The Pioneers in Event and “Destination Management” ACCESS Destination Services

“Let us transform your next event into your next inspiring experience.”

Tourism plays a significant role in the economic and social development of many destinations and communities around the world. Destinations seeking to find a balance between their economic, social and environmental aspirations are engaged in ‘destination management’. Destination managers and tourism planners have recognized the need for a more holistic approach to destination planning, development, and marketing. Understanding what constitutes a destination is more than just an academic exercise because it can have real impacts on the breadth of branding required, a business involved, government bodies consulted, and on travelers.

Over the last decade, tourism stakeholders at the destination level have gradually shifted focus from the traditional marketing and promotional functions to the more coordinated strategic approach of destination management.

Headquartered San Diego, California, ACCESS Destination Services provides convenience and comprehensive “access” to the best of each destination in North America and around the world. ACCESS sets the standard for professional Destination Management in North America, leveraging its long-established talent and experience to design and deliver exclusive and unique group programs to satisfied clients from around the world.

Deep Dive into ACCESS

Established in 1969 as California Leisure Consultants, ACCESS has grown considerably – from a single-destination DMC in Southern California to a globally recognized DMC leader serving more than 100 destinations in 30 countries. Generally recognized as pioneering and coining the term “Destination Management”, ACCESS is a company rich in experience, tradition, and history.

Since its inception, ACCESS sets the standard for excellence in award-winning destination management services. The firm is your single source for everything from creative special event and program design, to transportation logistics, corporate social responsibility programs, and recreational activities. With global capabilities and local expertise, ACCESS will meet your objectives and exceed your expectations for corporate, incentive and association groups.

From concept and design through operation, ACCESS is your DMC partner from the very beginning, ensuring the success of your meetings and events. Through its vast connections, ACCESS is the first to learn about new venues and activities, and it is continually developing innovative ideas to give you access to the best of each destination.

ACCESS operates under one single brand, with the consistency of service, contract terms, insurance, and value – combining the knowledge and intimacy of a local, owner-operated destination management company with the diversity and efficiency of a 45-year strong global brand.

ACCESS: To inspire people through shared experiences

CEO of ACCESS, Christopher H. Lee reveals “We believe in the power of shared experiences and we know that one of our clients’ primary goals is to inspire people. We know that shared experiences create the opportunity to both inspire and be inspired and inspired people to drive organizational success.”

ACCESS’ culture is based on the recognition of and adherence to the following values, which guide the company in its management, policies, procedures, decisions, communication, and interaction with clients, vendors, business associates and ACCESS team members.

• Integrity
• Respect
• Teamwork
• Service
• Leadership

 A Glimpse of ACCESS’ Global Alliances       

ACCESS has formed global alliances with Pacific World and Amstar – two of the most recognized and highly regarded DMC brands in the industry. Through these alliances, you can partner with ACCESS when planning events virtually anywhere in the world – bringing you unparalleled access to more than 100 destinations in 30 countries.

Pacific World: Pacific World is a dedicated Destination Management and Event Management company operating in 29 countries and over 50 destinations throughout Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and

Africa. Pacific World’s success is the result of decades of experience providing creative solutions based on logistical excellence for meetings, incentives, conferences, and events. A company that leverages the expertise provided by some of the industry’s leading Destination Management professionals. 

Amstar: Amstar Destination Management Company has proudly been in operation since 1989. Delivering memorable programs all over Mexico, Jamaica, Dominican Republic and Hawaii, Amstar has been recognized for delivering World Class Customer Service. Its Meetings and Incentives teams in all destinations are leaders in setting the trends, creating dynamic programs, and having the best loyal clients in the industry. Continuing Education has always been the focus for the Amstar team, and a three year initiative with the Dale Carnegie Institute reiterates this commitment.

Happy Clients

“I’ve worked with quite a few event destination management companies, and this event with ACCESS, by far, exceeded our expectations. Everything was extremely well organized and managed...things ran efficiently and on time...no hiccups, which is always an amazing feat for a large group.”

- Event Marketing Manager, Kyocera Communications, Inc.

“Everyone at ACCESS has been great to work with. They are accommodating, respond quickly, are professional, and overall great to work with! NYL really enjoys our relationship with ACCESS.”

- Event Planner, New York Life

“ACCESS always makes life easy for me and allows me to focus on other conference related issues.”

- Event Coordinator, Jack Henry, and Associates, Inc.

The CEO Corner

Christopher H. Lee, CEO: Chris began his destination management career in the early 1980′s, working for ACCESS Destination Services (then named California Leisure Consultants) in San Diego and Los Angeles. In 1989 Chris purchased the San Diego office and became President of that operation. He is a Co-founder and Past President of the Association of Destination Management Executives, a contributing author to “The Guide To Successful Destination Management”, and the 2006 Destination Management Professional of the Year honoree. Chris was also named one of the 25 most influential people in the meetings industry by Meeting News Magazine. He is a featured speaker and serves on numerous advisory boards in the hospitality industry.

“The growth of ACCESS can be attributed to our commitment to our brand promise, our company vision and values, and always listening to our clients, and being where they want and need us most.”