In search of a mind-blowing incentive that will leave attendees in awe? Try Romania’s Hotel of Ice, where guests indulge in a winter wonderland, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Plus, thanks to a December 10 agreement by the European Council, you’ll be able to seamlessly tack a few extra stamps on those passports.
Stressed about San Francisco’s hotel strike and how it will impact an upcoming meeting? You can finally breathe a sigh of relief. Japan Airlines, however, won’t be sharing the sentiment after this week’s cyberattack. Read on for Smart Travel’s latest can’t-miss headlines.
Hotel of Ice in Transylvania, Romania, Opens to Public
High among the peaks of the Fagaras Mountains of Romania, The Hotel of Ice at Balea Lac opened its (frozen) doors to guests on Christmas Day. Construction of its 12 standard “igloo rooms” was completed in time for the festive debut, and the hotel’s musical theme for the season includes sculptures of instruments and famous composers such as Beethoven and Mozart. Activity options include snowshoeing, sledding and even uphill tubing (that’s not a typo; a lift pulls participants up the slope and then releases them back down).
The hotel includes both a restaurant, which serves up four-course meals arranged on ice plates, and a bar that, fittingly, pours drinks into an ice cup (or guests can make the trip to a neighboring chalet for a less chilly dining experience). For meeting profs pondering an out-of-the-box incentive, perhaps it’s worth considering a magically chilly trip to this stunningly beautiful venue.
San Francisco’s Hotel Workers Strike Ends After Labor Deal is Reached
On December 24, following a 93-day strike by workers at Hilton San Francisco Union Square and Parc 55 hotels, a labor deal was reached. Hilton has agreed to a $3 initial hourly wage increase, health insurance protection, raised pensions, and safeguards for understaffing and workload increase.
At one point, an estimated 2,500 workers at Hilton, Hyatt and Marriott International hotels affected 27% of San Francisco’s hotel inventory, deeply impacting the city’s travel sector. San Francisco was the last stronghold of a nationwide series of hotel labor disputes that began Labor Day weekend; prior to the Hilton renegotiation, Marriott hotel workers ratified a new contract agreement on December 19 and Hyatt followed on December 21.
“These 93 days have not been easy, and I’m so proud that my coworkers and I never gave up,” said Bill Fung, a housekeeping attendant at the Hilton San Francisco Union Square for 29 years. “We stood together through the rain and cold, and even though there were some hard days, it was all worth it. We will go back to work with our health care, good raises, and the confidence of knowing that when we fight, we win.”
Japan Airlines Struck by Cyberattack
Yesterday, Japan Airlines briefly halted over 20 domestic flights following a confirmed cyberattack. The problems began Thursday morning, when the airline’s connection between its internal and external systems failed due to a massive overload of data—a signature of many cyberattacks.
Japan’s Transport Ministry “requested JAL to repair its system as soon as possible to respond appropriately to affected customers,” Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary, Yoshimasa Hayashi, said at a press conference, causing some to question the balance between urgency and thoroughness. There have been repeated issues with the stability of Japan’s cybersecurity protections, including a 2020 hack of its defense network by China. As of December 27, no suspects have been identified as responsible for the incident.
Bulgaria and Romania Join Schengen Area Expansion
Following a December 10 agreement by the European Council, Bulgaria and Romania will join 29 other countries through the Schengen Area expansion, which currently includes most EU members and Norway, Switzerland, Iceland and Lichtenstein. Benefits of membership include free movement of citizens, travelers and residents; a common visa policy; and external border controls.
Streamlined entry throughout the area means ease of travel—though if your attendees are visiting from North America, be sure each is carrying a passport that is valid for at least six months from the day of arrival. Cyprus and Montenegro have expressed interest in also joining the expansion, but various concerns have blocked access so far.
“It is a historic moment to finally welcome Bulgaria and Romania as full Schengen members. Lifting checks on persons at the internal land borders with and between those member states has been a top priority for the Hungarian presidency, and today we have made it a reality. This step will benefit not only Bulgarian and Romanian citizens, but also the EU as a whole,” said Hungarian Minister for Home Affairs Sándor Pintér.
Collaboration Between UN Tourism and Austria Advances Sustainable Tourism
UN Tourism and Austria have discussed deepening their partnership to strengthen efforts toward sustainability, statistics and development. UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili hosted meetings in Vienna to lay out logistics, including the addition of six Austrian villages as members of UN Tourism’s Best Tourism Village Program and the region of Tyrol as one of the latest members of the International Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories (INSTO).
Austria is currently the co-chair of UN Tourism’s Committee on Statistics, and a meeting with Susanne Kraus-Winkler, state secretary for tourism (Federal Ministry of Labor and Economy), focused on implementing the Statistical Framework for Measuring the Sustainability of Tourism (MST), a global initiative developed by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) to provide a standardized, comprehensive approach to measuring and monitoring the sustainability of tourism activities.
Secretary-General Pololikashvili said, “A leading tourism destination like Austria can play an important role in advancing global tourism issues, such as the SF-MST, while at the same time [ensuring] that through such measurement instruments tourism remains a key driver of sustainable and inclusive development. UN Tourism commends Austria’s clear commitment to shaping a sustainable and resilient tourism future, and its leadership at both the regional and global level in this regard that also is highlighted through a comparatively big number of Best Tourism Villages and one of the leading destinations as a member in the INSTO Network.”
From the thousands, no, millions of celebrations around the globe that will ring in the new year, what are the best takeaways for meeting profs? We scoured the web to find the grandest, the wildest and even the wackiest ways we Earthlings will greet the arrival of our latest revolution around the sun. These we distilled into four megatrends to tuck into your to-do files for an OMG event in 2025.
Trend #1: Drop Something
The first ball drop in Times Square, New York City, was on Dec. 31, 1907. A ball five feet in diameter and illuminated by 100 incandescent light bulbs was lowered manually. The first televised drops—with the dramatic countdown to midnight by American Bandstand’s Dick Clark—began in the 1970s.
But why not drop something more meaningful, symbolic—or weird?
In Mt. Olive, North Carolina, it’s a giant pickle. Thousands cheer as a 3 1/2-foot lighted pickle dips into a redwood tank.
In Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, it’s a 400-pound chick—a.k.a., a squishy marshmallow Peep—as part of the city’s annual PeepsFest.
In Mobile, Alabama, it’s a 600-pound, 12-foot-tall, lighted MoonPie.
In Philadelphia, it’s a huge, illuminated mushroom.
In Eastport, Maine, it’s an eight-foot sardine draped in Christmas lights.
But wait…the craziest drop of them all may be the Possum Drop in Tallapoosa, Georgia. Hang on, don’t call PETA. It’s taxidermized, i.e., stuffed. Its name is Spencer. And its annual New Year’s Eve appearance is an homage to the town’s equally improbable nickname, Possum Snout.
Trend #2: Get Attendees Wet
In Montevideo, Uruguay, the stroke of midnight means dousing those around you with cider, beer and water. In Brazil, there’s the tradition of jumping seven waves while making seven wishes. In both these Southern Hemisphere countries, it’s summertime on New Year’s Eve, so that makes getting wet fun. Not so much in Poland, where morsowanie (“winter bathing”) is a yearly ritual, sometimes done while donning Santa caps, that is believed to strengthen the immune system for the new year.
Celebrating New Year’s Eve is all about the “where.” As with destination weddings, the place itself amps up excitement as the clock strikes midnight on the last day of the old year.
Want to go big? Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana Beach plays host each New Year’s Eve to Reveillon, the world’s largest and, according to witnesses, wildest New Year’s celebration. More than 2 million cariocas (Rio natives) congregate on the 2 1/2-mile beach wearing stark white. Hundreds of lighted candles on the sand represent wishes made to the Afro-American goddess of the sea, Yemanya.
Want to go back in time? New Year’s Eve in Venice, Italy, means fireworks from floating platforms in St. Mark’s Basin, and the colors dance across the incomparable historic facades on Piazza San Marco. Luxury hotels like the Hotel Danieli and the Gritti Palace host fantastic galas, but a gondola on the Grand Canal is the best place to watch the explosions and hear music in the piazza. But be sure to wear red underwear for good luck in the new year.
Want to go down under? Sydney, Australia’s extravaganza of fireworks, lighting and projections is one of the world’s most technologically advanced. More than 1 million spectators will line the Sydney Harbor shore (and some 425 million will watch on screens worldwide). This year’s theme is an exploration of the underwater world, immersing celebrants in an aquatic show of fish, sharks, dolphins, whales, stingrays, gropers, cuttlefish and eels, plus seaweed, waves, caves and shells.
Trend #4: Celebrate Without Pet Trauma
On every continent (with the possible exception of Antarctica, but who knows?), as the boom and flash of spectacular fireworks heralds the arrival of 2025, dogs will whine miserably and cats will dash for hiding places under beds.
Because they have much keener hearing than we do, it’s no surprise fireworks can provoke such anxiety and fear. You have probably already experienced, or even provided as part of an event, the pet-friendly alternative: the lighted drone show, with a nonthreatening soundtrack. South Bend, Indiana, is one of many cities presenting a drone light show this New Year’s Eve.
The most anticipated openings of 2025, alongside big plans for brands, show how hospitality continues to evolve.
New and Renovated Hotels Reflect Top Trends
2025 is a year to get excited for. With a host of exciting new hotels slated to open throughout the next 12 months, plus some major strategic visions in the works at major brands, the opportunities for every style meeting are boundless. Behind every property opening in 2025 is a reflection of some of the major hospitality trends we’ve seen grow throughout the past few years, from luxury lifestyle to immersive cultural experiences in sought-after destinations.
Adaptability and Relevance to Meet Your Needs
AT&T Hotel and Conference Center
The AT&T Hotel & Conference Center, in Austin, Texas, embarks on a $30 million renovation project beginning in spring 2025 to modernize its 85,000+ sq. ft. of meeting and event space, aptly timed to coincide with the closure of Austin Convention Center as it embarks on its own renovation and expansion project.
This plan will position AT&T Hotel & Conference Center as the premier destination for conferences and events taking place in Austin and ensures that planners coordinating events in Austin in the coming years will face little to no disruption even as they do not have access to the convention center during its closure.
AT&T Hotel & Conference Center’s renovation will feature a design aesthetic that blends Texas heritage with modern luxury to produce a “Contemporary Texan” style. It will incorporate advanced meeting technology and collaboration-focused features, including a brand new junior ballroom, reimagined foyers and new AV, such as beamforming microphones. The property will also offer “campus-style mini-wides” as part of its collaboration with its partner hotels in the University Hotel Collection.
All-Inclusive is All Around
Dreams Cap Cana Resort & Spa is anticipated to open in the Dominican Republic by the end of 2025. The property will stand within the gated community of Cap Cana, with a beachfront location on Juanillo Beach. The community is home to one of the largest inland marinas in Central and South America, as well as two amusement parks, a state-of-the-art Los Establos Equestrian Center with stables, riding arenas and polo fields, and an award-winning Punta Espada Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course. The property will feature 519 guest rooms, including 40 villas and 100 swim-up suites, and will stand 15 minutes from Punta Cana International Airport.
The new Dreams Resorts & Spas-branded resort, Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced in November 2024, is a product of a management agreement between a Hyatt affiliate and Cobbo Bay Developers SA. It is the seventh Dreams Resort & Spa in the Dominican Republic, and its opening strengthens Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection brand presence in the region.
Its opening marks the continuation of the all-inclusive trend, showing that travelers continue to demonstrate high interest in all-inclusive resort properties in an expanding list of destinations.
“The Dominican Republic is an integral part of Hyatt’s regional development strategy, and our thoughtful growth enables us to meet the evolving consumer demand for family-friendly, luxury, all-inclusive experiences on the island,” Cristobal Enriquez, vice president of business development with Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection, stated in a press release. “The forthcoming opening of Dreams Cap Cana Resort & Spa is a testament to growing our brand footprint in destinations that matter most to guests, customers and World of Hyatt members.”
YOTEL Tokyo Ginza opened its doors in mid-December 2024 and anticipates a prosperous 2025 following the opening of its new-build property. Standing in central Ginza, a highly sought-after destination within the city of Tokyo, it situates guests only a 15-minute walk from Tokyo Station, one of the largest train stations in the city, with links to destinations throughout Tokyo as well as to cities across Japan via Shinkansen (bullet train) lines and links to Narita International Airport.
A range of room options, including double, twin, bunk, triple and family-connected options, recognizes that guests have varying needs. All rooms will feature YOTEL signatures, such as SmartBeds, WiFi, wireless charging and rain showers with Urban Jungle amenities. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer guests prime city views of Tokyo Tower, Ginza and the Shinkansen tracks.
YOTEL is a continually growing global hotel brand that centers around its mission to infuse luxury elements into smaller, smart spaces. The opening of this new property in Tokyo recognizes the continued desire for international travel made accessible. Reasonable pricing makes it easy to host business events in exciting international destinations without breaking the bank or sacrificing desired amenities.
Sense of Place Reigns Strong
Veranda House
Veranda House is a historic Nantucket property owned by TPG Hotels & Resorts as part of the Nantucket Resort Collection. A destructive fire in 2022 required a complete demolition of the building. Following a full-scale renovation, the property will hold its grand opening in spring 2025. Throughout the renovation project, a carefully managed collaboration with the town, the historic district commission and TPG Hotels & Resorts ensured that the property maintained its original charm and character.
The property is a distinctive, federal-style mansion with 19 luxurious guest rooms. It epitomizes coastal elegance with airy common areas and lush outdoor spaces. Its namesake, intricate wraparound verandas have made it a Nantucket staple since 1684. As part of the effort to preserve its historic roots, a preserved piece of the original veranda was used as a model during the rebuilding process. The hotel further demonstrates its respect for its history through architectural details such as signage inspired by the original structure and a historic photograph gallery wall.
The level of attention paid to historic preservation in the face of an enormous loss, as well as the significant steps taken to rebuild the property, reflect the hospitality industry’s recognition of the desire for historic, authentic spaces. Travelers seek a distinct sense of place, and the intentional thought behind this rebuild makes clear that the hospitality industry is committed to providing it.
Australia Awaits
Sofitel Sydney Wentworth reopens after a $60 million renovation, showcasing newly refurbished conference and event spaces. The luxury hotel offers 436 rooms and suites and over 15 modern and versatile event spaces. Its iconic 6,770-square-foot Wentworth Ballroom is one of these sought-after spaces, with features like 1960s mirrored high ceilings and Waterford Crystal chandeliers alongside cutting-edge technology like Australia’s largest LED screens.
Following the 2024 Business Events Consumer Demand Project, an annual research report by Business Events Australia, this reopening answers to the top findings. Australia expects a positive outlook for international events, with one in three decision-makers actively planning an event in Australia in the next three to 10 years, and overall global business events expected to have more attendees in 2025 compared to the past five years. Nearly two-thirds of event decision-makers feel optimistic that their budgets will increase, with a further breakdown of 64% of those in the incentive sector and 63% in the association sector. This means that many of those actively planning events in Australia are likely to be coming internationally.
As international travel remains highly popular, planners who want to cater to their attendees wishes for exciting international events are better equipped to do so when their budget allows for it, and properties like Sofitel Sydney Wentworth expand room and venue availability, making it that much more doable.
The grand opening of LIVE! Casino & Hotel Louisiana in February 2025 marks the continuing trend of experiential spaces with ample opportunities for play and leisure alongside meetings and events. The $270+ million facility will stand along the Red River in Bossier City and will be the market’s first-ever land-side casino, spanning over 47,000 sq. ft.
There, visitors will find over 1,000 slots and electronic table games, 40+ live-action table games and a sportsbook, alongside an upscale hotel with a resort pool and fitness center. Award-winning dining and entertainment options include the Zagat-rated #1 steakhouse; The Prime Rib, a gaming venue and social lounge at PBR Cowboy Par; Venetian-inspired Italian cuisine at Ridotto Grand Café and more. Plus, it offers a 25,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art, multi-purpose event center, which will host versatile meetings and events as well as exciting top-name entertainment.
Big Brands Making Major Moves
Preferred Hotels & Resorts to Open 10 Properties by End of 2025
ÓROS
Preferred Hotels & Resorts is the world’s largest independent hotel brand, with a full slate of 2025 openings to expand its global portfolio even further. Between September 2024 and through 2025, it plans to open 10 new luxury properties.
Preferred Hotels and Resorts offers four global collections to meet each traveler’s unique preferences: Legend, L.V.X, Lifestyle and Preferred Residences.
Throughout 2025 it will open the following properties.
Royal Hideaway Corales Villas (L.V.X. and Residence Collections), in Tenerife, Spain, will offer 139 guest rooms and suites. Bright, spacious rooms offer sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and La Gomera. With a dedicated wellness area, impressive culinary offerings and a gorgeous coastal location, guests will see modern elegance meet natural beauty.
ÓROS (L.V.X. Collection) in Crete will launch in May 2025. The property overlooks the Cretan Sea from its perch in the White Mountains of western Crete. There, guests will find understated luxury that celebrates local architecture alongside attractive amenities like private pools at 117 of the guestrooms, suites and villas, plus four restaurants, three bars and lounges, an adults-only pool, a spa and wellness center, a conference center and more.
The Newman (Legend Collection) in London will launch in the summer of 2025. With a location in central London, its design emulates a contemporary yet timeless style throughout 81 guest rooms and suites, plus a European brasserie, a lower-ground cocktail bar and two private dining rooms, as well as a dedicated wellness floor.
Romègas Hotel (L.V.X. Collection) in Valletta, Malta, will open in June 2025. The property is a restored, 500-year-old palazzo originally built for the Knight of Malta, Mathurian Romègas. The restoration project preserves the building’s heritage and introduces modern luxury throughout 23 individually designed rooms and suites.
Hyatt Plans for Over 50 New Openings by 2026
Andaz Miami Beach
Travelers remain heavily interested in the lifestyle and luxury hotel segments, in which Hyatt holds a significant presence. Since 2017, it has quintupled its lifestyle room count and doubled its luxury room count, and in 2024 alone, opened 28 lifestyle hotels. In order to build on its momentum, Hyatt plans to open 50 luxury and lifestyle hotels globally by 2026. This project includes extremely anticipated openings such as Miraval the Red Sea, which will debut in late 2025 and be the Miraval brand’s international debut. Additional exciting openings include the highly anticipated Andaz Miami Beach, Andaz Gold Coast, Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur and Park Hyatt Johannesburg.
This ambitious growth strategy is strengthened by Hyatt’s recent acquisition of the brands and most of the affiliates of lifestyle hospitality company Standard International and the creation of a dedicated lifestyle group for Hyatt, which will be led by president and creative director Amar Lalvani, former executive chairman of Standard International.
See a full list of Hyatt’s Luxury and Lifestyle openings planned for 2025:
Hilton Releases Full List of Global Luxury Properties to Open in 2025
Waldorf Astoria New York
2024 was a record-breaking year of growth for Hilton, with over 500 properties now open in sought-after destinations across its brands, as well as a new exclusive partnership with Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) and a growing portfolio of standalone Waldorf Astoria Residences. Some of its most celebrated openings from the past year include Conrad Orlando, Arizona Biltmore and Signia by Hilton Atlanta.
Global demand for luxury experiences only continues to grow, and to meet this demand, Hilton plans to open a host of luxury properties throughout the next year, including reopening the flagship Waldorf Astoria New York as well as expanding market openings in Costa Rica, Osaka and London in the coming years.
Notable openings for 2025 are listed below.
Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts
Waldorf Astoria New York (Spring 2025)
Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique (Spring 2025)
Waldorf Astoria Osaka (Spring 2025)
Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan (Summer 2025)
Conrad Hotels & Resorts
The Ilisian, home to Conrad Athens The Ilisian, Waldorf Astoria Residences and Conrad Residences (2025)
Conrad Hamburg (2025)
LXR Hotels & Resorts
LXR Hotels & Resorts – Casablanca (2025)
Signia by Hilton
Signia by Hilton Amman (January 2025)
Marriott Acquires Postcard Cabins Brand
Marriott International recently acquired The Postcard Cabins brand, formerly known as Getaway, a leader in the increasingly popular outdoor getaway accommodations sector. With a place now in the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio, Postcard Cabins will expand access to its unique offerings, enabling increasing numbers of guests to enjoy an experience where they can slow down and connect with the great outdoors through immersive moments in nature.
This addition to the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio reflects the increasing demand and interest in unique opportunities to prioritize wellness and rest in innovative ways. The Postcard Cabins portfolio will be part of Marriott’s planner outdoor-focused collection with integration into its system and platforms, including the Marriott Bonvoy app, in 2025.
For many meeting professionals, taking a well-deserved breath after a year of planning large conventions, attending the International Association of Exhibitions & Events’ (IAEE) Expo! Expo! is an annual tradition. This year was no exception. An estimated 1,700 attendees passed through the West Hall doors at Los Angeles Convention Center the second week of December. Known as “The Show for Shows,” the education, trade show floor and networking brought together solutions and inspiration.
I attended in search of trends shaping U.S. and international conferences and found that from the main stage to the booths and in the hands-on labs, the focus was on taking real action based on what is happening in convention rooms today.
Advanced Education
Dedicated content tracks included health, wellness and safety, trade show design and operations. A hands-on technology learning lab encouraged attendees to test their prompt prowess as AI collaborators and take new tech products for a drive. An empowering takeaway from MarComm Strategist Sherron Washington is that when it comes to social media, sometimes less is more. Once you understand how your audience behaves on different platforms, you can focus on being consistent and captivating where it matters.
A marketing strategies track shared real-world stories about brand management, attendee acquisition and sponsorship sales. Across the more than 70 sessions, audience participation was encouraged.
Case studies from Auto Care Association, CompuSystems and National Business Aviation Association brought the challenges and solutions to, in some cases, breathtaking life as meeting planners shared how they handled crises as severe as protestors handcuffing themselves to a $100-million private jet.
On the Floor
In addition to production partners such as Heritage, Freeman, Maritz, Grit and GES (which had the most buzzy booth due to a fun game show activation) and appearances from destination partners such as Discover Los Angeles, Visit Orlando and Visit Houston, an expanded Tech2Grow Collective showcased AI, data collection and app innovations.
Content at embedded stages on the trade show floor included sustainability tips in ASM’s Redefining Convention Experiences Theatre and OVG/EIC’s Innovation Theatre.
MADE by DWC, a pop-up shop, supported the Downtown Women’s Center to empower women transitioning out of homelessness.
Celebrating Excellence
Outgoing IAEE Chair Marie Browne and Marsha Flanagan, IAEE President and CEO
A major focus of the conference was earning Certified in Exhibition Management (CEM) credits and much of Sunday and Monday focused on the advanced skills required to carry the distinction. On Tuesday, the 2024 CEM graduates walked the stage to join more than 4,000 CEMs around the world.
At the same time, incoming IAEE chair Chuck Grouzard announced that Center for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR) would be integrated into IAEE.
In fact, the program kicked off with a celebration of excellence at The NOVO music venue in the Grammy Museum at L.A. Live as the IAEE Awards Ceremony recognized the 2024 IAEE Award recipients. Educator
Janet Sperstad received the IAEE Pinnacle Award. The Lifetime Achievement Award went to Linda Wineski, founder and president of Convention Plant Creations. The Bob Dallmeyer Educator of the Year Award went to Josie Caldwell, senior client relationship director at Freeman, and Dr. Chin-Hsun Tsai, associate professor and event management program director at Iowa State University.
The Cathy Breden Woman of Achievement Award went to Gwen Venable, executive vice president of expo and communication services at the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association. The Distinguished Service Award went to Shirly Song, deputy general manager at Chongqing Yuleai Investment Group Co. And the Humanitarian Award went to Julie Pazania, vice president of business development at Edlen Electrical Exhibition Services. The Innovative Business Solution Award went to Fill it Forward.
Main Stage Insights
Seb Terry
More wisdom came from the main stage as author Sebastian “Seb” Terry shared the transformational power of living a long-term bucket list. “The way we show up in the world has a profound effect on those around us,” he observed. Meeting professionals can ignite others with the work they do. Feeling that what you do matters is the key to living a fulfilled life.
“A bucket list reminds us to step outside our comfort zone,” Terry explained. “That’s how we learn where our edges are. Instead of reacting to change, we can create change.”
He concluded: “You are changing the world one event at a time. Together we create a positive impact.”
Expo! Expo! 2025 lands in Houston, Texas, Dec. 9-11.
Experimentation is what drives any industry forward, and events are no different. Throughout the year, several event production experts and meeting professionals showcased, discussed and ideated about experiential events.
This was Walmart’s first appearance at CES. The executives at the company attended the event with the idea to show CES attendees what the company has accomplished in the technology world. Tapping long-time partner Leo Events, the two created an outdoor activation for the books.
The power of live events was on full display at the first-ever invitation-only Brand Experience Summit during IMEX 2024 in Las Vegas. The event brought 36 chief marketing officers and senior vice presidents to Allegiant Stadium to let this oft-uninvolved demographic know about the importance to investing in live events.
Global technology company Lenovo took to Bellevue, Washington, to highlight the latest and greatest in technology for its annual Lenovo Tech World. Why Bellevue? It’s tech-centric, “Smart City” status for one; read on for the rest.
Methods of attendee engagement are constantly shifting. When editor Sara Robertson went to an internal event of a large technology company, she realized just how engaging an event can be—“festivalizing” an event, if you will. She spoke with several event designers about the how and why behind event festivalization, as well as how to make the investment worth it.
In May, Smart Meetings hosted a remote focus group of meeting professionals to discuss topics related to event activations, including trending topics, wellness in meetings, sustainability, engaging the younger generation of meeting profs and more.
The power of incentive trips can’t be overstated—they can be just the morale boost your group needs. From the properties available to the experiences offered (including one of our own), in 2024 we shared numerous ideas and resources to get the ball rolling for your next incentive trip.
Incentives can be easy on the wallet—if you know where to look out for. Melissa Moten, vice president of experience and event solutions at The Collective by BCD M&E, spoke with Smart Meetings to discuss six elements that can contribute to a successful and financially smart incentive trip.
Properties great for incentives debuted this year in Austria, China and Belize. Given their distant locations, each property has its own flavor, influenced by their surroundings just as they’re influenced by the desire to provide luxury to their guests.
Incentive Research Foundation’s Invitational 2024 took a note from the “make it personal” playbook. More than 500 meeting professionals took to Baha Mar in the Bahamas for the annual event, which consisted of discussions about event trends and the power of incentive programs.
Smart Meetings compiled a list of five domestic and international destinations that make for fitting incentives and executive retreats, including Puerto Vallarta, Mexico; Anchorage, Alaska; and Cartagena, Colombia.
The Smart Meetings Incentive Experience at Phoenix’s Arizona Biltmore was the last Smart Meetings experience on the docket for 2024.
Three days under the roof of this newly renovated property fostered new connections, a lesson on the importance of influence by author and TEDx programmer Joshua M. Evans, an explanation of incentive travel chaos by SITE Global CEO Annette Gregg and tips on how to make incentives more motivating by Terramar DMC Vice President of Global Engagement Kate Patay.
Food and beverages can make or break an event, often leaving a lasting impression on attendees. Was there variety? Was the food well-prepared? Did the flavor profiles shine? Were mocktails offered alongside cocktails? These details matter.
To help event planners deliver memorable culinary experiences, Smart Meetings has compiled a list of essential food and beverage stories from this past year to help planners leave their attendees’ stomachs satisfied.
In this piece, Smart Meetings Managing Editor Kate Zaliznock highlights Canada’s innovative approach to food and beverage. The country’s F&B industry emphasizes sustainability, local sourcing and unique culinary experiences that reflect regional culture.
Zaliznock also explores how Canadian venues incorporate sustainable practices and Indigenous ingredients, encouraging environmental responsibility while delivering distinctive dining experiences.
The 2024 Smart Meetings Culinary Experience, held in August at Paris Las Vegas, showcased the importance of accessible, healthy and creative food options in event planning.
In collaboration with Caesars Entertainment, the event highlighted strategies to enhance attendee satisfaction and achieve key performance indicators. Tracy Stuckrath, founder of Thrive! Meetings & Events, spoke on the impact of F&B decisions on sustainability, engagement, inclusivity and budgets. She offered guidance on partnering with venues, sourcing locally, accommodating diverse dietary needs and ensuring proper labeling to maximize attendee comfort.
Probiotics and prebiotics—what are they, and why do they matter? Smart Meetings delves into the benefits of incorporating these elements into event menus to support attendees’ well-being.
The story highlights the link between gut health and mood, encouraging planners to include probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso and kombucha. Prebiotic foods like bananas, onions, garlic, leeks, asparagus and soybeans further support beneficial gut bacteria.
By integrating these options, planners can enhance attendees’ overall health and satisfaction.
Suzanne Halperin, head of meetings and events for luxury and lifestyle Americas at IHG Hotels & Resorts, spoke with Smart Meetings about the shift toward chef-driven, wellness-focused and immersive dining experiences.
IHG’s approach includes personalized menus highlighting each property’s culinary expertise and delivering restaurant-quality meals for event attendees. Halperin also noted the growing demand for alcohol-free beverage options, such as mocktails, reflecting the sober-curious trend among younger generations.
During a visit to Irvine, California, Smart Meetings Multimedia Editor Eming Piansay met with Sean Milan, Irvine Marriott’s food and beverage manager, for an immersive experience at YNK (You Never Know), the hotel’s exclusive speakeasy.
Milan shared insights into YNK’s meticulous four-month menu development process, highlighting the team’s dedication to continuous improvement and innovation. Event planners working with venues like YNK can collaborate with the F&B team to craft distinctive culinary experiences tailored to their groups’ needs and interests.
How event tech helped planners create better events in 2024
The secret sauce of any significant event is ultimately the event technology, which adds the finishing touch to the visual aesthetic.
Whether it is the lighting, the video component or the AI app integration, every element shapes an event’s structure.
Below are some top stories we produced in 2024 to help planners improve their event design with the technology we have at our disposal.
This year’s IMEX America showcased technology advancements, specifically in AI, highlighting the potential to streamline event planning.
Amy Kramer, Innovation Leader at Maritz, discussed the benefits and drawbacks of free versus enterprise AI tools. Kramer stated that while enterprise solutions like Microsoft’s Copilot offer scalability and integration across platforms such as Teams, Outlook and SharePoint, they are also more expensive.
Kramer also shared AI applications that Maritz uses to improve collaboration and information sharing within event management teams.
This year, Smart Meetings explored specific tech tools that could help improve your event in the new year. Some of these tools include:
Intelligent Content by Animatic Media: This tool allows organizers to share information directly to attendees’ phones through event signage and products.
Tripleseat Floorplans: Tripleseat integrated 3D and 2D visualization technology into its platform, allowing planners to create to-scale diagrams in real time to collaborate with vendors and offer 3D virtual walkthroughs of venues.
Cvent’s AI-Powered Recap Button: This tool provides personalized summaries of conference sessions, allowing attendees to fully understand key ideas even if they are a little distracted. It enhances engagement by giving attendees overviews tailored to their interests.
Smart Meetings spoke to Brian Ludwing, senior vice president of sales at Cvent, to see what is on the horizon for event tech.
Ludwing shared a few key insights around what planners should look out for.
With smart apps and badges, planners follow attendee engagement, including session participation and interactions.
Using AI can help reduce administrative tasks, allowing planners to focus on strategic planning. AI’s real-time translation capabilities can make content accessible and inclusive. Hybrid events foster ongoing engagement beyond the physical gathering. Augmented Reality allows planners to create interactive and immersive experiences.
Throughout 2024, Smart Meetings explored how AI can help planners create better events. In this story, we offer up some helpful apps and resources that planners may want to consider using.
Google’s AI app, Gemini, helps find optimal flight schedules to help save on costs. Planners can also use AI-driven analysis from post-event surveys to find patterns and trends.
Other AI apps include Microsoft Co-Pilot, SPARK from PCMA/Gevme, Google Gemini, Polymer Searh, Reposite, Otter.AI and OpenAI DALL-E. Check out the story link to learn more about each app.
Crossing your fingers that your baggage won’t be bungled during your flight connection? A new air travel consumer report reveals which airlines you might want to avoid. Planning B2B travel in Europe? A new partnership just launched in Italy and might catch your eye. Excited about the new Princess Resorts properties that opened this week in Jamaica? The company just announced a major addition is coming soon. As always, Smart Travel has you covered with the latest can’t-miss travel news.
Air Travel Consumer Report Reveals Ranks Best and Worst Airlines for Your Luggage
A stunning 880,000 bags were mishandled by airlines between January and April of this year, with August alone seeing 260,000 cases. While this might pale in comparison to the 41 million bags transported monthly, anyone who has experienced searing panic after discovering that the carefully curated clothing packed to wear to important business events has evaporated into the ether of anywhere-but-baggage-claim knows to keep an eye out for underperforming airlines. Here are the rankings released by the Department of Transportation (numbers refer to mishandled bags per 100):
Worst Offenders:
Alaska Airlines 1.14%
American Airlines 1.03%
United Airlines: 0.75%
Spirit Airlines: 0.54%
Top Performers:
Allegiant Air: 0.20%
Hawaiian Airlines: 0.31%
Southwest Airlines: 0.42%
Frontier & JetBlue: 0.45%
InsureMyTrip.com has responded with five tips to avoid mishandled bags: fly direct, use a luggage tracker (such as an AirTag), pack essentials in your carry-on, arrive early and check in on time, and consider travel insurance to protect your pocket when it comes to lost luggage.
Servantrip Enters the Italian Market Thanks to Strategic Partnership with WayPlans
Leading B2B travel services platform Servantrip has announced it will be entering the Italian market through a partnership with WayPlans, a B2B platform for travel agencies. WayPlans will gain access to Servantrip’s over 750,000 activities and transfers, and Servantrip will benefit from incremental, hard-to-reach, real-time bookings through WayPlans’ network of 2,600+ points of sale.
“This partnership with Servantrip is a game-changer for our business and the Italian travel market,” said Angelo Mazzarelli, CEO of WayPlans. “By integrating Servantrip’s exceptional portfolio, we’re able to offer our clients a broader range of unique travel experiences, backed by cutting-edge technology and real-time availability. This collaboration will undoubtedly elevate the value we provide to our network.”
Manuel Núñez, CEO of Servantrip, added, “The Italian market is vibrant, with highly professional travel operators and a strong demand for tours, activities and transfers. This partnership marks a significant milestone for us as we focus on delivering value to local operators and connecting them to our global network.”
Princess Resorts Reveals Plans for Jamaica’s First Casino
The grand opening of Princess Grand Jamaica and Princess Senses The Mangrove on Dec. 12 also set the scene for an announcement by Princess Resorts of the upcoming debut of Jamaica’s first casino by the fourth quarter of next year. Construction will include a triple-generation plant and solar facilities, which will greatly reduce energy consumption and be powered by natural gas, as well as a reverse osmosis facility for water treatment.
The casino will be an addition to the Princess Grand Jamaica (590 ocean-view suites and several Family and Master suites) and Princess Senses The Mangrove (401 ocean suites and 14 villas with partial glass floors and infinity pools) properties, which represent a $400 million investment and a significant economic impact.
Marc Pelfort, regional director of sales and marketing at Jamaica Princess Hotels & Resorts, applauded the company’s focus on employing local workers, saying, “Our team is the heart of Princess Hotels and Resorts Jamaica, and we are proud to employ local talent who bring their unique perspectives and warmth to our service. We are not just building a resort; we are cultivating a culture of luxury and personalized service that elevates every guest experience to new heights.”
Global Brand Campaign “Made of Caribbean” Launched by Sandals Resorts
A new global, multimedia advertising campaign developed by Leo Burnett Agency was launched on Thursday by Sandals Resorts. An homage to the company’s Caribbean roots, the campaign is titled “Made of Caribbean” and debuted with a short film narrated by Sandals Resorts Executive Chairman Adam Stewart with an accompanying statement that reads, “Together we are ushering in a brand direction of pure Caribbean expression, designed to inspire travelers through our deep love and genuine connection to the islands we call home.”
An omnichannel campaign will begin on December 28, including linear television, digital, print, social and out-of-home advertising in key markets. In addition to the stunning allure of the Caribbean, Sandals Resorts will also be focusing on its differentiators with the all-inclusive sector and emphasizing its warm approach to guest services, activities and accommodations.
“My family has called the Caribbean home for more than six generations and there is no one who knows or loves this region more. We are Caribbean. We believe the Caribbean connects us all; it’s part of our soul, and we want to share these unique experiences and this joy with the world,” Stewart added.
Dual Ship Arrival in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, Promises to Spur Tourism Revolution
The Taino Bay port in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, achieved a significant milestone on Wednesday by hosting its first-ever simultaneous docking of two cruise ships. While such scenes are routine in mega-ship destinations like Miami or Nassau, this event marks a turning point for Puerto Plata and signals the region’s emergence as a key player in the Caribbean tourism landscape.
The two ships that docked—Oceania Sirena from Oceania Cruises and MSC Seaside from MSC Cruises—brought with them hundreds of passengers eager to explore the cultural and natural riches of Puerto Plata. The occasion was celebrated by the Dominican Port Authority (Apordom), whose officials praised the accomplishment as a testament to the port’s growing capabilities and its increasing role in attracting major cruise lines to the Dominican Republic.
This development comes at a time when Puerto Plata is steadily building its reputation as a vibrant destination, blending historical charm, lush landscapes and pristine beaches. Officials and industry stakeholders view this dual docking as more than just a logistical success—it’s a glimpse of the transformative potential for Puerto Plata and the Dominican Republic’s tourism sector. With Taino Bay now able to handle increased cruise traffic, the country is positioning itself as a premier Caribbean travel destination, ready to compete with long-established cruise hubs in the region.
Mardeen Mattix
Mardeen Mattix, San Diego Convention Center
San Diego Convention Center (SDCC) appoints Mattix as its deputy CEO & CFO. Mattix joined the SDCC team in 1998, and since 2018 has served as its chief financial officer. She has been an integral part of SDCC through transformative moments, including transforming the building into an emergency shelter during the COVID-19 pandemic. As CFO, she has successfully implemented a new sales strategy to attract high-value events that brought impactful economic growth to San Diego. In her expanded role, Mattix will provide strategic direction, drive business initiatives, manage financial operations and oversee daily operations as SDCC moves into 2025, the center’s 35th anniversary year, in which its events are predicted to generate approximately $1.7 billion in regional economic impact and $40.2 million in tax revenue for the city.
Justin Underwood
Justin Underwood, Hilton Anaheim
Hilton Anaheim appoints Underwood as director of hotel operations. He brings nearly two decades of experience in the hotel industry to this new role, in which he will lead the largest hotel in Orange County and work to enhance its reputation for delivering exceptional guest experiences. He will oversee every aspect of hotel operations, including guest services, culinary programming, banquet and events, housekeeping, maintenance and more, at a pivotal moment as the hotel embarks on a multi-million dollar renovation project.
Aoife Delaney
Aoife Delaney, DMC Network
DMC Network promotes Delaney to the role of managing director from her current role as vice president of business development. She will assume her new role on January 1, 2025. She has spent over two decades in the DMC world and has played a major role in expanding DMC Network’s reach across six continents. A longtime volunteer leader with SITE as well as a leading speaker and popular panelist, Delaney is a familiar face for many in the meetings and events industry.
Abigail Fernandez
Abigail Fernandez, INNOV8 Meetings + Events
Fernandez joins the INNOV8 Meetings + Events team as manager, global accounts. She began her career in 2001 as a sales assistant in business travel and national sales before moving onto the events team, and later into the role of catering sales manager. Throughout her career, she has established herself as a seasoned professional dedicated to full-service event planning, specializing in sourcing, coordinating and executing impactful events. She brings extensive industry connections alongside her vast experience.
Katherine Gregory
Katherine Gregory, Sagamore Pendry Baltimore
Gregory takes on the role of director of sales and marketing at Sagamore Pendry Baltimore. She will oversee all aspects of group and transient business, catering sales, meetings and events, and marketing and public relations for the hotel. She brings over 17 years of experience in the hospitality industry, having began her career with Hilton, going on to lead the sales team for W Hotels Chicago, where she played a pivotal role in the transition from Starwood to Marriott. Later, she introduced Convene to the Chicago market as area director of sales and guided the team through the successful opening of four properties. Most recently, she served as director of sales and marketing at the Thesis Hotel Miami.
Kai Lerman and James Overbaugh
Kai Lermen (left) and James Overbaugh (right), The Peninsula Hotels
Lerman is appointed as senior vice president of The Peninsula Signature Events. He has been a cornerstone of The Peninsula Hotels since 2009, and has served as the managing director of The Quail since 2017. In his new role, he will oversee The Hong Kong and Shanghai Hotels’ team and lead the motorsport experiences for both properties.
Overbaugh succeeds Lerman, stepping in as managing director of The Quail. He has worked with The Peninsula Hotels brand for over 16 years, beginning as executive chef of The Peninsula Beverly Hills. He went on to move through ascending roles, eventually serving as senior vice president of food and beverage operations for The Peninsula Hotels Worldwide at the brand’s head office in Hong Kong.
John Luckett
John Luckett, Kessler
Southeast family-led hospitality brand Kessler appoints Luckett as president of hospitality operations. Formerly Kessler’s chief operating officer, Luckett brings over 30 years of experience in the industry, 15 of which he has spent with Kessler. He will contribute to the continued growth of operational strategies and corporate, commercial and human capital across the entire portfolio.
Louis Gonzalez
Louis Gonzalez, Terranea Resort
Gonzalez is appointed as director of sales at Terranea Resort. He brings over 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry, where he has established a reputation for exceeding sales goals and profit targets. He most recently served as executive director of group sales at Fontainebleau Miami Beach, and brings the insight, knowledge and expertise to take over the management of all aspects of revenue generation related to the group segment at Terranea.
Kaylin Miller
Kaylin Miller, Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver
Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver appoints Miller as catering event sales manager. Miller brings over 13 years of experience in the events industry and will be responsible for collaborating closely with clients to bring their visions into reality, curate impactful and high-quality events and ensure that events reflect the brand’s standards for service and sophistication. She has worked in several prominent event management roles, including as community outreach and event manager for the City of Dacono and most recently as event sales manager at Hyatt Regency Denver.
Michael Balyeat
Michael Balyeat, Grand Hyatt San Antonio Riverwalk and Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk
Balyeat is appointed as director of sales and marketing for Grand Hyatt San Antonio Riverwalk and Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk. In his new role, he will oversee all sales and marketing programs for both properties and implement strategies to increase brand awareness. He worked at the properties between 2012 and 2014 as associate director of sales before joining Hyatt Regency Cleveland at the Arcade as director of sales, events and marketing, and later moved to Hyatt Regency Columbus. He now returns to San Antonio.
Janet Sperstad received the IAEE Pinnacle Award. The Lifetime Achievement Award went to Linda Wineski, founder and president of Convention Plant Creations. The Bob Dallmeyer Educator of the Year Award went to Josie Caldwell, senior client relationship director at Freeman, and Dr. Chin-Hsun Tsai, associate professor and event management program director at Iowa State University.
