Experience sells. True, particularly when it’s an exceptional, memorable experience. But how does a meeting planner deliver an over-the-top, one-of-a-kind program that delivers that ‘wow’ experience?

Incorporating a bit of the destination into your program can set the stage for an exceptional experience and lead to those long lasting memories every group desires. Taking it a step further by immersing attendees in the local culture will lead to a destination connection that heightens the overall experience.

Tapping the local culture for exceptional experiences

Every destination has offerings that are unique to the area. Adding these experiences to your program will give attendees a true feel for the vibe of the area, as well as an appreciation as to why you chose the destination.

Think in terms of destination specific offerings, for example, Newport Beach, CA happens to be one of the few places across the country where you can hold a private corporate event right on the beach. Conveniently located between Los Angeles and San Diego, Newport Beach epitomizes relaxed, coastal comfort. With ten miles of coastline stretching along the Pacific, an estate (and celebrity) lined harbor and a natural estuary; Newport Beach presents plenty of opportunities to tap the local culture. Meeting planners may also want to add a few activities favored by locals to truly connect with the destination. Consider offering beach volleyball, a sandcastle build, a kayak tour or a private harbor cocktail cruise.

What better way to experience the local culture than through its unique flavors?
Exploring local cuisines can tell the story of a destination. Consider taking your group on a culinary journey that captures the eclectic flavors of the area. This experience can be taken up a notch by adding cooking or mixology classes that require locally grown items and are indicative of the region. To grasp a true sense of the Newport lifestyle, treat guests to a signature Newport Beach outing onboard sleek Duffy electric boats.  A favorite of local residents, these quietly comfortable boats are perfect for sunset cocktail cruises, or as a unique mode of transportation to harbor side restaurants.

Exceptional meetings pull inspiration from the destination

Relying on the destination’s high points can be one of the easiest ways to create an exceptional meeting experience. Set your group free from the confines of indoor rooms and head outdoors with a meeting at the beach or better yet onboard a private yacht. Taking a meeting outside in fresh air puts both mind and body into a state of relaxation, helping to spark creativity. In fact, a study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology found that being outside stimulates innovation and increases concentration skills. Add to that, findings from Stanford, which show that a relaxed atmosphere often inspires teamwork and creative brainstorming. A private yacht cruise though Newport Harbor allows attendees to experience the beauty of Newport’s coastal environment including refreshing ocean breezes, historic landmarks and stunning views of one of the largest pleasure craft harbors in the United States.

Creating a destination experience requires the help and knowledge of local experts. Calling upon destination marketing organizations (DMO’s) or CVBs will give you up-to-date insider information on the area and help you determine the ideal properties and experiences for your group.

When you’re ready to begin organizing your next group meeting, contact the staff at Visit Newport Beach, the destination marketing organization for Newport Beach, CA. Visit Newport Beach opens the doors to this Pacific paradise with destination expertise, customized site visits, strong partnerships and valuable resources.