In January, Davos, a small alpine village, becomes the talk of the town. The World Economic Forum (WEF) is attended by presidents, CEOs, innovators, activists and global thinkers. During this meeting, the critical decisions, trends and ideas of the year ahead are discussed. As a business leader, entrepreneur, or policymaker, WEF in Davos is not just an event; it is a chance to meet the most powerful people in the world.
This guide includes all the things you will get to know who will attend, how you will be able to participate and where to stay. Whether you are going to Davos as a businessman or a networker, you are bound to make the WEF experience a success.
The WEF has many strong individuals representing the entire world. Here are the kind of people who shows up.
Presidents, prime ministers and other government leaders are involved in WEF Meet to solve international issues, mend differences, and dictate international policy discourse.
Leaders and founders of large multinational corporations, top CEOs, and leaders gather to network, create partnerships and seek opportunities in the field of innovation, sustainability and international markets.
NGOs, humanitarian organizations, and advocacy groups have their influential voices in the conversations, contributing to the discussions with social, environmental, and community-based knowledge.
Economists, scientists, researchers and specialists present statistics of information, forecasts and remedies of problems like climate change, technology, the health of the world and economic stability.
The young change makers, who are entrepreneurs, activists, innovators, and public figures, bring new ideas and assist in creating discussions about the future.
The World Economic Forum is a very exclusive event that one would need an invitation to attend.
An active participation in reputable industry organizations, international programs, or other powerful organizations can make you known, and the World Economic Forum will consider your name in case of a possible opportunity.
The top officials in government, such as ministers, diplomats, policy advisors and agency heads, might be invited to represent their country in international debates.
Outstanding professionals in their early career can be selected for the WEF program of Young Global Leaders (YGL). The participants of this program usually get the chance to be at the WEF sessions and participate in other programs led by the forum during the year.
During the World Economic Forum, Davos becomes crowded, which makes accommodation virtually unavailable and very expensive. The rooms are sold several months before, and the rates may increase drastically towards the end of the event. You are going there on official business, attending the side events, or just going there in order to network for business; it is important to book your room and Zurich to WEF Davos Transfer early enough.
Hotels in Davos are numerous, yet they are easily booked in the week of WEF. Some of the most widespread categories are below:
Perfect to represent the delegates, CEOs and VIP guests who seek to have comfort, privacy and high-quality services.
AlpenGold Davos (5-Star): An excellent luxury hotel, with luxurious rooms, fine cuisine, breathtaking scenery, and a relaxing spa and sauna- ideal to relax after a hectic meeting at the Congress Center.
Steigenberger Grandhotel Belvédère: One of the historic icons that has hosted heads of state and top executives. It is convenient as it is located in the center of the city, in case of WEF sessions.
Hotel Seehof Davos: Having the proximity to the slopes, the ability to provide a premium alpine environment, as well as access to major event centers in the shortest time possible.
Relaxing, convenient, and affordable as opposed to the finest resorts. The most popular are Ameron Davos, Hilton Garden Inn and Hard Rock Hotel Davos, which have modern rooms, breakfast packages and business amenities that are reliable.
To the degree that the attendants of the networking events do not visit the main WEF venue, smaller boutique hotels and guesthouses offer quiet and comfortable accommodations at a reduced price.
It can be cheaper to rent an apartment or chalet, particularly when it is a team, a startup team, a media crew, or a long delegation.
Why choose this option?
More space and privacy.
Kitchen facilities (best during the busy week when there is a large crowd in the restaurants).
Better value for group stays.
A longer stay in homely comfort.
Modern apartments and fully serviced chalets in Davos Platz and Davos Dorf have easy access to the Congress Center.
Tip: Book your Apartments & Chalets Davos in advance. Premium chalets are usually booked by corporate groups several months prior to the event.
In case Davos rooms are sold or not within your range, the alpine neighboring towns have good substitutes:
Klosters is an attractive, luxurious village within 15-20 minutes of Davos by either train or a private Zurich to Davos Transfer.
Quieter, scenic surroundings
Beautiful chalets and boutique hotels
Popular among returning WEF participants who prefer privacy.
It is situated in the Engadin valley, one hour from Davos.
More accommodation options
Stunning landscapes
Good for guests who don’t need to be at the main venue every hour.
Bigger cities, more hotels, and easy access. Great to take on the Zurich to Chur transfer with travelers attending side events or meetings instead of full-day meetings at the WEF.
High-level delegations, corporations and VIPs often make reservations.
Private villas
Secure penthouses
Exclusive chalets with housekeeping and concierge services
These offer:
High privacy
Meeting spaces
Security staff accommodation
Chauffeur-friendly access
Note: The bookings of these properties are normally 6-12 months beforehand.
Make reservations very far ahead in time- 6 months or 1 year.
Rates are high - rooms may be 2-4 times the usual winter rates.
Take into account transportation possibilities.
Cancellation policy checks - WEF plans tend to change; flexible requirements bring a sense of tranquility.
Blend accommodation with Davos chauffeur services in case of staying outside Davos to easily travel on a daily basis.
Staying at a hotel, chalet, visiting nearby villages, and early booking tricks will help to find a comfortable stay and feel the energy, networking, and the global impact of the World Economic Forum to the full extent. The appropriate accommodation will also enable you to remain focused, relaxed and prepared to meet the international leaders during this prestigious event.