Destination matters for any event, but especially when it comes to incentive meetings. Where meeting professionals choose to entice their sales team is an essential component to the success of any incentive program. Selecting the right destination can increase an incentive program’s return on investment, while simultaneously improving the image and reputation of a company and its events. From cosmopolitan boutique hotels to laid-back beachfront resorts, Florida’s collection of meeting accommodations and facili-
During the summer and fall months, unplanned weather can
affect meetings and events. With VISIT FLORIDA’s complimentary Cover Your Event Insurance, meeting professionals can enjoy peace of mind. In the event that a named hurricane disrupts a meeting, any costs directly related to re-booking or canceling the meeting will be covered. There is no doubt Florida is a state that lives and breathes gen- uine hospitality. For meeting professionals, choosing the Sunshine
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ONE-STOP MEETING SHOP: The newly revamped Ocean Center and Hilton Oceanfront Resort in Daytona Beach, Fla., will play host to VISIT FLORIDA’s 31st Annual Florida Encounter on Nov. 13–15, 2011.
ties includes options for every budget. Getting here is affordable, too, with plenty of direct flights. Groups with a range of interests will find activity options — including boating, deep-sea fishing, world- class spas, and championship golf courses and tennis facilities — for everyone. Furthermore, the state’s host of world-renowned attrac- tions, from theme parks to historic sites, give attendees a conve- nient opportunity to combine their incentive experience with a pre- or post-program vacation. When it comes to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sus-
tainability, meeting facilities and hotels in Florida understand the needs of meeting professionals. For eco-minded incentive programs, planners can choose from 680 hotels that have been recognized by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Green Lodging Program. Volunteering, team-building, and fundraising are all popular ways for groups to incorporate a CSR component into their incen- tive programs. Meeting professionals often work with a local meet- ing facility or destination marketing organization that can coordinate a unique CSR-focused activity to fit their group’s specific needs and interests.
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State not only means a high return on investment for meetings and incentive events, it also means attendees can enjoy their reward in a world-famous destination that they’ll want to return to again and again. To discover in person why Florida is a great meeting, conven-
tion, and incentive destination, don’t miss the 31st Annual Florida Encounter — the state’s premier appointment-based trade show produced and sponsored by VISIT FLORIDA. Planners meet individu- ally with Florida’s top suppliers in a relaxed atmosphere, saving time and money in the process. This year’s event will be held Nov. 13–15 at the Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort and the Ocean Cen- ter in Daytona Beach. For more information on attending Florida Encounter, contact Steven Bonda, CMP, at sbonda@VISITFLORIDA .org, or visit www.FloridaEncounter.com. n