The Destination Dichotomy

Don’t let your meeting or event lose its authenticity, argues Bryan Holliday.

Story by Bryan Holliday
 

 

One of the regular observations made by people who attend lots of international conferences is that sometimes they only experience the airport, the hotel and the convention centre in the host city.
 

As destinations compete fiercely for the delegate dollar the global infrastructure is becoming ever more standardised. International hotel chains try hard to make the accommodation experience the same no matter where the particular property is located. This may offer a degree of comfort and certainty but there is no sense of uniqueness or cultural diversity. Similarly, convention centres are becoming clones distinguished only by the year of their completion.
 

Service providers are also trying to homogenise their offerings; be they production companies, accountants, software writers or even professional conference organisers. Again this may provide a safe harbour in an ocean of uncertainty but is it really what attending conferences is all about?
 

Ask any delegate who attended a conference five years ago what they remember most about the experience. They’re certain to comment on the business program, the facilities and the services but at the top of the list will be how they were able to interact with local people and experience a slice of the indigenous lifestyle via customised ceremonial and social programs and tailored tours.
 

If events are to leave a legacy for all stakeholders, as much attention must be placed on the non-business aspect of the event as the business aspect. In this way, the personal and professional enrichment that events provide will be fully realised.