The pandemic made things challenging for everyone. No industry and business sector was able to evade its repercussions. However, it was the travel industry that bore the most brunt. With the world going into lockdown, hotels and resorts had to struggle to stay afloat. The problem was that it wasn’t only vacation and tourism that came to a halt. Even business travels had to be stopped abruptly due to the pandemic.

Of course, things are getting back to normal now. But is it really going to be that simple to attract tourists and travelers to hotels and resorts?

People now have a lot of apprehensions. They have many requirements for their travel arrangement. For a long time, hygiene and health safety protocols were taken for granted. But not anymore! Even business travelers now pay exquisite attention to this aspect while making their accommodation arrangements. Hence, it has become prudent for hotels and resort owners to market their property differently and make it more accessible worldwide.

Platforms For Owners To Market Their Resorts

The digital option undoubtedly makes things easier. Resort owners have the option of marketing their properties online, which increases the chances of more people being attracted to their side. But you have to be careful where your property is featured. Not every platform is reliable for this purpose. Here are some options you can consider.

Expedia
This is an online travel agent primarily operating in Seattle, Washington. Via this platform, customers get the opportunity to make not only their hotel bookings but also car rental services, flights, and even cruises. Needless to say, it’s pretty convenient. This platform sells products and services on behalf of the suppliers.

It caters to people worldwide and gives utmost importance to marketing. Hence, a lot of people trust Expedia to provide them with the best options.

Agoda
This one’s based in Singapore and owned by Booking Holdings. This online travel agent is accessed by over two million customers worldwide. Since Agoda is strongly focused on the Asian Market, hotels from this region can use it to attract guests from all over the world with immense success.

Agoda is considered highly reliable among people. Hence, if a hotel or resort is featured here, customers don’t really doubt that it would be capable of providing them with the best possible services.

Airbnb
This one definitely needs no introduction. It’s a tad bit different compared to other online travel agents. It’s basically a hospitality marketplace. It’s more focused on homestays. However, recently it has started to include listings for hotels too.

Keep in mind that Airbnb is pretty stringent with its requirements. Hotels and resorts have to meet pretty strict criteria to be considered for the platform. However, since it enjoys immense popularity among users, hotel and resort owners will definitely find it a worthy choice.

Hotwire
This travel website is based in San Francisco, California. Owned by the Expedia Group, it specializes in hotel rooms and similar other travel products.

People who use this platform are typically looking for last-minute deals and affordable accommodations. So if there’s an unsold inventory that you want customers for, this platform can get the job done.

American Express Global Business Travel
Business travelers usually have a different set of requirements compared to those traveling for leisure. And this corporate travel agent understands that perfectly. It specializes in assisting business travelers meet their needs to perfection.

Since it operates in over 100 countries worldwide, making bookings for its customers, hotels, and resorts will find it highly beneficial to market their places on this platform. It will enhance their exposure exponentially, something which is highly needed in the current times.

Global Resort Options
Not everyone traveling for business likes to stay in a hotel. A lot of executives travel with their families and hence want a more intimate and private arrangement for their stay. Global Resort Options caters to this group.

The platform is mostly used by executive business travelers who value luxury and comfort more than anything. Hence, resort owners will find it pretty easy and feasible to reach out to their target market via this platform.

They have been working in the field for 25 years. Therefore, they are more than capable of marketing your resorts on your behalf. The best thing is that they have adjusted to the post-pandemic routine and understood what people are now looking for. They have evolved their marketing strategies accordingly.

Carlson Wagonlit
This is another corporate travel agent hotel owners can consider. It’s an event management company, too, serving in over 140 countries worldwide. If hotels want to make the most of the opportunity and reach out to corporate travelers from all over the world, they will find this one a worthy option.

CWT books services for its customers and keeps its list updated. Therefore, customers have immense faith in their recommendations. Being featured in their list will definitely work in your favor.

BCD Travel
This Dutch company specializes in corporate travel management. Using the platform, customers can book flights, hotels, and similar other services. They are particularly known for their ability to offer their customers the best value for money. It’s active in more than 100 countries worldwide.

Use The Best Available Option

We can’t deny that all the platforms have some incredible benefits to offer. But if you notice closely, they are pretty spread out. None of them really has many listings for resorts. And post the pandemic, people are more open to staying in a resort compared to hotels. This has contributed to the rising popularity of Global Resort Options.

Therefore, if you are a resort owner struggling with marketing post the pandemic, Global Resort Options can definitely help you out. Since the platform is used by executives worldwide to make their travel arrangements, it will give a boost to your resort to partner with them.

Post the pandemic; it has become challenging for resort owners to convince people of their safety protocols. Reliability is a big concern now. But Global Resort Options can put all apprehensions to rest with their marketing techniques.

The corona pandemic threw the entire world into chaos. Everything changed forever, and for a long time, it appeared that things would never go back to normal. Indeed, stepping out of your house for leisure became a luxury during the period. But nothing lasts forever, and we saw an example of this again as the world started to return to normalcy after the calamity.

The Effect Of The Pandemic On Business Travel

One sector that truly bore the brunt of the pandemic was international business travel. With zoom meetings becoming routine, a lot of people had thought that even after the world opened up, it would take a long time for travel to become routine once again. But they were soon proven wrong.

People worldwide had been holed up in their houses for so long that they jumped on the first opportunity to travel. Businesses, too, did not waste any time holding conventions and trade shows. After all, virtual shows don’t really create the same kind of buzz.

With the rise in the number of conventions and trade shows, business travel too increased stupendously. In fact, according to statistics, travel bookings for the first three months of 2022 surpassed half of the entire 2021.

Interestingly, the pandemic and remote work culture it brought has actually increased business travels. Now that people have realized that they can make their work hours more flexible, they are more inclined to mix business with pleasure. Executives now prefer traveling with family and extending their international trips so they can relax and have an enjoyable time once their professional commitments are over.

But, of course, we cannot claim that the pandemic has changed nothing. It definitely has! For one thing, people are now more careful than ever while making their accommodation preparations. No one takes hygiene for granted now. And everyone now realizes the importance of privacy.

Making Travel Arrangements Post The Pandemic

Typically, bookings, hotels, and transport are all handled by the company for business travels. Executives and other employees don’t really have much say in it. However, after the pandemic, things have changed quite a bit.

Let’s face it. The pandemic made things incredibly uncertain. People were forced to cancel their bookings time and again due to an unpredictable situation. The entire inefficient, not to mention time-consuming, practice, left many frustrated. Hence, most managers are now looking for a more convenient option for bookings which will save their time and also enable them to make the best possible arrangements for the executives.

There’s more. Companies are now pretty stringent about health policies now. Indeed, a lot of businesses lost some of their best talents to COVID. Naturally, no one wants to take any chances now. Hence, only those accommodations are booked, which can be trusted to adhere to safety protocols.

And since executives are now looking forward to mixing business with pleasure, it’s only natural that they would want to stay at a place suitable for their families. And this is where things get challenging. Can you really expect to find convenience in every aspect? Is it really that simple to find your desired accommodation with minimum hassles? Indeed, if only you know where to look!

That’s right. Business travel arrangements don’t really have to be complicated, even in the post-pandemic world. As we have already stated, the world has begun to get adjusted to the changes brought about by the pandemic. Hence, you can be assured of finding various platforms that would take care of your travel arrangements and that too with perfection!

How Organizations Are Keeping A Close Eye On Business Travel

A lot of organizations found themselves in a lurch when their employees and executives got stuck when they were traveling for business in another country. The sudden lockdown in many countries left many people worried.

Being stranded in a foreign land with little money can be a panicky situation for just about anyone. And what would you do if even the hotel where you are staying fails to assist you? Where would you find another accommodation in a place you know little about?

Of course, organizations did quite a lot to support their employees and get them back home. However, they also realized the importance of making appropriate hotel bookings wherein every factor has to be adhered too. They understood that using a travel booking tool could save them and their employees from a lot of trouble. Yes, the pandemic taught people a lot of things and forced them to consider factors that they had been avoiding for a long time.

Make Bookings Easier With Global Resort Options

So now we know that employees and executives have gotten pretty picky about their accommodations even while on business travel. They want hygiene, comfort, and convenience. Similarly, organizations too have their own set of requirements. They expect the entire process to be feasible. They want to know the details of their executive’s travel arrangements to the last letter.

With so much at stake, you need a platform that will make it easier to find luxurious resorts worldwide. The best thing about staying in a resort is that you can spend time with your family as you work. Your professional commitments won’t have to suffer. You won’t have to worry about hygiene. And your privacy will also be respected.

But how to find such resorts in different countries. This is where Global Resort Options can help you out! Global Resort Options basically makes it easier for timeshare owners to advertise their vacation ownership. Hence, you can find the best available options here. Since the platform is primarily designed for executive travelers, you can be assured that every resort you find here will not only be luxurious but also incredibly comfortable and hospitable.

They have nearly 25 years of experience in the field. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about being scammed. They are reliable and will make sure you get the best accommodation not only suited for your business trip but also for your personal family time!

The Covid-19 pandemic has ceased almost all operations since the end of December 2019. From the financial to the travel industry, it has disturbed everything. Since all these sectors are interlinked, interruption in the travel industry has caused a commotion in many businesses. Especially since firms need to have business trips to different cities or countries for conferences and conventions.

Business travel is very different from traveling with family, especially after the pandemic. However, things have taken a turn for the better. Let’s look at how the travel industry has bounced back over time and how firms such as Global Resort Options have made business trips more accessible post-Covid.

Recovery of Domestic Business Travel 

According to recent surveys, domestic business travel has risen more than international, after COVID-19. The study declares, over 40% of members of the Global Business Travel Association had recommended domestic business traveling by June 2021. Meanwhile, only around 12% had restarted international business traveling by the same date because the borders between some countries were still not open.

Recovery of Business Travel with Increase in Vaccination Rate 

As the vaccination rates increased by the end of 2021, traveling internationally and domestically became more common worldwide. Compared with the 2021 statistics, there are more frequent business trips and meetings in different countries or cities.

How Does Global Resort Options Make Traveling Easy for Firms Post Covid?

Global Resort Options offer highly beneficial services for corporate travelers and vacation ownership. 

Global Resort Options provides timeshare owners with a revolutionary approach to selling and publicizing their trip ownership. Owners can gain more visibility with business travelers with no commissions or percentages deducted from the rental income. 

From flights to meals, there is a full range of services for business travelers, whether they are a small group of travelers or a large group. Therefore, many large corporations regularly use the Global Resort Options travel program.

Conclusion

Traveling had bounced back by the end of 2021, which was disturbed due to the Coronavirus pandemic. This commotion caused several problems for business travelers who had to travel to attend business meetings and conventions.  

Many major corporations prefer Global Resort Options as they offer excellent services, whether it be leisure or a business trip. They arrange everything, including meals, renting cars, and flights for business travelers.

The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) estimates business travel spending to rise to $1.4 Trillion by 2024.

With the ROI of business travel more important than ever travel management is in high demand. Securing the most cost effective rates for lodging, flights, and ground transportation that also alleviates any scheduling conflicts of the trip has been very costly when it comes to an employees time.

A travel management company like Global Resort Options (GRO) can tailor your plans based on your budget, and offer a plethora of options for your travelers.

Global Resort Options understands that businesses with a large number of travelers face particular challenges. And because of these challenges, no company travel program should go without travel management.

A few crucial travel tech aspects must be included in your trip management:

Simple Booking Tools

While the internet has provided everyone with access to the huge array of alternatives offered by airlines, hotels, and vehicle rental companies, sorting through all of them takes time.

Managers can provide their passengers with booking alternatives that align with the company’s goals, while also addressing the needs of employees, by working with a travel management provider that provides integrated corporate travel technology.

Digital Payment Options

Cost-effective business travel requires accurate tracking and reporting of expenses. Offering digital payment options is one way Global Resort Options can assist you with this. Companies can simply pre-authorize payments with single-use credit cards using digital payment alternatives provided by corporate travel technology.

This approach not only improves operational efficiency, but it also improves billing accuracy, reduces fraud risk, and consolidates spending.

Risk Management

Keeping track of traveling personnel has never been more important in an age where anything can happen at any time.

Corporate risk managers want real-time access to global health and safety hazards, as well as the capacity to communicate these threats to business travelers rapidly.

Corporate travel technology should aid you in managing business travel risk by identifying and assessing risks, locating travelers by name, travel date, and/or location, and immediately verifying safety or providing communication and support in the event of an emergency.

See how exciting new restaurants and entertainment options in the convention district are making Orlando meetings better than ever, including Blake Shelton’s Ole Red at ICON Park®.

Orlando’s legendary International Drive (aka I-Drive) is more than the home of the award-winning Orange County Convention Center (OCCC). It’s also the heart of our world-famous convention and tourism district, which features mouthwatering restaurants and one-of-a-kind entertainment options that are perfect for meetings, events and after-work fun — including more than 75 acclaimed eateries and over 100 unique experiences within a 2-mile radius of the convention center.

Best of all, we keep adding more reasons to meet here with each passing year. Featuring fresh restaurants, unforgettable attractions and unique experiences, here is your insider’s guide to the newest dining and entertainment in Orlando’s convention district!

Learn more: New Reasons to Meet in Orlando

Please note: Depending on the timing of your visit, some experiences may be temporarily modified. Learn more about healthy business travel in Orlando, and check with your preferred businesses for their current status.

New Dining for Meeting Groups in Orlando’s Convention District

Between celebrity chef-driven restaurants, local James Beard honorees, sports-focused pubs, gourmet food trucks, national favorites and more, your group will never run out of amazing things to eat and drink in Orlando.

Learn more: Orlando Dining

On International Drive, hotspots include the open-air ICON Park® and Pointe Orlando dining and entertainment complexes — both close to the convention center — as well as meeting hotels up and down the strip. Just a short drive away, more great options await at the open-air Universal CityWalk at Universal Orlando Resort and Disney Springs® at Walt Disney World® Resort, plus our famous Restaurant Row, where some of Orlando’s finest fare is served up at more than two dozen restaurants, including upscale and casual dining.

Now, meeting in Orlando has gotten even tastier with these fresh additions, all of which have dedicated event space, the expertise to make any off-site or post-work get-together run smoothly, and are close to the Orange County Convention Center. Bon appétit!

Just 1 mile from the Orange County Convention Center on I-Drive, ICON Park features some of Orlando’s most popular attractions and dining options — not to mention one of country music’s biggest modern stars with the recent arrival of Blake Shelton’s Ole Red. Offering an irresistible blend of live music, down-home cooking and true southern hospitality, the venue is an ideal place for everything from small team dinners to full venue buyouts for up to 850 guests. Throw in a chef-driven catering menu, customizable floor configuration, state-of-the-art sound and media system, branding opportunities, and event packages that include ICON Park attractions, and there’s no doubt that Blake Shelton has another hit on his hands.

Knife & Spoon

A famed Top Chef contestant and James Beard Award semifinalist, Chef John Tesar has finally arrived in Orlando courtesy of Knife & Spoon, his brand-new, upscale eatery at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes. In addition to one of Orlando’s most stately dining rooms, the restaurant has an adjacent bar and lounge, which makes the venue highly configurable for group outings.  

The Hampton Social

A famous Chicago venue known for lively dining experiences that seamlessly transition from day-to-night, The Hampton Social has opened its first-ever Florida outpost at Pointe Orlando within easy walking distance of the OCCC. They specialize in exceptional, coastal-inspired food paired with cocktails and live music in a beautifully designed, 10,000-square-foot restaurant space, including an indoor dining room, an expansive outdoor patio, and a full private dining room.

Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill

A longtime presence at Disney Springs and its predecessor, Downtown Disney, Chef Wolfgang Puck needs no introduction to serious gourmets. His all-new Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grillhighlights the best of the famous chef’s signature dishes with Mediterranean influences, innovative takes on comfort classics, and handcrafted cocktails, beer and wine. The venue also captures the essence of laid-back Californian dining in a dynamic setting inspired by traditional farmhouses with a touch of elegance. Everything up to full venue buyouts are available, providing capacity for as many as 475 guests.

City Works Eatery & Pour House

New at Walt Disney World Resort’s open-air Disney Springs, City Works Eatery & Pour Housepairs 100 draft handles and eight wines on tap with brilliant twists on classic American pub food, all served up in an energetic atmosphere. With outdoor and indoor seating options, the venue can accommodate a wide range of events, which can take advantage of 17 flat-screen TVs and state-of-the-art audio, including an enormous video wall.

Gordon Ramsay Fish & Chips

With the debut of Gordon Ramsay Fish & Chips at ICON Park in August 2021, Orlando has gained another celebrity chef — one of many throughout the area. No reservations are required for this fast-casual concept, which specializes in Ramsay’s take on the classic English favorite. A must-visit for meeting attendees who want to cross all our celebrity chefs off their bucket lists!

New Entertainment for Meeting Groups in Orlando’s Convention District

It’s no secret that Orlando offers endless entertainment options, encompassing not just our theme parks and attractions but also posh lounges, high-energy nightclubs, live music, theater, professional sports and just about anything else that your attendees like to do for fun. You’ll find the lion’s share of it within a 2-mile radius of the Orange County Convention Center, and new ways to play get added with each passing year — including these fresh experiences.

New at Orlando’s Theme Parks

Your attendees can experience new worlds of wonder at Orlando’s famous, open-air theme parks, starting with Jurassic World VelociCoaster at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, part of Universal Orlando Resort. And at Universal Studios Florida, your group can thrill to The Bourne Stuntacular, a cutting-edge, live action show. These new additions are based on their respective blockbuster film franchises.

At Discovery Cove®, Flamingo Mingle is an exclusive animal experience where attendees can feed and learn about flamingos in an outdoor setting. Meanwhile, SeaWorld® Orlando is set to debut Ice Breaker in February 2022, marking the park’s first launch coaster.

And if your group is meeting in Orlando on or after Oct. 1, 2021, through 2022, you are cordially invited to Walt Disney World Resort’s 50th anniversary gala, “The World’s Most Magical Celebration.” Expect special surprises at all of Disney’s Orlando theme parks. Speaking of which, EPCOT® is set to debut its newest attraction, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, on Oct. 1, while Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway will still be new to most if not all of your attendees at Disney’s Hollywood Studios®.

Dezerland Park

There’s a brand-new place for groups to meet and play on International Drive: the 800,000-square-foot Dezerland Park. Inside, attendees can choose from a wide range of affordably priced attractions with more on the way, including Axecelsior Axe Throwing, Karting Orlando, The Pinball Palace, Bowling Orlando, Jump Start Trampoline Park and Arcade Orlando. Meeting professionals will be particularly interested in the 250,000-square-foot Orlando Auto Museum, which is ideal for large events, and the Bond Lounge & Exhibit, which is a sit-down restaurant with a massive collection of James Bond memorabilia.

Museum of Illusions

New at ICON Park, Museum of Illusions makes for an amazingly unexpected event space, and they also offer discounted admission for groups of 15 or more. Inside, your attendees can marvel at 50 immersive, interactive exhibits based on science, psychology and math, all designed to trick the eyes and mind.

Original Beer Spa

This new venue on International Drive is exactly what it sounds like. The Original Beer Spa offers beer treatment spa rooms for one to four adults at a time, in which your attendees will literally soak in beer. The experience includes one or two soaking tubs depending on the selected package, 60 minutes of the in-room infrared sauna, a full bathroom, a hay-covered lounge area, and complimentary self-serve beer. Don’t worry, you won’t be serving yourself from the tub!

With more airlines resuming service and constant upgrades at our airports, it is increasingly easy to meet in Orlando.

Updated September 28, 2021

If your organization is ready to travel for business again or already doing it, you’ll be glad to know that many of the biggest airlines have resumed service to Orlando or are scheduled to do so in the near future. What’s more, upgrades at Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) continue to improve our already impressive airlift, all while keeping safety front and center. We look forward to hosting you again soon!

Learn more: Orlando Transportation

Please note: Depending on the timing of your visit, some experiences may be temporarily modified. Learn more about healthy business travel in Orlando, and check with your preferred businesses for their current status.

Airline Updates at Orlando International Airport

Airlines Resuming Domestic Service to Orlando Through December 2021

If your organization has been waiting on your preferred airline to resume service to Orlando, check this list. You can also view Orlando International Airport’s latest flight updates at OrlandoAirports.net. (Please note that all scheduled flights are subject to change.)

October 2021

• Frontier Airlines: Columbus, OH; Des Moines, IA; New York/Stewart, NY
• Spirit Airlines: Cartagena, Colombia — Oct. 1 & 4, 2021 only (*); Manchester, NH
• WestJet: Calgary, Alberta (*)

November 2021

• Alaska Airlines: San Francisco, CA
• Avelo Airlines: New Haven, CT
• Frontier Airlines: Bloomington, IL; Burlington, VT; Cartagena, Colombia — resumes permanent service Nov. 18, 2021 (*); Cedar Rapids, IA; Colorado Springs, CO; Cozumel, Mexico (*); El Paso, TX; Fargo, ND; Fayetteville/Springfield, AR; Ft. Myers, FL; Green Bay, WI; Harlingen, TX; Kansas City, MO; Knoxville, TN; Liberia, Costa Rica (*); Little Rock, AR; Madison, WI; Montego Bay, Jamaica (*); Nassau, Bahamas (*); Omaha, NE; Pensacola, FL; Phoenix, AZ; Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (*); San Salvador, El Salvador (*); Sioux Falls, SD
• Southwest Airlines: Syracuse, NY
• Spirit Airlines: Cartagena, Colombia (*); Miami, FL; Pensacola, FL; San Salvador, El Salvador (*)
• Sun Country Airlines: Madison, WI

December 2021

• Aer Lingus: Manchester, England (*)
• Air Canada: Quebec City, Quebec (*)
• Avianca Airlines: Cali, Colombia (*)
• Frontier Airlines: Antigua & Barbuda (*); Belize City, Belize (*); Providenciales, Turks & Caicos (*)

(*) – Subject to government approval/removal of travel bans/opening of borders.

Frontier Airlines

This low-fare carrier has announced 17 new non-stop routes to Orlando, including several connecting to domestic destinations. Launching in late 2021, Frontier’s new Orlando routes are scheduled to include:​

• Antigua & Barbuda
• Belize City, Belize
• Bentonville, AR
• Cedar Rapids, IA
• Cozumel, Mexico
• El Paso, TX
• Fargo, ND
• Fort Myers, FL
• Harlingen, TX
• Liberia, Costa Rica
• Montego Bay, Jamaica
• Nassau, The Bahamas
• New Windsor, NY
• Pensacola, FL
• San Salvador, El Salvador
• Sioux Falls, SD
• Turks & Caicos

United Airlines

This popular airline is giving passengers access to virtual, on-demand customer service at their hubs, resulting in an easy, contact-free way to get real-time information and support. Just scan the QR codes displayed on signage throughout United’s hub airports, including MCO, to call, text or video-chat live with a representative via “Agent on Demand.” They can provide answers to any questions you might have, including queries about seat assignments, upgrades, flight status and more. It’s also multilingual thanks to the service’s translation functionality.

Hawaiian Airlines

This airline is now offering two weekly flights between Honolulu and Orlando International Airport, making the latter the only airport in Florida to offer direct access to and from the Aloha State.

Ongoing Enhancements at Orlando Airports

Upcoming Improvements

Already ranked as J.D. Power & Associates’ No. 1 mega airport in the southeastern U.S. in terms of customer satisfaction, Orlando International Airport is adding a new South Terminal Complex (STC) that is expected to open in 2022 and is the cornerstone of MCO’s $3.82 billion Capital Improvement Program.

Once the STC is complete, the airport will gain 15 new gates capable of accommodating up to 20 aircraft simultaneously, including narrow-body, jumbo and super-jumbo jets, allowing for an additional 10-12 million annual passengers. The terminal’s first Passenger Boarding Bridges (PBBs) were installed in May 2021, providing a clear sign that preparations are moving toward completion.

Designed as the world’s first LEEDv4 airport campus, the STC will also benefit from numerous technological and customer-convenience features. Travelers can look forward to:

• 100% automated screening lanes at the TSA checkpoint;
• Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)-enabled Tote Baggage Handling System for efficient tracking and expedited checked-baggage delivery;
• Early Bag Storage robotic system with 1,800-bag capacity, making MCO the only airport in the world to deploy the full system;
• Virtual Ramp Control system for airline aircraft operations; and,
• Large-scale interactive digital media displays providing immersive, high-definition visual experiences.

Regarding the STC’s innovative baggage-handling system, the most noticeable elements will be the revolving carousels, which, unlike other airports, will be located on the same level that passengers deplane, with bags literally rising up to meet their owners. In addition to heightened convenience and a striking visual effect, the baggage-handling area’s skylight canopies and floor-to-ceiling windows will provide a pleasing welcome to Central Florida.

Offering more vertical circulation than a traditional conveyer-belt system, the STC’s RFID-enabled tote system will be the key to transporting baggage from the ground to top levels. Other benefits provided by the tote system will include significant noise reduction compared to a traditional system, the ability to run at over 99% up time, the near-complete elimination of baggage jams, and the ability to reroute totes and baggage around areas closed for maintenance.

MCO is also set to become the country’s first airport to be served by intercity rail with the anticipated arrival of Brightline high-speed rail in 2022. This will enable the 3-story South Terminal to offer seamless integration of air, ground and rail transportation, thanks to its adjacent positioning to the South Airport Automated People Mover (APM) Complex and Intermodal Terminal Facility.

Meanwhile, Orlando Sanford International Airport’s $65 million expansion and renovation project is nearly complete. In addition to adding a bigger and brighter ticketing hall, the upgrades include options for curbside check-in and extended canopies over external doors. SFB is located about 35 minutes north of Orlando’s main convention district.

Safety Enhancements

Orlando International Airport has long been committed to the safety of passengers and employees. It’s why MCO and its onsite Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport worked hard to earn the Global Biorisk Advisory Council’s (GBAC) Star Accreditation — the gold standard of safe venues, and two of many Orlando facilities to earn the distinction (including the Orange County Convention Center).

Our primary airport has also developed an enhanced cleaning schedule and implemented updated security procedures from the TSA, while requiring that all 22,000 badged airport employees wear facial coverings inside airport public areas. And thanks to MCO’s personal protective equipment (PPE) vending machines, travelers have fast access to a variety of face masks, hand sanitizers and similar equipment.

Orlando Sanford International Airport is similarly partnering with government officials and the CDC to help protect you. As a result, Orlando continues to be one of the nation’s safest destinations for air travel.

REAL ID Coming in 2023

Starting May 3, 2023, anyone planning on flying to Orlando for business or pleasure will need to secure REAL ID-compliant identification prior to departure.

Passed in 2005, the REAL ID Act will require a REAL ID-compliant card issued by a state’s driver’s-licensing agency or an acceptable alternative for all domestic U.S. travelers ages 18 and up who wish to fly on commercial aircraft. Acceptable alternatives will include Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs) issued by Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont and Washington, as well as U.S. passports.

Most states have already begun issuing REAL ID-compliant identification for new cards and renewals. Depending on your state of residency, REAL ID cards will display a gold star, a black star, a gold circle with white star, a black circle with white star, or (in California only) a gold bear with white star.

If you or your meeting attendees haven’t started the process to get your REAL ID or acceptable alternative yet, start soon — we would hate for anyone to miss the chance to meet in Orlando!

When you meet in Orlando, your attendees will never run out of things to do once the workday is done — and when you meet here during the autumn months, they’ll never run out of things to eat thanks to delicious culinary celebrations throughout the destination! From theme park events to special hotel galas and more, here’s your guide to mouthwatering fall foodie festivals in Orlando.

Please note: Depending on the timing of your visit, some experiences may be temporarily modified or closed. Learn more about healthy business travel and safety information in Orlando, and check with your favorite businesses for their current status.

Fall Food Festivals at Orlando Theme Parks

Epcot® International Food & Wine Festival at Walt Disney World® Resort (Aug. 29 – Nov. 23, 2019)

Included with admission to Epcot, the 2019 edition of this legendary, globally inspired festival at Walt Disney World Resort is set to run a record-shattering 87 days, giving your group a wide window of opportunity to experience it.

More importantly, it also provides the chance to sample food and beverages from around the world courtesy of more than 30 Global Marketplaces, which extend from Future World to the World Showcase promenade. Plenty of favorites are back for encores, including countries such as Brazil, China, France, India, Japan, Mexico and more, as well as unique options like Active Eats, The Cheese Studio Hosted by Boursin®, The Chocolate Studio, Shimmering Sips Mimosa Bar, and others. You can also look forward to numerous newcomers, including Appleseed Orchard (featuring apple-inspired beers, ciders and cocktails), The Donut Box, Cool Wash (where you can create frozen beverages), and The Alps.

The menu selections are complemented by special events and live entertainment, beginning with the “Eat to the Beat” concert series. The latter is showcasing 249 concerts through Nov. 19, including encore appearances from Boyz II Men, Hanson, Plain White T’s, Sheila E., Smash Mouth, Sugar Ray and Tiffany, among others, as well as first-time appearances from BBMak, Boyce Avenue, DCappella, Grace Kelly, INDIA, Jimmie Allen, Kris Allen, Lauren Daigle, Sawyer Brown, Spanish Harlem Orchestra, Southern Avenue and Zach Williams.

If your group would like guaranteed seating at one of this year’s shows, opt for specially ticketed “Eat to the Beat” dining packages, which also include breakfast, lunch or dinner at your choice of Epcot restaurants.

Another feature that’s perfect for groups is the specially ticketed “Party for the Senses” — a grand tasting experience showcasing the finest creations from all of the main festival’s represented countries. Free to attend but requiring reservations, other programming includes:

• “Sunday Brunch With the Chef” series, starring celebrity chefs such as Cat Cora, Carla Hall, Buddy Valastro and Andrew Zimmern
• “Tailgate Tasting Hosted by ESPN’s Monday Night Football” on select Sundays
• “Mix It, Make It, Celebrate It!” hands-on workshops
• Book & Bottle signings by some of the world’s top vintners and chefs
• Appearances by popular TV chefs and other culinary icons
• Culinary Demonstrations through Nov. 16
• Beverage Seminars through Nov. 17

Attendees who are bringing their kids with them will also be interested in the festival’s special offerings for children, such as Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak Scavenger Hunt and the popular Candy Sushi interactive experience. Last but not least, a wealth of new festival merchandise featuring Chef Minnie and Chef Mickey make for unforgettable keepsakes of your group’s time in Orlando. If you’re meeting in Orlando from Nov. 29 – Dec. 30, make plans for the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays, showcasing Holiday Kitchens and a festival global tour.

Craft Beer Festival at SeaWorld® Orlando (Weekends, Sept. 7 – Oct. 27, 2019)

Included with park admission, this event at SeaWorld Orlando is perfect for the beer-lovers in your group. And given that it’s expanded to eight weekends for 2019, you’ll have more opportunities than ever to experience its delicacies.

Per the event’s name, beer is the main attraction, including more than 100 drafts made right here in Florida, plus select domestic and international craft favorites. Your attendees won’t go hungry, either, because the festival also offers a selection of gourmet dishes designed to pair perfectly with the brews. Bottoms up!

Wonderfall Food & Beverage Guided Tour at Disney Springs® (Starts Sept. 20)

During this event, the foodies in your group can enjoy the comforting, spiced flavors of fall courtesy of special menu items at eateries throughout Disney Springs®.

Fall Food Festivals Throughout Orlando

Food & Wine Weekends at Waldorf Astoria® Orlando (Weekends, Sept. 13 – Nov. 24, 2019) Minutes from Walt Disney World Resort, Waldorf Astoria

Orlando is hosting 11 weekends packed with an impressive menu of culinary treats, including mouthwatering gourmet tastings and exquisite wine pairings. The festival offers a full schedule of ticketed events hosted by the Waldorf Astoria’s acclaimed onsite restaurants. Each Friday and Saturday, your group can attend tasting events with Bull & Bear®, La Luce® and Zeta Asia, as well as “Sip, Swirl & Savor — A Wine Tasting Experience.” On Saturdays only, enjoy “Cocktail Creations,” “Pop Culture” (featuring artisanal popsicles), and the decadent “Bar du Chocolat,” boasting a selection of a-la-carte chocolate treats made by the resort’s world-class pastry team.

Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic (Nov. 8-9, 2019)

Hosted by Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort, this one-weekend event pairs wines from around the world with culinary mastery from the resort’s top chefs, who prepare everything from pasta to pastries. Your attendees can also take advantage of 11 optional, ticketed, educational seminars where they can learn about cheese-pairing, pasta-making or even the fine art of sushi and sake, and increase their knowledge about wines, cocktails and beer.

Admission options include a causeway ticket, which provides unlimited samples of all food and beverages as well as entry to the Beer Garden, and a-la-carte booklets, which include 25 tickets that can be exchanged for samples. Paid admission is also required for the event’s seminars.

FusionFest (Nov. 30 – Dec. 1, 2019)

Taking place Thanksgiving weekend, this two-day event is one of Orlando’s most unique cultural celebrations, inviting your attendees to discover the world. In addition to a cornucopia of dishes from around the world, it features interactive experiences and contests celebrating fashion, music, dance, short films and more, all designed to honor each person’s heritage while exploring how we influence each other and create our own unique identity.

Representing 160 different heritages, FusionFest is free to attend, with food, beverages and merchandise available for purchase. It’s held at the outdoor Seneff Arts Plaza at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Orlando.