It’s not hard to imagine why meeting professionals seeking the wonder of turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and the warm sun of the tropics, come together in the Caribbean. Who doesn’t like to combine business and leisure?

The Lone Star State is shining bright and its main hubs — Fort Worth, El Paso, San Austin, Houston, San Antonio and Dallas — have made themselves more appealing, developing at lighting speed and creating venues perfect for holding city-wide events to smaller meetings.

When Deanita Davis, CMP, the vice president of meetings for the National Multifamily Housing Council, began planning two gatherings for association members last year, she found Las Vegas was an ideal choice.

The forecast calls for an abundance of sunshine for Florida’s meetings and conventions industry following another year of positive growth in the Sunshine State.

It’s no wonder that Arizona is a go-to destination for so many associations and convention planners, as it’s easy to entertain attendees in between conference sessions and offers plenty of fun.

It’s no wonder why Orlando, Florida is such a magnet for meeting and events planners.

It is more than just Arizona’s pretty view that brings a unique experience to the association and corporate destination market.

Like the legendary cowboy culture, Tex-Mex cuisine, strong southern hospitality and a profound love for football, meetings are big in the state of Texas.

From the beautiful scenery of Long Beach to the innovative environs of Sacramento, to the creative experiences in San Francisco, the Golden State has inspired generations of association professionals who have held meetings, conventions and events in this great state.

Colorado has become a beacon for association meeting planners looking for a combination of urban amenities and a stunning backdrop, be it for a weekend or an entire week of association events.