In a spectacular tapestry of international business gatherings, IT&CM Asia and CTW Asia Pacific 2023 unveiled a resurgence, with aplomb, of in-person events, stitched with the vibrancy of intercontinental partnerships and exquisite cultural embroideries. The magnanimous 31st edition of IT&CM Asia and the 26th of CTW Asia-Pacific not only manifested a buoyant return of show-floor buzz but also epitomized an unyielding spirit of the global MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferencing, Exhibitions) industry in navigating through the tumultuous seas of contemporary challenges.
Bearing witness to the opulent amalgamation of more than 240 burgeoning and reappearing destinations alongside brands and enrapturing over 400 MICE, Association, and Corporate Buyers spanning 50 countries and territories, this powerhouse event sprouted fertile grounds for procurement and networking vistas, firmly rooted in the undeterred determination of industry professionals and leaders.
In the prodigious capital city of Bangkok, attendees were not merely spectators but active participants in a holistic experiential journey that was meticulously woven into the city’s rich tapestry. Bangkok, renowned for its serenading blend of traditional charisma and dynamic modernity, presented its guests with a captivating tour around the enchanting realms of The Chaopraya Charming and Saneh Bangkok whilst also indulging them in an enthralling time at Topgolf Megacity.
Catalyzing pivotal connections and fostering deeper interpersonal linkages, Asia Ability’s “Say Hi to Everyone” session allowed delegates to forge and fortify new professional relationships in a milieu that palpitated with potential and opportunity.
The inaugural keynote, astutely delivered by Mr. Bhummikitti Ruktaengam, President of the Sustainable Tourism Development Foundation and Adviser of Phuket Tourist Association, shed a luminous light on the symbiotic rapport between tourism and MICE partnerships, underscoring their collaborative potency in bolstering Thai communities. In a time where solidarity is paramount, the amalgamation of communities to buttress tourism and MICE partnerships emerged as a seminal focal point of this year’s edition.
The first evening’s spectacle unfolded into a ceremonious affair co-hosted by the distinguished Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau, unveiling a culinary and cultural extravaganza. Attendees were serenaded by an exquisite assortment of Thai culinary offerings, embellished with cultural performances by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s traditional dance troupe and The SwingKings.
The global spotlight was pointedly cast upon Pattaya City, delineated as a worldly destination not merely for its geostrategic location and enticing pricing but for its vibrant miscellany of activities, from local simplicities to opulent luxuries, and its alluring beaches. “Visitors can luxuriate in the city at their pace, exploring its myriad facets in their own distinctive way,” extolled PATTAYA MICE CITY, Thailand.
Interactive and engaging booths from various destinations and organizations spiced up the event with experiential elements, ranging from food tasting sessions offered by MEET TAIWAN, a riveting Lion Dance Performance, and destination showcases by Macao Trade And Investment Promotion Institute & The Economic Development Bureau of Hengqin, to Augmented Reality explorations provided by Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), and a Lucky draw by The Mulia Hotel & Resort Bali.
In a meticulous amalgamation of networking and education, delegate feedback candidly illuminated the significance of expanded appointment sessions, providing an optimal balance of flexibility and time to traverse various conferences, knowledge sessions, brand engagements, showcases, and booths.
This event, striking a balance between tradition and innovation, unequivocally marked a bold stride forward for the MICE industry, firmly embedding its roots in a future enriched with global collaboration, sustained partnerships, and an unwavering commitment to industry resurgence.
Dive deeper into the realms of the MICE industry’s pulsating heart by exploring more on www.itcma.com and www.corporatetravelworld.com/apac.
Written by: My Thanh Pham
