My first time at IMEX America!
Last month, I attended IMEX America for the first time with Hilton. It’s an event I’d been meaning to check out for a while, and it was great to finally experience it firsthand. Over three busy days, I met with suppliers, explored the floor, and soaked in as much as possible. Here are a few things I wish I’d known beforehand that might help you if you’re attending for the first time.
Prepare for the heat
Even in October, Las Vegas is hot. With temperatures hitting 37°C during the day, it was much warmer than I’d expected. Coming from the UK, it was a bit of an adjustment, and even the nights stayed around 25-30°C. So, if you’re planning to step outside for a break between meetings, make sure you’ve got sunscreen, a hat, or even an umbrella to stay comfortable.
Make use of the IMEX app
The IMEX app turned out to be more useful than I’d anticipated. It includes an interactive map, which helps with navigating the large show floor, and a messaging feature to contact suppliers if you’re running behind or need to exchange details. The app’s scanning feature is also handy; scanning badges keeps a record of who you met, making it easier to follow up afterward.
Consider arriving a day early
Traveling from the UK to Las Vegas means an 8-hour time difference, which was more tiring than I expected. I travel frequently, but this jet lag hit harder than usual. Day 1 was particularly tough, and I found myself cutting the evening short to catch up on rest. If I’d arrived a day early, I’d probably have been a bit more alert.
Wear comfortable shoes
IMEX is held in a massive exhibition hall, so expect to be on your feet a lot. Between appointments and exploring the booths, you’ll easily hit 15,000-20,000 steps a day. And if you’re walking outside, distances on the Las Vegas Strip are deceptively long. Comfortable shoes are a must. By the end of the day, you’ll be glad you opted for footwear that can handle the mileage.
Schedule breaks to avoid burnout
With so many people to meet, it’s easy to pack your schedule, but that can be exhausting. I found it helpful to schedule small breaks to recharge. A few minutes to grab a drink or quickly visit a booth you hadn’t planned on can help you stay focused throughout the day and keep your conversations productive.
Follow up with connections
It’s easy to forget the details of conversations with so many new contacts. I found it helpful to follow up soon after the event, which gave me the chance to get more information and reinforce new connections. Reaching out within a week of the show helps keep conversations fresh.
IMEX America is definitely worth experiencing if you’re in the MICE industry. It’s a good opportunity to connect with suppliers, gain insights, and find inspiration. These tips might make your experience a bit smoother and help you get the most out of the event.
Written by Nisha Kumar, Senior project manager
