Multiple tourism events are held in every country annually but what is the element that makes such an event stand out from others in the industry? Take for example the TMIF 2012 event held in Bangkok, Thailand . MICE events are considered huge events in the tourism sector and the dollar and sense generator for any country’s tourism coffers. Participants and attendees of this event will take the opportunity to evaluate the prospects of the event host country as a potential MICE destination for the following years to come.
Bangkok is not a new venue to hold a MICE event. Keeping attendees coming back for more and Thailand as the top 3 venue for events and conferences becomes more challenging each year. To ensure that Thailand remained a strong contender not only for the tourism industry but also for events meant that the event management teams had to place emphasis on the strong points of service, incentives and attractions.
Unprecedented hospitality
The phrase “Land of Smiles” aptly befitted the representing concept of Thailand. It was service with a smile all the way. Attentiveness to attendees was first-rate, again a reflection of hospitality in the country. One must also admit that the custom to “Wai” or greetings the Thai way played an important role in emphasizing the hospitality concept.
Success and relevance of the topic
Topics of discussion at the event included Thailand as a top destination for tourism. Part of the itinerary for the event included showcasing some of the main attractions of the country. Delegates from the various countries were given well planned tours which included linguists’ guides for various languages. The well co-ordinate effort meant that Thailand had the capabilities to entertain tourists from any country and language was of no barrier.
Exceptional F & B services
One may not think that this is important, but to the hundreds of hungry delegates after each session, hot and palatable food makes all the difference. There have been events attended in other places where even food from world-class hotels was not of the expected quality. The attention to detail from the condition, quality, quantity and presentation of food and beverages served at this event was impeccable as was the quality of service from the waiters and waitresses in attendance.
These may all seem to be small points but the impact and significance in the overall impact of the entire event did leave a lasting impression on many of the delegates who attended. It was a great move to emphasize on these points especially when there was not much else that was considered “new” to the event aside from the topics. Event planners can do well to take note that when all else fails to impress, go back to the basics!
