Five emerging event destinations for 2019

From Bordeaux to Bhutan, check out these five emerging destinations for meetings and incentives in 2019 and beyond, according to global DMC group Pacific World.

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.”

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 recognises 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 neighbours.

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 urbanised 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 mega-projects 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 centres, 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 centre 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 favourite 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.