Dreaming of crafting the ultimate incentive trip experience for your top performers? This is a daunting task, especially if you are unfamiliar with your destination. That, of course, is why research is imperative to obtain information on available activities and experiences.
But what if we said this research should be extensive and provide local insight that you can’t find in a simple Google search? You need local experts who hold the key to unlocking a location’s hidden gems, exclusive access, and insider knowledge.
This is where destination marketing organizations (DMOs) step in to guarantee an unforgettable adventure for your attendees.
If you partner with a destination marketing organization, your next incentive trip can transform your vision into reality by creating unique itineraries packed with local flavor, securing VIP treatment, and navigating logistical complexities. DMOs have the expertise to tailor an experience that aligns with your goals, budget, and group interests.
Quick Links:
- What Is a Destination Marketing Organization?
- DMOs vs DMCs
- How DMOs Address Incentive Travel Concerns
- How DMOs Contribute to Unique Incentive Travel Experiences
- Work With Bishop-McCann For Your Next Travel Event
What Is a Destination Marketing Organization?
Not only do incentive travel programs bring benefits for both the company hosting the trip and the employees being recognized, but there are additional benefits for the community being visited. That’s where DMOs come in.
As the name suggests, destination marketing organizations promote a specific destination. Sometimes, they are referred to as convention and visitors bureaus, or CVBs. By increasing tourism, more people explore the local community for their businesses, scenery, and culture. As a result, these visitors boost the local economy.
Frequently, DMOs are nonprofit organizations, and they vary greatly across regions. For instance, some are national organizations while others focus on a local region. You might also come across private and public DMOs.
For incentive travel programs, it’s common for event planners to partner with DMOs for their unique insight into a destination. DMOs are local experts on all things – food, lodging, activities, and more. So to plan a successful incentive trip, DMOs are a great way to ensure attendees explore all the must-see landmarks and enjoy the best possible experience of the destination.
DMOs vs DMCs
While DMOs can add tremendous value to incentive trips, destination marketing organizations are not to be confused with destination management companies (DMCs) – though there are some similarities.
One main difference is their purpose. While DMOs promote a destination to increase tourism, DMCs provide logistical support for tours, transportation, venues, accommodations, and activities. DMOs are often more consultative while DMCs are more hands-on.
That said, the two types of organizations working together can bring a tremendous amount of value to any incentive travel program. After all, attendees want memorable experiences, so event planners need to put their best foot forward and use the resources available to them to deliver. That often includes turning to both DMOs and DMCs for their expertise.
While DMCs are often relied on to assist with program management, the IRF notes that DMOs are excellent when it comes to making incentive trips memorable. DMOs provide recommendations that deliver the “wow” factor attendees love. And, when budgets are tight, DMOs are often able to provide alternative and budget-friendly recommendations that deliver the same immersive experiences that are sought out for incentive travel programs.
Destination management companies might benefit event organizers if they haven’t had much experience working in a specific region or are struggling with the details of planning. However, many event planning companies like Bishop-McCann value destination marketing organizations for their unique expertise and recommendations.
How DMOs Address Incentive Travel Concerns
Incentive travel experiences are designed to be memorable for every person in attendance. But, to achieve these memorable experiences, event planners need to think outside of the box, and often, that comes with a price tag.
Research tells us that attendees want unique experiences, but incentive travel professionals are faced with the challenge of rising costs. And, to deliver on these expectations, planners need to be mindful of where they are allocating their budgets. Fortunately, DMOs can be a helpful solution in this regard.
Destination marketing organizations frequently offer rebate programs for businesses interested in partnering with them. After all, while event planners are interested in resources to help craft exciting and experiential programs, DMOs want to attract visitors to their destinations. It’s a win-win for both parties.
These rebate programs may include discounts on hotel arrangements and excursions. For instance, similar to frequent flyer programs, DMOs may offer rebates or discounts to event organizers who have held multiple events in their destination as a loyalty incentive. The goal of these rebate programs is to incentivize event organizers to choose the DMO's destination, increase visitor spending, and offset other expenses.
How DMOs Contribute to Unique Incentive Travel Experiences
While event planners can accomplish a great deal on their own, it never hurts to have extra help, and DMOs are the perfect resource for just that. When it comes to incentive travel experiences, DMOs can help provide significant contributions and value to these programs.
Local Expertise
As mentioned, DMOs are valued for their destination-specific knowledge. As experts, planners can turn to DMOs for recommendations on the most popular, unique, and exciting experiences to include in their incentive travel itineraries.
Because a DMO’s entire focus is the specific destination that they are marketing, they possess the in-depth knowledge necessary to help you and your attendees get the most out of your trip.
Creative Experiences
Speaking of local expertise, DMOs likely know of hidden gems in addition to popular tourist attractions. So if you’re looking for customized experiences, they can provide a variety of unique activities and locations that will meet your attendees’ specific preferences.
After all, attendees are looking to experience something new and exciting. In partnership with a destination management company, DMOs can provide recommendations for activities that highlight local cultures and stray from the beaten path. With these recommendations, DMCs can take the insight and help plan the experience, such as welcome drinks and snacks that nod to the local cuisine.
Program Planning Support
It takes a village to craft a successful event. And, DMOs are another resource that should be added to your list of contacts. When planning incentive trips, you can turn to DMOs to provide information regarding recommendations for suppliers and vendors.
And, before your program kicks off, you’ll also want photos to help build anticipation among guests. So, DMOs can often provide photo albums that highlight what’s to come during the upcoming trip. These photos can then be used for various marketing materials leading up to the incentive program.
Ultimately, DMOs are local guides who can help incentive travel groups get the most out of the destination. They answer questions about the region and highlight the significance of visiting their home while offering unique adventures in the destination. This helps turn the program into an immersive and educational experience.
Work With Bishop-McMann For Your Next Travel Event
For your next incentive travel program, be sure to turn to Bishop-McCann for a unique experience. We work with DMOs all over the world to reward employees and craft meaningful recognition events. To take the first step toward a successful event, reach out to us now!
