Splendid Incentives

Chiang Mai captivates MICE planners with a panorama of culture and beauty.

- Ellen Clark

LOVELY CHIANG MAI, with its elaborate temples, luxurious spas, legendary food, and ever-interesting night market, has called to tourists for decades. Sometimes referred to as the “Rose of the North,” Chiang Mai offers a place to chill and rejuvenate in beautiful surroundings.

But wait, there’s more. In the last few years, Chiang Mai built an impressive reputation as a prime MICE destination. According to a study conducted by the International Congress and Convention Association, in 2016 Chiang Mai hosted 20 international association meetings. In 2017 the city hosted more than 50,000 international MICE travelers, and in 2018 events such as Chiang Mai Bloom (183,589 visitors) and Lanna Expo (253,504 visitors) upgraded Chiang Mai’s MICE activities to an international level.

Since 2004 the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau — a public organization dedicated to promoting and developing business events — worked toward establishing Thailand as a premier MICE destination. Of Chiang Mai’s MICE potential, Khun Chirut Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, president, TCEB, said, “Chiang Mai provides a unique ‘Lanna’ culture and ecological setting for events.”