Are Business Travelers Going Back to Las Vegas’ Consumer Electronics Show?

After much debate, I finally registered less than a month prior to CES. Ironically, this is a good sign for CES because I struggled to find a decent hotel room.

Priceline was the best option. I was attracted to a $105 per night deal for a four-star Strip hotel. Unfortunately, taxes, fees and the dreaded resort fee made $105 into $180. When I found out that the hotel in question was an elderly Tropicana, built in 1957, it became apparent that Priceline had introduced grade inflation to its rating system.

Although early signs point to CES 2023 being a success, business leaders and travelers should still consider COVID-19 a potential risk. The COVID risk in Nevada is low, and the infection rate is stable or declining two weeks before the show.

CTA also offers a new set of health protocols to CES 2022.

* Regular testing is the best way to detect COVID, and isolate if you’re infected.

* International travelers must present proof of vaccination against COVID in accordance with current CDC guidelines before boarding a flight to America.

* CES will offer rapid antigen testing. We will provide free testing at designated medical stations if you become ill while at CES.

* International attendees who may need a test for their return to their home country will be provided with guidance.

* We encourage COVID vaccinations and boosters, as these vaccines have been shown to reduce the risk of serious illness.

To further reduce the risk of getting sick, we strongly recommend that you get your flu shots every year.

If you feel more comfortable wearing a mask indoors, we ask you to respect others who do.

* The primary aisles of the exhibit floor will be wider than CES 2022 to avoid too close contact.

* Stations for hand sanitization will be located throughout CES venues.

* Use best practices, such as not shaking hands and managing traffic flow at booth stations, meeting areas, and product demonstrations.

Is this enough to make CES COVID a success? Let’s all hope that the CTA is transparent about COVID severity and infection rates, so the business community can make an informed decision.