For Mice: It Still 'must Be Thailand'

For MICE: It still 'Must Be Thailand'

Now more than ever, the MICE tourism sector is leaping forward, and with new destinations dedicating themselves to the cause, the choices have never been more varied – so why meet in Thailand? Because it's still a 'must'.

One of the traditional safe havens for Meetings Incentive Conventions and Events (MICE), the MICE industry in Bangkok has become part of everyday business. From finishing touches to unique itineraries, Thailand's seasoned MICE market will guarantee your meeting proceeds as smoothly as possible.

Launching a new 'It Must Be Thailand' educational, the Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) have invited 100 international corporate buyers to once again, acquaint themselves with the country known fondly as 'The Kingdom'.

With a humble smile, the Thai people will help carry off all your MICE requests, from themed events and galas, to specialised seminars and conventions – they've probably seen it all.

Just to get an idea for the scale of the MICE industry in Thailand, it was recorded in 2004 that the country saw a total of 757 international conventions attended by a total of 121,756 delegates, which generated USD251 million, or10.44 billion baht, in revenue. And the market just continues to grow, with the TCEB this year hoping to attract 800,000 in delegates.

For conventions alone, the country now has six dedicated convention centres, the largest can easily house 10,000 delegates. Or for those wanting a convention further away from the city, Hua Hin and Chiang Mai are good locations for delegations smaller than 700.

Thailand's diversity has also traditionally been one of its selling points, from cosmopolitan cities with world famous nightlife, to quiet relaxing seaside resorts with award-winning spas; a meeting in Thailand can take delegates through a slew of sights.

This latest educational comes close behind the news that the TCEB is pushing for MICE visitor visas to be free of charge, to further promote the industry. Stalled since last year, the issue has once again been brought up by Deputy Prime Minister Paiboon Wattanasiritham, who also sits on the TCEB board.