Cultural Authenticity in International Meetings: A Summary of a Round Table Discussion on Impact and Appeal

In November 2023 a small but perfectly formed group of association event professionals met over dinner.? The topic of discussion was importance of cultural authenticity in international meetings.? The event was sponsored and hosted by Oman Convention Bureau in conjunction with Brightelm, . The participants delved into various aspects, revealing insights and considerations shaping decisions in the events industry.

Let me start by saying that when I was at University one might be forgiven in thinking cultural authenticity was a major deciding factor in attendance.? Nearly 13 years later I have rarely seen this to be the case. Destination? Yes! Cultural authenticity? Not so much! And what is cultural authenticity anyway? Using a humble croissant as an example of cultural assimilation, which I can buy in many various forms in the UK (and I imagine to the disgust of many a French citizen), is anything still truly authentic?

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