Situated at an elevation of more than 5,000 feet in the Swiss Alps, Davos, Switzerland, is more than a fabulous ski resort. It has also become, thanks to the World Economic Forum, one of the world's most recognized meeting spots.

The World Economic Forum, which meets annually in January, brings together thousands of business leaders, heads of state, academics, and journalists. Every hotel in Davos is booked (it might be the only time you'll find a head of state bedding down in three-star lodging), and more than 2,000 staff are needed to put on the four-day event.

The forum takes place at the Davos Congress Centre (where MPI PEC-Europe was held in March). Originally built in 1969, the congress center has been extended and renovated twice since then. Now considered to be among the most modern venues in Switzerland, it has three wings and 22 meeting rooms, accommodating up to 2,500 meeting attendees at one time.

The Steigenberger Grandhotel Belvédere, perhaps the most famous hotel in Davos, is a three-minute walk from the congress center. It has 131 guest rooms and suites, and five conference rooms that accommodate up to 500 people. Mountain restaurants (bergrestaurant in German) are readily available for off-site events. Bergrestaurant Pischa at the top of Mount Pischa has breathtaking views of the city 2,000 feet below and is accessible by cable car.