Ah Springtime! For those of you involved with planning a meeting or event, Springtime is a welcomed time of year. You’re not going to believe this but, for those of us living in the northern hemisphere, rumor has it Spring has arrived. Now as far as I can gather, it’s still a rumor at this point. I’m trying to confirm the accuracy of Spring’s arrival with my various sources. I will be sure to report back any information I have about spring and whether it’s reported arrival is, indeed, true.
Spring is a Busy Time of Year for Meeting and Event Planning
There is definitely a cycle for meetings and events. In northern climates hotels and venues become a little busier in Spring with meetings getting underway. Not that a meeting planner isn’t busy all year round. If they’re not busy executing a program, they’re busy (if not busier) planning a business meeting or event.
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Meeting and Event Planning – 3 Popular Destinations for Spring
While there are more than 3 destinations to choose from, we’re focusing on 3 destinations that stand out in Springtime.
1) Washington DC
When you think of Washington DC at Springtime, you can’t help but think of all the cherry blossoms blooming. Washington DC is a great outdoor city. It’s easy to walk the National Mall while taking in the famous attractions in the most powerful city in the world. I think what I love most about Washington DC is the architecture – stunning.
Why Spring: the national Cherry Blossom Festival is a great attraction for meetings, events and family vacations alike. And in celebration of the Cherry Blossom Festival, and Spring, there are great hotel packages available.
Getting There: Washington DC is an accessible city. There are 2 major airports that service the region; Dulles International Airport and Reagan National Airport.
Average Daytime Temperature: ranges from 67° to over 75°F. Perfect.
Additional Resources for Meetings and Conferences: Washington DC’s official travel site has lots of tools to help you plan your visit to the capital region.
2) Amsterdam, Holland
Springtime is when Amsterdam, Holland comes alive with color. The flowers, tulips in particular, are now showing off their vibrant colors. This makes Springtime in Amsterdam a wonderful time to visit.
In addition to the Flower Festival, there’s a lot more to see and do in and around Amsterdam. Perhaps a visit to Anne Frank’s house, the Van Gogh and Rijks Museum, the canals and even the red light district might make it to your agenda.
Why Spring: Springtime in Amsterdam includes festivals, markets, parades and of course the flowers. In other words lots to see and do for every meeting and event.
Getting There: Amsterdam’s Schiphol airport is one of the largest in Europe. As a European hub, there are many direct flights in and out of Schiphol. And while you’re there you may be tempted by the extensive shops – over 100.
Average Daytime Temperature: in April, the average daytime temperature in Amsterdam is in the mid-60’s°F. Pleasant weather for getting out and about and enjoying the Springtime activities.
Additional Resources for Meetings and Conferences: Holland and Visit Amsterdam is a great resource for hotels, attractions and tours in Holland.
3) Ottawa, Canada
Canada’s capital, Ottawa, comes alive at Springtime. And there’s a strong connection to another city that’s on this list – Amsterdam. Every spring Ottawa celebrates the Canadian Tulip Festival. This year marks the 62nd edition.
So how is Ottawa connected with Amsterdam?
During World War II the Nazis occupied Holland. Many members of Holland’s royal family lived in Canada during the occupation. Canadian troops were also among the first to arrive in Holland to liberate them from the Nazis. Now every spring Ottawa receives hundreds of thousands of tulips as a thank you from Holland.
Why Spring: in addition to the multitude of colors presented during the Tulip Festival, Ottawa is active with many events and museums celebrating Canada’s culture.
Getting There: most major airlines serve Ottawa. Many US destinations are only a couple of hours away by flight.
Average Daytime Temperature: in April, the average temperature can be in the mid 50°’sF. A light jacket is all that is needed to enjoy the activities.
Additional Resources for Meetings and Conferences: visit Ottawa Tourism for information on the Tulip Festival, as well as other important events and hotel deals.
[…] Spring is a busy time of year for meeting and event planning. These 3 cities have many attractions and hotel deals for meeting and event planners. […]