M HIDDEN AGENDAS Planning your next conference? ConsiderMexico by James Peters It’s a safe bet that when we Canadians think of Mexico, the first thing popping into our collective heads isn’t a business meeting. Unless, perhaps, said meetings involve sun, surf and swimming pools. But in addition to the multitude of things available to see and do in Mexico, the country has a robust and well-deserved reputation as a primo destination for hosting corporate meetings and conferences — all available at multiple locations on both coasts and the interior. Mexico is much more than just a world-famous vacation destination. The country covers approximately two million square kilometres, has a population of over 130 million people and is divided into 31 states and one federal district where one of the largest capital cities in the world resides: Mexico City. Someone only interested in Mayan and Aztec civilizations alone could spend a lifetime visiting the numerous ancient ruins that span the country from east to west. “Mexico is without a doubt a global player in the industry and the gateway to Latin America. It’s no wonder the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) ranks Mexico fifth in Latin America and 21st globally for world congresses and receives countless international corporate meetings from North America. In addition to offering a tapestry of unmatched natural beauty, a rich cultural legacy and extraordinary experiences, you’ll find an unparalleled support system here. Our experienced professionals are trained under international standards in the organization of meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions,” said Virginia Arana, Mexico Tourism, in a Meetings Guide to Mexico brochure. Other facts indicate that events, meetings and conferences have accounted for 1.5 per cent of the country’s GDP — equivalent to an economic impact of US$25 billion. A few recent and notable examples include the 2016 World Ophthalmology Congress that attracted 8,000 participants in Guadalajara; Mexico City’s hosting of the World Congress of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Health, also in 2016; and, of course, the annual Formula One Grand Prix event that draws multiple thousands of fervent fans to Mexico City from all over the world. And if you’ve ever been lucky enough to combine your vacation with a family wedding, you’ll understand why the 2018 Destination Wedding Planners Congress — the most important event in the wedding industry — was held in Los Cabos that year. The event played host to more than 400 participants from 60 countries — including the top 150 wedding planners in the world. 27 Spring/Summer 2019 CORPORATE MEETINGS & EVENTS