The allure of all-inclusive resorts can often seem dreamy and distant, but more corporate events are discovering the appeal for business. Case in point: In March, a global shipping company hosted a corporate event at the Hilton Cancun, an all-inclusive resort, buying out all 715 guest rooms of the hotel and convention center with 68,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space that opened in November 2021. 

At the forefront of this vibrant industry lies Nicole Tilzer, Hilton’s vice president of All-Inclusive and Resort Strategy, who plays a lead role in shaping the unforgettable experiences that guests enjoy across Hilton’s diverse array of properties. 

During a site visit at the Hilton Cancun Mar Caribe, we sat down with Tilzer who shed light on the immense potential and unique offerings of Hilton’s all-inclusive portfolio, revealing not only the scope of the conference services but also the very essence that makes these destinations unlike any other for corporate events. 

Here are five takeaways from our interview. Watch the full interview here. 

1. Ease of Planning and Execution 

"We can tailor an event for any type of group at an all-inclusive, and the best part of doing an event is the planning is so much easier when you come to an all-inclusive, especially when you come to Hilton," said Tilzer, her enthusiasm mirrored by the vibrant atmosphere of the resort. With an impressive portfolio of 15 all-inclusives and more than 300 resorts globally, Hilton blends traditional hospitality expertise with modern expectations. 

2. From Meetings to Moments: Flexibility and Customization 

Hilton’s all-inclusive destinations are an ideal fit for various corporate events, including meetings, conventions, and incentive trips. The ease of planning and transparent budgeting combined with a myriad of customizable options provide a seamless experience for meeting planners and attendees alike. "Whether it's a convention or a corporate event, we can tailor the experience for what your audience needs," Tilzer said. 

3. Embracing Local Culture 

A remarkable attribute of Hilton's resorts is their dedication to cultural authenticity. Hilton ensures that each guest leaves feeling connected to their surroundings with events and offerings unique to the locale. "We bring the culture to life—from property design to entertainment, food, and spa treatments," Tilzer said. This dedication to authenticity ensures that guests gain a sense of location-specific identity even if they never step off the resort grounds. 

4. The Growing Appeal of All-Inclusive Resorts 

As the world has adapted and shifted post-COVID, Hilton’s all-inclusive resorts have witnessed a resurgence. Tilzer shared that the mix of guests is continuously evolving, with corporate retreats gaining momentum year over year. "We are seeing more of that corporate comeback,” she said. Crucially, Hilton’s ability to articulate the value of all-inclusive resorts to meeting planners fosters this growth, transforming preconceptions and unveiling new possibilities.  

5. Personalization Par Excellence 

For meeting planners, the ability to personalize is as critical as the event itself. Hilton’s “Enclave” at all-inclusive resorts elevates this notion, providing exclusive amenities and settings for VIP guests and tailored events. Planners can book luxurious enclaves within resorts, ensuring exclusivity and custom walkthroughs for their events. "It’s an experience within an experience—it's not just one thing," Tilzer said. 

Hilton’s all-inclusive resorts offer not only picturesque environments but also comprehensive, immersive, and customizable experiences for event planners. As Tilzer aptly concluded, these destinations are designed to make planners the “heroes” of their events, ensuring every detail aligns with their vision, and every moment is nothing short of exceptional. 

Main image: The lobby at the Hilton Cancun, an all-inclusive resort that opened in 2021. A major global corporation bought out the property to host an event here in March.