Insight Type: Destination

A fresh perspective on Monaco as a destination for corporate events and incentives. 

Glamorous? Absolutely. But practical, versatile and full of unexpected experiences? Monaco might surprise you.

I was invited to explore Monaco by Global DMC Partners and IKEBANA. I arrived with the same assumptions as many event planners, but I was surprised to come back with a very different perspective. And the data suggests I am not alone…

Monaco has long been filed under ‘aspirational but impractical.’ But that perception is changing. The destination was named Best European Destination 2025 and 2025 was reportedly a record year for MICE, with a 37% increase in room nights in Q1 alone. There are now more than 150 venues totalling almost 70,000m² dedicated to events, and crucially, investment is extending beyond the luxury segment to accommodate a wider range of clients and budgets.

At just over two square kilometres, Monaco delivers an unmatched concentration of experiences – within minutes, a group can move from coastal views to Michelin-star dining, from high-energy social spaces to quieter, more considered moments. For planners, that compactness is a genuine operational advantage. Everything is close. Logistics are straightforward. And the standard of hospitality is exceptionally high.

My trip opened with a helicopter transfer from Nice – an arrival moment that sets the tone immediately. What followed was a programme that made the most of Monaco’s geography and culture to full effect, without leaning entirely on the expected.

We experienced vintage car drives around the city and the F1 circuit, a private tour of the Fragonard perfume factory, creating personalised fragrances and a boat trip that turned into something none of them planned for – over 100 dolphins that came alongside the boat, jumping and playing in the water.

The food was consistently exceptional (a must for conferences and incentives alike) with dining experiences at Café de Paris, Coya, Hôtel du Couvent, but what was my most talked-about moment? A burger with a croissant bun at Lacoste Café at Le Meridien Beach Plaza, the only hotel in Monaco with its own private beach. It’s a small detail that says something important about the destination: warmth and playfulness sit alongside the polish. The Fairmont’s rooftop at Nikki Beach, perched on the iconic F1 hairpin bend, had a similar energy – relaxed, social, nothing like what I’d expected.

I was genuinely surprised by just how much Monaco has to offer. It’s not just luxury shopping, fine wines and exceptional food, although there is plenty of that. It’s a destination rich in culture, history and truly unforgettable experiences, all in one place.

For incentive programmes, leadership retreats and high-value client experiences, Monaco earns its place not just because of the glamour, but because of the experience it creates for the people who visit. The perception lag is the opportunity. If Monaco is on your radar for a future event, we’ve done the groundwork.

We’d love to talk through what it could look like for your group, get in touch.

Big landscapes. Vibrant cities. Even bigger possibilities for events.

Canada has a lot going for it. From world-class venues and exceptional hospitality to unforgettable experiences and easy flight connections from Europe, it’s a destination that delivers on more than just scenery.

We’re speaking from experience. I recently returned from Vancouver with Charlotte and Emma, where we delivered a high-end employee engagement programme. It gave us first-hand insight into what makes this destination such a compelling choice for corporate events.

Whether you’re planning a conference, leadership retreat or incentive, there’s plenty to discover. Here are some four Canadian destinations worth considering, each offering something different for your next event.

VANCOUVER: Nature meets innovation

Why Vancouver works for events

Vancouver brings together the best of both worlds: a vibrant, cosmopolitan city surrounded by spectacular natural scenery. With mountains, ocean, exceptional dining and a thriving technology scene, it offers plenty of opportunities to create memorable experiences beyond the meeting room.

Having recently delivered an employee engagement programme here, we’ve seen first-hand the possibilities Vancouver offers. Its combination of urban energy, outdoor experiences and distinctive venues makes it a compelling setting for bringing people together.

From the waterfront and Stanley Park to the characterful neighbourhoods of Gastown and Granville Island, Vancouver offers a balance of urban sophistication and natural beauty that’s hard to match.

Access from Europe

Vancouver is well connected to Europe, with direct flights available from major cities including London, Paris, Amsterdam and Frankfurt. For international programmes, flight schedules and delegate travel times are important considerations when planning the experience.

Strengths

Vancouver’s stunning natural setting creates an inspirational backdrop for business events. The city excels in:

• Sustainability & green technology conferences – Double LEED Platinum certified convention centre demonstrates environmental leadership
• Innovation & startup events – Thriving tech ecosystem
• Incentive travel programmes – Spectacular outdoor activities year-round
• Film & media industry events – Hollywood North credentials

TORONTO: The financial powerhouse

Why Toronto deserves a closer look

Toronto combines the energy of a major North American business hub with a diverse cultural scene and an impressive range of venues. From the gleaming towers of the financial district to the cobblestoned charm of the Distillery District, the city offers plenty of opportunities to balance business with memorable delegate experiences.

Neighbourhoods such as Queen West and Kensington Market bring a different side of the city to life, with independent restaurants, creative spaces and local culture that can add character to a programme.

For planners, Toronto’s real strength is its combination of international connectivity, established business infrastructure and variety of event settings.

Access from Europe

Toronto offers excellent connectivity with multiple direct flights from European cities including London, Paris, Dublin, and other major hubs. Flight times from London average 8-9 hours, making it highly accessible for European delegates.

Strengths

Toronto boasts a higher concentration of financial sector employment than New York and London, making it ideal for financial services events. The city excels in:

• Finance & Banking conferences – Natural home to Canada’s financial sector
• Technology & AI summits – Leading centre for advanced manufacturing, robotics and AI
• Large-scale corporate meetings – Abundant venue options and hotel capacity
• International conferences – Truly multicultural delegate appeal

ST. JOHN’S, NEWFOUNDLAND: The hidden gem

The destination that’s surprised us most

This is North America’s oldest city, but it feels refreshingly unspoilt and authentic. Picture colourful wooden houses tumbling down steep hills toward one of the world’s finest natural harbours, where fishing boats bob alongside modern vessels. The locals are legendarily friendly, the music scene is extraordinary, and the landscape is hauntingly beautiful – think dramatic coastlines, rolling hills, and an otherworldly quality that feels almost Celtic. It’s a small city (population 110,000) with a huge personality, where everyone seems to know everyone and visitors are welcomed like old friends. What’s captivated us is its genuine character – there’s nothing manufactured or touristy about St. John’s. It’s simply, authentically itself.

Access from Europe

St. John’s offers the shortest flight route from Canada to Europe – just under five hours to London, making it incredibly accessible for European delegates. WestJet operates direct flights from St. John’s to London Gatwick and Paris, with connections available to other major European cities.

Strengths

This charming maritime city offers unique cultural experiences and excellent value. Ideal for:

• Energy & natural resources conferences – Strong oil, gas, and renewable sector presence
• Maritime & logistics events – Strategic Atlantic location
• Intimate executive retreats – Boutique scale with personal service
• Cultural & heritage-themed programmes – Rich 500-year history in North America’s oldest city

BANFF & LAKE LOUISE: Inspiration in the Rockies

Where the setting becomes part of the experience

Few destinations create quite the same sense of arrival as the Canadian Rockies. Lake Louise, with its turquoise waters reflecting towering peaks and glaciers, offers an extraordinary natural backdrop. Banff sits in a valley surrounded by dramatic mountains, creating a setting that feels simultaneously grand and intimate.

What makes this region particularly interesting for events is the contrast between its spectacular wilderness and its established hospitality infrastructure. Luxury resorts, distinctive venues and outdoor activities create opportunities for programmes that feel genuinely different from a traditional city-based conference.

For leadership retreats and incentives in particular, the setting can become an integral part of the experience, creating space for fresh thinking, shared adventures and meaningful connections.

Access from Europe

Groups fly into Calgary International Airport (YYC) with connecting service from most major European cities, then enjoy a scenic 90-minute drive along the Trans-Canada Highway to Banff National Park.

Strengths

Meetings held here are unlike any other on earth, with inspirational views in every direction creating an exhilarating backdrop for any gathering. Perfect for:

• Leadership retreats & executive summits – Fresh mountain air more rejuvenating than any boardroom brainstorming session
• Incentive programmes – World-class outdoor activities and luxury resorts
• Team building events – Adventure-based programmes in stunning natural settings
• Awards ceremonies – Dramatic mountain backdrops for memorable celebrations

Finding the right Canadian destination for your event

For conferences: Toronto and Vancouver offer the scale, infrastructure, and delegate accessibility needed for major events. Their convention centres can handle everything from 500-delegate industry symposiums to 5,000+ international congresses.

For incentives and retreats: Banff & Lake Louise reign supreme, offering luxury mountain resorts with adventure activities that create lasting memories. St. John’s provides a more intimate alternative, with distinctive culture and opportunities for authentic local experiences.

Ultimately, the right destination depends on your audience, objectives and the experience you want to create. And that’s where thoughtful planning makes all the difference.

Considering Canada for your next event? From destination advice to seamless delivery, we’d love to help you explore what’s possible.