Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/113255
•pg_43-49__BMT_pg3-58 2/27/13 8:45 AM Page 47 St. Thomas Paradise Tram View the destination is held in high regard for its ability to seamlessly facilitate these conferences and events." Globalization is one of the greatest forces affecting the meetings and incentives industry. Increasing competition and creating new opportunities for growth is paramount, as organizations must extend their reach worldwide to remain competitive. Emerging economies are expected to represent the majority of Global Domestic Product as soon as 2020, and for organizations wishing to achieve significant growth, these countries are not just viable, but necessary destinations for meetings. With this in mind, South Africa is ideal for international meetings with its variety of accommodation and experiences – from its natural beauty, wines and cuisine, to its wildlife and culture. The three major international airports are modern and easily accessible; both the Cape Town and Johannesburg international airports were completely renovated and brand new Durban international airport was constructed just prior to the 2010 FIFA World Cup. South Africa is easily accessible from the US with daily direct flights on South African Airways from Dulles and JFK, as well as other airline options through gateways such as London, Dubai, and Istanbul. South Africa is definitely a value-for-money destination with a favorable exchange rate to the US dollar, making high-end experiences affordable. The country has taken great strides to ensure the safety of its visitors, which was made clear as the world watched the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup. The United States Virgin Islands is an alluring Caribbean destination, and for Americans it's easier to get to because US citizens do not require passports to enter. The territory is part of the United States and the islands are an ideal domestic location to host meetings of any size. The island trio offers ideal settings for smaller break-out sessions to enhance productivity and to create inspiration for groups and productive meetings. Whether planning for a small group of CEOs in St. John or an incentive retreat with spouses and children in tow in St. Thomas or St. Croix, knowledgeable meeting managers and savvy destination management companies (DMCs) can supply the latest technology and prepare creative itineraries in an affordable, safe and beautiful Caribbean island destination. Venues range from high attention service luxury resorts to smaller, intimate, hideaways, all with easy access to off-site locations for hosting functions. The USVI provides a professional, yet, low-stress environment for business. Several local hotels and destination management companies have joined arms with the USVI Department of Tourism to offer the following meetings and incentives promotion: 5% off Catering 10% off Audio Visual $50 Resort Credit per guest room for group staying for 3 nights or $75 Resort Credit per guest room for group staying 4 nights or more $25 DMC Credit per person for group staying for 3 nights or $40 DMC Credit per person for group staying for 4 nights or more Welcome Gift Bag per person Airport Welcome Banner featuring group's name Airport Welcome Entertainment B M & T ••• January/February 2013 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 47