What industry creates more jobs in the United States than auto manufacturing, chemical manufacturing (including pharmaceuticals), and oil and gas? As an event professional, you know intuitively that it is the event industry. A new study by Tourism Economics (a division of Oxford Economics) for the Events Industry Council and Meetings Mean Business Coalition showed that bringing people together for face-to-face meetings has massive impacts on everything from direct spending at venues to indirect spending through the supply chain and spending by people working in the industry.

In total, the report showed that the industry generates a 160 percent return with $1.60 put into circulation for every $1 spent, including injecting fresh tax dollars into cities where meetings are held, with international travelers having an even larger impact because they spend more and stay longer. That is all on top of the important financial contributions to building knowledge at scientific conferences, sales generation at industry events, and networking and career development that happens at customer events and whenever people come together.

Here are some of the big numbers found in a closer look at the important work you do every day.

  • Some 1.9 million meetings were held in 2016, with 251 million participants. To put that huge number in perspective, that is more people than the entire population of Brazil.
  • Approximately $325 billion in direct spending was generated in 2016, and $446 billion contributed to gross domestic product (GDP). That direct spending figure is more than the entire GDP of Norway for the same year.
  • These meetings resulted in $845 billion in sales and a lot more connections for future deals.
  • Meetings also contributed $104 billion in federal, state and local taxes, a number that breaks down to a total impact of $879 per U.S. household.

Meetings Mean Business, along with U.S. Travel, ASAE, Events Industry Council, and other coalition members plan to use these numbers to convince policymakers of the importance of supporting unfettered access to meetings through clear visa policies and investment in event infrastructure. The fact that the industry has grown 23 percent since measurements first started in 2009—a year many predicted the decline of the industry—is also a strong argument for the prospects of a career in bringing people together face to face, something you probably also already knew.

Booking.com has released its Top 10 Trending Destinations for 2018, and from the sun-washed splendors of Cartagena, Colombia, to the food scene in Philadelphia, there’s a place and a reason perfectly suited for your event. Be they halfway around the world or close to home, these prime meeting spots should be on your radar.

Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena’s historic downtown is its crowning glory, with beautiful Spanish-Colonial architecture surrounded by a city wall built to fend off marauding pirates. Bocagrande is a strip of condos and hotel towers right along the beach, with sparkling views of the Pacific. It’s no surprise that this lively and lovely city—where you can swim at Playa Blanca, take a mud bath in nearby Volcan del Totumo or learn to Latin dance at Crazy Salsa—is on travelers’ bucket lists.

For meetings, Hyatt Regency Cartagena has 12,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, including a 536-square-foot ballroom that can hold up to 700 attendees.

Ljubljana, Slovenia

The largest city in Slovenia, and its capital, has fewer than 300,000 inhabitants and plenty of green spaces. A mix of German, Mediterranean and Slovenian culture, its unique heritage is what makes it stand out. Meander through a town surrounded by Baroque and Art Nouveau buildings in the shadow of a castle or stroll in the gardens of Tivoli Park. Sustainability is serious business there—Ljubljana was the European Green Capital in 2016.

Hosting a large event? Consider Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre, which boasts more than 100,000 sq. ft. of exhibit space and 23 meeting rooms. Thinking smaller? InterContinental Ljubljana offers a total of 6,000 sq. ft., including two ballrooms.

Tbilisi, Georgia

A mix of medieval, neoclassical and modern structures, the architecture in Tbilisi is a stunning stew. Catch a performance at the Georgian National Opera and Ballet Theater of Tbilisi or stroll along Rustaveli Avenue for an assortment of cafes, shops and notable monuments, including Rustaveli Cinema, the largest cinema in Georgia. For a dose of the 7th century, visit Narikala, a fortress that overlooks the capital and Kura River.

Host your meeting within 6,241 sq. ft. of meeting space at Tbilisi Marriott Hotel. In all, there are nine event rooms and a ballroom that can host 2,110 attendees.

Hanover, Germany

Located on the River Leine, Hanover is both the capital and largest city in the German state of Lower Saxony. Home to annual commercial trade fairs such as the Hanover Fair and CeBIT, the city also hosts events such as the annual Oktoberfest Hanover. Swing by Hanover Adventure Zoo, home to 237 animal species, or wander through Herrenhausen Gardens. For a satiric take on museum art, stop by the Wilhelm Busch German Museum of Caricature and Critical Graphic Art.

Sheraton Hannover Pelikan Hotel’s 2,755-square-foot ballroom can host 150 attendees banquet-style. Six conference rooms and a library are also available for more intimate meetings.

Zadar, Croatia

Have you considered hosting a meeting in Zadar? You will now. Sitting along the Adriatic Sea, Zadar has a fascinating history. Originally a settlement of an Illyrian tribe in 9th-century BC, a largely destroyed Zadar was ceded to Croatia following the defeat of the Axis Powers in World War II. Previous to that, it was conquered and burned by the Republic of Venice in 1202 and came under Austrian rule in 1797. Visit St. Anastasia’s Cathedral, built in Romanesque style, or attend Musical Evenings in St. Donatus, an international music festival.

Donat Hotel is the perfect place to host smaller meetings. Three meeting rooms total 487 sq. ft.

Philadelphia, United States

Home to the locally revered Philly cheesesteak sandwich, Philadelphia’s culture is reflected in its food and attractions. Visit the Italian Market for cafes, shops and restaurants influenced by generations of Italian-American immigrants and Reading Terminal Market for fresh produce, groceries, artisan cheese and other local treats. Once you’ve had your fill, channel your inner Rocky Balboa and race up the stairs to the Philadelphia Museum of Art or admire the Liberty Bell.

Hampton Inn Philadelphia Center City-Convention Center was renovated in 2012 and has 4,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, including a 3,726-square-foot ballroom.

Manila, Philippines

It may surprise you to know that glitz and the glam have a large presence in Manila, especially at night in its clubs, and rooftop bars. Nightlife isn’t your thing? Rizal Park features sculptures, gardens, and event venues to explore during the day. Stop by Manila Ocean Park to take in the aquarium and enjoy a fiery sunset over the bay at dinner.

Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila is a luxury property with 17 meeting rooms totaling some 75,000 sq. ft. The Grand Plaza Ballroom Foyer is 6,028 sq. ft., and the ballroom itself is 14,359 sq. ft.

Sapporo, Japan

When you think of Japan, do you think of snow? Probably not—and that’s how Sapporo will surprise you. Site of the 1972 Winter Olympics, Sapporo is a winter wonderland that hosts the annual Sapporo Snow Festival, which attracts more than 2 million visitors. Not a snow bunny? The Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art features local Hokkaido artists, for an authentic taste of the city’s culture. You can also ride a Ferris wheel at Norubesa, or amble through Nishioka Park, which features a pond and marshland.

Hotel Emisia Sapporo’s 13 meeting rooms contain 25,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, including Palace Ball Room, which is 8,224 sq. ft. and can hold 900.

Bengaluru, India

Bengaluru (also called Bangalore) is bursting with vibrant culture, and it’s easy to get swept away in it. Home to the Kannada film industry, the city has many popular theaters, including Ranga Shankara and Ravindra Kalakshetra. The capital of Karnataka state is also the heart of Indian classical music and dance, while the Indian Cartoon Gallery features a revolving lineup of both professional and amateur cartoonists.

The Leela Palace Bengaluru offers 20,000 sq. ft. of meeting space and 17 meeting rooms. The Grand Ball Room can hold 1,000 attendees within 4,400 sq. ft. There is 2,500 sq. ft. of outdoor space, as well.

Campos do Jordao, Brazil

Considered Brazil’s winter capital, Campos do Jordao has plenty of gardens and monuments to visit in warmer weather, too. One of its best-known attractions, however, is the first ice bar in the state of Sao Paulo. Iceland is made of 100 percent frozen water, from the chairs to the balconies to the walls. Want to stay out of the cold? Take a walk down Vila Capivari and duck into restaurants and local shops selling artisan products.

For a small meeting, consider Orotour Garden Hotel. With six meeting spaces and a total capacity of 675 people, it’s ideal for an intimate gathering.

Chinese New Year falls on Feb. 15 this year, marking the beginning of the year of the Dog. Around the world, people are celebrating the holiday to bring wealth, prosperity and luck for the year. In addition to celebrating, this is a perfect time to steal a few ideas for a fun event.

Red Envelopes

Red envelopes are cash gifts given to young children and those who are unmarried. They range from a couple dollars to a hefty sum. Red is a symbol for luck and used to keep evil spirits away. Give your employees red envelopes with a paycheck or thank you token to show your appreciation, or hand them out to attendees with a trinket to remember your event.

Firecrackers and Fireworks

Some say that the crack of firecrackers wards off evil spirits, and certain cities—such as Hong Kong and Shanghai—put on explosive shows to celebrate the New Year. If it is not realistic to host your own personal pyrotechnic show at your next outdoor event, consider sprinkling sparklers around for people to light up and take photos with. It’s a safe way to celebrate, while still paying homage to tradition.

Lion and Dragon Dances

Looking for memorable entertainment? How about hiring lion and dragon dancers? Considered a dance for good luck, a lion dance requires only two people. Want to go all out? Acrobatic dragon dances will immediately liven up your event and are extremely Insta-worthy.

Lanterns

There are three types of lanterns: floating, hanging and flying. The red (see the theme here?) lanterns are said to bring prosperity when hung on the final night of the Chinese New Year celebrations, known as the Lantern Festival. Hang lanterns throughout your event or float them in a pool for subtle ambiance and splash of color as you reel in prosperity throughout the night. Poems and riddles are often inscribed on the lanterns. You can do the same with your company name or a slogan.

Serve Chinese-Inspired Dishes

The meal on Chinese New Year’s Eve is considered one of the most important of the year. So important, in fact, that many restaurants require reservations months in advance. Some popular dishes include Tang Yuan, a black sesame rice ball soup; Song Gao, coarsely-ground rice formed into a sweet round cake; and an assortment of chicken, duck, pork and fish. It will be sure to hit the spot.

Hans-Ritten

Hans Ritten

Loews Hotels & Co announces Hans Ritten as the new general manager of Loews Chicago O’Hare Hotel in Rosemont, Illinois. He blew over from another Windy City property, Omni Hotel Chicago, where he was general manager. Ritten has more than 25 years of experience at branded and independent hotels in airport, convention and resort destinations. He’s previously worked at The Silversmith Hotel in Chicago, One Ocean Resort & Spa in Atlantic Beach, Florida and various Marriott International hotels in Kansas City, Philadelphia and Baltimore.

Robert-Rivers

Robert Rivers

Robert Rivers was appointed by Loews Hotels & Co as general manager of Loews Boston Hotel. He previously worked for Millennium Hotels as general manager of The Bostonian Hotel and Millennium Hotel Minneapolis. Rivers is involved on the board of AccesSportAmerica, a non-profit that helps get children and adults with disabilities get involved in fitness and athletic activities.

Louis-Escoto

Louis Escoto

Washington Park Hotel in Miami appoints Louis Escoto director of sales and marketing to maintain relationships locally and regionally, drive guestroom sales for the leisure and corporate markets and manage the property’s amenity partnerships. He previously served as director of sales and marketing for Intercontinental Hotels Group’s Z Ocean Hotel and area director of sales at SBE Miami.

Lorena-Chappell

Lorena Chappell

Benchmark Resorts & Hotels appoints Lorena Chappell director of sales and marketing for Hotel Contessa in San Antonio, Texas. She most recently worked at Sheraton Austin Georgetown Hotel & Conference Center of Georgetown, Texas. Chappell also previously spent time at W San Diego, The Houstonian Hotel and properties within the InterContinental and Four Seasons brands.

robertcox_headshot20171106002

Robert Cox

Wilmington and Beaches Convention & Visitors Bureau in North Carolina is pleased to welcome Robert Cox, CDME, CSEE as director of sports development. Since getting his start in hospitality in 1995, he’s worked for tour companies and CVBs. His experience in the sports tourism field includes serving on the North Carolina Sports Association Board and Executive Committee, where he was chairman from 2013-2015.

Peter-Barton

Peter Barton Senior

Peter Barton Senior has been promoted to senior sales manager for Duke Energy Convention Center in Cincinnati. Spectra by Comcast Spectator gave him the promotion after four years of successfully driving new business to the center. He also serves on the Board of Directors for Meeting Professionals International (MPI).

Douglas-Hustad_High-Res

Douglas Hustad

Omni Charlotte Hotel taps Douglas Hustad as general manager, where he’ll oversee the property’s $26-million renovation along with operations, sales and marketing, rooms, risk management, human resources and food and beverage. He most recently worked at The Henderson Beach Resort & Spa in Destin, Florida, and previously worked at several Ritz-Carlton hotels, Turnberry Isle Miami, Peabody Hotel in Memphis, and Inn on Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina.

Do you have an announcement about a new executive-level job appointment? Email us the good news at [email protected].

damage control

No matter how much you plan, there will always be obstacles at an event. While you can’t predict every roadblock, establishing a plan for damage control will facilitate a swift and smooth recovery. Here are the most common mistakes when diffusing a situation and how you can improve them.

1. Delaying a Response

Fix: Get vocal, fast. Too often, planners want to craft a brilliant response, but this costs too much time. People will already be looking at social media and their emails. Activate your lightning-fast powers by preparing email and social media message templates in advance.

2. Releasing Mixed Messages

Fix: Keep everyone on the same page. Making conflicting statements detracts from your credibility and causes additional confusion. Anoint one person to handle all media and public statements, or debrief the group before they go out spreading the message. Make the chosen tactic clear to the team beforehand.

3. Sweeping Things Under the Rug

Fix: Exercise professional honesty. Ignoring something doesn’t make it disappear, and trying to hide it makes you seem untrustworthy. Even if it’s uncomfortable, be transparent. Attendees don’t need to know every detail, but be honest with them.

4. Playing the Blame Game

Fix: Own it. Focusing on whodunit in the messaging can be detrimental. Attendees will see any excuses as finger-pointing and lose respect for leadership. Plus, it’s unprofessional. You’re the boss so take responsibility for any slip ups. Then you can talk about lessons learned and steps being put in place to react and keep the problem from happening in the future.

Illustration by Ji Sub Jeong/HuffPost; photos from Getty

It’s February, which means Black History Month has arrived. The month is designated as a way to celebrate the triumphs of black Americans throughout history. There are plenty of events, parades and celebrations to attend, but many event planners will be away from home and on the road. Still, that doesn’t mean you can’t join the fun—events are taking place all over the country. We’ve gathered a list of exciting events happening in U.S. cities for you to attend this month.

Los Angeles

The City of Angels is proud of its diversity. The Department of Cultural Affairs’ African American Heritage Month screens 170 films over the course of 12 days in Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza as part of Pan African Film & Arts Festival. You’re bound to find your new favorite movie here. Or visit The Aquarium of the Pacific’s African-American Festival, which celebrates diversity in African-American and African cultures with Mardi Gras “second-line” dancers, jazz musicians and interactive drum circles.

San Francisco Bay Area

The Bay Area embraces its melting pot of cultures. So, it’s no surprise that opportunities to celebrate this essential part of our history are everywhere. If you’re around San Francisco, visit the Black Choreographers Festival: Here and Now, showcasing African and African-American dance and culture. In the East Bay, the Oakland Museum of California has “Question Bridge: Black Males,” on display, an interactive exhibit featuring face-to-face interactions through video, allowing you to engage in conversation with more than 160 black men across the U.S. Learn about the past, present and future through their personal stories.

Harlem, New York

New York’s Harlem was once considered the “Black Capital of America.” The neighborhood continues to embrace this culture today. Stop by Harlem Fine Arts Show, which features both an exhibition and sale of African-American art. The show also includes an opening reception, youth empowerment and lecture and artist talks. Or, pick up a ticket and head to The Apollo Theater, where you can listen to a concert that will pay homage to black protest music, or attend their open house for a look into its history and future.

Chicago

Hundreds of thousands of Southern blacks migrated to Chicago in the early 20th century; explore the impact of this culture in a variety of events throughout the city. Grab some bites during Chicago Black Restaurant Week, which features black-owned eateries for your inner-foodie. Stop by the Black History Month Celebration at Homan Square with live music and dances, or watch The Second City perform a variety of sketches created by black cast members.

New Orleans

Louisiana isn’t afraid to detail its sobering past, which is part of what makes Black History Month so unique in New Orleans. The New Orleans African American Museum of Art Culture and History’s goal is “to preserve, interpret and promote the African American cultural heritage of New Orleans, with a particular emphasis on the Tremé community.” You can also visit Whitney Plantation, which opened in 2014. Visit fields where enslaved people were forced to work, view artwork and restored buildings and read hundreds of first-person slave narratives.

Miami

Miami is always ready for a party, and their celebrations of Black History Month reflect that. All throughout the month, experience history and culture in fun and exciting ways. Miami-Dade County hosts an annual Black Heritage Festival, which features music, entertainers and African fashion. Away from the fiesta, you can participate in the Trayvon Martin Peace Walk/Talk, a reception honoring former President Barack Obama’s vision and a variety of art exhibits.

Boston

Boston is dedicated to honoring Black History Month to the fullest. Join the African American Patriots Tour, where a guide dressed in 1800s attire will teach you of the bravery of black Bostonians. You’ll learn about plenty of figures who defied the odds stacked against them. Museum of African American History, Boston and Nantucket will feature an exhibit on Frederick Douglass, which includes historic newspapers, photos and handwritten letters.

Washington, D.C.

Of course, this list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning events occurring at the Capital. Watch Alvin Ailey, a renowned diverse dance company, perform multiple programs of captivating choreography. You can also attend Afternoon Aviators: Simulators and African-American Pilots, which showcases black pilots who achieved their aviator dreams. Study the messages vividly told by Nobel laureate Toni Morrison in a special lecture series at Montpelier Arts Center.

Corporate meeting and event planners must make the best romantic partners. A major part of the job is making attendees feel appreciated while tending to their every need. In this process, planners are essentially trained in the art of love. Here are a few unexpected ways for planners to demonstrate their devotion to attendees.

1.Customize Swag

The customization-personalization trend is at an all-time high. You can probably guesstimate what your attendees will like. But go a step further. Collect real data and feedback about the group—you might discover new preferences and interests. Or if the event is on the smaller side, consider opting for individual swag, such as a name embroidery or special color selection.

2. Offer Loyalty Rewards

Exclusive discounts, early bird offers and gifts will allow you to stand out against their other options, AKA your competition. Besides, don’t they deserve it?

3. Surprise Them

Introducing a surprise adds an extra dose of excitement. Introduce a surprise speaker or activity (e.g., a fun photo booth or contest) that wasn’t on the itinerary. You might even tease your attendees with the prospect beforehand.

4. A Warm Welcome

Set the right tone from the get-go. When attendees enter the event, this is a prime opportunity to establish a killer first impression that will dictate their overall experience at the event. Anything from a personal welcome to a special gift to a glass of champagne or mock-tail will instantly warm them up.

5. Room Deals

It’s pretty standard to get a group deal at a hotel. Go the extra mile and see if you can finagle room upgrades or additional amenities. It will instantly boost the experience for attendees and make them feel like a VIP star.

The Oscars are just around the corner, and for most people that means judging who wore it best. But event planners are looking for more than that—they’re on the hunt for Hollywood-inspired places to host their next event (the curse of a constantly-working mind!). Fear not, planners. We are honored to present to you a list of venues in destinations featured in this years’ Oscar-nominated movies. Now pass the popcorn and may the best movie win.

The Shape of Water

Plot: Elisa, a mute janitor in a secret laboratory, falls in love with a mysterious creature. When the laboratory is ordered to kill it, Elisa takes its fate into her own hands.

Filming location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Notable conference center: Metro Toronto Convention Center is the largest in Canada with more than 2 million sq. ft. of meeting space, seven exhibition halls, 77 meeting rooms, two ballrooms and a theater that holds more than 1,200 people.

Interesting attractions: Toronto Islands are a ferry ride away from downtown. Take a walk along Hanlan’s Point Beach, rent a bike from Centre Island to ride the trails, visit the Centreville Amusement Park and have a picnic all in one day.  It’s a perfect getaway after a full day of meetings.

Roy Thomson Hall is home to the Toronto Symphony Orchestra and Toronto Mendelssohn Choir. It is also one of the main venues used for the Toronto International Film Festival; stop by for a captivating show.

The Post

Plot: Kay Graham has recently taken over her late husband’s newspaper, The Washington Post. Graham must decide between publishing the Pentagon Papers and the safety of the Post.

Filming location: White Plains, New York

Notable conference center: Along with Doral Arrowwood: Luxury White Plains Resort’s general meeting rooms, the Westchester Wing has 30,000 additional sq. ft. for meetings of up to 175 people, including 11 breakout rooms. An amphitheater offers a stop-the-presses, attention-grabbing stage with seating forup to 200 guests.

Interesting attractions: White Plains Performing Arts Center is home to many impressive productions. This includes MainStage Productions, which are “self-produced” plays featuring actors from Broadway, national tours and regional theater; the WPPAC Conservatory Theatre, which empowers young performers to establish their art as they grow and learn about theater and performing; and Stage 2, which allows college, graduate school and community performers to work with professional artists. Settle down and watch a show that’s fun for both the audience and entertainers.

Dunkirk

Plot: Based on the true story of the evacuation of more than 300,000 Allied soldiers during World War II, the film follows  life-and-death struggles on the beaches of France.

Filming location: Plage de Malo-les-Bains, Dunkerque, Nord, France

Notable conference center: Quality Hotel Dunkerque will fulfill your event needs. The Veranda can fit 150 people theater-style, and the room comes equipped with a mobile screen and data projector. Dress to impress for a visit to nearby Imperial, which includes its own seminar room and terrace space in its credits.

Interesting attractions: Known for its beaches and dunes, the Malo-les-Bains is popular for swimming, sunning and wind-surfing. Take a cruise around Dunkerque’s port or bike along the coastline; it’s a beautiful area when it isn’t in the middle of a war zone. You can also take a swing at Golf de Dunkerque Grand Littoral—it was recently renovated to feature 27 holes inspired by Dunkerque’s 17th century ramparts.

Phantom Thread

Plot: A dressmaker falls in love with a strong-willed waitress, unraveling the world of routine he has worked hard to build.

Filming location: London, England

Notable conference center: The London Convention Centre features 70,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, as well as a 33,000-square-foot ballroom.

Interesting attractions: London will never leave you wondering what to see next. Take a Ferris wheel ride on the Coca-Cola London Eye for a view of the city, visit the ZSL London Zoo with more than 16,000 animals or take a London by Night bus tour to see the city come alive at night. The culture is vibrant—be prepared to feel swept off your feet, just like the dressmaker was.

Lady Bird

Plot: A coming-of-age story following a teenage girl in her senior year of high school as she grapples with love, sex, college applications and a tumultuous relationship with her mother.

Filming location: Sacramento, California

Notable conference center: Sacramento Convention Center Complex is highly accommodating. It features 137,000 sq. ft. of exhibit space, 31 meeting rooms, a 24,000 square-foot ballroom, Community Center Theater and historic Memorial Auditorium.

Interesting attractions: Visit the expanded Crocker Art Museum, the oldest public art museum in the state, filled with historic masters and contemporary modern art pioneers. Ample room practically cries out for a red carpet event indoors under the soaring skylights or on the adjacent patio.

William Land Park is a star-studded event waiting to happen. From whimsical spaces at Fairy Tale Town to dining with a backdrop of giraffes a gathering at the amphitheater or a quick round of golf, Sacramento gets the award for green spaces.

Get Out

Plot: A black man meets his girlfriend’s white parents for a weekend at their house. While friendly in the beginning, their warmth quickly becomes eerie.

Filming location: Alabama

Notable conference center: The Bryant Conference Center has 30,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space, as well as meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 1,000 people. The venue includes an executive boardroom and lecture-style classrooms among other spaces.

Interesting attractions: The FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals are a must-see. Artists who recorded here include icons Etta James and Otis Redding.

Popular places to visit include the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville—the rockets engineered here sent Apollo to the moon—and the Civil Rights Memorial in Montgomery, with engravings of the names of civil rights leaders and the words of Dr. Martin Luther King. Alabama is rich with history at every turn.

Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri

Plot: Following the murder of her daughter seven months prior, a woman buys three billboards accusing the police department of ignoring her case. A hot-headed, second-in-command exacerbates the turbulent relationship even further.

Filming location: Asheville, North Carolina

Notable conference center: U.S. Cellular Center in Asheville features an exhibition hall of 25,148 sq. ft., as well as nine meeting rooms ranging from 336 sq. ft. to 2,408 sq. ft.

Interesting attractions: Downtown Asheville is its own attraction. Listen to street performers, hop on a trolley tour, shop in local boutiques and view the open-air market at Grove Arcade. There’s even a local drum circle every Friday night. The sidewalk will feel like your personal red carpet.

 

Darkest Hour

Plot: Newly-appointed Prime Minister Winston Churchill must choose between negotiating a peace treaty with Nazi Germany and standing strong in the fight for his country’s ideals and freedom.

Filming location: Bicester Aerodrome, Bicester, Oxfordshire, England

Notable conference center: The Kassam Stadium Oxford, located in Oxfordshire itself, has an exhibition hall that can fit 1,000 standing, as well as suites that can welcome 168 to 390 people theater-style.

Interesting attractions: Visit Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Oxford—Oxfordshire is filled with historical landmarks. You can even join a tour to visit Harry Potter filming locations. Join an Oxford Pub and City Walking Tour to learn about urban legends and historical sights while popping into a few pubs—kick back in a way Winston Churchill could not.

Call Me By Your Name

Plot: In Italy, a 17-year-old boy explores sexuality and love with his father’s research assistant, who will soon return to America.

Filming Location: Crema, Cremona, Lombardy, Italy

Notable conference center: L’Albereta Resort in Lombardy can host your meetings and events, accommodating up to 300 guests in the Sala Delle Feste.

Interesting attractions: Book a guided tour through Tours of Milan that will lead you through the streets of Milan, stopping to view sights including the La Scala opera house and Sforza Castle. End the tour by viewing Da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” in person.

Take an audio tour of the Duomo di Milan that will lead you throughout the grand cathedral. Venture to its beautiful rooftop terraces for a breathtaking view of the Alps. Like the research assistant, you’ll fall in love—even if it’s simply with the scenery.

 

The 2018 Winter Edition of Meeting Professionals International (MPI) has been released. Focusing on industry trends and predictions, MPI’s report concentrates on findings related to personalization of events through technology and data consumption, as well as the increasing importance of face-to-face meetings. The report also details the change in priorities for event planners, the general outlook for the upcoming year and projected budgets. The good news: things are looking up.

Findings include:

  • 28% of respondents mention apps as the dominant technology in the industry
  • Virtual attendance is predicted to increase by 2.6%, while attendance at live events is predicted to increase by 2.15%
  • 62% of respondents predict favorable business conditions, with an anticipated 2.1% increase over the next year
  • For 44% of respondents, safety has become the top priority for planners and their choice in venues and destinations
  • 49% of respondents report positive outlooks on projected budgets

What does this mean for planners? It’s definitely a spark of hope. And it’s a good prediction of what’s to come in the near future with regards to emerging technology and priorities of the modern planner. With the use of apps, you can bring your event to life through social media (or go the distance and create an app for your event). When it comes to picking a destination, keep your guests’ safety in mind and double-check the area and venue itself for any potential dangers. And don’t feel pessimistic about the future—why not join the 62% of respondents who feel nothing but optimism? 2018 will be a strong year for all as long as you stay on top of trends, and keep up that positivity.

Remember how, in school, the whole class got punished because of one or two bad actors? Major airlines are tightening policies on bringing animals on board—in part, at least, because of situations such as the one United Airlines faced at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) recently. A woman tried to board a United flight with a peacock. She described him as her emotional-support animal.

United said no. The peacock, whose name is Dexter, became a social media star…or villain, take your pick. A few days later, United announced its new policy. From March 1 onward, customers traveling with an emotional support animal “must provide a veterinary health form documenting the health and vaccination records for the animal, as well as confirming that the animal has appropriate behavioral training.” Currently, only a letter from a health professional and 48 hours’ advance notice are required.

Delta Air Lines’ more restrictive rule on animals also goes into effect March 1. In addition to the previous mandate for a doctor’s or licensed health professional’s letter, it now requires proof of health or vaccinations. too. But these new guidelines go a step further. They call for “a signed document” confirming that the animal will behave on board. “These measures are intended to help ensure that those customers traveling with a trained service animal or support animal will no longer be at risk of untrained pets attacking their working animal,” the airline said in a press release announcing the change.

Delta carries approximately 700 service or support animals daily—nearly 250,000 annually. “Customers have attempted to fly with comfort turkeys, gliding possums known as sugar gliders, snakes, spiders and more,” the company says, resulting in an 84 percent increase in animal incidents in the last two years. The worst was the mauling of a passenger by a large dog on a flight to San Diego last summer.

According to The New York Times, “The trouble started when pet owners realized they could game the system, because airlines did not require much proof of medical need. By claiming one, people could bring an animal on board without putting it in a carry-on bag and without paying a fee that typically runs $125.” Dog vests reading “emotional support” can be purchased for $30 on Amazon, and online therapists are reportedly willing to certify emotional need.

Perhaps it is time to consider the animals’ needs. A 21-year-old college student told the Miami Herald this week she flushed her emotional support hamster named Pebbles down an airport toilet after Spirit Airlines refused to let her bring her pet on the plane. She claimed a Spirit employee suggested she either flush Pebbles or free him. The young women said she was considering legal action against Spirit for “pressuring her into making an anguished decision with a pet certified by her doctor as an emotional support animal.”

An airline spokesperson denied any such suggestions were made.