News

Leaders of the incentive travel business from around the world gathered in Panama recently to discuss industry issues and take what one publication described as “a deep dive into Panamanian culture.”

More than 300 executives from 31 countries attended the event, the annual global conference of Society for Incentive Travel Excellence. The conference featured “compelling education, dazzling events and vibrant tours that illuminated Panama as an emerging incentive destination,” according to Travel Daily News.

Hosted at the Westin Playa Bonita, the roster of events included tours of local attractions and an evening reception at the Miraflores Locks at the Panama Canal.

“Hosting the SITE Global Conference in Panama is a great honor and an important opportunity for Panamanian professionals to showcase what our country has to offer the global MICE sector,” said Jennifer Champsaur, Panama Deputy Minister of Tourism. “An important trade and logistics hub connecting the Americas, Panama is the perfect destination for meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions.”

She also noted that Panama is building a new convention center on Amador Causeway, which will add to the existing convention center, which was renovated in 2015. “We are the main connectivity center in the region with more than 80 direct flights to 35 countries providing easy access from around the world,” making Panama a logical growth center for global conventions and meetings, she said

The event was clearly a success, exposing the wonders of Panama to the influential travel leaders. They experienced “some of the best education, an once-in-a-lifetime experience walking across the locks of the Panama Canal, and amazing evening events,” said logistics hub president Rajeev Kohli.

Julia Trejo, director of special projects for Terramar Destinations in Panama, serves on the board of directors of the international group.