Registration has opened for BestCities Global Forum, an annual gathering of industry thought-leaders, international associations and destinations that are members of BestCities Global Alliance. Taking place 8–11 December in Vancouver, Canada, this year’s event will focus on peer-to-peer education and exploring how events can positively impact host communities. During Global Forum 2022, Capilano University’s School of Tourism Research and Destination Vancouver will share research resulting from a comprehensive Legacy Impact Study. This partnership between industry and academia is designed to create a framework of best practices guiding associations towards executing sustainable, purpose-driven events that exceed the standard expected by delegates today. The event will also introduce Buy Social Canada and Destination Vancouver’s ‘Guide to Social Procurement in Tourism, Hospitality and Events’, a document exploring the concept of social procurement while providing best practice examples. Global Forum attendees will have several opportunities to learn about legacy and social impact while taking time out to enjoy Vancouver’s laidback vibe and inspiring natural attributes. Highlights include:
- Opening night reception at the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art, where guests will learn how to incorporate local culture into future conferences.
- A visit to Grouse Mountain, including an evening snowshoe through a stunning light installation before tucking into dinner at 1,230 metres.
- An ambassador dinner at the Vancouver Convention Centre, the world’s first double LEED Platinum certified convention centre.
Global Forum 2022 will be facilitated by Eva Gutsche, founder of STEM Consulting and Marketing, who has extensive experience in the hospitality, communications and training industry. Guest speakers include Kara Walker, whose longstanding career in the event industry includes leadership roles with the Vancouver Organising Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Lesley Williams, managing director of BestCities , said: “As we near the end of 2022, we are delighted to welcome international meeting planners to the coastal retreat of Vancouver, where nature is seamlessly integrated into a globally recognised meetings city. This year, our focus on ‘fresh perspectives’ will expand the possibilities for meetings and events to leave a meaningful and lasting impact on their host cities. The Forum offers a perfect excuse to indulge in a relaxing getaway while gaining new and valuable insights that will support a successful and positive 2023.” For the first time, BestCities is expanding registration for the Global Forum beyond association planners to include meeting planners from any discipline who arrange large international events that rotate around the world. Registration includes conference access, return economy flights to Vancouver, three nights’ accommodation at The Fairmont Waterfront, meals, and return airport transfers. Space is limited. Registration is via the event website. BestCities Global Alliance is an international network of leading convention destinations around the globe. Members include Berlin, Cape Town, Copenhagen, Dubai, Dublin, Guadalajara, Houston, Madrid, Melbourne, Singapore, Tokyo and Vancouver. www.bestcities.net
