Mexico Is Back
The Grand Hyatt is fully prepared to help with logistical details, from meeting room setup, accommodations, food and beverage offerings, team building activities and more, says Sarmiento.“The resort offers more than 15,000 square feet of flexible, customizable event space across 18 meeting rooms and breakout areas that can accommodate groups of all sizes for productive business meetings. Furthermore, the resort’s ballroom has capacity for up to 500 guests standing and 350 sitting.”
In Los Cabos on Mexico’s west coast near the tip of the Baja peninsula is the allinclusive, adults-only Marquis Los Cabos Resort and Spa. Located right on the Pacific Ocean, the resort touts meeting spaces with a view. And because it is all-inclusive, the resort is convenient for meetings and groups to host events without worrying about additional expenses. Opened in 2003, the property underwent a $10 million renovation in 2015.
Marquis Los Cabos has 235 ocean-front suites and 13,000 square feet of meeting space, including a 6,350 square feet ballroom, a smaller executive private boardroom, nine breakout spaces and open foyer and terrace spaces for events. The resort also has a 15,000-square foot spa and offers access to six 18-hole golf courses in the area. According to the Mexican Tourism Bureau, conventions can also find an array of diverse properties with brands that are highly demanded in the marketplace such as Barcelo, Palace Resorts, AM Resorts, Marriott, Hyatt, Hilton, Starwood and Fiesta Americana. These properties have the experience, the infrastructure and the qualified staff to create memorable programs for business events.
Ever since Mexico’s tourism industry has come back, they have been showing up at all the travel and meeting planning conferences, says Wheeler.“And regions within Mexico are also being aggressive in going after events and business meetings. There is competition among them, but the country is unified in marketing itself. They’ve done a good job.”
Wheeler encourages planners to check out all the options and diversity of Mexico. “Go in with an open mind. There are more advantages than disadvantages, but do your research,”he says.“Although things are better, keep the safety of your group in mind. Have a contingency plan and work with locals to implement it.”
Mexico is a place that is good for groups, with good transportation and quality suppliers, says Wheeler.“The message is clear: Mexico is safe, clean and they’re open for business,”he states. BT