Meeting Planners Agree That Cost Is The Top Priority In Destination Selection

By Leslie Perez

Many companies have been hit by ´the recession and are looking for ways ´to cut costs܂ In some cases‚ businesses have even considered doing away with incentive ´travel programs and opting for meetings and corporate events ´that are close ´to home in an effort ´to save money܂ Unfortunately‚ companies ´that are cutting incentive ´travel programs often do not recognize ´that ´this morale boosting ´tool is actually much more cost-effective ´than salary increases and bonuses‚ and is sure ´to leave a lasting impression on participants that will foster increased productivity and employee satisfaction܂ Rather ´than cut ´these programs‚ businesses should ´take a look at incentive ´travel options ´that offer significant cost savings܂

At ´the same ´time‚ companies ´that are focused on staying close ´to home for meetings and corporate events may be overlooking another option ´that is far more enticing and offers a cost-effective option ´that will allow ´them ´to save money and stay within their budget without giving off ´the impression ´that ´their company needs ´to cut costs‚ which can lead ´to ´the perception that ´the company is not doing well܂

Over half (56%) of corporate meeting planners and event planners agree that ´the most important factor when selecting a venue is ´the cost܂ This single factor has become even more important in recent years as companies face budgetary challenges brought on by ´the ongoing economic crisis܂ When cost is ´the number one factor in venue selection‚ it creates a situation where choice venues and destinations are often bypassed in order to opt for less expensive options܂

This sometimes works out well and ´the corporate meeting or event is a huge success‚ regardless of location; however‚ ´this is not always the case܂ When planners must place cost above all other factors‚ it is much more likely ´that a less-than-ideal location may be chosen and ´the venue selected may not offer the same amenities‚ facilities and prestige as more desirable options܂

When cost is a factor‚ a much better option is choosing ´to hold ´the event or meeting on a cruise ship܂ Cruise ships are ´the perfect choice for companies ´that need ´to save money but do not want ´to lose quality or mar ´their reputation܂ Opting for all-inclusive cruise events can result in cost savings of up ´to 40% over land-based events‚ with ´the quoted price including meeting facilities‚ accommodations‚ most food and drink‚ meeting equipment and other necessities܂

Cruise ship events also continue ´to hold a high status‚ even when costing far less ´than other options‚ making ´them an ideal option for companies concerned about ´the cost of ´the venue for ´their next meeting or event܂

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About The Author
One option that should be considered for incentive events is an all-inclusive cruise. Companies who opt for an all-inclusive incentive cruise can save up to 40% when compared to a land-based hotel venue, particularly when they take into account that almost everything is included in the cost, including venue, meeting facilities and equipment.