The company compiled its annual destination list based on requests and number of events confirmed in 2019 — and the results are surprising to say the least.
Pacific World, one of the world’s leading global destination and event management companies, recently identified the most demanded event and incentives destinations for 2019.
The company compiled its annual destination list based on requests and number of events confirmed in 2019 — and the results are surprising to say the least.
Worldwide, Spain continues to generate the most interest. Its popularity, Pacific World posits, is bolstered by a very proactive Convention Bureau and influencers in major cities like Barcelona, Tenerife and Seville, with effective strategies to appeal to MICE audiences.
Perhaps the most surprising entry, however, is Thailand. Thailand moved up a notch this year to be second place worldwide, buoyed by a strong Convention Bureau and the backing of local and state governments. Thailand is also doing an excellent job of delineating audiences and adapting to trends, such as social and environmental sustainability.
“Recent news, like the results of the Global Destination Sustainability Index, which put Bangkok as the number two destination in Asia, will enhance the image of that city and help appeal to a new generation of planners who prioritise environmental and social sustainability when choosing destinations,” said Patricia Silvio, global marketing manager of Pacific World.
Other Asian countries include China, Indonesia and Singapore. China, for one, remains a strong player in the MICE market, with its staggering growth driving more interest from a wider swath of audiences. Likewise, Indonesia’s government is investing in existing destinations, such as Bali and Lombok, while developing new destinations to drive MICE interest.
Silvio added, “It’s no coincidence that the destinations that top our list all have strong convention bureaus and a clear destination development strategy, as well as modern infrastructures and convenient access. We are also excited about some of the up-and-comers on the list — like Peru and Monaco — which have made major investments.”
Worldwide Top 10 Most Demanded Destinations 2019:
1. Spain
2. Thailand
3. China
4. Indonesia
5. Singapore
6. Peru
7. Hong Kong
8. United Kingdom
9. South Korea
10. Indochina
Asia Top 5 Most Demanded Destinations 2019:
1. Thailand
2. China
3. Indonesia
4. Singapore
5. Hong Kong