EO Global travels in 2023

There are many benefits to being an EO Member and one of its many perks is being able to travel where they get to meet like-minded people from various parts of the world, who share their passion for business, leadership and entrepreneurship.

Being a global organisation with a high-quality support network of 16,500+ diverse business leaders from more than 60 countries, EO provides a lot of once-in-a-lifetime experiences for its members where they also get to explore other places and widen their knowledge. This year, there are several travel opportunities for EO Melbourne members, which both the chapter and the global network have organised.

Some of the most popular EO global travels are the EO Explorations. It kicks off this year as it returns to “the land of fire and ice” with the 2023 EO Iceland Exploration happening from 6 to 11 February 2023. In FY21/22, this Exploration sold out and it is brought back this year to allow more EOers to experience Iceland with a trip only EO can offer.

The most famous sight in Iceland attracts visitors from all over the world: the Northern Lights, a spectacular natural phenomenon. At Aurora Basecamp, guests experience a real-time indoor simulation before venturing outside with an expert guide to view the breathtaking wonder live. Even if you’ve seen them before, each time is a truly memorable experience.

Other EO Explorations lined up this year are the 2023 EO Tanzania Exploration, happening from 30 April to 5 May 2023, and the 2023 EO Mexico Exploration, which is scheduled from 26 October to 1 November 2023. 

In the EO Tanzania Exploration, guests will feel the calming strength of the Serengeti’s animals and people and relish in the warmth of Zanzibar’s waters and intoxicating way of life. After several soul-filling days in the Serengeti, they will fly a few miles off the coast of Tanzania to idyllic Zanzibar, an island oasis teeming with natural beauty, rich history and unparalleled Zanzibari hospitality. They will learn about their turbulent past, indulge in flavorful cuisine and allow the salt water to renew them.

On the other hand, the EO Mexico Exploration is an opportunity for EOers to discover the spirit of Mexico in Oaxaca and the Yucatan in a way only EOers can. This event includes a special treat: on the final night, guests will join other EOers from the LAC region to celebrate the opening night of LACademy.

Apart from the EO Explorations, there are also other EO events where members get the opportunity to fly to other countries. For one, EO is organising its first-ever Leadership Academy for Womenpreneurs. The four-day immersion programme will integrate leadership content, EO experiential learning and social time to create a transformational experience for EO’s women leaders. This powerful personal formation programme will be held in Borobudur, a UNESCO heritage site in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, from 20-23 February.

And the most-awaited global event of EO is the 26th Global Leadership Conference, this year to be held in Cape Town, South Africa from 25 to 27 April 2023. 

Year after year, men and women of EO from around the world make the choice to raise their hands and courageously take on the challenge of creation and leadership. They rally at the Global Leadership Conference (GLC) to learn, grow and think bigger than before. At the GLC, they get the opportunity to engage with fellow entrepreneurs from around the world in one place – one conversation – for the purpose of growing together.

Closer to home, EO Melbourne is taking its Chapter Retreat this year in lush Bali, Indonesia. From 21 to 24 May 2023, EO Melbourne Members and guests will come together to Unleash The New Paradigm with a new mission of self-discovery and a new perspective. Activities and speakers are lined up where they can gain new experiences and possibilities to be stimulated, inspired and armed to take the leap to their greatest potential discovery.

These are just a few global travels that EOers look forward to this year. If you’re interested on how to become an EO Melbourne Member, visit our https://www.eomelbourne.org/join page.

Best cities for business travel

Progress is taking place simultaneously in various parts of the world, and more and more places are growing at an accelerated rate. With all the modernisation and development in cities, many of them become great destinations for business travel. Business trips demand a lot of needs. Whether you travel for meetings, conferences, events, exploration, professional development, networking, company visits, attending EO activities, or incentives, it is important to pick the right place for such important transactions.

They say, go where the business will take you, but if you have a choice when it comes to business travel, there are factors to consider when selecting a place. These are availability and frequency of flights, complete amenities like venues, accommodations, emergency facilities, and restaurants, communication and connectivity, cost, and safety and convenience of travellers.

Travel experts, publications, media, research groups and business entities have come up with lists of places to go for business trips. They have their respective criteria and reasons for picking their destination choices. We find that there are cities that always make it to such lists, so we’ll narrow down and share with you a few names, representing the various regions around the globe.

Sydney, Australia

Starting in Australia, Sydney is among the top destination choices of business travellers and corporate events groups. The city has a modern convention centre, iconic structures, vast flavours and rich cultural vibe. For those who plan to extend their stay, Sydney is the gateway to many Australian adventures, including national parks and nature trails.

Singapore

In Asia, Singapore always comes up in the list of business travel destinations. It’s a hub, so there’s plenty of flights to and from this modern city. Progress and development never seem to stop in this tiny country. There are world-class hotels and amenities, a mix of cultures, and it’s easy to get around. English is also widely spoken here, which makes it easier for travellers to transact their business.

Hong Kong and Shenzhen, China

China is gaining more and more popularity for business travellers. Hong Kong always make it to the lists, especially that many companies have their regional offices in this city. Hong Kong has it all, with its spectacular views and delectable cuisines. It is also a shopper’s haven, ranging from luxurious brands to great buys. Shenzhen is a pleasant addition, although it is not much of a surprise because of its proximity to Hong Kong. It’s a cheaper alternative to Hong Kong, and the city is innovating, drawing businesses to its fold.

Orlando and Miami, Florida, USA

Although New York and California are popular among travellers, whether it’s for business or leisure, Florida is also gaining ground because of its weather and location. Miami, for one, is favoured because of its beaches. It has thousands of hotel rooms that could accommodate large delegations. Orlando, on the other hand, is regarded as one of the US cities that are best equipped to host business events and provide efficient business travel experiences.

Toronto, Canada

Toronto is the biggest Canadian city, which is home to various offices and financial services. Travellers who come here primarily for business can also enjoy some shopping time. Other than that, there are plenty of attractions activities in Toronto, including taking a ferry ride at Lake Ontario.

London, UK

The British capital is also one of the leading financial centres in the world, which is why businesspeople from all over the world would find their way to London. Many top multinationals have offices here, which makes it even more attractive for businesses to hold their meetings and transactions in London. An additional factor is its colourful history and culture.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

If you plan to conduct some business travel in South America, Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro is gaining attention because of its growing economy. More than that, its beaches, energy, culture and tourist spots, such as the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, have been attracting travellers from different parts of the world.

Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico’s Aztec civilisation and fascinating past have drawn travellers to its capital, Mexico City. Manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, consumer products and financial services are industries that are thriving in this city. Business travellers can enjoy more of Mexico after their business meetings because of the many attractions and activities that could interest them.

Although business travel is done primarily to enhance your venture and professional capacity, places that have a local charm can also lure corporates and entrepreneurs to their borders. Business people can also learn an insight or two from these populous cities on the dynamics of culture and market behaviour as they blend in with the locals. As a bonus, they get to take a bit of a break and enjoy the sights and experience the vibe of the places they visit.