From Bronwyn Slade, Director, Global Business Development
Bronwyn at SITE Global Conference, Tulum
True art expresses human creativity and imagination, conveying meaning beyond simple description.
The Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) knows a thing or two about immersive destination experiences. Their annual conference brings together meeting and incentive professionals, offering insights into industry trends and challenges while exploring attendees’ evolving expectations.
This year, the SITE Global Conference was held at the Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort. The organizers showcased an exemplary approach to creating an immersive destination experience that respected and supported the local host community.
The art of immersive destination experiences involves weaving authentic representations of local culture, fostering a sense of place that stirs the soul and creates lasting memories. It encompasses sharing beliefs, values, and traditions that often transcend language, food, and music.
The Art of Cultural Expression
True art expresses human creativity and imagination, conveying meaning beyond simple description.
Indigenous Welcome to Mexico
Upon arrival at the convention center, we were welcomed by Indigenous Mexican people in traditional attire. They played music and performed smudging—burning sage and sweetgrass to create a sacred space for our global audience. Their warm welcome reinforced the conference’s theme, “Building and Bridging Cultures,” and formed a deep sense of place.
Indigenous Mexican Welcome in Tulum
Water Release Ceremony in Whistler
Freshwater lakes, rivers, and streams surround the mountain resort village of Whistler. This natural environment helps guests discover inner peace while introducing them to the healing powers of water. A water release ceremony is a ritual honoring water and the life it sustains, expressing gratitude for its role in our lives. Led by a local shaman, it involves multiple participants, fostering unity and connection.
Water Release Ceremony
Photo Credits: Brad Kasselman
The Art of Gifting
Thoughtful and meaningful gifts inspired by local stories evoke emotions and create lasting memories.
Mexican Market
During a conference break, a Mexican market showcased hand-carved cutting boards, textiles, and ceramics for attendees to choose according to individual tastes. Merchants provided insights into the materials’ origins, shared stories about the makers, and explained how proceeds would benefit their community. Chatting with local artisans enriched my experience in Tulum and left a lasting impact. Each time I carry my woven handbag with its vibrant tassel, it spreads a sunny vibe and reminds me of the warmth of the people and the place it came from.
Mexican Gift Market
Brownyn’s Woven Handbag
Presents with Presence
We carefully curate our hyper-local client gifts to reflect the essence of the destination. We source practical, functional and travel-sized items that guests can use during their stay or bring home to remind them of their sensational Canadian experience. The custom-designed Victoria bag is emblazoned with neighbourhood names and includes award-winning Indigenous soap, organic lip balm, an eco-friendly candle and a glass bottle with matches.
Curated Memory Bag
The Art of Service
Creating positive, personal and engaging experiences that exceed expectations.
Service is a profound art; it requires understanding others’ perspectives and anticipating their needs. This ethos underpins our team’s decision-making in creating memorable guest experiences. I remember one boy’s elation on the Superfly Zipline during a Whistler program. He is a quadriplegic and on previous programs watched activities from the sidelines. PDS coordinated with Whistler Adaptive Sports to arrange a special activity for him to “fly through the air.” The joy on his and his family’s faces is something I’ll never forget.
Photo Credit: Whistler Adaptive Sports Program
Please watch the Whistler Adaptive Sport Program video to learn about participating in, volunteering for, or donating to this worthy organization.
The next time you’re at a business event, take time to appreciate the design, the surroundings and the people. Engage by asking questions, listening and participating. Immerse yourself in the art of gathering and leave an imprint that reflects your individuality.
