Marriott International identified health protocol options that meeting professionals can choose for group meetings at select Marriott-branded hotels in the United States, beginning in January 2021. The protocols enhance the initiatives already in place with the Connect with Confidence program, recently launched to empower meeting professionals to identify and tailor solutions to best satisfy the needs of their group.

The optional health protocols include self-administered COVID-19 tests taken by guests before arrival or COVID-19 testing administered by a third-party provider on site. Daily temperature checks to enter the event area can be arranged, as can daily and/or pre-arrival health screening questions via a dedicated mobile application.

The new optional health protocols for meetings and events at Gaylord Hotels and Resorts will begin next month. Properties in Florida, Tennessee, Texas and Colorado are applicable. The protocols are expected to then roll out at certain other U.S. Marriott-branded hotels.

The Connect with Confidence program, launched in August, offers digital content and best practices for meeting professionals to plan future events. In November, a global series of hybrid virtual and in-person events was held in Virginia to showcase Marriott’s reimagined processes and meeting spaces. Marriott also has a Global Cleanliness Council and a Commitment to Clean, launched earlier this year.

“These new health protocols provide options for meeting professionals as they plan and host meetings, conferences, and events,” said Tammy Routh, senior vice president, Global Sales Organization, Marriott International. “Building upon the work of our Global Cleanliness Council, we engaged industry-leading experts and through a thorough review process, identified third party providers capable of offering the health protocols that meeting professionals want and need for future events.”

Has your company had a meeting or event since the pandemic began? Was it held virtually or in person? Would you consider hosting an in-person event knowing these options exist? Tell us about it. Email us at letters@globaltravelerusa.com. Please include your full name and location.