Top global destinations for MICE groups, from Chicago to Paris to Spain.
Drawing on leads and RFPs from its vast network of independent DMC’s (destination management companies) from around the world, Global DMC Partners (GDP) has released its 2024 Global Destination Index.
“It’s interesting to see the new destinations that have made this year’s list, as well as the changing order in popularity of the top 10, particularly as our industry is a great indicator of the world’s economic strength and where the most business is being done,” said Global DMC Partners President and CEO Catherine Chaulet, in a press statement. “We’ve also seen an increased interest in secondary destinations with an uptick in leads for 2024 or 2025, as compared to prior years.”
Top 10 International Destinations
• Paris
• Barcelona
• Amsterdam
• London
• Lisbon
• Athens
• Madrid
• Vienna
• Rome
• Berlin
Top secondary destinations for international meetings and incentives included the French Riviera, where “groups can land in Nice and within half an hour be in Monaco on one side and in Cannes on the other side,” said Chaulet. “These three key cities offer great event infrastructure and amazing hotels, surrounded by picture-perfect villages, boutique hotels, and vineyards.” She also noted increasing group interest in the Spanish cities of Málaga, Sevilla and Valencia. “With seasonal daily direct flights from New York, and the opening of stylish 4- and 5-star hotels in its charming city center, Málaga has risen to the top of the rankings for hosting small to medium-sized groups in Spain. As the Green European Capital 2024, Valencia is gaining recognition for its excellent value and versatility as an event destination, with competitively priced hotels and unique venues. And Sevilla stands out as one of Spain’s premier MICE destinations for 2024, blending traditional charm with cutting-edge venues, ideal for events of any size, particularly large congresses and conferences.” Additional secondary destinations included Japan, Costa Rica, Saint Lucia, the Emilia-Romagna Region in Italy (Bologna, Parma and Modena) and the Greek Islands of Corfu, Aegina and Milos.
Top 10 Domestic Destinations
• Chicago
• Washington, D.C.
• New York
• Las Vegas
• Nashville
• Dallas
• Miami
• Orlando
Midwestern cities, including Minneapolis, Kansas City and Louisville were trending secondary destinations in 2024 for U.S.-based meetings and events.
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