Destination Caribbean & Islands welcomed 130 guests to the tropical paradise. Photo Credit: Matt Klinger, Mad Pix Pro
Northstar's Destination Caribbean & Islands, a hosted-buyer event that took place Aug. 2-5, showcased Miches and Playa Esmeralda, the Dominican Republic's up-and-coming luxury resort destination. About 130 meeting and incentive planners plus suppliers from the Caribbean region and surrounding islands enjoyed the gorgeous Zemi Miches Punta Cana All-Inclusive Resort, a Curio by Hilton property that debuted in Dec. 2025.
The effervescent Neen James, an expert on luxury and author of Exceptional Experiences, revealed her tips for creating "Champagne moments" that can elevate any event, along with her five luxury levers: entice, invite, excite, delight and ignite.
Guests delighted in the destination's local culture and warm hospitality, from the opening reception at the host property, to the beautiful evening at Club Med Miches Playa Esmeralda, and the final-night White Party at the elegant Secrets Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa.
An afternoon of activities allowed participants to explore off-property experiences: an ATV ride through rural trails, beaches and mangroves; a "lush landscaping" visit to local rice fields that featured tastings of local products and a thrilling helicopter ride above Montaña Redonda; and a catamaran ride offering snorkeling in pristine coves.
The event was made possible by generous sponsors Amstar DMC; Barcelo Hotel Group; Club Med Resorts; Dominican Republic Tourism Board; Lopesan Hotel Group; Secrets Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa; Maui Jim; Zemi Miches Punta Cana All-Inclusive Resort, Curio by Hilton; PC Nametag; and Madison Avenue.
See photo highlights from the event below, taken by Matt Klinger of Mad Pix Pro. To join us at another Northstar gathering, view our events calendar.