Early December just as omicron was starting to filter through the news I attended IBTM World 2021 in bustling Barcelona. IBTM is the Global Meeting & Incentive Exposition and typically one of the largest international annual events in Barcelona. I was especially grateful to be hosted by The DMC Group and Another Koncept Spain who handled all the event logistics flawlessly. I looked forward to connecting F2F with friends and colleagues and meet new ones from around the world. Traveling internationally for the first time wasn't without it's added stresses. Our hosted group from around the U.S. and Canada were fully vaccinated and boosted, we completed multiple pre-trip forms, had our QR codes ready for scanning, name badges printed, back-up of everything, downloaded all required apps, and packed small cache of masks and sanitizer. It was a lot, I won't deny even as a travel professional getting to the point of arrival did take extra steps. Still 100% worth it.
Barcelona provided serious and much needed holiday spirit. So many lights!
The lights around the city were stunning and made walking around at night really festive and fun.
Did you know Barcelona is one of the most visited and sought after European destinations? Barcelona has always been a top recommended city for European incentive events and business meetings alike.
Barcelona is a year round destination with plenty of chic and new luxe hotels, my favorites include Hotel Arts for it's fabulous city and sea views, beach access, and casual seaside restaurants. The Mandarin Oriental with a walkable location and super stylish rooms and rooftop. I also had the opportunity to visit the new Intercontinental Barcelona which opened October 2021 showing off 273 new modern and sleek guest rooms located near the Montjuïc area. There are endless options for day and evening events for groups. Barcelona is easy to get around and taxi's are always available.
My takeaway from this trip is travel when you can, take it all in and savor every moment.
Travel safe. Be kind. Be patient
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