(Photo by Chad Zuber/Shutterstock.com)

1. Giving Spirits

Throughout the Yucatan Peninsula, there are a number of Mayan ruins, with many of the larger ones at least one to two hours out of town. The good news, however, is that Cancun has its own modestly sized sites, which gives groups a great way to connect with the ancient culture without a lot of transit time. Stay local and start at the ruins at El Rey (pictured above), a sprawling Mayan complex in the Hotel Zone. Next, head to the north end of town to visit the more compact and more intact ruins at El Meco, which was once a key religious and ceremonial site.

From there, shift gears and make time to give back. Take a donation of essentials such as school supplies, non-perishables, and educational equipment to La Escuelita de Sonia, a tiny DIY school that educates and feeds 130 local, underprivileged children each day. Supported entirely by donations, staffed by volunteers, and operating in the home of Sonia Cejas Martinez since 2005, the school is a moving testament to one woman’s commitment to education for all, regardless of income.

Close out the afternoon and celebrate the sunset with a beach-side Mayan Purification Ceremony and blessing by Shaman Samia, a lovely and soulful local spiritual guide.

2. Retail Therapy

For many people, shopping for mementos and gifts is essential, and for groups, it’s also an opportunity to make memories and connect with the people, crafts, and culture of Mexico. In Cancun, there are several world-class designer malls, but a trip to the mercados, or markets, is a more rewarding experience. Stroll the packed stalls at Mercado 28 to hunt for brightly colored crafts and textiles, or sit down to generous plates of fresh seafood at the market’s outdoor eatery, El Cejas, a favorite with locals and tourists alike.

3. Adrenaline Inducers

Adventure is the name of the game at Selvatica, which is about 30 minutes south of town and among the best adventure parks in Latin America. Adrenaline junkies can choose from multiple treetop activities that allow them to soar, swing, and move through the jungle canopy on wires strung between towers reaching over 100 feet high. For more ground-based guests, Selvatica also offers on-site ATV adventures through jungle terrain or swimming in the crystal-clear waters of their private cenote, a freshwater swimming hole.

4. Sea of Calm

To truly savor Cancun’s spectacular turquoise sea, you have to get in it, ideally with mask and fins. Snorkeling the reefs of Cancun is a must-do, and you’ll get a truly unique experience at the MUSA — the Museo Subacuático de Arte — a monumental underwater museum featuring over 500 sculptures that were strategically placed to help grow the reef and support and protect aquatic life. While snorkeling or scuba diving through the museum is an awe-inspiring way to see the sculptures, guests don’t necessarily have to get wet — they can also tour MUSA via glass-bottom boat.

5. Swimming with (Whale) Sharks

Get your group on a boat with a certified instructor and plunge into the Caribbean to snorkel or dive alongside a couple of 40,000-pound, 45-foot-long whale sharks, the oversized teddy bears of the sea who, thankfully, eat plankton, not people. Planning tip: Whale-shark season runs from roughly June to September, but 4Worlds Expeditions likes early to mid-August for the best chance to spot the animals. Its guides will also take your guests out during the earliest part of the day so they can commune with more whale sharks and fewer humans.

BONUS: Half-Day Island Getaway

(Photo by David Min/Shutterstock.com)

Time permitting, take your group on a half- or full-day island getaway via a private catamaran or Ultramar ferry to Isla Mujeres, the laid-back bohemian paradise less than half an hour off the coast of Cancun. The 5-mile-long island offers pristine waters, soft white-sand beaches, and one of the most exciting one-stop attractions: Garrafon Natural Reef Park, which offers a dizzying array of activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, zip-lining over the ocean, touring the island, and relaxing in the saunas, pools, lounge chairs, and hammocks. There’s also a restaurant and bar on-site.

Planning duties recently took us to one of North America’s great event destinations: Cancun, Mexico. What we found was just about everything planners dream of — great rates, easy accessibility, lots of activities options, and a wide range of hotel venues to cover the meetings waterfront. From intimate, ultra-exclusive spots to midsized brand names to convention-ready “big guns,” Cancun has upward of 30 venues to choose from. Here’s a topline on a few of the area’s great meetings options to put on your list.

Secrets The Vine Cancun

(Photos courtesy of AMResorts)

Secrets The Vine (pictured above) is a sleek, oceanfront, all-inclusive luxury hotel with four-diamond pedigree. At just 5 years old, it’s also among the area’s newer arrivals. Inside the cool, cream-colored marble lobby, feelings of relaxation and serenity hit immediately. With nearly 500 guest rooms, the hotel is well-suited to handle a crowd — though attendees with young children will have to leave them home, as the resort doesn’t allow guests younger than 14.

• Meeting Space: There is over 17,000 square feet of meeting and function space — including a ballroom for up to 800 guests, four individual meeting rooms, a private boardroom, and spacious pre-function areas — occupying one floor of the hotel. Several spacious pool- and beach-side spaces are available as well.
• Guestrooms: 497 guest rooms with balconies overlooking ocean and lagoon views.
• Additional Attraction: Sommeliers lead twice-daily wine tastings, and the resort uses environmentally-friendly practices, such as the Turtle Release initiative, which lets guests participate in the staff-supervised program to guide just-hatched turtles safely into the ocean.

Nizuc Resort & Spa
Looking to impress high-level attendees? This is the place. It’s hard not to be astounded when you walk into the super-luxurious atmosphere of Nizuc Resort & Spa. Design-conscious meeting guests will appreciate Nizuc’s modern-meets-Mayan, masculine chic, while planners will revel in its top-of-the line facilities, service, and amenities.

• Meeting Space: A free-standing convention center features a 7,000-square-foot ballroom with stunning floor-to-ceiling water views (up to 450 reception guests); two breakout rooms with 1,000-plus square feet; and spacious prefunction areas. Numerous other indoor, outdoor, bar, restaurant, patio, and beach-side spaces also available for private events.
• Guest Rooms: 274 suites and villas with water views and balconies (some with plunge pools).
• Additional Attractions: Set in a private 29-acre, waterfront nature preserve that’s located just 15 minutes from the airport, the resort is home to a 30,000-square-foot Espa Spa with Mayan-inspired treatments, plus an outpost of famed restaurant Indochine.

InterContinental Presidente Cancun

(Photo by Shutterstock.com)

Located at the northern end of Cancun’s Hotel Zone on a private, white-sand beach, the InterContinental Presidente is a (slightly) hidden gem. Quiet and sophisticated, the hotel features spacious, recently renovated rooms done in tones of ocean blue, pale green, or apricot. They’re soothing and chic yet smartly designed for those of us who need to get work done while gazing out giant windows to take in the ocean vistas.

• Meeting Space: Housed in its own free-standing building, the ballroom has roughly 5,000 square feet of flexible space for up to 400 guests and opens onto a broad, covered patio that’s perfect for breaks and gatherings. In addition to five meeting rooms, there’s also a separate registration/check-in area, plus several restaurants and pool- and beach-side spaces that are available for private events.
• Guestrooms: 300 guest rooms, all offering either ocean or lagoon views.
• Additional Attraction: An excellent location that’s less than five minutes from shops and nightlife and a 10-minute walk or quick drive to the Isla Mujeres Ferry makes the InterContinental Presidente the perfect jumping-off point for a half-day group excursion to the beloved bohemian island.

The Ritz-Carlton Cancun
The Ritz-Carlton, Cancun is the embodiment of European-style elegance, service, and comfort. Grand but not stuffy, spacious yet intimate, the oceanfront hotel is a multiple-award-winning standout. It’s a home away from home for luxury business travelers and a favorite among planners needing the highest levels of luxury for small to midsized groups.

• Meeting Space: With 27,000 square feet of flexible meeting and prefunction spaces, the hotel can host up to 1,100 guests. Oceanfront, pool-side, and beach-side spaces are also available for receptions and entertaining.
• Guestrooms: 363 beautifully appointed, freshly renovated guest rooms, all with ocean views and balconies or terraces.
• Additional Attraction: The Ritz-Carlton’s on-site Culinary Center hosts small groups for interactive, hands-on cooking experiences led the hotel’s expert chef instructors. There’s also an on-site, full-service destination management company.

CONVENTION BIG GUNS

Though their vibes couldn’t be more different, if it’s on-site convention space you need, then put the Big Four on your list: the JW Marriott, the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach, the Paradisius, and the Hard Rock, all of which offer fantastic facilities for midsized conventions and expos.

Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun

Perhaps the most glamorous granddaddy of them all, the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun offers over 40,000 square feet of indoor meeting space, an additional 45,000 square feet of outdoor space, 15,000 square feet of exhibit space, and over 600 guest rooms, all with ocean views that will knock your socks off. Should your group need even more space, the Cancun International Convention Center is just steps way. But what really sets the hotel apart is its unmatched spa — perhaps the most luxurious in town, with 40,000 square feet, indoor pools, and atriums that can also be used for elegant, private events.

JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa

(Photo courtesy of Marriott International)

Another of the area’s big-time players is the JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa, because it is a facility with a little something extra: an equally sizable sister property next door, the Marriott Cancun Resort, which is connected by covered walkways. What that means for planners is combined meeting space of roughly 88,000 square feet, more than 51,000 square feet of outdoor and beachfront areas, and 900 guest rooms. Among the properties’ more unusual amenities are an organic herb garden for group artisanal cocktail classes, plus on-site scuba-diving certification for attendees who plan to stay after the meetings wrap up.

Hard Rock Hotel Cancun

The all-inclusive Hard Rock Hotel Cancun offers all the rock ’n’ roll memorabilia your attendees would expect from the chain, as well as 600 guest rooms and roughly 30,000 square feet of flexible meeting space. Function areas have their own private wing of the hotel, complete with separate entrance and registration areas. The pièce de résistance is a covered outdoor arena/performance space that seats upward of 500 guests.

Paradisus Cancun

For midsized conventions, the Paradisus Cancun features about 30,000 square feet of meeting space and more than 670 beautifully appointed guest rooms. What makes the Paradisus special is not only the substantial facilities but also the sheer volume of breakout spaces — 21 of them. Another point of difference? The on-site Tempo restaurant by foodie favorite and Michelin eight-star-winning chef Martin Berasategui.

Nothing brings out the inner child in all of us like adventure travel. Whether it’s the first tenuous step onto a glacier, the eye-opening color palette of a remote Tibetan village, or the sudden lorry stop to allow a giraffe or two cross the road, small group excursions off the beaten tourist path provide the opportunity to engage the unfamiliar, the unexpected, and the unforgettable.

The ongoing homogenization of city life around the globe has prompted an equal and opposite thirst for exotica — the more remote the better. The Adventure Travel Trade Association, which represents more than 1,000 organizations vested in adventure tourism, trains both tour operators and emerging destinations on how to best showcase their unique experiences. For meeting planners, companies such as Overseas Adventure Travel help prepare small groups for the thrill of discovery.

Once you’re ready to lead a safari in Tanzania, a trek along the Nile, or a crisp cruise to Antarctica, here are six tips to help brace your novice adventurers for a memorable and successful journey.

Gear up. Rely on the known to enjoy the unknown. Staples of adventure travel include a backpack, a pair of comfortable boots or shoes that will go the distance, binoculars, a camera, a flashlight, sunscreen, sunglasses, a beverage sipper, and appropriate headwear and gloves.

Scale back. Fashion takes a back seat when it comes to adventure travel. Pack only essential clothing, as you’ll likely be carrying most (if not all) of it.

Stash some cash. When visiting a foreign country, be sure to pack some local currency, just in case your credit card won’t work or you find yourself miles from an ATM. Also, because wallets tend to wander, it’s a good idea to stash your bills in something you’ll carry in your backpack, such as a toiletry bag, socks, or the front pocket of spare pants.

(Photo by Sarine Arslanian/Shutterstock.com)

Ditch the jewelry. As much as we all love our favorite bling, adventuring is no place for jewelry, watches, and other expensive accoutrements that may get lost or stolen. Instead, bring along — and keep close watch on — your passport and credit cards. It’s also a good idea to take pictures of these on your phone and keep a printout in a Ziploc bag, just in case.

Go local. The best way to savor a strange new setting is to do what the locals do: visit the market, meet people, eat where they eat, and immerse yourself in their culture. And return the favor by being open and courteous when they inquire about you.

Share the experience. One great way to savor your adventure is to compare notes with your fellow travelers. While their insights, interpretations, and perspectives may differ from yours, their experiences will likely deepen your own understanding and appreciation of the journey.

(Top photo by Dudarev Mikhail/Shutterstock.com)

While scores of U.S. cities enjoy the bucks and buzz of hosting conventions and special events each year, one notably eclectic hub has truly earned the title of America’s meeting mecca: Orlando.

This once-sleepy central Florida crossroads, which pole-vaulted to must-see status 45 years ago with the opening of Walt Disney World Resort, has long outgrown its mouse ears to become the nation’s No. 1 meetings and events destination, according to the 2017 list of Cvent’s Top Meeting Destinations.

Little wonder that it’s the area of choice for Cvent to host its final Elite Meetings Alliance of the year, starting one month from now. The three-day event, which brings together luxury planners and hoteliers for networking and fun, is set for Dec. 9-12 at the Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate (pictured above) in nearby Kissimmee.

For many frequent event participants, flying into Orlando feels a lot like returning to a second home, given that the city boasts more than 450 hotels and resorts with a staggering 5 million square feet of meeting space, the largest such collection in the Southeast. Meeting planners know well the Orange County Convention Center, the second-largest facility in the country with more than 2 million square feet of exhibition space and nearly 480,000 square feet of flexible meeting rooms.

Tons of sun? Check. Pool, spa, impeccable room? Check. Ten theme parks to tour, including Epcot, SeaWorld, Universal Studios, and the Mouse House? But of course! And superb golf? Just a pitching wedge away.

But should all of this sound too tame — and you have some time between sessions — consider these great Orlando-area attractions. With all this excitement nearby, you won’t be able to resist signing up for the EMA!

(Photo by James R. Martin/Shutterstock.com)

Richard Petty Driving Experience
Daytona Beach

Whether you choose to take the wheel or slide into the passenger seat at Daytona International Speedway, your first 165 mph spin in an actual NASCAR race car will be one drive you’ll never forget. The world-famous Daytona 500 track is one of 19 U.S. speedways offering the experience. And yes, passing is allowed.

Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition
Orlando

Once you view hundreds of authentic Titanic artifacts, tour re-creations of the ship’s interiors (including an icy-cold midnight balcony), and learn the fate of its passengers, you’ll gain a whole new perspective on the British luxury liner that hit an iceberg and sank on its maiden voyage in 1912.

Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art
Winter Park

Prepare to be enchanted by the world’s largest collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany’s paintings, jewelry, glass, and pottery, as well as the museum’s other displays of American decorative art.

(Photo by Oleksandr Zhukov/Shutterstock.com)

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Titusville

Located just one hour east of Orlando near Cape Canaveral, this gateway to the U.S. space program offers full-day tours, historic exhibits such as the Saturn V moon rocket and Atlantis space shuttle (pictured above), and, with a little planning, the opportunity to observe an actual launch.

Airboat Rides at Midway
Christmas

The St. Johns River turns all Miami Vice as you step aboard an airboat for the ride of your life through the Everglades. Back on shore, experience more thrills by holding a baby alligator and meeting a Burmese python, a parrot, and Porkchop the pig.

(Photo by Visit Florida)

Florida Southern College
Lakeland

If you’re an architecture buff, this charming college an hour southwest of Orlando holds the singular distinction of the world’s largest single-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright designs, including the Annie Pfeiffer Chapel (pictured above). Take your choice of walking tours, from a self-guided stroll to a behind-the-scenes option.

(Top photo courtesy of Omni Hotels & Resorts)

It’s November, and you know what that means: It’s potluck season. In between planning lavish holiday parties, you will be asked to spend lots of time slaving away in the kitchen in the name of seasonal celebrations. And unlike those corporate events, family gatherings, “friendsgivings,” and cookie exchanges usually scorn catered or store-bought options.

As someone who likes to bake, I always fall back on bringing desserts to pretty much any and all potlucks. My go-to? Chocolate chip cookies. Nearly everyone loves them, and because they’re not specific to the holidays, I can keep the ingredients handy in my cupboard year-round. The recipe I use always gets rave reviews — it produces deliciously sweet cookies that don’t flatten out and stay soft for days.

Lucky for you, it’s no secret recipe: My grandmother found it in a magazine years ago, and I’ve been making these treats since high school. So as my early holiday present to you, here is my easy but always tasty chocolate cookie recipe, which benefits from the addition of instant pudding mix. Whip up a batch for any upcoming potluck event, and I guarantee you success!

INGREDIENTS
1 cup (2 sticks) butter or margarine, softened
¼ cup granulated sugar
¾ cup packed brown sugar
1 4-serving package of vanilla instant pudding mix (like this)
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 eggs
1 teaspoon baking soda
2½ cups flour
1 12-ounce bag of semisweet chocolate chips (give or take)

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Combine the butter, sugars, pudding mix, and vanilla in a mixing bowl. Add the eggs and combine. Then add the baking soda and flour and stir until it forms a stiff dough. Add a little extra flour if the dough seems too soft. Mix in the chocolate chips.

Drop the dough on a cookie sheet in small, rounded spoonfuls. I prefer to use a small cookie scoop, so the cookies come out about 2 inches or so in diameter — perfect for just a few bites.

Bake them for eight to 10 minutes, until the edges are just beginning to get brown. Cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

When I use the small cookie scoop, each batch makes about 60 to 70 cookies. I have also been known to mix up the mix-ins — try peanut butter chips or holiday-colored M&M’s.

Happy baking!

(Top photo by Shutterstock.com)

You don’t need to suffer from deep vein thrombosis to know that sitting on an airplane for hours is not the best for your body. And with coach class legroom getting tighter and planes getting fuller, stretching out is less of an option than ever. Even a midflight stroll down the aisle has its challenges.

To get the kinks out of your achy joints and the blood flowing after a long flight (and before a long day of meetings), it’s important to move your body and stretch. Fortunately, once you arrive at your hotel, you don’t have to venture to the gym or wake up early for a workout. There are plenty of stretches and exercise moves you can do in the comfort of your room, without gear and in limited space.

Here are 10 of my favorite in-room stretches and exercises to limber up after a long flight.

Leg Swings: With hands on your hips and one leg planted firmly, swing your other leg front and back freely like a pendulum. You can imagine you’re trying to give a soccer ball a good kick, if that helps, though it’s best to let the weight of your leg do the work for you. This really stretches out your hips and hamstrings, plus it’s a light cardio exercise to boot.

Core Twist/Arm Swings: Standing straight with arms at your side, twist your body at the waist from side to side, as if you’re turning to see a picture on the wall directly behind you. Let your arms swing freely as you turn, making sure not to twist beyond what’s comfortable. This is a great move for gently stretching your core and loosening up lower back muscles. In the Chinese practice of qigong, it’s believed that this movement also helps massage your organs.

Shoulder Circles: In a standing position (or sitting erect), move your shoulders in a circular motion — back, up, forward, down — for several revolutions. Then repeat the motion but in the opposite direction — forward, up, back, down. This move targets muscle tension in your shoulders and upper back. It’s the next best thing to a quick massage.

(Photos by Shutterstock.com)

Standing Stretch: Standing with legs apart just beyond shoulder width, stretch your arms high in the air as if you’re reaching for the ceiling. With arms still extended above your head, slowly bend forward at the waist until your hands or fingertips reach the floor (depending on your flexibility). Hold the position for a few moments, and then slowly return to the ceiling-reach position.

Standing Side Stretch: This is similar to the above movement, starting with the same standing stance with legs apart and arms reaching for the sky. Instead of bending forward, slowly circle down to the left until your hands touch the floor. Then, circle up to the right until you’re standing in the original arms-raised pose. Reverse the movement, circling down to the right and up on the left side. This is a full body stretch, covering arms, legs, hips, and torso.

Leg Lifts: Lie flat on the floor on your back. With your arms at your side and keeping your knees straight, slowly lift your legs until they’re pointing toward the ceiling. At the same time, lift your head until your eyes are facing your knees. Then, slowly lower your legs and head to the floor. This is great for stretching out your back, leg, and neck muscles while strengthening your core.

Bicycle Crunch: Stand with your fingers touching your ears and your elbows cocked out to the side (like wings). With your fingers still against your ear, twist your right elbow down as you lift your left knee up, trying to bring them together in the middle. Repeat with your left elbow and right knee. This is a great move for working and stretching a range of muscles, such as your core, shoulders, back, hips, and glutes.

High Knees: With your arms held up at shoulder level and folded so fingertips touch the opposite elbow (like a traditional Russian dancer), kick your knees up — left, right, left, right — to try to reach your elbows. This is a really brisk movement, like high-impact running in place, so not only does it stretch out your thighs and glutes, but it’s also a great cardio exercise.

Squats: From a standing position, bend your knees as if you’re about to sit in a chair. Do this while your arms are held straight out in front of you, which helps keep your balance. You can also modify it for less strain by leaning against a wall and sliding your back down and back up.

Pushups: This one is self-explanatory, but it’s a great way to pump up your arm and chest muscles. For less strain, you can also modify your pushups and do them from your k

And then sometimes, the stars align, and a great meeting place doubles as a hot travel destination.

Lonely Planet recently released its Best in Travel 2018 lists, which feature the top 10 countries, cities, regions, and value destinations for travelers next year. Experts compiled the selections based on criteria such as great experiences, upcoming events, and new things to see and do.

We compared Lonely Planet’s lists to Cvent’s Top Meeting Destinations of 2017 in the United States, Asia Pacific region (APAC), and Europe/Middle East/Africa (EMEA) to find seven magical locations that will serve attendees well for both business and pleasure.

U.S.

(Photo by A G Baxter/Shutterstock.com)

ATLANTA
Cvent list: No. 4
Lonely Planet list: No. 7 region (Southern U.S.)

Accessibility and a walkable convention district make Atlanta a perennial favorite for meetings and conferences. In 2018, the 50th anniversary of both Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination, the city raises the appeal for travelers with a renovation of the MLK Jr. National Historic Site and a schedule of commemorative programs and exhibits.

(Photo by Allard One/Shutterstock.com)

NEW ORLEANS
Cvent list: No. 11
Lonely Planet list: No. 7 region (Southern U.S.)

On top of its huge inventory of downtown hotel rooms and extensive exhibit space, New Orleans is always an ideal place for celebrations to remember (Mardi Gras, anyone?). The party scene will really take over in 2018, though, as the city marks its 300th birthday with special programs and events throughout the year.

(Photo by Pisa Photography/Shutterstock.com)

JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA
Cvent list: No. 44
Lonely Planet list: No. 9 best value

Less popular than many of its Florida neighbors, Jacksonville offers affordable yet luxurious options for both event planners and vacationers. It features many waterfront venues on the St. Johns River and Atlantic Ocean, and families on a budget will appreciate the beaches, large park system, and reasonably priced but tasty dining spots.

EMEA

(Photo by Mikhail Berkut/Shutterstock.com)

LISBON, PORTUGAL
Cvent list: No. 11
Lonely Planet list: No. 3 country

Competing with Spain’s and France’s renowned food is no easy task, but thanks to a blossoming culinary scene, Portugal is holding its own. Capital Lisbon is also attracting vacationers with new museums and a revival of its waterfront. Meetings and events benefit from low-cost flights to many European hubs; a network of trams and funiculars that connect the entire city; and unique venues housed in historical buildings.

(Photo by Sophie Wolter/Elbphilharmonie)

HAMBURG, GERMANY
Cvent list: No. 25
Lonely Planet list: No. 4 city

In Germany’s second-largest city, what’s good for meeting planners is good for leisure travelers — namely, the long-delayed opening of the Elbphilharmonie concert hall. This stunning structure in HafenCity makes Hamburg’s walkable port area an even bigger draw, hosting concerts of all kinds. It also has a number of halls and rooms that can be rented for events.

APAC

(Photo by Cho Minjun/Shutterstock.com)

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA
Cvent list: No. 10
Lonely Planet list: No. 2 country

While Seoul has long provided business travelers with modern venues and the latest, greatest technology, it has upped the leisure ante by opening Seoullo 7017, an elevated park on a former highway overpass, a la New York’s High Line. The country has also been upgrading sections of its high-speed rail lines in preparation of the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang.

(Photo courtesy of SkyCity Entertainment Group)

AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND
Cvent list: No. 18
Lonely Planet list: No. 5 country

Even people visiting New Zealand strictly for business can’t ignore the country’s natural beauty, but Auckland’s major draws for planners include accessibility (by air, water, rail, and road) and the most conference venues of any city in the country. While adventure travelers await the completion of the newest Great Walk trail in 2019, they can get their thrills 630 feet over Auckland by walking around or jumping off the Sky Tower.

Is there a more universal luxury than a terrific hotel swimming pool? Doubtful. The very fact that you can enjoy this ancient tradition with or without dipping a toe speaks to the indefinable pleasure we nonaquatic mammals receive just from soaking in the ambience of a picturesque pool.

Meeting planners always appreciate the hotel pool for its recreational and social magic, the perfect informal setting for attendees to unwind, rewind, and re-engage on a human level. It’s the physical embodiment of wu wei, the Taoist tenet of “non-doing,” which reminds us that we should never overreact or overplan in life, but instead let it wash over us like, well, you know.

Let’s dive into eight great hotel pools in sometimes-surprising settings across the United States.

Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa
Paradise Valley, Arizona

Contemplative best describes the vibe of Arizona’s largest infinity-edge pool, which flows quietly beneath Camelback Mountain’s iconic outcropping known as the Praying Monk. It’s an ideal venue for the Sanctuary’s signature group workout: stand-up paddleboard yoga.

W Miami Hotel

The W’s huge deck on the 15th floor (which is currently undergoing extensive renovations) features an infinity pool, a lap pool, and one of the world’s largest hot tubs. But what really elevates it to must-see status are the sweeping Biscayne Bay views from the rooftop pool on the 50th-floor Wet Deck.

The Omni Grove Park Inn
Asheville, North Carolina

Few hotels use their natural setting to such dramatic effect as the Grove Park Inn, whose 43,000-square-foot spa houses an underground grotto with multiple mineral pools (pictured above). Enjoy waterfall pools, hot and cold plunge pools, and a lap pool that features fiber-optic stars above and underwater music.

(Photo courtesy of Waldorf Astoria)

Grand Wailea
Maui, Hawaii

Nothing against Maui’s spectacular beaches, but surf and sun lovers can also bask in the newly refreshed, 25,700-square-foot activity pool at this Waldorf Astoria resort. It features nine interconnected areas, five slides, waterfalls, a rope swing, and the world’s first water elevator, which carries guests to the top of it all.

Golden Nugget
Las Vegas

Only in Vegas can you safely immerse yourself with a dozen-plus real sharks, thanks to the Tank, an ingenious two-story swimming pool that surrounds a 200,000-gallon shark tank. Still too tame? Jump into the three-story Shark Chute waterslide for the fin-filled ride of your life!

JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa

The newly expanded, 9-acre River Bluff Water Experience entices everyone from toddlers to thrill seekers with a heady mix of water features, including a sandy beach pool, an adult infinity pool, a 650-foot rapid-river ride, an 1,100-foot lazy river, and three waterslides for singles and doubles.

The Joule
Dallas

Designer Adam Tihany’s bold cantilevered swimming pool, which extends 8 feet beyond the edge of this 1927 downtown building some 10 stories up, offers swimmers a unique perspective on Main Street — as well as a new appreciation for the phrase “hanging at the pool.”

Amangiri
Canyon Point, Utah

While it is perched overlooking Utah’s Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Amangiri’s pool nearly steals the show, carved as it was around an 80-foot natural stone escarpment dating back more than 165 million years. Night views are out of this world!

(Top photo courtesy of Omni Hotels & Resorts)

We are well into autumn, and the pumpkins are taking over — and not just the carved versions keeping watch from our front steps. Pumpkin-flavored products are as popular as ever, invading restaurant menus, coffee shops, dessert displays, and grocery store shelves. But whether you’re planning a fall meeting or just a family dinner, remember that pumpkin is not the only produce that’s in season right now. Mix it up a little and try incorporating these fresh autumn ingredients — just a few of the many options.

Winter Squash: The name is a misnomer, since these fruits are actually available starting in late summer and early fall. Look for a number of different varieties, such as acorn and butternut.

Kale: This hearty green, which is made sweeter by the cooler weather, is already a trendy base for salads. But that’s not all it’s good for — try it in everything from pasta to tacos to smoothies.

Quince: A lesser-known relative of pears and apple (both of which are also in season in fall), the quince requires some work, as it can’t be eaten raw. Cooked, the fragrant fruit is delicious by itself, in desserts, or made into jam.

Cauliflower: The most common type is white, but there are also purple, orange, and green varieties. Bonus: It can be used as a healthy substitute for carbohydrates in many recipes.

Figs: Fall is actually the second fig harvest each year; the trees also produce a smaller crop in early summer. From salads to tarts, figs have countless uses — as well as a number of health benefits.

 (Top photo by Shutterstock.com)

It was once my great good fortune to travel across Canada by rail from Vancouver, British Columbia, to Toronto, Ontario. Although the purpose of my journey was relocation rather than recreation, the experience was nothing short of spellbinding, both for the stunning railroad-eye view of unspoiled countryside and the camaraderie of enrapt passengers observing nature as it flew by.

Little wonder that old-school train travel is catching on with forward-leaning meeting planners in search of new and memorable experiences with which to bring guests together. In fact, rail travel today is so unencumbered compared with the tedium of its time-saving successor, air flight, that an overnight with meals aboard a luxurious train feels like a trip back in time — in a good way!

While the century-old Orient Express, the Trans-Siberian Railway, and Switzerland’s Glacier Express routinely fill up with train enthusiasts, more and more historic rail routes in exotic locales now hum with steel wheels designed to evoke the romantic journeys of the past. Granted, the fares on some can mirror a short stay in a high-end resort hotel. Then again, how do you put a price on unforgettable?

Here are five rail journeys you won’t want to end:

California Zephyr
Chicago to San Francisco

For sheer scenic rush, it’s hard to beat this Amtrak workhorse (pictured above), which whisks you through Denver, the Rocky Mountains, Salt Lake City, and the Sierra Nevadas before coming down to sea level 51 hours later. Ride coach or reserve a roomette or bedroom in a sleeping car.

(Photo by mastersky/ Shutterstock.com)

The Ghan Expedition
Darwin to Adelaide, Australia

Prepare to be stunned by the sunrise/sunset splendor of Australia’s Red Centre as this 88-year-old classic, named after Afghan Express cameleers, rambles on its four-day/three-night, coast-to-coast journey, with off-train excursions in Katherine, Alice Springs, and Coober Pedy.

Twilight Express Mizukaze
Kyoto to Shimonoseki, Japan

This newcomer with an art-deco-style interior is billed as “a hotel rolling through the beautiful Japanese landscape” while providing “superior quality with a touch of nostalgia.” Daily sightseeing stops include the Korakuen garden from Enyotei, the Ohara Museum of Art, Bella Vista Spa and Marina Onomichi, and the stunning Itsukushima Shrine.

Andean Explorer
Cusco to Arequipa, Peru

Comfort is key aboard this Belmond classic, which traverses the Andes in style with two fine-dining cars, a piano bar car, and Peruvian-inspired sleeping cabins with en-suite bathrooms, showers, robes and slippers, and even in-room oxygen tanks and masks to ease breathing at high altitude.

Blue Train
Pretoria to Cape Town, South Africa

Once the chief mode of transportation for South Africa’s gold- and diamond-financed upper crust, the Blue Train underwent an extensive renovation in the 1970s that beautifully preserved its luxury suites, wood-paneled club car, and centrally located lounge car. Stay thirsty, my friends!

(Top photo by Amtrak)

Cvent CONNECT has officially crossed the pond. Our inaugural CONNECT Europe conference kicks off today at the amazing Pullman London St. Pancras. The next three days are filled with networking, sharing ideas, discussing the industry, and learning about the latest innovations and technologies.

With all that action on the schedule, attendees may not feel as though they have time to get out and explore the beauty and excitement of London’s main attractions, which always draw a crowd. Thankfully, the city is brimming with under-the-radar museums, adorable corner pubs, and countless other hidden treasures. And the central location of the Pullman London St. Pancras makes it easy to sneak in some sightseeing.

Here are five cool things to discover within a 10-minute walk of the Pullman — and they’re all free to visit!

The British Library: Meander among the shelves of the United Kingdom’s national library and marvel at the more than 150 million items in its collection. You can also explore exhibits on everything from the Magna Carta to the Beatles.

(Photo by Gabriele Gelsi/Shutterstock.com)

The Wellcome Collection: This quirky museum houses a wide range of health- and medicine-related artifacts from Sir Henry Wellcome. It also includes a library with 750,000 books and journals.

(Photo by Rama Knight/Wellcome Images)

Art at St. Pancras International Station: When you think of art galleries, a train station wouldn’t usually come to mind, but here you’ll find Paul Day’s 30-foot-tall statue The Meeting Place, also known as The Lovers. Visitors can take a load off on a set of benches made from the Olympic rings that hung in the station for the 2012 Games or play a few notes on a piano signed by Elton John.

(Photo by MR.Travel/Shutterstock.com)

Tavistock Square: If you luck out with the London weather (Tuesday looks OK; Wednesday is iffy!), take a stroll among the gardens and memorials in this relaxing retreat. Developed in the 1820s on the estate of the Dukes of Bedford, the square also features a statue of Mahatma Gandhi.

(Photo by pxl.store/Shutterstock.com)

Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station: One of London’s main transportation hubs is admittedly not a “hidden,” but any Harry Potter fan must brave the commuting crowds for a photo op with the cart that’s made to look as though it’s halfway through the wall between Platforms 9 and 10. There’s even a Harry Potter Shop with souvenirs and replicas from the series.

(Photo by f11photo/Shutterstock.com)

Whether it’s Cvent CONNECT in London or Las Vegas — or any event in any city, for that matter — do your best to take advantage of the opportunity to explore a new place, even if it’s just a short jaunt to a nearby gem.

(Top photo by Wadiostock/Shutterstock.com)

It’s every planner’s goal to host events that people remember, whether it’s with really useful content, great parties, or meaningful connections. At our recent Elite Meetings Alliance, Cvent found one more memorable addition: animals.

Not only do animals leave people talking about the event for weeks, they are also the perfect social media hook. Everyone wants to take photos and post them on Instagram, Facebook, or even the custom event app.

That was certainly the case at the EMA, where young wolves Spirit and Apache visited our Into the Wilderness theme party for belly scratches and photo ops. Colorado Wolf Adventures rescues wolf hybrids and socializes them with the public in its mission to educate others on the importance these predators play in the wild. And judging from the crowd that formed around them, the tactic is a win-win.

(All photos by Andrew Shafer)

The Broadmoor also supplied a pair of beautiful falcons for our first dinner, which made a great ice-breaker as everyone crowded around and snapped selfies with the birds. A few of our attendees even brought their pups along for the ride to the pet-friendly resort!

More and more hotels are recognizing the popularity of animals at their properties and events. For example, The London West Hollywood recently hired two bulldog puppies to be its mascots. Donate $250 to a local animal shelter, and Winston and Churchill are available to visit private events for up to an hour. At Red Mountain Resort in Utah, groups can arrange a Pound Puppy Hike, which pairs each guest with a dog from a no-kill shelter for a 1.5-mile hike.

While you’re considering adding animals to your next event, make sure to check out all the photos from our September EMA!

We know what you’re thinking: What? Libraries? Those hardbound hallowed halls where only whispers are allowed?

Turn that page, planner: Public libraries have evolved, renovated, and expanded in recent years into high-concept works of art and theater, designed for large meetings and events, often with the added convenience of popular food and beverage outlets nearby.

These six event-worthy public libraries epitomize the selfie-worthy new face of modern meeting venues, attracting a wide range of special events with their appealing ambiences and cutting-edge technology. Each was recently honored with a Library Building Award, presented annually by the Architecture Institute of America and the American Library Association.

(Photo by Naho Kubota)

Stapleton Branch, New York Public Library
Staten Island, New York

The single-room Carnegie Library, which had served this Staten Island community for a century, now throws its doors open to the world with its 12,000-square-foot Stapleton Branch expansion, which combines the rhythm and richness of exposed wood with the conviviality of its glazed façade. Andrew Berman’s design team worked with the site’s sloping grade to improve access by eliminating the need for steps. Contact: 718.727.0427 

(Photo by Christian Columbres)

Allan Price Science Commons & Research Library
University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon

How do you make a facility more inviting when the bulk of your 48,000-square-foot library lies below ground? The University of Oregon’s solution was to add 4,000 square feet above ground, including an entry pavilion, social commons, and a coffee shop. Small groups welcome. Contact: 541.346.3075

(Photo by Timothy Hursley)

Rosa F. Keller Library and Community Center
New Orleans

Following the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s recovery program funded this stunning makeover to what was once a 1917 bungalow in the city’s Broadmoor neighborhood. The project also involved the reconstruction of the adjacent 6,300-square-foot library and a glass corridor to link the buildings. Inside, the cheekily named Green Dot Café skewers a former mayor’s unsuccessful “green dot plan” to return some of the Crescent City (Broadmoor included) to green space instead of rebuilding post-Katrina. Contact: 504.596.2660

(Photo by Hedrich Blessing)

Chinatown Branch, Chicago Public Library
Chicago

True to the cultural heritage of its neighborhood, the two-story, 16,000-square-foot circular Chinatown Branch features a feng-shui-inspired interior, as well as a partial “living” roof and captivating views of the city. Opened in 2015, the facility also includes a rentable community room that holds up to 70 people. Contact: 312.747.8013

(Photo by Robert Benson Photography)

Central Library, Boston Public Library
Boston

Built in 1895 and long an anchor to Boston’s pedestrian-friendly Avenue of the Arts, the Central Library has stepped boldly into the 21st century, transforming its 156,000-square-foot expanse to cater to patrons of all ages. Planners also enjoy a range of venues within, including a 340-seat auditorium, conference center, and open space for performances, as well as an in-house caterer. Contact: 617.536.5400

(Photo by Doublespace Photography)

Ryerson University Student Learning Centre
Toronto

The distinctive modernist façade of this Garden District landmark merely whispers at the wonders within. As you ascend the eight-story tower from its ground-floor amphitheater, 93 collaborative and group work rooms are interspersed with expansive open study spaces. Enjoy the views! Contact: 416.979.5000, ext. 3485

Remember the Freshman 15, that annoying weight you gained during your transition from Mom’s home cooking to the all-you-can-eat college cafeteria chow line? Turns out there’s a sequel of sorts in the corporate world, due to the fast-food (and drink) lifestyle of adapting to the stresses of a new job, boss, officemates, and work schedule.

Suffice to say, the already-hectic lifestyle of meeting and event planners makes them particularly susceptible to the Office 15. Fortunately, scientists recently weighed in on the causes and potential defenses against unwelcome newcomer pounds.

Environmental challenges

Research shows that office temperature and the amount of daylight can have measurable effects on worker weight. According to Alan Hedge, a workplace design specialist at Cornell University, women who feel constantly cold at work tend to gain one or two pounds per year as insulation, even without consuming an extra calorie.

Science also provides another reason to covet those sunlight-filled corner offices: Cubeland workers who are deprived of light, especially in the morning, tend to gain an additional 1.4 pounds annually. The theory is that a lack of daylight messes up their circadian rhythms, making those morning snacks even more tempting.

Possible solutions? Dress more warmly, hold stand-up meetings next to windows, take stairs rather than elevators to and from the office, and try to add a 20-minute walk before noon to your workday routine.

Coworker temptations

Did you know your coworkers can plump you up? According to research by Cornell professor Brian Wansink, author of Slim by Design, 30 percent of dieting employees say their colleagues prompt them to eat more and/or less healthy. We also tend to overeat when food is within sight and consume an average of 30 percent more when we dine with another person, because we get lost in the conversation.

To avoid the problem, balance out the pro (socializing) and the con (those LBS). One way is to pack your own lunch but eat it with workmates in the lunchroom instead of at your desk, where you’re likely to eat more mindlessly. You should also seat yourself as far away from the treats station as possible in conferences and meetings. Make the sacrifice worthwhile by treating yourself at least once a week as a reward for your self-discipline.

Job stress

A new job can be hard enough without outgrowing your clothing. Studies show that when we get stressed, hormonal changes lure us to fatty and sugary foods, which in turn slow down our metabolism, prompting weight gain. Combine this chubby circle with a hectic schedule that interrupts your otherwise nutritious diet and exercise regimen, and those stress calories can really add up.

How to cope? Keep your balance by building some “me” time into your workday — short, one- to two-minute pauses every half-hour or so to briefly meditate, catch your breath, and reclaim your energy. Retrieve the cardio you missed at the gym by climbing stairs or simply standing occasionally for 20 minutes. And make sure you get a fresh start: Research shows that you’ll lose twice as much weight by eating half your day’s calories at breakfast rather than dinner.

(Photo by Shutterstock)

My last two days at the Elite Meetings Alliance at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs were hectic, to say the least. I’ve been told that event planning is the fifth most stressful job, and I completely believe that now. So why do people do it? Why endure the long days, the endless phone calls, the sleep deprivation, the complaints, the blister-covered feet, and the time away from family? Short answer: It’s fun.

(All photos by Andrew Shafer)

It’s not fun every day, all day — no job is. But as the EMA concluded and I saw so many attendees approach our planners to thank them, hug them, and say what a great time they had, I knew that it was worth it.

We also had the opportunity to participate in two volunteer activities. First, after a few laugh-inducing games, we worked on teams to assemble hygiene kits for Clean the World, a foundation that distributes recycled soap and other products to homeless shelters and relief organizations.

On our last day, we took an hour to try our hands at flower arranging, and then we delivered the finish products to two local assisted living facilities. We were told that more than 80 percent of the residents don’t get any visitors, so seeing their faces as we entered with our arrangements and hearing their appreciation was more rewarding and humbling than any of us could have imagined.

Between the networking, learning, laughing, partying, and giving back, we found fast friends in the great planners and hoteliers we met. That’s truly the power of live events, and what makes planning them worthwhile — human connection.

Thank you to everyone who helped make my first EMA amazing!

After a day of running around to deliver printouts, grab lunches, and help attendees, I was exhausted. I never believed that event planning was particularly easy, but my experiences on Day 2 of the Elite Meetings Alliance have given me a whole new appreciation for the people who do this day in and day out.

Making things run smoothly takes an army. The Cvent planners were running from the registration desk to the ballroom to the tech lounge and back. The most impressive part, though, is that no matter how busy they were or what fire they were trying to put out, they always stopped to answer an attendee’s question with a smile. And that, I think, may be the most difficult part of event planning: being busy and stressed and angry but never letting your guests know or feel it.

The other major thing I noticed is that regardless of how great the event has been planned, how much preparation has been done, and how many Cvent staffers are on hand to help, the event is only as good as our vendors and partners. The audiovisual staff, the hotel staff, the speakers, the decorators, the bands, and the transportation company all have a huge impact. I can only imagine how frustrating it must be when something with a vendor goes wrong — even though it wouldn’t be the planner’s fault, it could easily hurt the overall quality of the event.

Now, please excuse me while I go rest my aching feet and dream of taking a nap.

(Photo by Andrew Shafer)

The first day of my first Elite Meetings Alliance was quite an experience. It was certainly a whirlwind, from my early morning flight to the last cocktail. We met so many wonderful planners and hoteliers who are excited to learn and network over the next three days. A few things I’ve already learned:

The venue is everything. The Broadmoor has taken my breath away so many times, and the service and catering has been impeccable. But it’s not just about well-arranged meeting rooms and the surrounding mountains; it’s about unique venues like the Cheyenne Lodge, where we had dinner with the planner attendees.

(Photo by Andrew Shafer)

(Photo by Andrew Shafer)

Technology is great — but there will always be snags. Registration kiosks and mobile apps help save time and make events run so much more smoothly. I saw it with my own eyes in our Hospitality Lounge as EMA attendees arrived to check in. However, no system is perfect 100 percent of the time. Even our Cvent team had a testy printer that had to be reset several times throughout the day. At the end of the day, though, those snags happen at events no matter what, whether it’s the technology, the audiovisual equipment, the room setup, or the fact that there’s a wedding party that needs the Hospitality Lounge for pictures in five minutes! If we work together as partners, we can deal with any issue that arises.

(Photo by Andrew Shafer)

(Photo by Andrew Shafer)

Memorable experiences are the ultimate ice breaker. Sure, there was plenty of conversation going on all day. But we weren’t cheering for one another until the tomahawk throwing started. That’s right, tomahawk throwing. A brilliant idea when the wine is flowing (which is probably why we all had to sign waivers!). The crowd gathered, and everyone watching became a cheerleader not only for their friends and colleagues, but also for their new acquaintances or complete strangers.

Welcome back to the Meet Well blog! Did you miss us?

After three months of transition and hiatus, Meet Well is up and running again, with a new face at the helm. My name is Hannah Prince, and I joined Cvent in August as the new editor of Meet Well and Cvent Meetings magazine. I’m based at Cvent headquarters in Northern Virginia; I live not far away in Fairfax, Virginia, with my husband and our adorable but spoiled corgi, Captain. My background is in journalism, including nine years at USA Today. While I’m new to the hospitality and meetings industry, I have plenty of experience in travel content — but I will be looking to all of our readers for ideas and feedback on what appears here. You can email me anytime at hprince@cvent.com.

I’ve jumped into production for the 2018 Cvent Meetings magazine already, but to get a better idea of the product and the luxury meetings market, I’m jet-setting to Colorado Springs tomorrow (!!!) to see it in action at the year’s second Elite Meetings Alliance — and I couldn’t be more excited. Not only have I never been to Colorado, but we get to stay at the beautiful Broadmoor (pictured above), meet with planners and hoteliers, and spend time with my new Cvent cohorts.

These are the three things I’m most looking forward to seeing in-person:

1. Cvent technology in action: I’ve been through the trainings. I’ve sat through seminars. But I have yet to see all this great technology at work in the real world.

(Photo by Andrew Shafer)

2. The keynote speaker: I didn’t arrive at Cvent early enough to catch Jay Leno at CONNECT in June, but I’ve heard that Christine Cashen is both inspiring and hilarious. And who doesn’t need some inspiration with a side of laughter?

3. The themed night out: In Puerto Rico at the February EMA, the theme drew on authentic Puerto Rican street fairs. This time, we’ll be celebrating the Broadmoor’s beautiful setting with an “In the Wilderness” theme. I even bought a new flannel shirt!

(Photo by Andrew Shafer)

Any other first-timers out there getting ready to attend? Leave a comment below and tell me what you’re most excited to see or do! And check back here over the next four days to find posts about my experiences. I’ll also be live-tweeting throughout the event @EliteMeetings.

(Top photo courtesy of The Broadmoor)

There are certain niggling details in life that are easy to overlook, but can ultimately prove important, like flossing, or saving receipts. For planners on a trip, packing a first-aid kit is another. You’ll probably never need it, but if or when you do, having first-aid supplies handy can feel like a (metaphorical) life saver.

Sure, any hotel or DMC worth its business license will have a first-aid kit (and in some cases, defibrillators!). But does the staff know where to find them? And how long will it take to get to you? Who knows, you may give up waiting and just limp your way to the nearest drugstore.

Which makes packing some essentials in a small and easy-to-toss-in-your-bag first-aid travel kit a no-brainer for those rare moments when you or an attendee need a bandage and some antiseptic for a scraped knee. You may also be in need of some pain relief while in your room late at night, and that drugstore is long closed.

To hold your supplies, use a small plastic container, like a Tupperware or lunch container with a lid that snaps in place. You can also find ready-made first-aid kits in drugstores, but will want to customize it for your travel needs. And you don’t need to stuff it full of bandages; just a few of each item will get you through any minor scrapes.

Here’s what to include:

Bandages are probably thing one to pack in a first-aid kit. Besides the unforeseen scraped knee or bonked head, band-aids can come in really handy for blisters as you and your group tromp around on a sight-seeing excursion. Toss in several of different sizes.

Thing two is ibuprofen, which is useful for relieving aches of many types.

A gauze pad can be used for different things, like cleaning up a scrape or wound, or to staunch bleeding on a cut. Several are squeezed into one square packet, so just one packet is all you need to include.

Also found in packets, antiseptic or alcohol wipes or important for disinfecting wounds. Alcohol wipes can also double for cooling down sunburned skin. Toss in a couple, they’re small. You can also include packets of hand sanitizer, bug repellent and sunscreen, but I would bring larger containers of these, apart from your kit, if you know in advance you’re going to need them.

There’s something out there called Green Goo, which comes in a tin and helps relieve symptoms of everything from poison ivy, insect bites and blisters, to sunburn, rashes and chafing. In lieu of multiple other items, pack a tin as a do-it-all remedy.

If you’re the type to carry a Swiss army with a full complement of blades and other tools, great. Otherwise, pack a pair of tweezers for pulling out splinters or glass from a wound. They can also double for cosmetic use, plucking out stray hairs that suddenly appear.

Some kind of muscle relaxant is advised, whether in pill form or topical creams. This is especially useful for achy or cramped muscles after an outing.

Antacid tablets are important for any stomach issues from the inevitable upset in your normal diet while on the road, as well as from eating new and unfamiliar cuisine. Likewise, you may be traveling to a pollen-heavy zone, which means a few antihistamine pills should be packed as well, which can also be used to relieve effects from motion sickness.

An easy way to confirm if someone is running a fever is with the thermometer you packed in your kit. You can then treat their runny nose and sore throat with the cold medicine pills you put in there too.

Bring additional items depending on your destination and the activities planned during your meeting. Going on a desert hike during your meeting in Tucson? Pack some rehydration pills. A fishing trip planned during that incentive trip to Cancun? Bring some motion sickness pills. Hopefully, you’ll never need it, but packing a small first-aid travel kit is worth the peace of mind.

Photo credits: Shutterstock.com

With that, here are a few strategies to minimize the discomfort of a redeye, and get as much rest as possible to tackle the coming day.

First of all, if there’s any way to upgrade to a higher class of seat, whether first or business, this is the time to cash in those points or work the system to the best of your shrewd abilities. On larger, newer planes or long-haul flights, business class and above will often have seats that lie flat, or at least offer lots of extra room to recline and find a more comfortable position. If coach is your fate, snag a window seat and use the wall as a bed with a cushion of pillows and a bunched up jacket or sweater. For travelers with small bladders, stick with an aisle seat close to the bathroom; your seatmates will thank you.

On that last point, keep the water and beverage intake to a minimum prior to your flight. This idea may fly in the face of conventional (and medical) wisdom that recommends staying hydrated while flying, but the fewer bathroom breaks needed the more time you can actually rest. That said, as soon as the breakfast bell or wake-up announcement dings, drink heavily from that liter of water you stashed in our carry-on, which will help stave off symptoms of jetlag.

If possible, book a direct flight. Having to land and deplane in the middle of the night, then start a second leg of your redeye, only serves to double the discomfort of your overnight journey. Going through the rigmarole of a connecting flight interrupts precious sleep time, and makes it challenging to fall back to sleep after being fully awakened and marched out of your gate.

Short of donning your pj’s and cuddling up with your favorite stuffed animal, get as comfortable as possible. Wear soft, loose-fitting clothes that stretches with you as you inevitably position and reposition yourself throughout the flight. Climate can vary on a plane, so it’s a good idea to bring layers you can easily pull on or off depending on the temperature in the cabin. Easily packable slippers or warm snuggly socks are perfect sleep accessories.

Head rests are fine for, you know, resting your head. But for sleeping, they’re often less than adequate. Fortunately there are a host of pillows available to fit most any style of sleeper, starting with the ubiquitous U-shaped pillow. You can find long pillows that rest on your shoulder for side sleepers, and a pillow to set atop your tray table if you prefer leaning forward to sleep. Invest in the type of pillow that works best for you, which hopefully helps you fall and stay asleep.

Airplanes are pretty good about creating the right overnight environment, by turning off all but the most essential lights and keeping announcements to the bare minimum. At the same time, you could find yourself in a seat by the bathroom or next to an insomniac who spends the flight typing on their laptop or watching a movie. Bring along some sleep accoutrements, such as an eye mask that will block any and all intrusive light, and earplugs to muffle cabin noises, from coughing to a creaky bathroom door.

Follow your typical bedtime routine as best you can. Before you board, or as soon as you get on the plane, brush your teeth and wash your face. Avoid caffeine (duh) before your flight, as well as heavy foods and alcohol, which can add to discomfort. Reading a book or listening to some soothing music will also help you relax and get into sleep mode.

For light sleepers, sometimes you just need a little help. In that case, you may want to consider medications. Besides over the counter sleep aids, you can also find herbal or homeopathic options, such as melatonin, that can gently nudge you into sleep. Of course, you should be aware of the side effects and know how these medications affect you before experimenting on a plane.

Once you land, and after you’ve rehydrated yourself with plenty of water, set yourself to your destination’s schedule. Eat a balanced breakfast at the appropriate hour, and try to avoid naps during the day. Get as much natural light as you can, which tells your body it’s time to be awake. Caffeine can be helpful, and a must if it’s part of your regular routine, but avoid it later in the day when it can mess with your next night’s sleep.

Photo credits: Shutterstock.com