When I travel to a destination for a site inspection or to assist with a client conference, I always make it a point to arrive a day early.  An early arrival allows me time to “walk” the city and gather information that a client or attendee may require outside of the confines of the hotel.

The following are my Top 10 Services and Facilities a meeting planner should identify in the host city of their next meeting or event.

  1. Copy Center – When you need mass quantities or special printing needs.
  2. Package Delivery – DHL, UPS, FedEx…there’s one in every city.
  3. Pharmacy – A plethora of items for non-emergency needs.
  4. Hospital/Urgent Care – Know where they are located just in case.
  5. Grocery Store – A logical place for fresh fruit, bottled water, snacks, etc.
  6. City Transportation – The nearest bus, trolley or train station.
  7. “The Mall” – It’s exercise not shopping.
  8. Restaurants – You don’t have to be a food critic, just ask the Concierge.
  9. Museums – Art and/or History seem to be the most popular.
  10. Sports Facilities – Football, baseball, basketball and hockey.