Trends
In the same way that cities are building medical and science facilities to attract meetings to their destinations, some cities are revamping or creating arts districts in an effort to attract more tourism and groups business. [...] Read more
The economic downturn wreaked havoc on the finances of many cities and states across the country. One way cities can raise additional revenue to help bridge budget shortfalls is to raise travel taxes for everything from hotel occupancy taxes to rental car, airport, meal and other taxes. Raising travel taxes can be an effective revenue generator, but for cities that rely on tourism and conventions, raising taxes too much can hurt that all-important visitor business. [...] Read more
Sponsorship spending fell 6 percent last year, and organizations are finding they must prove value to sponsors more now than ever before. [...] Read more
CVBs are repositioning themselves, trying to be more hip, engaging and interactive. For many, it starts with dropping the traditional CVB moniker and replacing it with something that’s more visitor-friendly. [...] Read more
Associate Editor Libby Hoppe talks about a new iPhone app that helps locate the nearest fee-free ATM, a blessing for frequent cashless travelers. [...] Read more
Smartphones and other mobile technologies are replacing paper boarding passes and easy-to-lose room keys. Airports, airlines and hotels are catering more and more to the plugged-in traveler nationwide. [...] Read more
Companies report that good environment choices often make the best financial sense. Organizations committed to sustainability say that their bottom line is better, employee retention is increased, and consumers want to do business with them, according to Meeting Strategies Worldwide, which specializes in the meetings and hospitality industries. The environmental consulting firm produces the Best Places to Meet Green Scorecard and released a white paper on the economy in December 2008, “The Economy and the [...] Read more
In this cost-conscious economy, one of the trends that you can take advantage of is going light—smaller, healthier portions, choices that incorporate less expensive fruits and vegetables, and fewer choices. [...] Read more
