Hosts Global

Last month, I had the unique opportunity to attend Hosts Global Forum in Athens. Nearly 200 event professionals from across the globe converged at the five-star Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens, for four days of immersive cultural experiences, dynamic education sessions, and meaningful networking opportunities. Highlights of the event included: - Keynote speakers who discussed emerging industry trends, sustainability, and innovation, and resilience (Henry Coutinho-Mason, Dean Karnazes, ZEERO GROUP, Padraic Gilligan) -?Discovering Athens through the Acropolis, Markou Wine Museum, and Acropolis Museum -?1:1 meetings with Hosts Global members to explore new ideas and connections After the event concluded in Athens, the once-in-a-lifetime experience continued in Rome, through an exciting trip created by Fourth Dimension Italy DMC in partnership with Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel and Hosts Global. In 3 short days, our group experienced: - A behind the scenes tour of the Rome Cavalieri hotel - A guided tour of the Vatican museum, coliseum, Baths of Caracalla, - Site visits and gastronomic experiences at Bulgari Hotel Group, Santa Benedetta Winery - Experiences for businesses, Hotel de Russie, a Rocco Forte Hotel, and Mirabelle Restaurant Special thanks to Karen Christensen, CMP, Daniele Renzi and Guilherme Brito de Matos for the hospitality and coordination in Rome, and Hosts Global for a fantastic event.?

At Hosts Global Forum 2025, we had the privilege of recognizing the visionaries, problem-solvers, and creative leaders who are shaping the future of our industry. These awards honor those who set new standards in creativity, sustainability, and operational excellence. Award Winners: ? Ferocious Creativity – Moloney & Kelly DMC, A Hosts Global Member for their bold, boundary-pushing approach to immersive experiences. ? Made Meaningful – Hosts North Central and Hosts East Regions for seamlessly integrating sustainability, equity, and community impact into every program. ? Operational Excellence – COTC Events, a HOSTS Global Member for flawless execution and impeccable attention to detail. ? U.S. DMC of the Year – Hosts New Orleans for setting the gold standard in destination management across the U.S. ? DMC of the Year (International) – Spaintacular, A Hosts Global Member for delivering exceptional global experiences that redefine hospitality. These winners exemplify the highest level of dedication and innovation in the events industry. Their work continues to inspire, elevate, and push boundaries. Read more about the Forum and these standout teams in our most recent press release: https://ow.ly/ssSl50Vl7Xy #HostsGlobal #HostsGlobalForum #Athens2025 #EventProfs #CelebratingExcellence

Where the wild meets the wonderful—Anchorage is a playground for immersive events. From glacier-front gatherings to wildlife encounters that redefine ‘networking,’ this Alaskan gem delivers experiences as grand as its landscapes. Ready to take your next corporate event off the beaten path? Discover why Anchorage is the ultimate destination for meetings with a side of adventure. Read more: https://ow.ly/i56F50Vl60e #HostsGlobal #LetUsBeYourHosts #DiscoverHosts #EventProfs #MeetingProfs #CorporateEvents #AnchorageEvents #WildlyUnforgettable

Last week our Chicago Hosts Global team had the privilege of hosting a fun & entertaining evening for the Maritz ESN Together attendees at Five Iron Golf ??The event included AI photo activations, our favorite illusionist, a lively DJ, games galore (duckpin bowling was a huge hit), a card making station for the kids at RMHC, delicious & creative food stations…all to make for a fantastic night full of laughs & memorable moments made! Special thanks to Choose Chicago, Five Iron River North & all the amazing supplier partners who made this event possible, and to my stellar team- Tracy Gleason, Brooke Capone, Whitney Mannion, Katie Switzer, Serena Melancon ??

Every event team has its own version of Glinda vs. Elphaba... ?? Sales & Creative: “It’ll be easy! The client just wants a rooftop venue, perfect weather, and a celebrity appearance!” ?? Operations & Finance: “We’re in hurricane season, all rooftops are booked, and unless they’ve got a Beyoncé budget, that celeb isn’t coming.” Sound familiar? Balancing big ideas with real-world logistics is what we do best. From dream-worthy event concepts to budget reality checks (goodbye, floating chandeliers), the magic happens when creativity meets execution. Event pros, what’s the most ‘Wicked’ client request you’ve had to make happen and share with your Elphaba or Glinda! #HostsGlobal #DiscoverHosts #LetUsBeYourHosts #MeetingsProfs #EventProfs #WickedEvents

Last night, the Malta Tourism Authority and Colours of Malta brought the Mediterranean magic to the Big Apple, hosting an exclusive cocktail reception and discussion on Malta’s Growing Luxury Product and Curated Experiences. Set against the distinguished backdrop of the Permanent Mission of Malta to the United Nations in New York, the evening was graced by H.E. Vanessa Frazier, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Republic of Malta to the UN. Our incredible hosts, Michelle Buttigieg (North American Representative, Malta Tourism Authority) and Davide Cachia (Colours of Malta, a Hosts Global Member), led engaging conversations about why Malta is the ultimate destination for high-end incentives and events. A heartfelt thank you to our esteemed guests from Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI) Marnie Hock, and Elanie Morena, as well as our incredible industry supporters: Jaclyn Bernstein and Michele Edison (Empire Force Events – A Hosts Global Member), Robert Carachilo (Roberts Event Group, A Hosts Global Member), and Kathy Landry (Portfire Events, A Hosts Global Member). Your presence and partnership make moments like this possible! From historic venues to world-class hospitality, Malta is setting the stage for unforgettable events. Here’s to more connections, conversations, and curated experiences ahead! #HostsGlobal #DiscoverHosts #LetUsBeYourHosts #EventProfs #MeetingsProfs #LuxuryEvents #MaltaEvents #CorporateEvents

We’re continuing to celebrate the incredible women of Hosts Global who make event magic happen. ? From designing unforgettable experiences to handling every last detail with precision, the women of Hosts Global and our DMC partners don’t just work in events—they shape them. This Women’s Month, hear from the talented women leading the way in our industry. ?? Swipe through for their insights and read more in our blog! https://ow.ly/pUIA50VkQW5 #WomensMonth #WomenInEvents #HostsGlobal #LetUsBeYourHosts #DiscoverHosts #EventProfs #MeetingProfs

So, you want to celebrate St. Patrick's Day like a local? In Ireland, St. Patrick’s Day is more than just a holiday—it’s an experience. And who better to guide you through it than our Hosts Global member, Moloney & Kelly DMC Ireland’s premier destination experts? Every March 17, Ireland comes alive with parades, music, and cultural celebrations that welcome visitors from around the world. With Moloney & Kelly’s expertise, your Irish experience goes beyond the parade—exploring hidden gems, authentic traditions, and the heart of Irish hospitality. ?? Where to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland: ? Dublin – The St. Patrick’s Festival takes over the city with a spectacular parade, live performances, and immersive cultural events ? Limerick – The International Band Championship fills the streets with music from top marching bands worldwide ? Cork – A vibrant St. Patrick’s Festival featuring street performances, family-friendly activities, and an energetic parade There’s no better time to experience Ireland. Let Moloney & Kelly craft an unforgettable journey for you! ?? Don’t leave your event to luck—submit an RFP today to begin planning your unforgettable Irish experience! https://ow.ly/6UJH50Vj755 #StPatricksDay #MeetinIreland #HostsGlobal #DiscoverHosts #MoloneyAndKelly #EventProfs #MICE #StPatricksDay #Meetinireland #MKIncentives

Bigger isn’t always better. In event planning, what truly matters isn’t how large your DMC is—it’s how well they know you. At Hosts Global, we believe in tailor-made experiences—not cookie-cutter events. With deep local expertise across 360+ destinations, we design programs that feel personal, immersive, and completely aligned with your vision. Because when it comes to creating unforgettable moments, connection beats scale. Looking for a partner who understands your brand, your attendees, and your goals? Let’s make it legendary. ?? https://lnkd.in/eXtJpfeD #EventPlanning #CorporateEvents #MeetingPlanners #IncentiveTravel #DMC #HostsGlobal #DiscoverHosts #LetUsBeYourHosts #MeetingsandEvents #meetingprofs #eventprofs

At Hosts Global Forum 2025, we didn’t just meet—we explored, experienced, and discovered. ????? Athens became our classroom, our playground, and our inspiration as attendees embarked on immersive experiences that showcased the city’s depth, history, and hospitality. From sipping ouzo in Plaka to uncovering the perfect event venue, every moment reinforced why Athens is a powerhouse for unforgettable gatherings. ?? Athens 5 Senses Adventure – A true taste of Greece, from meze and ouzo to the lively hum of Monastiraki’s markets. ?? Athens E-Bike Tour – The Acropolis as our backdrop, the wind in our hair, and history at our fingertips. ? Hymettus Mountain Hiking Tour – Hidden monasteries, fragrant thyme trails, and sweeping Aegean views. ?? Shop & Stroll Athens – From luxury boutiques to market treasures, an experience for every shopping enthusiast. ?? VIP Planner Tour – Exploring Athens’ event venues, where timeless grandeur meets modern elegance. This wasn’t just another destination—it was an unforgettable discovery. ?? Who’s ready to bring their next event to Athens? ?? Read the full recap here: https://ow.ly/GhjM50ViigY #HostsGlobalForum #Athens2025 #EventProfs #DiscoverAthens #LetUsBeYourHosts