IMEX 2024

As a first-time hosted buyer for IMEX 2024, I decided to get a head start on the chaos that awaited me in Las Vegas. Arriving early on Sunday, 10/6/24, was my way of saying, "I’ve got this." I also wanted to absorb the city’s energy before diving headfirst into SMART Monday meetings.

Day 1—Arrival (Sunday, 10/6/24) After a five-hour flight from DCA to Vegas (shared with a colorful crowd of a few IMEX attendees and party-goers), I arrived, still unsure why so many are enamored of Sin City. Yet, the dry heat hit me like an old friend, reminding me of my Arizona days.

A little Vegas victory: I was able to check in early at the Mandalay Bay Hotel. That’s when I knew I was off to a good start. The rest of the day? I took it slow, gearing up for the marathon that everyone warned me about. Pro tip: If you want to unwind before the madness, catch a show! I saw the Michael Jackson One by Cirque du Soleil show—it’s a thriller.

Day 2—Smart Monday: I entered the convention floor and was immediately overwhelmed by the desire to see everything. But, of course, my brain short-circuited. Luckily, I had prepared by reviewing the education sessions in advance. I attended a few talks with fresh perspectives, which energized me.

Then came the highlight: an unexpected massage courtesy of one of the destinations. Afterward, I topped off the day with a delicious dinner at Giada’s. Not too shabby, right?

Day 3 - The 9-Appointment Dash! Here’s where things got real. I had nine back-to-back appointments, and thank goodness I grouped them by location, or I would have needed roller skates. The trick? Hydration and snacks. Unfortunately, I was always hunting for a water refill and solid food to get me through. Yes, I packed snacks, but there’s only so much granola can do. By the evening, I was off to three hosted receptions before collapsing into bed.

Day 4—Accor Day: All business days should begin with an Accor client breakfast on a high floor with a spectacular view of Vegas. With seven appointments ahead, it was great to reconnect with familiar faces and meet new ones. The cherry on top was Accor’s evening reception—it was hands-down the best event I attended.

Day 5—The Final Stretch The last day started with a new connection: we discussed our business journeys over coffee. Six appointments later, I was still impressed by the dedication of attendees who stayed until the end. That red-eye back to DC (with a Phoenix layover, because why not?) was brutal but worth every moment.

What I Learned from My First IMEX as a HOSTED Buyer:

Plan your schedule meticulously. Seriously, this is no place for winging it.

Appointments will dominate your time. If you want to attend educational sessions, you must carve out specific time slots. Otherwise, it’s like trying to switch from left brain to right brain on a rollercoaster.

It’s a marathon, not a sprint. Walking is your new best friend, so don’t carry the world on your back. Also, do yourself a favor and schedule breaks—not just for water and food but for bathroom stops, too. Trust me, you'll thank me later.

IMEX 2024 was a whirlwind, and I wouldn't have it any other way.