Hong Kong-based DMC Pacific World has selected seven destinations for its second report on emerging MICE destinations.

“We all know what’s possible today, but what are the places that are rising in popularity; destinations that have invested in developing capacities catering to the business events industry,” said Selina Sinclair, global managing director of Pacific World. “Incentive travel today is multi-generational. Exploration, uniqueness, authenticity and travelling outside of comfort zones are key factors for creating effective and engaging meetings and incentives programs. As we look ahead and consider the next generation of audiences, we take into consideration things like Instagram-ability, authentic engagement opportunities and access to undiscovered experiences.”

Pacific World’s research links several elements including:

• government plans to improve or enhance accessibility, hotel and venue infrastructure;
• availability of interesting and eclectic event and meeting venues;
• and opportunities for engagement and interactions with local industry and communities.

Aix-en-Provence, France

The city in the south of France got the nod from Pacific World thanks to its exceptional cuisine, chateaux, chapels and beautiful historic buildings. Unique venues include Le Carrieres de Lumieres (Quarries of Lights) located near the village of Baux-de-Provence, a temporary art exhibition projecting works of art onto stone walls, and the Caumont Museum, a restored French manor house that now hosts major art exhibitions. Experiences include sailing a catamaran around the Calanques cliffs and visiting little-known villages in the area to experience the real soul of south France. Bonus: Convenient access to Cannes, Nice and Saint-Tropez.

Valencia, Spain

According to Pacific World’s 2019 Most In-Demand Destinations Report, Valencia is the third most visited destination in Spain and one of the top four most demanded destinations worldwide. Its growth as a popular alternative to Madrid and Barcelona is supported by a strong infrastructure and an inventory of 5,000 hotel rooms. The city is also a gastronomic and cultural hub. Groups can enjoy curated experiences such as an exclusive rooftop dinner party, or a tour of the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia opera house, one of the most celebrated buildings in the world.

Qingdao, China

Located on the Yellow Sea in China’s Shandong province, Qingdao is one of the world’s busiest seaports. A modern, economically successful city, it offers a number of unique experiences including the Taoism Experience, which teaches attendees the basics of the Chinese philosophy based on the writings of Lao-tzu, and the Qingdao Dumplings Experience, where visitors learn how to make the famous Jiaozi dumplings. Unique event spaces include the Qingdao Beer Museum and the Lalu Qingdao China, a new five-star property with sea views and a private beach.

Incheon, South Korea

South Korea’s third largest city offers world-class conference centres and hotels and is easily accessible thanks to daily international flights into Incheon Airport. Its architecture ranges from remnants of Japanese Colonial-period buildings to the futuristic, eco-friendly buildings in Songdo, the newer part of the city.

Inle Lake, Myanmar

Surrounded by small fishing villages and the Shan Mountains, Inle Lake is rich in culture and tradition. The city has worked to protect the lake, environment and local culture. With a naturally slow pace of life, it is an ideal destination for wellness and meditation retreats. It is 41 kilometres from Heho Airport in Yangon.

Gujarat, India

Located on the west coast of India, Gujarat is the country’s sixth largest state and has a topography that ranges from deep, dense forests to stark white salt plains. Its capital, Ahmadabad, is home to international hotels and unique venues, including The Arena by TransStadia. It is also home to Mahatma Gandhi’s Sabarmati ashram, making it a spiritual destination where visitors can experience a variety of rituals, festivals and celebrations.

Liverpool, England

Home of The Beatles, this waterfront city is just two hours from London and offers an impressive array of sporting, musical, historic and cultural activities. Exceptional venues include The Titanic Rum House and the Liverpool Cathedral (ideal for awards presentations or galas).