Convention and visitors bureaus are like a key to the city. They can:

1. Help to locate meeting space, check hotel availability, and arrange for site inspections.

2. Assist in all areas of meeting preparation and provide reference materials.

3. Establish room blocks at local hotels.

4. Market the destination to attendees via promotional materials.

5. Act as a liaison between the planner and community officials, thus clearing the way for special permits, street closures, etc.

6. Obtain special letters of welcome from high-ranking government officials and, in some cases, bring officials to speak at a meeting.

7. Offer suggestions about ways that attendees can maximize free time, along with helping to develop spouse programs and pre- and post-meeting tours.

8. Assist in creating collateral material.

9. Assist with on-site logistics and registration.

10. Help to secure special venues.

SOURCE: www.iacvb.org