My Experience at the SITE Global Conference in Tulum
March 12, 2025
Attending the SITE Global Conference in Tulum was a valuable opportunity to connect with industry professionals, gain insights into the future of incentive travel, and explore new ways to enhance corporate travel experiences. The event was well-organized, with a strong focus on education, networking, and responsible travel practices.
Seamless Arrival and Warm Hospitality
The logistics of the event were managed efficiently by Amstar, the official Destination Management Company (DMC). With smooth transfers between Cancun and Tulum airports, getting to the conference was hassle-free.
Upon arrival at the Hilton Tulum All-Inclusive Resort, our group was welcomed with a cocktail and a private check-in. This small but thoughtful detail set a positive tone for the event, allowing attendees to settle in comfortably before the sessions began.
Education and Industry Discussions
The conference officially began with a Welcome Reception and Dinner, an ideal setting to meet peers and establish connections.
The next day started with a General Session, followed by multiple breakout education sessions. Two discussions stood out for me:
• “Building a MosAlc Experience: AI Innovation and Efficiency in Incentive Travel” – A session that examined how artificial intelligence is reshaping incentive travel, improving efficiency, and delivering more tailored experiences.
• “Touristship: How to Be Allies in the Communities We Visit” – A conversation about responsible tourism, emphasizing the role of the industry in positively impacting local communities.
However, the most impactful session I attended was...
Candy Campbell’s “Demonstrating CSR Through Ethical and Responsible Food Sourcing.”
This session went beyond theory, providing a hands-on approach to understanding the importance of ethical food sourcing in the travel industry. Through an interactive chocolate tasting experience, we learned to recognize different flavors while discussing the impact of food supply chains on sustainability, fair trade, and corporate responsibility. It was an eye-opening conversation about how businesses in the incentive travel industry can make more responsible choices—ensuring that the experiences we curate are not only exceptional but also ethical.
Candy’s session reinforced a key takeaway from the conference: Incentive travel is evolving, and ethical decision-making should be at the core of its future. It was a reminder that our industry has the power to drive change, influencing global practices by supporting sustainable and responsible sourcing.
Recognition and Exploration
One of the most anticipated events of the conference was the Crystal Awards Gala & Dinner, held at Hotel Xcaret Arte. This event highlighted outstanding achievements in incentive travel, recognizing innovative programs and best practices within the industry.
After a morning of additional sessions, we had the opportunity to experience an ATV tour and a cenote visit. This activity showcased the natural beauty of Tulum and provided a break from structured discussions, reinforcing the balance between work and experience that defines incentive travel.
SITE Global Conference 2026: See You in Abu Dhabi!
One of the most exciting announcements at the event was that Abu Dhabi has won the bid to host the SITE Global Conference in 2026. This is a significant milestone for the region and promises to bring new perspectives and opportunities for incentive travel professionals worldwide. The UAE’s growing role in the industry makes it the perfect destination for the next phase of SITE’s global discussions.
Final Reflections
The conference wrapped up with a Farewell Dinner at Hotel Unico, offering one last chance to connect and reflect on key takeaways.
Overall, the SITE Global Conference in Tulum reinforced the importance of innovation, sustainability, and collaboration in the evolving incentive travel industry. The discussions and experiences over the course of the event provided valuable insights into how the industry is shifting and what we need to focus on moving forward.
As incentive travel continues to adapt, events like this serve as an essential platform for industry leaders to exchange ideas, challenge existing models, and drive meaningful change.
With SITE Global Conference 2026 set for Abu Dhabi, I look forward to continuing these conversations and seeing how our industry evolves. See you there!
Register for the SITE Global Conference 2026
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