APEC gives Hawaii chance to grab meetings market

Hawaii is hoping to use the 2011 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) as a platform to build up its meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (MICE) reputation.

The island, which is seen as a poor place to do business, plans to showcase its business tourism opportunities and cultural diversity to the 10,000 plus people who will arrive for APEC.

Hawaii Tourism Authority president and chief executive Mike McCartney told the Victoria Advocate that Hawaii had struggled with the perceived boondoggle effect for decades.

"The APEC meetings will dispel that misconception and position Hawaii as a global business destination"

Hilton Hawaiian Village general manager Jerry Gibson said the attention brought by APEC could also present an advertising opportunity for potential visitors.

"It's a world marketing opportunity for Hawaii. We'll have the eyes of the world on us here"