Pacific World, the leading global destination and event management company, has identified several emerging destinations and destinations to look out for as MICE options in the coming years. Ever alert to industry trends, each location selected by Pacific World combines the allure of a new and exciting destination with the capacity to provide guests with an exceptional, curated MICE experience. Pacific World recently shared its research and insights with the industry at the IMEX America convention in Las Vegas, Nevada.
“Over the past two years, interest in new destinations and unique experiences has increased significantly. This trend in the leisure travel realm is also impacting the incentives and meetings sector,” said Selina Sinclair, global managing director of Pacific World. “We’re closely following government investments in infrastructure and development in order to provide our industry partners with the insights and updates necessary to anticipate which emerging locations will be ready for business events and global incentive travel in the next five to 10 years.”
According to the World Tourism Organization, arrivals in emerging destinations are projected to increase by 4.4 percent a year (between 2010 and 2030), twice the growth rate of those in advanced economies. As off-the-beaten-path destinations gain in popularity, the MICE industry benefits from improved infrastructure and connectivity as well as from the redistribution of the demand.
Emerging destinations satisfy the needs of the new generation of planners and attendees, as well as re-energizing the interest of experienced travelers, all of whom are looking for new and whole experiences. These planners, attendees and travelers are looking to fulfill their “hunger for authenticity,” one of this year’s major incentive trends.
The increase in demand and interest for emerging destinations can also be witnessed on social media. By spotlighting lesser-known destinations and remote places to travel, social media reflects the interests of a knowledgeable audience.
Emerging Destinations Selected by Pacific World for 2019
Bhutan
Regarded as one of the most exclusive travel destinations in the world, Bhutan – also known as the Land of Happiness, Kingdom of Healing, and pioneer of the Gross National Happiness concept — is a stunning South Asian jewel nestled in the heart of the Great Himalayas. Where the past and present co-exist in harmony, Bhutan is a niche destination committed to sustainable and equitable socio-economic developments and to the preservation and promotion of the country’s incredible heritage.
Bhutan was awarded the Earth Award this past March, which recognizes destinations working toward responsible and sustainable tourism development. Besides the stunning natural scenery, the strong sense of culture and tradition clearly distinguishes it from its larger neighbors.
Namibia
Nominated numerous times as the best country to visit due to its rich and diverse offerings, Namibia’s diverse landscape is vast and has many different natural sites. From natural hot springs in the oldest desert in the world to awe-inspiring wildlife scenes, petrified forests, dunes, rock formations and ancient rock engravings, Namibia offers something memorably life-shaping for everyone. Hotels and lodges in Namibia are meeting international standards and its capital, Windhoek, offers top quality accommodation and venues for meetings, incentives, conferences and events.
Greater Bay Area – South China
The Greater Bay or Pearl River Delta Metropolitan Region (PRD) is one of the most densely urbanized regions in the world. Spread along the Southern coast of China and comprising Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Macau and Shenzhen, the region is experiencing incomparable growth.
“Investment in tourism megaprojects will see the construction of new hotels, entertainment hubs, shopping arcades and theme parks, offering wonderful opportunities for multi-destinations meetings or incentive programs,” said Pacific World Business Development Manager Dwirt Ang.
Bordeaux, France
The city of Bordeaux, one of the world’s most renowned wine centers, is nestled near the Atlantic Coast in the southwestern quadrant of France, home to some of the world’s greatest vineyards.
“The city was completely transformed over an intense 15-year refurbishment plan that has revealed its rich personality,” said Laure Le Pendeven, senior account manager, Pacific World France. “Recent developments and the gastronomy/oenology are great incentives to visit Bordeaux. We have seen an increase in the interest for the destination, which is just two hours from Paris.”
The city has become a true magnet in the French meetings and incentives market. Attractions include the beautiful Renaissance city center with 350 Listed Historic Sites, historic vineyards speckled with chateaux, the nearby oceanfront, high-tech meeting facilities, five-star accommodation choices, grape-themed spas, and world-famous gastronomic appeal. The Atlantic Southwest region has its own special relaxed ambience and discreet luxury where clients can discover a new aspect of France for those already familiar with Paris and the French Riviera.
Bodrum, Turkey
On the verge of global stardom, Bodrum is a truly motivational and incentive-quality destination. The destination has been transformed with the recent construction of multiple high-end hotels with more to come, and has developed into a jet set favorite with the completion of the Bodrum International Airport Terminal.
Founded as a Dorian City in the 7th century BC, Bodrum is intensely rich in antiquity and home to one of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World, the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus. An enigmatic seaside town, Bodrum’s glittering marina, boutique hotels, cool cafés, and white-plastered backstreets make it an ideal destination for incentive rewards.
Destinations to Look out for Selected by Pacific World for 2019
Pacific World has also compiled a list of destinations to look out for, locations that are foreseen to be developing further over the next years and will play a role in the meetings and incentives industry.
Sumba, Indonesia
“Doubling Bali in terms of size, Sumba is a destination to watch in the upcoming years. Sumba is the right place if you want to experience indigenous culture and traditions, hike through hilltop villages with thatched traditional clan houses and unique megalithic tombs or relax in a resort on one of its pristine beaches,” said Sumadi, the head of MICE Pacific World Indonesia. “At the moment, Sumba is considered one of last unspoiled paradises on earth, but there are predictions that Sumba will undergo massive infrastructure developments in order to attract investments and MICE business.”
Phu Quoc, Vietnam
The largest island in Vietnam, Phu Quoc, is becoming increasingly popular with the introduction of more domestic connections from Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, and international flights from Guangzhou and Bangkok. With basic infrastructure in place, Phu Quoc is quickly transforming into an emerging resort island destination.
Apulia, Italy
Apulia, the spur of the Italian Boot, is an enchanting region with a stunning architectural and historical heritage. Apulia is an increasingly popular travel destination throughout the year due to its mild weather, eco-tourism adventures in natural parks and a cuisine that is renowned worldwide. Thanks to the large selection of luxury hotels and meeting facilities, Apulia is a perfect destination for small incentives to large meetings and congresses.
Gangneung, South Korea
Gangneung is gaining fame not only because of its exposure during the Olympics, but for its beautiful natural environment. Ideally located just 2-3 hours from Central Seoul, Gangeung is home to beautiful beaches and mountains, such as Seoraksan and Odaesan. The city offers unusual and unconventional venues for events, such as the traditional Korea House venue or Tera Rosa Coffee Factory in the Gangneung Ojuk Hanok Village.
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