MICE players in Asia and beyond recollect their adventures as the year draws to a close
A memorable showcase
Familiarisation trips are essential for MICE buyers, as they offer a real taste of what the destination and property can offer. Brian Higgs hears what makes a programme successful
My most memorable familiarisation trip in 2012 was one that took me to the Dominican Republic and El Salvador. The itinerary was very productive and useful, and I got to see a lot of hotels and attractions. I even managed to sign a few contracts with local sellers.
Kinga Zalewska, project manager, Key Solution Poland
The best familiarisation trip for me in 2012 was to South Korea. The trip was educational, and I learned a lot about the destination in terms of hotels (supply) and quality, pricing, and how to travel from
one city to another. However, what South Korea needs is more support from the NTO to market the destination. Canadians need to know what there is to see before they will consider heading there.
Vivek Khanna, president, Tourcan Vacations, Canada
My favourite in 2012 was a tour inspection of Bali for a management meeting, during which I experienced wonderful cooperation between Conrad Bali and Smailing Tours. I normally prefer to deal directly with suppliers, so I booked separately with the hotel and tour operator. The tour inspection went very smoothly in terms of coordination. Even with changes in the programme, they (Conrad Bali and Smailing Tours) were already aware without me having to brief them individually.
Sabine Elisabeth Giza, managing director, In Search for Leaders, Germany
The most memorable familiarisation trip for me in 2012 was to Bhutan. It was a very good experience. I didn’t have much idea about Bhutan before, but now I know that it is only a one-hour flight away, clean and well promoted, and there is no pollution or traffic jams. I also made many friends with local sellers.
Taufiq Rahman, chief executive, Journey Plus, Bangladesh
My favourite for the year was a familiarisation trip to Chiang MAI and Chiang Rai in Thailand, which opened my eyes to the possibility of organising combination tours to these two destinations. Thailand is not a new destination for Indonesian (incentive groups), but they usually only visit Bangkok and Pattaya. I discovered that in Chiang Mai there are a lot of things to do and see, such as shopping and visiting markets, and that it is not only suitable for honeymooners. I also found Chiang Rai relaxing – perfect for a one-night stopover.
Cicilia Anwar, manager, tour & incentive department, Global Tour–Ayowisata, Indonesia
Red hot sellers
MICE buyers let TTGmice in on the destinations that are hot favourites in 2012, and point out which cities must do better in 2013 to remain competitive and attractive in their books
Turkey was especially hot in 2012, and it was a trend that we had expected. The destination sold really well in 2011, hence we were expecting business to pick up in 2012 – and it did.
TurkeyWe had more than 50 per cent growth in incentive business (to Turkey). For Malaysians, Turkey is multicultural and caters to every race. When Muslims travel they worry about whether food is halal; if they don’t have to worry it is a big load off their shoulders.
Rate wise, the destination is also very attractive. It costs RM6,000 (US$1,970) for a nine-day/six- or seven-night package, all-inclusive. There are also more flight options with ramped-up frequencies by Qatar Airways, Emirates and Malaysia Airlines.
I hope that the Singapore Tourism Board will be able to offer more (in 2013). In terms of activities, the destination is endless, but a lot of Malaysian corporates are not considering Singapore because of the high rates.
Deryk Yap, senior sales manager-MICE, Parlo Tours, Malaysia
Bangkokwas especially hot for us in 2012 in terms of conventions and seminars. To consumers in Poland, Thailand is a very popular destination, and we have people going there for recreation, MICE and everything in between.
The CVBs and DMCs in Singapore and Hong Kong need to be more proactive with promotions in 2013. They need to create new programmes and provide new ideas, not the standard, run-of-the-mill itineraries.
Kinga Zalewska, project manager, Key Solution, Poland
Vietnamcame up for us in 2012 because of rising (consumer) interest, the perception that it is value for money, and stronger destination promotions carried out by tour operators in Canada. We expect demand for Vietnam to continue to grow in 2013.
Vivek Khanna, president, Tourcan Vacations, Canada
Thailandwas hot for us in 2012. Bangladeshis are fond of shopping, entertainment and nightlife, and Thailand has everything as a destination. It is only a two-hour flight away and airfares offered by THAI Airways International, Bangkok Airways and Biman Bangladesh Airlines are reasonable. This wasn’t expected because of the political turmoil and floods in 2011, which meant the destination wasn’t so attractive. With increased stability comes more interest.
On the other hand, India needs more promotions, targeted especially at its neighbouring markets. So many meetings and business travellers from the region head to India, but accommodation is very expensive, especially in New Delhi. There needs to be more incentives and infrastructure.
Taufiq Rahman, chief executive, Journey Plus, Bangladesh
South Korea was popular for us in 2012. We experienced a 30 per cent year-on-year increase in business due to the Hallyu phenomenon (popularity of South Korean entertainment and culture), and increasing interest in K-pop and Korean dramas.
(It helps that) Korea Tourism Organization has been rolling out promotions since 2011, and rates for direct flights have been quite reasonable.
(On the other hand), Japan needs more promotions. It must provide more information about the other cities besides Tokyo. Indonesians only know about (Tokyo) Disneyland and Ginza, but they are keen to find out more about Japanese culture, traditional houses, hot springs and kimonos. Japan also needs something different to offer to MICE groups, especially incentives.
Cicilia Anwar, manager, tour & incentive department, Global Tour–Ayowisata, Indonesia
MICE steeplechases
Asian MICE sellers recount their most challenging event in the past year, and share the lessons that are acquired
In end-October, we hosted 400 pax for a five-day international conference by the World Business Council for Sustainable Development. It was a large group with arrivals from all over the world, and every guest came with their own requests. There were also many last-minute changes, so I had to be on my toes all the time.
Through this event, I learned how to juggle (multiple) customer requests and to eventually meet their needs.
My goal is to satisfy all our clients and have them leave the hotel with positive memories.
Im Gun, manager, sales team, Lotte Hotel Seoul
I discovered that handling K-pop (bands and their entourage) is very difficult. Singers’ management teams tend to be very demanding, requesting for all rooms to be on the same floor and these rooms must be on the smoking floor too. Even when they smoked in non-smoking rooms, we had difficulty (forfeiting) room deposits. And we had to clean out their rooms after they checked out.
We learned how to handle requests from demanding clients, how to be flexible even though some practices are not in accordance to hotel policy, and most importantly, how to refuse an unreasonable request.
Boonsita Sinthuvanont, sales manager, Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld
One of the most challenging events I had in 2012 was a three-day conference and gala dinner for Blackberry maker Research in Motion. The delegates were staying in several five-star hotels, and it was difficult to coordinate transport to the venue. The event was also demanding food-wise and in terms of logistics.
In the future, we will persuade clients to hire a DMC, events company or PCO to handle their ground arrangements. There are just too many things to handle. If we have to manage logistics, we may end up not being able to concentrate solely on the event.
Simon Chow, assistant director of sales, Macau Tower Convention & Entertainment Centre
Our toughest in 2012 was a visit by the Malaysian prime minister, together with a 120-pax business delegation from the country, to foster business ties with Cambodian businessmen. Even though the event was only three nights, we had to prepare up to 12 days in advance for their arrival. There were issues regarding safety, room requirements and airport transfer.
The event taught me how to handle safety and security for a high-level delegation, and how to cater for additional requirements such as arranging private jets, which we had never done before.
Susie Ibrahim, head, business development, MICE & business travel, NagaWorld Hotel & Entertainment Complex, Cambodia
The Asian Development Bank had their annual summit in Manila, and there were 2,500 pax including 900 VIPs in attendance. There were a lot of central bank governors and the Philippine president also spoke at the gala dinner.
With such a high-profile guest list, we had to ensure that security was beefed up.
The most challenging aspect was the VIP dinner, where we had to take care of food requirements, security and transport arrangements from different hotels.
We discovered that it is possible to hold large-scale, high-level events in the Philippines.
Charry B Casabar, director of sales, SMX Convention Center, the Philippines
We were the groundhandler of InDreams, one of the leading incentive houses in Poland. We brought a 100-pax Polish incentive into the jungle in Sungai Kampar, a non-touristic and remote region in Perak, about three hours’ drive from Kuala Lumpur. They wanted a very (rustic) experience, with elements such as trekking and survival cooking.
There was only basic lodging available, and bringing 100 Polish into the jungle was not easy, especially because the nearby town was very small. It was difficult to obtain alcohol and the necessary support and logistics. Fortunately, it was only for one night.
We learned that everything is possible when it comes to incentives. We can deliver what clients want. It just requires a lot of preparation, and we have to be well versed with their expectations.
Noor M Ismail, director, business development, Asian Overland Services Tours & Travel, Malaysia
We had a three-night incentive from India, attended by 130 top dealers of a garment company. Participants arrived at different timings, and in groups of three to four pax each day. We had to make sure the travellers had all the necessary entry permits.
Another challenge emerged when we had to source for restaurants, as Indian eateries in the Philippines do not have very large capacities. We had to be creative in coming up with solutions to overcome the space constraints.
We learned of the need to be more flexible in making arrangements. You can’t just stick to one idea. You need to prepare for many contingencies, so that you can still achieve the end-objectives despite constraints.
Kristine L Shroff, marketing director, Shroff International Travel Care, the Philippines
Hopes for the new year
CVB chiefs reveal their wishes for their destinations in 2013
“I wish for more corporate and incentive groups from the region and beyond. We are anticipating the recovery of the long-haul market next year.”
Zulkefli Sharif, CEO, Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau
“We expect another busy year ahead. Our new Kai Tak Cruise Terminal, situated at the former runway of the old Kai Tak airport, will open in mid-2013. With its completion, Kai Tak will once again become a gateway to welcome visitors from around the world. I just cannot wait to see its opening and better still, take a cruise vacation and set off from Kai Tak – this time by sea.”
Anthony Lau, executive director, Hong Kong Tourism Board
“I have recently submitted a vision statement to the Ministry of Tourism, recommending how to grow the business potential of the MICE industry and enhance the competitiveness of our venues
in bidding for international events. I wish that my recommendations are accepted and moulded into policy.”
Chander Mansharamani, vice-chairman, India Convention Promotion Bureau
“I wish to be able to have a comprehensive national strategy to promote the meeting industry and make Indonesia a renowned MICE destination.”
Rizki Handayani, director of MICE and special interest marketing, Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, Indonesia
“I wish for another year of successful partnerships and fruitful collaborations, and look forward to working closely with our industry partners. With our vibrant MICE ecosystem and dedicated industry partners, we are optimistic that we will continue to attract flagship MICE events of international standing that reinforce Singapore’s status as a leading MICE city.”
Neeta Lachmandas, assistant chief executive, Singapore Tourism Board
It’s a wrap!
The TTGmice team spills the beans on the year’s highs and lows
BEST Speed-dating! One was at the World Gourmet Summit in Singapore between journalists and featured chefs, the other at the Hotel Investment Conference Asia-Pacific in Hong Kong, where delegates introduced themselves briefly to one another before the conference started. The first yielded a strong feature on F&B trends, the second yielded lots of new contacts.
WORST A late-night function we organised, where the hotel had a new space which could be used for events but neither the general manager nor the vice president of sales and marketing bothered to talk much about the venue (or talk much to us actually!) when I asked about the space. What a wasted opportunity for them.
BEST I had such fun researching on and writing A brighter shade of green cover story for the July issue. I was so proud of the region’s green convention centres, but was also disappointed that not many Asian buyers pay particular attention to a venue’s sustainable hardware and practices when choosing a site.
WORST I found Singapore’s national flag flown upside down at the entrance of the India Expo Centre & Mart in Greater Noida, where TTG Asia Media’s first IT&CM India tradeshow was held. If a venue wants to draw global events, even the tiniest detail must matter.
BEST Attending the inaugural IT&CM India, where I learned first-hand about the phenomenal rise of the domestic market for meetings and conferences, the emerging business from Russia and got to rub shoulders with major Indian MICE players.
WORST In the same vein, the traffic in New Delhi was horrendous! If India is to be a serious MICE contender, it certainly can do with better point-to-point connectivity, as time wastage is possibly one of the top bugbears of business travellers.
BEST Having made several trips to Phuket over the past few years as a leisure traveller, it was interesting to find out how much MICE appeal – and untapped potential – the destination possesses when I reported on the island’s developments.
WORST Not any I can think of, although it will be great if CVBs in the region will be more forthcoming with their plans and statistics.
BEST Panorama Management Conference in Jogjakarta. It offered me a peek into the group’s business strategy, and I had such a fun experience throughout four days of well-planned and executed teambuilding activities and theme dinners.
WORST A hotel opening that included an overnight stay for the media. We were given a mask to cover our face because work was still being done. The hotel was also hardly three-star, as it so claimed.
BEST Seoul Convention Bureau organised the best-ever familiarisation trip. The event was so well organised. All the venues we visited were MICE-related and complete press kits with pictures were prepared. The bureau also followed up promptly after the event.
WORST A very irresponsible representative of a foreign NTO who did not fulfil his promises to reply. Countless email reminders were met with silence. When I finally got him on the phone, he plied me with more excuses.
BEST Interviewing the inspirational Ramon Jimenez, the Tourism Secretary of the Philippines.
WORST Trying to talk to Chinese buyers at IT&CM China with my rudimentary Mandarin.
BEST Kerala Travel Mart in Cochin in September takes the cake for being the best organised conference. The event’s layout had distinctly different spaces and timings didn’t clash.
WORST SATTE in New Delhi in January was disastrous in terms of delegate registration. The system caused an unmanageable crowd even on B2B days, and the lack of security led to my camera being picked from my jacket pocket!
Prudence Lui
Correspondent, Hong Kong
BEST Grand Hyatt Macau’s 3rd Anniversary Ball, which was themed after Shanghai in the 1930s. It delivered a real touch of old Shanghai, with costume, entertainment and decoration traced from the past.
WORST A one-on-one interview with an NTO chief during a roadshow came to an abrupt end after only a few minutes because the consul general had arrived. I was told it was protocol and the NTO chief must drop everything on hand to greet the official.
Rosa Ocampo
Correspondent, The Philippines
BEST Getting information from Art Boncato, The Philippines’ Department of Tourism’s (DoT) regional director Davao region, was a breeze. He always replies quickly to emailed questions, thoughtfully including the phone numbers and email addresses of other industry sources even without being asked.
WORST Getting information from DoT officers in Manila who don’t even have the common courtesy to acknowledge receipt of emailed questions.
Marianne Carandang
Correspondent, The Philippines
BEST A MICE familiarisation trip to Davao, which featured French dining at Claude’s Le Cafe de Ville, wine and cheese tasting at Malagos Resort, and a visit to the newly refurbished Malipano Villas at Pearl Farm Beach Resort on Samal Island.
WORST None, but I wish local MICE associations and groups would band more strongly together to win bigger international events.
