Jacuzzis and mirrored ceilings? The 2024 UN Biodiversity Conference had to turn to “Love Motels” to house its attendee overflow
Turns out saving the planet is exhausting work.
When the world’s environmental leaders descended on Cali, Colombia for the 2024 UN Biodiversity Conference (COP16), the city faced an unexpected challenge: where to house them all. With traditional hotels overflowing, event organizers turned to a novel solution – Cali’s famed “love motels.”
This unusual situation, sparked by an unexpectedly large turnout for the summit, highlights the logistical hurdles event planners face in an increasingly unpredictable world. “We were caught off guard,” admitted one local organizer, who spoke on condition of anonymity. “The surge in delegate numbers exceeded our initial projections.”
Known for their discreet entrances, themed rooms, and amenities geared towards short-term stays, these establishments might seem an unlikely choice for international delegates. Yet, with some minor adjustments, they proved a surprisingly viable option. “We were initially concerned about the optics,” admitted a COP16 organizer, speaking on condition of anonymity. “But with limited options, we had to get creative.”
Ultimately, the love motels, with their hourly rates and risqué amenities, proved surprisingly adaptable for the conference. Motel Deseos, for example, removed its more suggestive decor, added breakfast service, and offered discounted daily rates. “We had to remove some of the more, shall we say, romantic features,” chuckled Maria Fernanda, manager of Motel Deseos, “But the delegates seem quite comfortable.” Indeed, features like mirrored ceilings and heart-shaped jacuzzis remained, offering a unique cultural experience for attendees.
The result? Delegates enjoyed spacious rooms with unique features like jacuzzis and mirrored ceilings, often at lower costs than traditional hotels.
“It’s certainly a memorable experience,” said one delegate from the UK. “Not your typical conference accommodation, but it’s comfortable and convenient.”
This unexpected lodging arrangement adds a touch of irony to a conference focused on preserving biodiversity. As delegates grapple with the grim realities of habitat loss and species extinction, their own temporary displacement serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of human activity and the natural world.
The situation also underscores the importance of flexibility and creative problem-solving in event planning. “This is a lesson for us all,” said a spokesperson for the UN Environment Programme. “We need to be prepared for the unexpected, and sometimes that means thinking outside the box – or the traditional hotel room.”
“We were initially surprised by the suggestion,” admitted Aggrey Rwetsiba, a Ugandan delegate, “But it’s certainly been a memorable stay.”
The move also proved a boon for local businesses. “The summit has been fantastic for us,” says Fernanda. “We’re completely booked, and the delegates have been respectful guests.”
The COP16 experience demonstrates that with a little creativity, even the most unusual venues can be successfully adapted to meet event needs. So, the next time you’re facing a capacity crunch, remember – there’s always a solution, even if it involves a heart-shaped jacuzzi. And perhaps, just perhaps, a touch of romance. After all, when you’re fighting to save the planet, a little love in the air can’t hurt.
Any thoughts, opinions, or news? Please share them with me at vince@meetingsevents.com.
Photo by Wyron A on Unsplash
