train stations, tourist attractions and subways.

France welcomed 100 million international visitors in 2024, underscoring its continued appeal as a top global destination. For meeting and event professionals organizing programs in Paris or other French cities, the updated advisory is a timely reminder to help attendees stay informed and safe.

Planners should advise groups to remain aware of their surroundings, especially in high-traffic areas, and to monitor local media for potential protests or disruptions. Demonstrations and strikes occur regularly in urban centers, and while typically peaceful, they can still impact transportation and event logistics.

Staying a step ahead with local updates and safety planning can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience in this perennially popular destination.

Celebrity Cruises Invests $250 Million to Upgrade Solstice-Class Ships

Celebrity Cruises is giving its Solstice-class ships a luxe refresh with a $250 million investment aimed at elevating the onboard experience. The first in line for the transformation is Celebrity Solstice, with upgrades expected to be complete by March.

Highlights include the addition of new venues like the Boulevard Lounge, where guests can enjoy trivia nights, dueling pianos and candlelit concerts, as well as a cozy adjacent Boulevard Bar. A nostalgic new sports bar, Celebrity Barcade, will also make its debut. On the culinary side, cruisers can look forward to Trattoria Rossa, an elegant Italian dining spot with in-house pasta and tableside service, and Fine Cut Steakhouse, borrowed from the line’s Edge-class ships.

Top-deck upgrades will feature Sunset Park, a sprawling half-acre of cabanas, lawn games and concerts, plus an expanded Sunset Bar and redesigned Retreat sundeck. All staterooms across the five ships will be fully upgraded, with four new suite categories and spa-inspired enhancements in AquaClass rooms.

For planners organizing meetings or incentives at sea, this overhaul offers exciting new options for both relaxation and engagement. From fresh venues ideal for private receptions to upgraded accommodations with wellness perks, Celebrity’s Solstice-class refresh could be just the ticket for a memorable and elevated group experience.

American Airlines Rolls Out Touchless ID for Faster TSA Screening

Frequent flyers enrolled in TSA Precheck and American Airlines’ AAdvantage loyalty program can now breeze through security a little faster. American has introduced TSA Precheck Touchless ID at four major airports—Reagan Washington National, New York LaGuardia, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta and Salt Lake City—with plans to expand to more hubs in the months ahead.

The new system uses facial recognition to match travelers’ images to government-provided photos, allowing them to pass through TSA checkpoints more efficiently. To use the feature, AAdvantage members simply opt in via their online profile by entering their passport details and Known Traveler Number. Annual renewal is required.

For meeting and event professionals, this upgrade offers a smoother start to travel for VIP attendees and corporate groups. Encouraging eligible travelers to enroll can help reduce airport wait times and streamline arrivals, setting the tone for a more seamless experience from takeoff to touchdown.

Trip.com Unveils $100M Innovation Fund and Bold Global Vision

Trip.com Group is charting an ambitious course for the future of travel, unveiling a $100 million Tourism Innovation Fund and a global green roadmap during its Envision 2025 Partner Conference in Shanghai. With over 3,000 travel leaders in attendance, the event spotlighted the company’s commitment to sustainable growth, cutting-edge technology and community empowerment.

The fund will support pioneering projects that elevate tourism experiences—think immersive cultural events, digital festivals and sustainability-first initiatives. A new global Tourism Innovation Award will also recognize standout contributions in areas like cultural heritage, scenic destinations and tech-forward solutions.

With new partnerships in place—from Austria to New Zealand and across Asia—Trip.com Group is positioning itself at the forefront of travel’s next chapter, focused on accessibility, innovation and impact.

“Travel and innovation are vital forces in the world economy, and among the most meaningful and fulfilling pursuits for humanity,” said James Liang, co-founder and chairman of Trip.com Group. “Innovation is already propelling the travel industry forward—from advancing sustainability to immersive experiences. Through our new Tourism Innovation Fund, we are supporting pioneers to travel further together, shaping a better future for humanity.”

JetBlue and United Announce ‘Blue Sky’ Partnership and JFK Return

JetBlue and United Airlines are joining forces under a new “Blue Sky” partnership that promises expanded benefits for travelers, without triggering the antitrust issues that ended JetBlue’s former Northeast Alliance. The collaboration, announced May 29, includes interline booking, reciprocal loyalty perks and a long-awaited return by United to New York JFK.

Through the partnership, flyers will be able to book United flights through JetBlue’s platforms and vice versa. Loyalty members can earn and redeem points across both airlines, enjoying perks like free checked bags, upgrades and priority boarding. While there will be no codesharing or joint scheduling, the agreement allows for seamless interlining between the two carriers.

JetBlue will trade JFK slots to United in exchange for increased access at Newark, allowing United to resume up to seven daily roundtrips out of JFK by 2027, marking its return to the airport for the first time in over a decade. In turn, JetBlue expects to add eight daily flights at Newark, strengthening its presence there.

“This partnership helps us offer customers more choice and convenience while respecting the boundaries regulators have emphasized,” the airlines said in a joint statement. “This includes the discounts each airline has independently negotiated.”

The Blue Sky alliance will also integrate JetBlue’s Paisley platform into United’s vacation package offerings, streamlining car rental, hotel and cruise bookings within United.com and linking them with the MileagePlus program.

While a formal launch date has yet to be announced, elements of the partnership could roll out as early as this fall.

Read More: Smart Travel: Airbnb Launches New Services, Warning Signs for U.S. Travel, Hilton’s New Paris Hotel and More

Veteran event tech expert Tim Altbaum has some straight talk for planners

In the whirlwind world of meetings and events, AV is often treated as a checklist item. Two screens, a black backdrop, some lights and you’re good to go—right? Not exactly. AV experts say this kind of rinse-and-repeat approach is one of the biggest mistakes planners make when designing memorable experiences.

Tim Altbaum headshot
Tim Altbaum

“The first mistake is trying to have the same conference each year without evolving,” said Tim Altbaum, CMP, CSEP, HMCC, CMM, and CEO of Vario Productions, A Hosts Global Strategic Partner. “Your attendees notice when nothing changes. They stop coming.”

That staleness often shows up first and foremost in AV. Yet AV is also one of the most flexible tools planners have to make experiences feel fresh, immersive and emotionally resonant.

Altbaum was at Hosts Global Forum in Athens earlier this year, sharing truths about hiring audiovisual companies. Here are the top mistakes AV professionals see—and how to get ahead of them.

1. Assuming Costs Stay the Same Year Over Year

Event costs have changed dramatically since 2020—and AV is no exception. Labor shortages, rising insurance premiums and skyrocketing transportation costs mean AV quotes today look very different from those in 2019. Did you know:

  • Labor sourced locally is often more expensive than staff flown in, due to shortages.
  • Trucking and insurance have significantly increased overhead for AV providers.
  • Many planners assume their AV bill should match last year’s—but the economics simply don’t support that anymore.

2. Relying Too Heavily on In-House AV

It’s convenient, sure. But it can also be costly.

Read More: AV Fine Print—Avoiding the Contract Traps That Cost Planners Big Time

“Planners often default to the in-house AV provider out of habit or ease,” Altbaum said. “But many hotels require those providers to hit certain profit margins because of revenue-sharing agreements.”

That can inflate costs. A better approach: Always get a quote from a trusted third-party AV company. Even if the in-house provider matches the price, competition can help drive down fees.

3. Skipping the Consultation

The best AV partnerships don’t start with a quote—they start with a conversation.

“One of the first questions we ask is: What’s more important—the value of your spend or the quality of the attendee experience?” said our expert. “Usually, it’s both. But we have to dig in to prioritize.”

Read More: My Event Tech Checklist

Too often, planners send over last year’s AV list without re-evaluating what they actually need. That leads to unnecessary gear, bloated labor charges and missed creative opportunities.

Instead, AV partners can:

  • Audit past setups to identify waste.
  • Recommend fresh formats for your goals.
  • Ensure the budget is spent where it matters most.

4. Treating All Events the Same

A general session isn’t the same as an internal employee meeting. Yet many planners use the same AV format for both. That’s a missed opportunity.

“You can’t use the same two-screen setup for a customer-facing user conference and a company retreat,” Altbaum said. “Those events have different goals. Your AV should reflect that.”

For example:

  • Customers need crisp branding and clear storytelling.
  • Employees may need emotional engagement and immersive interaction.

5. Ignoring the Power of Pre-Production

Where AV providers shine is in the planning phase, long before the equipment rolls in.

“Anyone can rent you gear. Our value comes in understanding your event’s goals and customizing the experience to meet them.”

AV pros can help:

  • Build show flows that match the message.
  • Choose tech that enhances the vibe.
  • Suggest new technology that might be able to cut costs.

6. Overlooking New Tech and Tools

Technology evolves fast, and not just the hardware. AI is becoming a powerful tool for planners looking to streamline AV and event design.

Read More: Optimizing the “A” in AV

Some use cases include:

  • AI-generated highlight videos using auto-sourced stock footage.
  • Voice-of-God recordings in multiple languages and tones.
  • AI analysis of post-event surveys to uncover insights fast.

“These tools don’t replace your team,” Altbaum said. “They enhance it. If you’re not using them, someone else is—and doing it better.”

7. Forgetting the Attendee Impact

Ultimately, AV is about experience. And when AV is treated as an afterthought, your audience notices.

“If attendees aren’t engaged, they don’t come back. If it’s an internal meeting, disengaged employees don’t stay loyal,” Altbaum warned. “You have to ask: What story are we telling, and how can AV support that?”

Whether you’re selling a product or reinforcing a culture, AV helps shape the message. But only when it’s aligned with your event’s mission.

Extreme meeting preparedness is the new standard for putting Gen Z at ease

Do you remember what it was like the first time you walked into a room full of strangers? How about the last time you knew no one at a cocktail party where you were expected to mix and mingle? Pretty intimidating, right?

A meeting professional’s job at its core is to make everyone feel welcome and connected. For tips on how to put attendees and the event team at ease, we asked Kim Napolitano, executive director of industry relations and intermediary group sales at Hilton and a Smart Women in Meetings Award Hall of Fame winner.

Need to Know

Kim Napolitano headshot
Kim Napolitano

Napolitano pointed to research in “The World’s Most Welcoming Events Playbook,” Hilton’s customer resource developed based on the needs of Gen Z and millennials. Hilton partnered with Ipsos, the global market research and public opinion specialists, to ask travelers and meeting attendees about their expectations and anxieties.

Read More: How Gen Z is Reshaping Trade Shows

“Extreme meeting preparedness was one of the biggest trends we uncovered,” Napolitano said. More than 70% of respondents said they felt more comfortable when they understood what to expect in advance.

That means sharing not just the agenda, but menus, dress codes and event flow weeks ahead of time. “Clear is kind,” Napolitano said, echoing thought leader Brené Brown. “It’s about setting people up for success.”

For attendees, especially those new to professional events, even basic expectations can be anxiety-inducing. One revealing statistic stood out: 79% of Gen Z respondents worry about what to wear to meetings.

Hilton’s advice? Don’t just say, “business casual.” Show it. “Include images in your pre-event communication,” Napolitano said. “To one person, ‘dress to impress’ could mean a ball gown. To another, it’s jeans without holes.”

Read More: What Rom-Coms Can Teach Meeting Planners

From thoughtful menu planning under the Nourish pillar of Meet with Purpose to room layouts and signage, the goal is to foster inclusion and reduce social friction.

“Communication is caring,” Napolitano said. And it goes far beyond email reminders. She encourages planners to create immersive, visually rich pre-event communications that paint a full picture of what to expect. Think video welcome messages, sample photos of food and venue walk-throughs.

Read More: 10 Effective Meeting Icebreakers

Breaking the Ice

Once on site, creating social comfort has to be intentional. Napolitano suggested interactive, sustainability-focused activities like Hilton’s Solar Buddies project (building solar-powered lights for underserved communities) to help attendees break the ice while giving back.

Trained, designated welcome hosts who greet guests can cut through the awkwardness and be a smiling face in the crowd. They can make introductions, act as human arrows with friendly wayfinding and offer insights about the experience.

“It’s these kinds of experiences that offer both purpose and connection,” she said. “You’re doing something meaningful and in the process, you meet people naturally.”

A Platform with Purpose

“The World’s Most Welcoming Events Playbook” falls under Hilton’s broader Travel with Purpose umbrella, which includes Meet with Purpose, a program that focuses on sustainable and socially responsible meetings. The Playbook is a mindset shift, designed to ease attendee anxiety and elevate experiences for all generations.

One of its core tools is the LightStay Meeting Impact Calculator, because putting attendee minds at ease that they are not damaging the planet by attending is a weight off their already strained shoulders. “It allows planners to understand the carbon, water and waste impact of their meeting based on the actual utilities of the property,” Napolitano explained. This empowers planners to make sustainability a consultative part of the conversation, from carbon-neutral meeting credits to community givebacks.

The initiative is being written directly into event contracts. “If it’s not in writing, it doesn’t exist,” Napolitano laughed.

More Than a Trend—A New Standard

At its core, Hilton’s approach is about intentional design. “This isn’t a moment. It’s a movement,” Napolitano said.

And the impact is tangible. As hybrid work remains prevalent and attendees juggle complex travel decisions, the need for calm, inclusive and well-prepared event environments has never been more vital.

“We’re proud of where we are,” Napolitano said. “But it’s just the beginning. Welcoming is no longer a bonus feature—it’s the standard.”

From wine country to Washington DC to Queens, these three standout openings bring style, substance and story to meetings and events

A trio of new properties is raising the bar for group gatherings across the country. In Sonoma County, Appellation Healdsburg blends rustic charm with culinary flair, offering immersive food-driven venues like a rooftop terrace and an exhibition kitchen in the heart of downtown. Over in Washington D.C., the newly opened Canal House of Georgetown brings bold design and neighborhood flavor to a historic setting, with suites, townhouses and a menu rooted in local tradition.

Meanwhile, The Westin Flushing LaGuardia Airport makes wellness the main act in Queens, pairing sleek accommodations and serene amenities with easy access to Citi Field, LaGuardia and the 7 train. Whether your attendees are craving fine wine, canal-side charm or urban calm, these properties deliver fresh takes on meetings with purpose and personality.

A Fresh Take on Wine Country Gatherings

Appellation Healdsburg Grange Terrace
Grange Terrace

Appellation Healdsburg is redefining meetings in Sonoma County with an inspired blend of rustic elegance and culinary-driven design. Set in the heart of downtown Healdsburg, this 108-room hotel offers 11 distinctive venues that reflect the region’s agricultural roots while embracing modern sophistication.

Grange Hall, the property’s signature indoor-outdoor space, accommodates up to 260 guests and features a striking exhibition kitchen that invites interactive culinary experiences with local ingredients and world-class chefs. Its adjoining Grange Terrace expands capacity to 500 for open-air receptions. For intimate dinners, the Orchard Table provides a serene setting beneath ancient olive trees, with a live-edge dining table, private firepit and plush seating.

The Rooftop Terrace boasts sweeping vineyard views for gatherings of up to 200 guests, while the on-site Charlie Palmer restaurant, lobby bar and agrarian rooftop bar offer additional spaces for private events and culinary moments.

True to its culinary-first mission, Appellation Healdsburg weaves food and wine into every aspect of the guest experience, from its immersive programming to its design ethos. Between events, guests can unwind at the Terroir Spa with custom treatments, lounge by one of two pools or recharge in the modern fitness center.

A Stylish Stay Along the Historic Canal

C + O Lounge, Canal House
C + O Lounge

Canal House of Georgetown, now open in the heart of Washington, D.C.’s iconic neighborhood, blends history, charm and a bold modern aesthetic into a boutique hospitality experience like no other. Just steps from the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal, the 105-room Tribute Portfolio Hotel features 10 specialty suites, three terrace rooms and two attached townhouses that invite guests to unwind in stylish comfort.

Designed for connection and discovery, the property includes inviting social spaces like a library lounge, a private courtyard and an expansive lobby with luxe, residential touches. Pet-friendly guest rooms are equipped with thoughtful amenities including a Keurig, personal refrigerator and complimentary Wi-Fi.

C&O Lounge, the hotel’s signature restaurant, celebrates local flavors with hearty, canal-inspired dishes and imaginative cocktails. Highlights include Chesapeake crab cake benedicts, coal miner’s short rib ravioli, and creative drinks like the Lockhouse Old Fashioned and Smoky Canal Spritz.

Whether guests are exploring nearby shops and eateries on M Street or relaxing in the hotel’s fitness center, every detail fosters a warm sense of place rooted in Georgetown’s heritage. Marriott Bonvoy members can earn and redeem points during their stay.

With its vibrant design, welcoming atmosphere and prime location near the waterfront, Canal House of Georgetown offers a fresh and soulful take on DC hospitality.

Wellness Meets the City at The Westin Flushing

Hotel lobby at The Westin Flushing LaGuardia Airport
The Westin Flushing hotel lobby

Opening this spring, The Westin Flushing LaGuardia Airport brings a new sense of balance and refinement to the heart of Queens. The 246-room property blends Westin’s signature wellness philosophy with sleek urban design and a deep appreciation for the surrounding neighborhood’s rich culture.

Thoughtfully designed guest rooms—some with private balconies and city views—feature the Heavenly Bed, triple-pane windows and modern amenities including workspaces and complimentary Wi-Fi. Common areas promote connection and calm, with a soaring lobby, lush biophilic wall and signature White Tea scent.

The hotel’s wellness offerings include the WestinWORKOUT Fitness Studio, one of Flushing’s only indoor pools, plus steam and sauna rooms. With over 6,000 sq. ft. of event space, including the 500-person Worlds Hall and a terrace-adjacent Westin Club, it’s well suited for meetings, celebrations and intimate gatherings alike.

Blu Ember, the signature Asian fusion restaurant from the acclaimed team behind Blu on the Hudson and Hinoki, features an omakase sushi-oyster bar, upscale main dining, private rooms and a full bar—bringing a culinary edge to the wellness-forward stay.

Just 10 minutes from LaGuardia and steps from the 7 train and LIRR, The Westin Flushing offers easy access to Citi Field, Flushing Meadows, and the Queens Botanical Garden, making it a restorative launchpad for locals and international travelers alike.

This is where modern comfort meets mindful travel—in one of New York City’s most dynamic neighborhoods.

The trade show floor is buzzing. Attendees saunter from one activation to another, ice skating at one booth, building a Lego block persona at another. The temporary world in an expo hall represents hundreds of thousands of dollars of investment on the part of the organizer and the sponsors. But is it working?

The same question can be asked of investments in big name general session keynotes and breakout sessions.

Nick Borelli, marketing director of Zenus.ai, a company specializing in ethical AI facial analysis, attended Smart Meetings Innovation Experience in Atlantic City. He walked attendees through an exercise where they planned an entire event for the nonprofit SEARCH Foundation in a few short hours using AI and explained that the answer to the ultimate return on event questions are rooted in data, not guesswork.

From Cool Gimmick to Strategic Essential

Zenus has worked with PCMA’s Convening Leaders conference for three years, evolving from simple operational insights (“Were sessions full?”) to more subtle suggestions about how to improve stickiness at booths and reporting on how people felt about a $30,000 speaker. “It quickly became clear that data could tell a much deeper story than just counting heads,” he said.

Read More: Rebranded PCMA Embraced World Stage

With over-the-top activations like “rooftop lounges” and indoor ice skating rinks, PCMA isn’t your average trade show. But therein lies the problem. “It’s chaos,” Borelli says. “There’s no standard grid of 10×10 booths. You have apples and oranges all over the place.”

Zenus solves this by applying facial analysis from dozens of strategically placed cameras to measure key metrics: dwell time, sentiment, engagement and foot traffic. The tech can quantify what was once purely anecdotal: Was the activation compelling? Did it resonate? And crucially, how did it compare to others?

For the first time ever at PCMA Convening Leaders 2025, Zenus analysts provided real-time coaching to top sponsors based on day-one data. “Usually we talk about ‘next year,’ but this time it was ‘tomorrow,’” says Borelli. “They adjusted staff positions, changed signage and reconfigured space.”

The insights went beyond impressions. “We looked at when dwell time turned into disengagement. If you’re talking to someone for seven minutes and their sentiment starts to dip, it might be time to wrap it up.”

Quality vs. Quantity

Borelli emphasizes that success isn’t always about the biggest crowd. “Some brands benefited from adding friction,” he says. “Think of a wooden fence around a Western-themed booth. Not everyone enters, but those who do are more qualified.”

He compares this to gated content in digital marketing. “You filter for serious interest. And that’s gold for B2B brands investing six figures in a booth.”

Zenus’s team noted that booth design played a big role in success. Barriers like fences or elevated platforms could either invite or repel engagement. The placement of staff, the openness of the space and even the positioning of giveaways all had measurable impact.

Data-Driven Storytelling

Nick Borelli on stage

One of the most compelling outcomes? Exhibitors left with actual data to justify ROI. “A new CFO at a major toy company challenged their Comic-Con presence, asking, ‘Why are we here?’” Borelli recalls. “Now, with facial analysis, they can show how many people engaged, what they felt and how long they stayed.”

Read More: Top 10 Meeting Cities for Geeks

Even macro-level insights emerged. For example:

  • Day 1: Higher impressions, lower engagement.
  • Day 2: Fewer attendees, but more meaningful conversations.

“That tells exhibitors when to focus their energy,” Borelli says. “Day one might be for grabbing attention; Day two is when deals happen.”

What Makes It Ethical?

The concern many initially have about whether watching the movements of attendees is borderline creepy or outright wrong is based on a misunderstanding of what the technology does.

“We never identify anyone,” Borelli explains. “This is aggregate data only—no facial recognition, no stored personal information. That’s where the ethical line is drawn. We care about what people feel in the moment, not who they are.”

Read More: What is AI Good For Anyway?

The sensors simply read expressions and behaviors anonymously with data records, not photos, offering real-time emotional insights and interactions. This lets exhibitors make immediate, informed changes.

“Facial analysis can sound creepy,” Borelli acknowledges, “but when it’s done right, it’s simply a new form of feedback. And we’re not just measuring what happened—we’re helping to make what happens next even better.”

A Culture of Curiosity

Perhaps the biggest takeaway is the shift in mindset. “PCMA deserves credit for being open to this kind of feedback,” says Borelli. “Most organizers don’t want to hear what didn’t work. But growth comes from curiosity, not defensiveness.”

In fact, he believes this approach should be baked into the culture of events moving forward. “Post-show surveys are too little, too late. Real-time feedback creates real-time learning.”

What Borelli ultimately hopes to change is the binary thinking that dominates event success metrics. “It’s not just about leads vs. no leads. It’s about qualified conversations, emotional engagement and intentional design. We want the industry to ask better questions.”

Unveiling attractions at Cvent’s Top 5 Meeting locations

Cvent has published its annual Top Meeting Destinations and Top Meeting Hotels lists. The lists include destinations and hotels in North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and, inaugurally, Latin America and the Caribbean.

We dive into the appeal of these destinations, what awaits meeting planners and their groups should they pay a visit and more recent developments in each city.

1. Orlando

Universal globe at theme park in Orlando
Universal Studios, Photo: Chansak Joe / Shutterstock.com

This was the 10th time Orlando topped the list, and the destination doesn’t leave you guessing how. On Visit Orlando’s website, it asks “Did you know that it takes 121 days to fully experience everything there is to do in Orlando?” If the average event is three or four days, it’ll take 30 to 40 visits for an attendee to fully experience the city. Add these attractions to the list if you want to contribute to your attendees getting the full experience.

Why Fully Experience the City?

Three new hotels have opened at Universal Orlando Resort’s complex: Universal Helios Grand Hotel, Universal Stella Nova Resort and Universal Terra Luna Resort. A new theme park, Universal Epic Universe, has opened as well, and is the complex’s most recent attraction.

Read More: Notes from the Road: Orlando

More than just a city to visit for its theme parks, Orlando is also becoming a major driver of sports tourism, one of 11 cities hosting the first-ever FIFA Club World Cup 2025 taking place June 14–July 13. The city will host six matches at two venues, Inter&Co Stadium and Camping World Stadium.

2. Las Vegas

Yellow smiley face on Sphere in Las Vegas
Photo: Madeleine Deaton / Shutterstock.com

Las Vegas rose three spots from last year. Las Vegas is arguably one of the meetings and events capitals of the world—and despite all the growth the city has seen in recent decades, the city seems to have no intent to slow down.

Why Check Out the Recent Developments?

With all the recent development in the city, from its ongoing The Boring Company’s tunnel project, set to connect Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC), all properties on The Strip and Harry Reid International Airport; and expansion of LVCC; to the demolition of Tropicana Las Vegas last year during IMEX America, done to make way for MLB’s A’s stadium on The Strip.

Read More: Las Vegas: A Flair for the Fabulous

A $600 million renovation on LVCC’s legacy campus is scheduled for completion at the end of 2025. In 2024, an east entrance to LVCC’s east hall was completed. Through 2025, construction will continue on the convention center’s north hall, central hall and grand lobby between its north and central halls, as well as on a concourse between north and south halls. LVCC is home to several of the city’s biggest conventions, such as CES and World of Concrete.

3. Chicago

Aerial view of Chicago bean and landscape
Photo: Emma_Griffiths / Shutterstock.com

The Windy City also rose three spots from last year, and it’s also been bitten by the development bug. The city has seen multiple new developments and unveiled exciting news. Its promotional arm, Choose Chicago, recently announced its new president and CEO, Kristin Reynolds, effective just this month.

Just after this, at its Annual Meeting of Partnership, Chicago leaders celebrated record-breaking visitation in 2024—an estimated 55.3 million visitors.

Why Add to the City’s Visitation Numbers?

The first-ever American Pope is from Chicago, shining a light on the city. Last year, the city was the host of the Democratic National Convention at McCormick Place. Looking ahead, it will be the host of several events this summer, including U.S. Travel Association’s IPW 2025, Sueños Music Festival and The James Beard Foundation Awards.

Read More: Notes from the Road: Chicago

4. Nashville

Country Music Hall of Fame and Bridgestone Arena
Country Music Hall of Fame and Bridgestone Arena, photo: Photo Spirit / Shutterstock.com

Nashville may’ve dropped down from its No. 3 spot in 2024 but it has remained in the top 5 for a reason. The thriving music scene in the city has given it the nickname “Music City,” and is the birthplace of a laundry list of musicians, including Johnny Cash, Kelly Clarkson, Sheryl Crow, Faith Hill and Miley Cyrus, as well as, unsurprisingly, Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

Why Go to Music City?

Along with Country Music Hall of Fame, the city is the home of handfuls of music-based event venues, like Music City Center, Schermerhorn Symphony Center, which houses various indoor and outdoor spaces, and The Listening Room Café, which has several spaces, including a 45-person VIP balcony.

5. Atlanta

Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Georgia
Mercedes-Benz Stadium, photo: Marcus E Jones / Shutterstock.com

Atlanta jumped to No. 5 from its previous No. 8 spot. The city is home to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), the world’s busiest airport for 26 of the last 27 years, due to its position as a major hub for domestic and international connections.

Why Touch Down in the World’s Busiest Airport?

The city has been on a run of development in recent years, having opened the tallest property in 40 years, the 976-room Signia by Hilton Atlanta, owned by and connected to Georgia World Congress Center, which offers 1.5 million sq. ft. of space.

Right next to the convention center, meeting profs and their groups can also explore the 22-acre Centennial Olympic Park, Mercedez-Benz Stadium, Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame and State Farm Arena, all of which have ample indoor and outdoor event space.

The remaining five in Cvent’s Top 10 Meeting Destinations are as follows:

  1. Dallas, Texas
  2. San Diego, California
  3. Washington, D.C.
  4. Phoenix, Arizona
  5. Denver, Colorado

There’s a reason why so many wellness-forward conversations start with “look at Europe.” Europeans have a reputation for knowing how to live: not just work hard, but truly savor life. They draw boundaries, take their time at meals, walk more and prioritize social connection in a way that’s both refreshing and inspiring for anyone coming from the “always-on” hustle of the U.S.

Attending IMEX Frankfurt, I got a firsthand lesson in how this approach translates to our industry. It’s not perfect—but there’s plenty to celebrate and a lot for the meetings and events world to learn.

Well-being as a Core Value

The Well-being Lounge was more than a token gesture—it was a destination. The journey began with colorful signage, leading attendees to an oasis in the heart of the trade show. The space itself was intentionally calm: bamboo, ferns, a sand garden with Buddha statues and low lighting created an atmosphere that whispered, “It’s okay to pause.”

Read More: Well-being is Where It’s At

Inside, the daily programming was diverse with morning meditation, breathing workshops, healing circles, Qi Gong and Tibetan singing bowl meditation. Since the modalities were repeated daily you could try different things. Unlike many North American events where “wellness” can be a buzzword, here it was present, accessible and grounded in genuine care for attendees’ well-being. While some may have been slow to take advantage—tradeshow culture is still catching up—it’s clear that wellness is steadily moving from the periphery to the center.

Embracing Movement, Together

Runners on streetOne of the highlights was the IMEXrun—a sunrise riverfront 5K that invited everyone, regardless of fitness level, to lace up and start the day with movement and connection. In a city built for walking, it felt perfectly on brand. The run exemplified what European wellness does best: build community, prioritize movement and make it accessible to all.

There’s a beautiful simplicity to it—no frills, low carbon footprint, just hundreds of us moving together as the city woke up.

Evenings Done the European Way

Let’s talk about dinners. In Frankfurt, meals are an event—multiple courses, great conversation and no rush to finish. I never got to bed before 11, but not because of endless obligations. Instead, it was because of the richness of the conversations and the shared enjoyment of good food. It’s a reminder that well-being isn’t just about what happens in the gym or the meditation lounge. It’s about social connection, joy and taking time to nourish more than just the body.

That said, for those who are more “early to bed, early to rise” (or who have a packed schedule the next day), it’s worth balancing the magic of these late European evenings with opportunities for earlier wind-downs or “wellness evenings” that offer restorative activities alongside networking.

Wellness Opportunities: Cheers to Choice!

IMEX Frankfurt show floor - Medium

If there’s one area still ripening, it’s beverages. While off site every heritage German beer now offers a NA options, happy hours were lively and social, but if you wanted a mocktail, you had to get creative. For all our industry’s talk of inclusion and holistic wellness, we still default to alcohol more often than not. Imagine the impact if every exhibitor offered fresh mocktails, kombucha, or simply beautiful infused waters—a simple, sustainable step that’s both healthier and more welcoming.

Fitness: Let’s Add Some Strength

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the hotel “fitness center.” True to form, it checked the cardio boxes with treadmills, ellipticals and bikes, plus a sauna for recovery. But for anyone who craves resistance training (and let’s be honest, that’s the secret sauce for longevity and real energy on the road), options were limited.

Read More: Fitness on the Go

Here’s where we can look ahead: hotels and venues, let’s add modular strength equipment, lots of resistance bands, or partnerships with local gyms. The European commitment to movement is strong; let’s build on that foundation to include every pillar of well-being.

Boundaries, Balance—and a Better Way Forward

What struck me most at IMEX was the contrast in work-life boundaries. Europeans protect their time fiercely—emails after hours are rare and weekends are sacred. My old London-based teammate used to remind me that if you email someone in Germany after work hours, you’ll get a reply tomorrow, not tonight. It’s a stark difference from the American habit of emailing from the bathroom or bed. And it’s a form of wellness we should aspire to—respect for personal boundaries creates space for real rest and recovery.

Listen to David T. Stevens here.

Of course, even the best habits can waver in the whirlwind of a major trade show, but the underlying philosophy remains: well-being is a right, not a reward.

Final Thoughts: Celebrating Progress, Inspiring More

IMEX Frankfurt is a beacon for where the meetings industry is headed—blending business, wellness and human connection, all through the lens of the European lifestyle. The Well-being Lounge, the  morning run, and the leisurely dinners are a testament to how events can nourish both mind and body.

We still have work to do: more non-alcoholic options, broader wellness programming, true fitness facilities and schedules that honor circadian rhythms. But the spirit is there.

david t stevens wearing blue shirt

If you want to create events where people leave not just smarter but truly better—more connected, energized and restored—look to Europe for inspiration. IMEX is proof that the future of meetings is about so much more than business. It’s about well-being, in every sense of the word.

—

David T. Stevens, co-founder of Olympian Meeting and 6x Fittest #EventProf, championing holistic, sustainable, and joyful events that put people first.

Abel Barrera

Abel Barrera has been appointed Director of Sales and Marketing for La Bahia Hotel & Spa, a luxury resort opening in Santa Cruz in late summer 2025. A seasoned hospitality leader with more than 15 years of experience, Barrera most recently served at LUMA Hotel San Francisco and brings expertise in pre-openings, brand conversions and revenue growth to his new role at the highly anticipated beachfront property.

Julian Alden

Julian Alden has been named director of sales and marketing at The Lowell Hotel in New York City. With over 20 years of luxury hospitality experience, Alden returns to NYC after leading the launch of Six Senses La Sagesse Grenada. He has held key roles at The Fifth Avenue Hotel, The Mark, Park Hyatt New York, The Pierre and The St. Regis New York, bringing deep industry insight to the Upper East Side landmark.

Joyce Leveston

Joyce Leveston has been named CEO of the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, becoming the first woman to hold the role. With over 30 years of industry experience, she most recently led strategy for 60+ venues at Oak View Group. Leveston’s extensive background includes leadership roles at top U.S. convention centers and major events. She officially steps into the position on March 10, 2025, bringing a bold vision to New York’s premier event destination

Bryan Gay

Bryan Gay has been appointed director of sales and marketing at Caribe Royale Orlando, where he will lead sales strategy for the AAA Four Diamond all-suite resort and its sister property, Buena Vista Suites. Gay brings deep experience from roles at Grand Wailea, Atlantis Bahamas and major Las Vegas resorts. He will focus on driving revenue, growing market share and amplifying the resort’s position following its $140 million transformation.

Scott Beck

Scott Beck has joined JLL’s Global Tourism & Destination Advisory Group, bringing decades of tourism innovation, destination strategy and economic development experience. Known for pioneering initiatives like DestinationNext and advocating for data-driven, future-focused planning, Beck’s appointment signals JLL’s intensified focus on helping destinations innovate, adapt, and thrive sustainably.

Dana Young

Dana Young has retired as president and CEO of Visit Florida after six years of record-breaking achievements and economic impact. Effective immediately, Craig Thomas has been appointed interim president and CEO. With eight years at VISIT FLORIDA, including roles as General Counsel and COO, Thomas brings deep institutional knowledge and leadership experience to guide the organization’s continued success.

Justin Plank

Teneo Hospitality Group has named Justin Plank as vice president of sales. With 20 years of hospitality experience, Plank previously served as resort sales director for The Walt Disney Company and held leadership roles at Atlantis Paradise Island and Starwood Hotels. In his new role, he will lead sales strategy and customer engagement initiatives, supporting Teneo’s continued global growth.

Jason Bossenberry

The Wigwam Resort in Arizona has appointed Jason Bossenberry as resort vice president of sales and marketing. With over 20 years of experience in luxury hospitality—including leadership roles at Park Hyatt Toronto, The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay, and Four Seasons Hotels—Bossenberry will lead sales and marketing efforts to strengthen the resort’s brand and drive growth.

Renee Jacobs

MGME has promoted Renee Jacobs to chief operating officer. With over 30 years of global experience in the meetings and events industry, Jacobs will now lead operational strategy and innovation across MGME’s portfolio. She previously served as EVP of Life Sciences and Commercial, and has held leadership roles at WorldTEK and The Journal of Commerce.

Josh Hoce

Josh Hoce has been promoted to director of group sales at the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront. A 20-year hospitality veteran, Hoce has been with the property since 2018 and played a key role in maintaining group business during the pandemic. In his new role, he’ll lead strategic sales initiatives, mentor the team, and drive group bookings at the downtown Jacksonville hotel.

Mario Bass headshot

Mario J. Bass has been named President and CEO of Visit San Antonio, effective June 2. A San Antonio native, Bass brings over 30 years of tourism and hospitality leadership across New York, Florida and Texas. He previously served as Visit San Antonio’s Interim President & CEO and Chief Strategy Officer, where he led record-breaking sales and strategic recovery efforts. Bass aims to elevate the city as a premier destination for meetings and leisure.

Some 13,000 meetings and events profs gathered in Germany this week for IMEX Frankfurt. Many took the congress as an opportunity to release news and share updates. We captured the buzz here.

The Largest IMEX Frankfurt Ever

The 21st edition, as IMEX CEO Carina Bauer referred to the gathering, which took place May 20-22 at Messe Frankfurt, was the largest ever in terms of exhibitor floor space, generating over 67,000 pre-scheduled meetings across three days. She inferred that the robust attendance “reflected both current sentiment and momentum within the worldwide events sector, with robust business pipelines evident in the meetings, connections and collaborations happening on a busy show floor.”

The Inspiration Hub, home to the show’s education programming, saw event professionals come together to question, debate and look to the future. Several themes arose time and again—the importance of trust, transparency and experiential design combined with emotional journey planning, psychological safety and leadership.

In a panel session exploring how agencies and planners can work together more successfully, Alexandra Howar, director of business development at InVision Communications, said “transparency is the currency of trust.” She encouraged planners to collaborate across the supply chain to drive efficiencies and elevate the audience experience.

Learn More: IMEX Group CEO Carina Bauer on What One Thing

Looking ahead, Carina Bauer, IMEX Group CEO, noted that Frankfurt has been designated World Design Capital 2026, which offers the show multiple opportunities to extend its partnerships across the city and promote the importance of strong design principles as the bedrock of successful events and experiences.

Dubai Named Tops in Association Biz

Dubai at IMEX Frankfurt 2025

The capital of the Emirate of Dubai ranked first globally for attendance at association meetings and number of meetings in the Middle East in 2024 according to International Congress and Convention Association. It was also rated a Top Meetings Destination in the Middle East and Africa by Cvent.

Dubai Business Events (DBE) showed up in Frankfurt with an array of partners to stress alignment with this year’s IMEX theme, Impact 2.0: Activating the Future. It emphasized the global events community’s responsibility to address major global and community challenges while driving positive change through events, partnerships and initiatives.

Read More: Smart Travel: New Dubai Hotels Focus on Luxury

DBE reported that the city won a record 437 successful bids to host international conferences, a 20% year-on-year increase. Visiting groups include Amway ESAN 2025, the 27th General Conference of the International Council of Museums 2025, the Global Symposium on Health Systems Research 2026, the World Congress on Medical Informatics 2027, ISAPS Olympiad World Congress 2027, Forever Living Products Global Rally 2026, the Scientific Assembly and Associated Events of the Committee on Space Research 2028 and The International Conference on Computer Vision 2029. These events are set to attract over 210,000 delegates to Dubai in the coming years.

Dubai welcomed a record 18.72 million international overnight visitors in 2024, a 9% year-on-year increase. That momentum has continued into 2025, with 5.31 million international visitors arriving between January and March, marking a 3% increase compared to Q1 2024.

Business events have been a key contributor to this sustained growth, generating economic impact across sectors and further strengthening Dubai’s global brand, according to a DBE release. Expansion plans for Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai were promoted at IMEX Frankfurt along with expansion plans Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC).

EXCEL London Announces Record Year

Excel London exterior
Excel London exterior

James Rees, executive director of the recently expanded Excel reported at IMEX Frankfurt that the venue will host 10 major international conferences in 2026, a record for a single year. The 80,000 international delegates expected in 2026 include the European Association of Urology, the Full Fibre Council Europe FTTH Conference and the International Trademark Association. The events are estimated to generate £250 million to London’s business economy, in addition to the £4.6 billion Excel brings annually through its 400-strong event calendar.

Read More: ExCel London Paves the Way for Green Meetings

Built to leading BREEAM sustainability standards, Excel’s £220 million expansion development will increase the venue’s facilities by 25%—totaling 125,000 sq. m. (1.3 million sq. ft.) and making it the largest fully integrated conference and exhibition center in Europe. With the finishing touches now being made, the first official event in Excel’s new space will be the all-electric Formula E motor racing series at the end of July.

London as a city has been turning heads as TripAdvisor’s 2025 World’s Top Destination and Cvent’s Top Meeting Destination.

Celebrating Event Excellence

The grand finale was the IMEX Frankfurt Gala Dinner Awards. Held at Alte Oper, the “grande dame” of Frankfurt’s cultural institutions, the ceremony brought together the sector’s stars to honor their positive impact on the industry and wider world, celebrating their achievements, innovation and passion.

The winners were:

One of the greatest challenges meeting professionals face is innovating new ways to authentically engage attendees. One sure way to get off to a great start is by planning a fun icebreaker activity. Attendees will begin to interact and get to know each other—without the awkwardness of introducing themselves and making small talk with a room of strangers.

This infographic offers up 10 engaging and effective meeting icebreakers that you can try out at your next meeting.

Looking for more no-fail icebreakers? Read here.

Infographic provided by Event Essex.