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Every year, IMEX America captures the pulse of the global meetings and incentives industry. It is where thousands of appointments take place and where conversations shift, setting the tone for the year ahead. As IMEX 2025 approaches, four themes are already rising above the noise. They reflect what today’s attendees demand, what tomorrow’s buyers will expect, and where recognition travel is heading next. Sustainability with Substance The conversation around sustainability has matured. Planners are asking for specifics, metrics, and accountability. Suppliers that can demonstrate carbon offset programs, regenerative practices, or local sourcing with measurable results are leading the way. At IMEX this year, the spotlight will fall on brands that can prove their impact and integrate it seamlessly into group programs. Tech with Purpose Technology is moving toward tools that simplify planning and make programs feel more personal. Expect to see AI and automation positioned as practical tools that help planners simplify scheduling, customize attendee journeys, and gather data that informs smarter decisions. The emphasis is on tools that reduce friction and create room for real engagement. Cultural Immersion as Currency Recognition travel is moving toward deeper immersion, with programs that tell a story about the destination and connect participants to place. This shows up in artisan-led gifting, intimate performances, private access to heritage sites, and culinary encounters rooted in local tradition. At IMEX, suppliers who can weave culture into the fabric of program design will resonate most with planners. Wellness, Redefined Wellness is becoming part of the program architecture itself. Longer port calls that allow for rest, agendas with intentional breathing space, and dining options that support energy and balance are increasingly expected. Attendees want recognition trips that inspire without exhausting, and the most forward-thinking suppliers are designing with this in mind. The clarity gained at IMEX America 2025 will not remain on the show floor. It will shape the programs, partnerships, and strategies that define incentive travel in the year to come. Why It Matters IMEX is the industry’s forecast in real time. The themes that emerge on the floor in Las Vegas will ripple across incentive travel programs in the year ahead. For AUTHENTIC Meetings & Incentives®, these insights directly inform how we guide partners, source programs, and create visibility for the suppliers who are shaping the next era of recognition travel. Whether you’re skipping IMEX or simply don’t have time to cover it all, AUTHENTIC Meetings & Incentives® is here to source, shortlist, and connect you with the right suppliers. GET IN TOUCH

Las Vegas, NV — September 2025  — AUTHENTIC Meetings & Incentives® is set to make a strong showing at IMEX America 2025 , where President & CEO Nataly Horan  will attend as a Hosted Buyer . IMEX America is the largest trade show in North America for the global meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) industry, and a critical stage for building the relationships that shape future business. For AUTHENTIC, this presence underscores its growing role as a trusted connector between suppliers and corporate decision makers. By participating as a Hosted Buyer, Horan gains direct access to sourcing opportunities and first-hand insights into what today’s planners are prioritizing. Those insights translate into measurable value for AUTHENTIC’s partners (cruise lines, hotels, destinations, and DMCs) who rely on the company to amplify their visibility in North America’s highly competitive MICE market. “IMEX America represents the pulse of our industry,” said Horan. “Being on the floor as a Hosted Buyer gives AUTHENTIC a unique vantage point. We’re not only sourcing on behalf of corporate groups, we’re also identifying the trends, partners, and opportunities that will define incentive travel in the coming year.” AUTHENTIC Meetings & Incentives® has quickly distinguished itself through its integrated marketing ecosystem, blending sourcing expertise with high-impact platforms such as the MICE Bites® and CURATED series. Its presence at IMEX America highlights the brand’s commitment to delivering relevance, reach, and results for partners who want to capture the attention of today’s most sought-after buyers. With more than 15,000 industry professionals expected to attend, IMEX America provides AUTHENTIC with the perfect environment to strengthen its partner network and showcase why leading suppliers, from cruise lines and luxury resorts to destinations and gifting companies, choose to invest their marketing dollars with AUTHENTIC. About IMEX America IMEX America is the largest trade show in North America for the global meetings, events, and incentive travel industry. Held annually in Las Vegas, the event attracts thousands of suppliers, planners, and thought leaders for three days of connection, innovation, and deal-making. About AUTHENTIC Meetings & Incentives® AUTHENTIC Meetings & Incentives® is a boutique sourcing and marketing company specializing in cruise charters, corporate incentives, and destination partnerships. Built on a philosophy of authenticity and connection, AUTHENTIC delivers unique visibility and measurable impact for suppliers seeking to stand out in the global MICE marketplace. For partnership inquiries, please contact: AUTHENTIC Meetings & Incentives® 📧 hello@authenticmice.com 🌐 www.AuthenticMICE.com

Antarctica has always been the travel world’s final frontier: untouched, untamed, and unforgettable. Now, Silversea is rewriting the way groups reach it. Opening in January 2026, The Cormorant at 55 South℠  in Puerto Williams, Chile will become the Southernmost Hotel on Earth℠ , anchoring the start of Silversea’s Antarctica Fly-Cruise program. The Barrier Removed For decades, the Drake Passage stood as a two-day gauntlet between travelers and the White Continent. Silversea eliminates it with private charter flights direct to Puerto Williams. What once felt like an endurance test now becomes a seamless gateway cutting time at sea, adding time on the ice, and preserving every ounce of awe. The Cormorant at 55 South℠ Luxury at Latitude 55 South The Cormorant is not a stopover. It’s a statement . With 150 rooms framed by Patagonian forests and waterways, the hotel extends Silversea’s five-star promise to the very edge of the earth. Guests can explore with guided hikes, kayak through pristine channels, or simply watch the wilderness shift outside their window, all before boarding their expedition ship. Kayaking the pristine waterways of Puerto Williams before venturing into Antarctica’s untouched wilderness For Planners, a New Frontier Antarctica has always been a program-maker. With The Cormorant, it becomes even more feasible, more elevated, and more rewarding to deliver: Control without compromise.  From charter flights to branded lodging, Silversea owns every step of the journey. Prestige that resonates.  Recognition programs gain a narrative that begins in Puerto Williams and crescendos on the ice. Space for moments.  The hotel creates opportunities for pre-cruise dinners, private gatherings, and recognition experiences impossible before. Why It Matters For incentive planners, the message is clear: Antarctica is no longer just a dream destination. It’s a stage set for impact, supported by the infrastructure and vision of Silversea. From the Southernmost Hotel on Earth℠ to the untouched wilderness beyond, this is recognition travel that proves luxury doesn’t end where the map does: it begins. Extraordinary incentives demand partners who know how to deliver. Let’s talk about how Silversea can turn the world’s most ambitious programs into reality. Watch MICE Bites® ON DEMAND: Silversea with Freddy Muller

Video and Images from IMEXAmerica.com If you’ve landed your first Hosted Buyer spot at IMEX, congratulations. You’re about to experience one of the most important (and intense) events in the global meetings and incentives calendar. Think of it as a marathon, not a sprint: four days of meetings, education, networking, and after-hours events that will shape your professional relationships for years to come. I’ve gathered insights from industry veterans, observed what works (and what doesn’t), and pulled together advice that seasoned IMEX-goers often wish they had before their first show. This isn’t a “pack comfy shoes and bring business cards” kind of list. You already know that. This is the practical, behind-the-scenes knowledge that helps you thrive, not just survive. Images from IMEXAmerica.com Before You Go: Prep is Everything Know Your Diary.  Hosted Buyers get pre-scheduled appointments. Don’t treat them as optional speed dates. Suppliers are investing in you, and professionalism here pays dividends. Familiarize yourself with each company before you meet them, even if it’s just a quick LinkedIn scan. Set Your Own Agenda.  Beyond the diary, block time for education sessions, floor walks, and unscheduled conversations. Some of the best connections happen in the café line or when you stumble upon a destination stand that wasn’t on your radar. Prioritize Self-Care.  The days are long. Think hydration tablets, healthy snacks, and even a short morning stretch to keep your energy up. Veterans swear by this. Images from IMEXAmerica.com On the Show Floor: How to Make It Count Conversations, Not Transactions.  Everyone knows you’re here to do business. What stands out is when you connect as a human first. Ask suppliers what trends they’re seeing, or what’s exciting them most about their brand. Notes, Notes, Notes.  After 30 or more meetings, they blur. Whether it’s scribbles in your phone or voice memos between appointments, record key takeaways while they’re fresh. Say Yes to Curiosity.  Don’t skip over the booths that aren’t on your official list. Many first-timers have stumbled into future partnerships just by following their curiosity down a side aisle. Images from IMEXAmerica.com Beyond the Booth: The Networking Factor Evenings Matter.  Receptions, dinners, and after-hours gatherings are where relationships deepen. You don’t need to attend everything, but choose strategically. One good dinner can be more valuable than ten rushed appointments. Ask for Introductions.  The industry thrives on connections. If you click with someone, ask, “Is there anyone else here you think I should meet?” More often than not, they’ll walk you over. Respect the Balance.  Everyone’s calendar is packed. Be mindful of suppliers’ time, and equally, don’t feel guilty about excusing yourself when you need to recharge. Images from IMEXAmerica.com After IMEX: Where the Real Work Begins Follow-Up Fast.  Within a week, send short, personalized notes. It doesn’t have to be long, just enough to remind them of your conversation and signal that you’re serious. Be Specific.  Instead of “great to meet you,” reference the product, service, or idea that stood out. Suppliers get dozens of follow-ups. Specificity makes you memorable. Play the Long Game.  IMEX isn’t just about filling your immediate pipeline. Think of it as planting seeds. Relationships built here may take months or even years to bear fruit. Images from IMEXAmerica.com Final Word Walking into your first IMEX as a Hosted Buyer can feel overwhelming. But remember: the suppliers want you there, the organizers have curated the experience for you, and the community genuinely thrives on building lasting connections. Be curious, stay professional, and most importantly, enjoy it. When you head home, you’ll not only have a stack of new business cards but also a new sense of how global and dynamic our industry truly is. And that’s the real IMEX magic.

I just stepped off the inaugural sailing of Star of the Seas , Royal Caribbean ’s newest ICON-class ship, and the experience left me thinking less about “cruising” and more about how purposefully designed spaces can shape human connection. This isn’t an article about leisure travel. It’s about groups. Incentives. What it feels like when a ship becomes a stage for experiences that attendees will care about and remember. Design Details That Stood Out As a former interior designer, I couldn’t help but notice the small things. Wet floor signs shaped like banana peels (which made my kids laugh every time). A live pianist popping into an elevator to surprise guests. Elevators that actually work quickly and intuitively, even on a ship this size. Wayfinding that feels natural instead of confusing. Our family suite was equally thoughtful. The shower and toilet were split into two separate rooms, each with its own sink, which made sharing the space with others extremely comfortable. These are the kind of design decision that seems obvious once you live it, but it changes the whole experience. A Ship of Neighborhoods What makes Star of the Seas  different is how it’s divided into eight distinct neighborhoods, each with its own energy: Surfside  – A family paradise with splash zones, an arcade, and unlimited soft-serve ice cream (swirl please!). Thrill Island  – Home to Category 6 , the largest waterpark at sea, plus Crown’s Edge  (a ropes course that literally dangles you over the ocean), a climbing wall, mini golf, and courts for basketball or pickleball. The Hideaway  – An adults-only escape with a suspended infinity pool and sexy beach-club atmosphere. Chill Island  – Exactly what it sounds like: breezy, quiet, open spaces for recharging. AquaDome  – A stunning glass-domed venue where aerialists, water shows, and robotics create unforgettable entertainment. Central Park  – A serene green oasis filled with live plants, perfect for cocktails and conversations. Suite Neighborhood  – Elevated privacy and perks for suite guests. Each neighborhood feels like its own little world, and together they create a ship where every type of traveler finds their place. Entertainment Worthy of Broadway The entertainment on board is on another level. The headline is Back to the Future: The Musical . Yes, a full Broadway-style production, complete with DeLorean magic, orchestra, and a cast of nearly 30 performers. Then there’s Absolute Zero , the largest ice arena at sea, and of course, the Aqua Theater shows inside the Dome, where high divers, acrobats, and water effects make you forget you’re on a ship at all. For groups, these productions are the shared moments that become the stories people retell when they get home. Food, Bars, and Breezes With more than 40 dining options and 18 bars, the variety is staggering. From jazz-club dining at the Lincoln Park Supper Club  to sweet treats at Desserted , every corner invites people to gather, taste, and linger. . Is It for Every Group? Here’s where I’ll be candid. If your group is looking for a hyper-specific experience—say everyone wants the same schedule, doesn’t plan to attend shows, has no interest in sun or sea, and follows a strict diet—you may be better off booking a villa, a retreat center, or a resort on land where you can control every detail. But if your group thrives on variety, energy, and those big “wow” moments? Then Star of the Seas  is exactly the kind of setting that delivers. It’s dynamic, it’s elevated, and it’s full of surprises that spark joy across generations. Why It Works for Groups Here’s where Star of the Seas  shines for incentives: Spaces can be privatized for cocktail hours or team-building. Neighborhoods create natural flexibility. Families, couples, and executives can all find “their” place without feeling segmented. Service is attentive, warm, and consistent, adding a high-touch element that’s critical for group programs. Design decisions (like efficient crowd flow and intuitive wayfinding) make large-scale gatherings surprisingly smooth. At its core, incentive travel is about giving every participant the chance to enjoy themselves in their own way. Star of the Seas  delivers exactly that: elevated spaces, thoughtful details, and experiences that fit every personality. Royal Caribbean has built a floating, multi-generational destination where groups can thrive. ]⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

For years, cruise lines have been chasing capacity; more passengers, more cabins, more moving parts. But for high-end groups, that model can feel more crowded than curated. There’s not enough room to connect. Too many faces in the photos. Too few moments that feel yours. That’s what makes this comeback different. Crystal is back and it’s not what you remember. After a full acquisition and a year-plus dry dock, Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity are back and bolder than ever. Not because they’re bigger. But because they’re not . Passenger counts were slashed. Suites were expanded. Public spaces, restaurants, and lounges were kept intentionally large. The result? A ship that finally matches the scale of your program’s vision. This is luxury with breathing room. Think 430-square-foot suites with verandas. A 500+ seat theater. A main lounge that can accommodate your entire group. Signature restaurants that are truly group-accessible, including the only Nobu at sea  and a Michelin-starred Italian venue. And that’s the difference. Crystal isn’t positioning itself as a full-ship charter line. Instead, it’s offering planners something just as valuable: The benefits of exclusivity, without the requirement of exclusivity. You can host 250–300 guests in all-suite accommodations without chartering the vessel. You can privatize venues for awards, receptions, or high-touch dinners. And you can do it all on a ship that was rebuilt with your group in mind, even if you’re not the only ones onboard. And it doesn’t stop at sea. Thanks to the global reach of Abercrombie & Kent , Crystal groups also gain seamless access to luxury extensions in key incentive destinations. A&K’s DMC infrastructure spans 22 high-impact destinations and offers insider access across camps, lodges, river ships, yachts, and one-of-a-kind cultural venues. Ground services are fully owned and operated, not contracted, ensuring the same level of reliability and polish you expect onboard. Every touchpoint, on land or sea, carries the same ethos: flexibility, beauty, and high-touch execution. Together, Crystal and A&K are changing how group travel moves. And more importantly: how it feels . When the details matter, the partners do too. Let’s talk  about how Crystal and A&K can help you build something extraordinary across land and sea. Watch MICE Bites® ON DEMAND: Crystal with Matthew Boutwell

In the continually shifting landscape of meetings and incentives, the most impactful events are no longer defined solely by logistics or lavishness. They are, instead, crafted experiences that deeply resonate, connect, and leave a lasting impression. An industry leader like Carvie Gillikin , President and CEO of MGME , offers a compelling framework for this evolution, emphasizing that true event success stems from a profound understanding of purpose and a willingness to transcend traditional boundaries. As revealed during the inaugural episode of the " MICE Bites Masterclass with MGME " series, Carvie's insights illuminate the path to designing events that are not just attended, but truly experienced . "Understanding the business goals of the event is paramount" Carvie’s core philosophy, a principle he passionately defends, centers on the paramount importance of understanding an event's business goals . This isn't a mere suggestion but the very bedrock of effective event design. As he explains, "Why is the company holding this event?" is the critical starting point. Whether the aim is to rebuild morale after a significant organizational change or to launch a new sales initiative under fresh leadership, these objectives must "thread throughout the entire event" , from the initial touchpoint to the final survey. Carvie’s succinct and powerful assertion that "hope is not a strategy"  underscores the need for every element and decision to be purposeful and directly aligned with the organization's initiatives. Beyond this critical foundation, Carvie highlights perhaps the most exciting and transformative shift underway in the MICE industry: the burgeoning demand for cultural influence and deep immersion in local areas . For too long, events have risked becoming "a blur of another ballroom in a generic city". Yet, as the 2024 Incentive Travel Index  strikingly confirms, second and third-tier cities are now in high demand  because attendees, particularly younger generations, actively seek to be "immersed in the local culture". This shift is more than a trend; it represents a powerful leverage point to enhance the success and return on investment (ROI)  for conferences and incentives. Imagine the profound impact when events are designed to: • Transport attendees beyond the conventional hotel or convention center  and into authentic, local cultural experiences. • Explore genuine neighborhoods , moving past typical tourist traps to offer a true sense of place. • Integrate local performances, distinctive cuisine, or artisan interactions , forging a deeper, more meaningful connection between attendees and the destination. Carvie shared a compelling example from his time on the Discover Puerto Rico customer advisory board, where they were exposed to facets of the island typically unseen by visitors. This approach doesn't require extravagant expenditures; rather, it’s about "thinking outside of the ballroom"  and recognizing that these culturally immersive moments can serve as an "added value to your program at very, very minimal cost" . These are the moments that elevate an event from merely functional to truly unforgettable. "We are story creators... and our storytellers are our attendees" Ultimately, Carvie defines the best events as those that "deliver the business goals of the organization, address personalized wellness for the attendees, and leave a positive impact on the destination" . This creates a powerful, synergistic win for all involved: clients achieve their precise objectives, attendees leave genuinely inspired with a "smile on their face, a story to tell, and a desire to excel," and destinations benefit from a more sustainable and equitable distribution of economic impact. Our conversation reinforced a fundamental truth: those of us in the MICE industry are not simply event planners; we are, in Carvie’s eloquent words, "story creators,"  and our attendees are the indispensable "storytellers" . The ultimate aim is for every attendee to depart an event feeling inspired, having experienced something genuinely unique, and eager to share their narrative. This demands a meticulous design process that is intentional, thoughtful, and delivers undeniable value , propelling us beyond the traditional and into a vibrant future where authentic cultural immersion takes center stage. WATCH or Listen to the entire episode of S1:E1 MICE Bites Masterclass with MGME On Demand on YouTube and LinkedIn Watch S3:E1 MICE Bites Masterclass with MGME President, Carvie Gillikin

Edinburgh, a favorite city and constant source of inspiration. In Good Company  is a series by AUTHENTIC Meetings & Incentives® that highlights the people behind the brands shaping today’s incentive travel landscape. This week, we sat down with Stephanie Harris , President of The Incentive Research Foundation and Vice President, MCI USA... Stephanie, you’ve had this incredible career across powerhouse brands, but more than that, you’re also an incredible Speaker.
Have you always trusted your voice, or did that come with time? That is very kind of you. I was incredibly fortunate to have a mom who taught time management and presentation skills to women in the workforce in the 70’s. She was a trailblazer! During the summers, she would take me with her when she traveled (road trips to Peoria, Omaha, Denver), giving me the opportunity to absorb a lot of the lessons she was teaching. I was also a theater kid, making me comfortable onstage. Still, it took some time to really trust my voice in a business setting. Once I realized that people don’t want perfect as much as they want authentic, I started to relax and be myself when speaking. Looking back, what was the moment that changed everything for you?
Not the biggest title, but the moment you knew you were stepping into the work you were meant to do.  When I started working at Maritz, I had come from over a decade at an ad agency and was burned out. I discovered incentives (and events more broadly), fell in love with the industry, and felt reenergized. Something about it just feels like home. Over twenty years later, I’m still drawn to the combination of emotion and logic that drive incentives and events, and the powerful outcomes they generate for individuals as well as organizations. The IRF board and staff: a group defined by mutual respect, genuine connection, and shared passion for the industry. You lead with both strategy and heart, which is rare.
Where does that come from? On the strategy side, my mom was very big on having goals and a clear vision for where you want to go. She was also big on accountability, so I try to model that in my work and personal life. A lot of my approach as a leader is informed by people I’ve worked with, and for, throughout my career. I’ve had some great leaders, and some truly terrible ones. My “do not do this as a leader” list is informed by experiences with challenging leaders. None of us get it right all the time, so we have to be open to learning and changing. My default is to just be myself, and I’m a heart on my sleeve kind of person. Zero poker face. People are complicated and work is just one part of their lives, so you have to take a whole person approach. When the team is growing, finding their own place in the sun, and getting recognized for their contributions, it’s the best feeling. Her mother’s groovy public speaking headshot and the spark that lit a lifelong confidence. You’ve helped shape so much of this industry, through research, brand building, mentorship.
What’s one thing you wish more people understood about what actually makes a program successful? The attendees have to be at the center of every decision. Reading Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara really cemented that for me and brought to life how it could be possible. Looking at the experience through the eyes of the attendee and doing everything to remove friction and make it feel special – that’s where the magic lives. You’ve lifted a lot of people up. Who did that for you? My husband is my biggest cheerleader, most honest critic, and the one that always believes in me. Having worked together at Maritz, he knows me as a colleague, so that insight is really helpful as well. And Christine Duffy was instrumental in my move to American Express Meetings & Events. That move changed a lot for me and gave me such a global perspective on the events industry. Stephanie and her biggest cheerleader (husband), Matt. You’ve worked in boardrooms and brainstorms, but where do you do your best thinking?
What grounds you? I’m an extroverted introvert, so I value the opportunity to recharge and reflect. Plane rides are good for reflection. That’s when I have time to connect dots across all the conversations and data points that I have in my head. If you could go back and talk to your younger self, fresh out of school, eager to get going, what would you say? In the early days, I took everything so seriously and gave a lot of credibility and mindshare to other people’s opinions of me or my approach. So, I’d tell my younger self to let more things go. One of our Invitational speakers, Jade Simmons, said “Only a worthy opponent is worth of being opposed.” That really resonated because I gave a lot of energy to things and people that probably didn’t merit that energy in my younger years. In her element, en route to the next adventure. And finally, who’s someone in this industry you admire? Someone who doesn’t always get the spotlight, but who deserves to be in good company? One of the people I most admire is Milton Rivera. He just stepped down from his role at American Express. I had the pleasure of working with him for nearly ten years. He is so smart, so kind, dedicated to getting great outcomes, and has an incredible work ethic. Knowing and working with Milton has been such a gift. Know someone who should be featured next? Nominate a colleague whose story deserves the spotlight. We’re always looking for leaders, legends, and the voices shaping the future of incentives. Submit a nomination here.

And honestly? Good for them. Belize has taken a deliberate stand in the meetings and incentives world: they aren’t chasing after every group that comes knocking. Instead, they’re choosing to work only with planners who share a commitment to being socially and environmentally responsible. Why? Because they know their own strengths. They’re small, and they don’t have the infrastructure for sprawling, mega-sized groups—and they don’t want to compromise what makes them unique. Great Blue Hole What makes Belize so compelling is its authenticity. It’s not a destination built on replicas or gloss. It’s the real deal, layered and multifaceted. Sure, the snorkeling and diving are world-famous (the barrier reef is the second largest in the world, after all). But that’s just the beginning. Step inland and you’ll find rainforests alive with wildlife, ancient Maya temples you can still climb, caves that hold centuries-old artifacts, and rivers that wind through untouched landscapes. Add in a culinary scene influenced by Caribbean, Latin, and Indigenous flavors, and suddenly you realize Belize isn’t a one-dimensional destination—it’s a whole mosaic of experiences. Ancient Mayan Ruins By keeping things intentional—by saying no to groups that don’t align with their values—Belize protects its culture, environment, and community while giving MICE groups the chance to experience something genuinely rare: connection without compromise. This isn’t a destination trying to be everything for everyone. It’s a destination asking, “Are you the right fit for us?” And if the answer is yes, your group is in for something unforgettable. Learn more about planning in Belize Make your next program unforgettable. Looking to design an incentive that blends adventure, culture, and sustainability? Let’s talk about how Belize can bring it all together. Watch MICE Bites® ON DEMAND: Simone Bell with Belize Tourism Board

When it comes to planning meetings, incentives, conferences, and events (MICE) , choosing a venue that combines convenience, innovation, and unforgettable experiences is key. Cruises are rapidly emerging as a top choice for corporate groups, offering unique benefits that traditional venues can’t match. Here’s why cruises are the perfect solution for your next MICE event. 1. Effortless All-Inclusive Event Planning Cruise ships streamline the event planning process with all-inclusive packages  that cover everything from accommodations to catering. With bundled pricing, planners save time and avoid juggling multiple vendors. State-of-the-art AV equipment , meeting spaces, and customizable menus make cruises ideal for seamless event execution. 2. Natural Networking Opportunities Cruises provide a unique setting for networking, fostering organic connections  among attendees. Shared dining, lounges, and onboard activities encourage engagement, while team-building options  like scavenger hunts, escape rooms, and group excursions promote collaboration. This built-in interaction helps create stronger bonds among participants. 3. Memorable Experiences for Attendees A cruise combines work and leisure, making your event truly unforgettable. Participants can enjoy world-class entertainment , luxurious amenities , and excursions to bucket-list destinations . These one-of-a-kind experiences leave attendees with lasting memories and ensure your event stands out from the rest. 4. Cutting-Edge Facilities for Business Events Modern cruise ships are designed with corporate groups in mind. From intimate breakout rooms  to large conference theaters , cruise ships offer versatile venues equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi  and advanced technology. For example, Royal Caribbean’s ships feature fully customizable spaces and dedicated event coordinators to meet your needs. 5. Eco-Friendly Practices in the Cruise Industry Sustainability is a top priority for planners, and the cruise industry is stepping up with eco-conscious innovations . Royal Caribbean leads the way with energy-efficient ships , sustainable food sourcing , and waste reduction programs . Hosting your event at sea allows you to align with green initiatives without compromising on luxury. 6. Multiple Destinations, One Journey Cruises offer a unique advantage: attendees can visit multiple destinations without the hassle of packing, unpacking, or frequent travel. Imagine hosting a morning workshop , followed by snorkeling in the Caribbean, and capping the day with a sunset networking session  on deck. It’s a dynamic experience that traditional venues simply can’t provide. Why Choose Cruises for MICE Events? Cruises deliver unmatched convenience, versatility, and adventure for corporate groups. Whether you're planning a small incentive trip or a large conference, a cruise ship offers the perfect combination of luxury, networking opportunities , and unforgettable experiences . Plan Your Event at Sea with AUTHENTIC Meetings & Incentives® Ready to elevate your next MICE event? Contact AUTHENTIC Meetings & Incentives® to explore options with Royal Caribbean  and other trusted cruise partners. Let’s create an experience that will leave your attendees inspired and your stakeholders impressed.

The United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030) , known as the Ocean Decade , is a global call to action led by UNESCO . Its mission is to mobilize knowledge, innovation, and collaboration to secure the future of our oceans. For the MICE industry, this is more than an environmental initiative. It is an opportunity to align events with one of the most important global movements of our time. Meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions can strengthen the reach of the Ocean Decade by using our platforms, audiences, and destinations to inspire awareness and action. Why It Matters to Planners The MICE sector brings people together from across industries, cultures, and continents. We decide where they gather, what they experience, and the stories they take home. By incorporating Ocean Decade themes and partnerships into programs, planners can: Integrate science-based conservation projects into incentive travel and conference agendas Build relationships with local communities and organizations involved in marine protection Create legacy projects that have a lasting positive impact on host destinations What the Ocean Decade Is Doing UNESCO and its partners are addressing priorities such as restoring marine ecosystems, reducing ocean pollution, mapping the ocean floor, and blending Indigenous knowledge with modern science. These initiatives need visibility, resources, and networks. Our industry is in a position to provide all three. The AUTHENTIC Connection AUTHENTIC Meetings & Incentives® works closely with cruise lines, coastal venues, and island destinations, all of which depend on healthy oceans. Our role is to connect MICE partners with opportunities to support and showcase ocean stewardship in ways that are meaningful and measurable. Whether through incentive itineraries that include marine conservation or conferences aligned with UNESCO-led projects, we help bring these initiatives to life within the MICE space. A Next Step for the Industry The Ocean Decade runs until 2030, offering a clear timeline for the MICE industry to get involved. By embedding its goals into event planning and delivery, we can help ensure the ocean’s future is part of the global conversation we create. Learn more at oceandecade.org AUTHENTIC x UNESCO Turn travel into a force for good. Discover how you or your organization can champion UNESCO’s mission through partnership, expertise, advocacy, or direct support.

There’s a new definition of luxury, and it’s not about how shiny everything is. It’s about how real your experience tastes. The days of generic plated chicken are over. If you want your guests to talk about your event for months, sprinkle in genuine local touches that spark conversation and create memories. Here’s how: 1. Farm-Fresh, Story-Driven Menus Team up with a nearby farm or artisan producer, guests love knowing their heirloom tomatoes were harvested that morning just a few miles away, sourcing that sparks conversation and appreciation. 2. Signature Region-First Cocktails Work with your bartender to highlight local spirits, house-made syrups or foraged garnishes, a single-ingredient spotlight—like a berry shrub from a neighborhood patch—gives guests something to talk about long after happy hour. 3. Guest Chef Takeovers Bring in a celebrated local chef for a live cooking demo or tasting station, watching an expert at work and sampling their signature dish turns a break into the week’s top highlight. 4. Hands-On Culinary Workshops Set up mini “labs” right in your venue—dumpling folding led by a Chinatown specialist or spice-blending guided by a Marrakech expert—learning a craft builds connections and leaves everyone with a fun takeaway. 5. Artisan Tableware & Décor Ditch the off-the-rack linens and glassware, source hand-woven placemats, native pottery or blooms from a local florist, those tactile accents tell a story before the first bite even hits the tongue. 6. Market-Style Displays Transform your buffet into a market stall, display charcuterie, cheese or produce on reclaimed wood barrels with signage that highlights each vendor’s name, location and passion for their craft. 7. Story-Rich Menus & Signage Include a line or two beside each dish: why that cheese is a regional staple or how a particular grain shaped the local cuisine, context makes every bite more meaningful. 8. Multi-Sensory Cultural Pairings Pair tastings with a brief musical performance, a local storyteller or a quick art installation, engaging more senses turns a networking break into a genuine cultural moment. Silversea recognized this shift to “authentically polished” before most of us even heard the term. Their S.A.L.T. (Sea And Land Taste) program , featuring ever-changing menus in S.A.L.T. Kitchen, expert-led labs and talks, and region-first libations, bringing these eight principles to life at sea. Watch MICE Bites® with Freddy Muller, to learn more about Silverseas for groups and charters: