Here are seven reasons why Phuket is the perfect destination for events.
It’s easily accessible
Location, location, location. You can’t meet there if you can’t get there, and Phuket ticks all the boxes with robust direct international airlift, regional connectivity and is an attractive add-on for Bangkok events.
“Phuket’s strategic geographic location and the rise of Thailand as one of the world’s major tourism destinations have helped drive the event sector,” says leading tourism expert Bill Barnett of C9 Hotelworks.
“Within close proximity to Asia’s leading financial markets, Hong Kong and Singapore, Phuket is [a] winner with regional corporate meeting planners, as well as long haul attendees coming from Europe, North America, Australia and the Middle East.”
It has great beaches
“Phuket has some of the best beaches in Asia if not the world,” says Kris Srisatin, founder and managing director of Stream Events Asia.
“Phuket is very unique in that there are in excess of 20 high-quality beaches to visit in a relatively compact area and there are stunning offshore islands to visit during a day cruise
“Business event programmes in Phuket should aim to include downtime exploring some of the best beaches and offshore activities to the nearby islands,” she recommends.
There is choice of hotels
“You’re spoilt for choice with a wide choice of hotels from international branded to local heritage, from beachfront to cultural charming Phuket Town, from large size to medium size, from luxury to midscale, and all within easy reach from airport, marinas and major attractions,” says Bjorn Courage, president of Phuket Hotels Association.
“Whatever a meeting planner might be looking for, Phuket hotels will for sure meet and exceed the expectation.”
Event venues are plentiful
Although mainly famous for its beaches and nearby islands, Phuket is much more than sea and sun.
“Privileged with impressive hotel spaces, renowned restaurants, landmarks and luxury private venues, Phuket is a destination blessed with exceptional event spaces,” says Sumate Sudasna, president of Thailand Incentive and Convention Association (TICA).
“The island has a truly wide array of venue options for every style, preference and budget.
“Backed up by creative themes, high-tech audio visual production and experienced staff, in Phuket you’re sure to find a venue that ticks all the boxes for your next event.”
The food is excellent
Singing the praises of Phuket’s dining scene is restaurant and bar consultant Sumi Soorian.
“Food glorious food! Other than stunning beaches and friendly locals, there is the one thing most people agree on – one of Phuket’s big attractions is its food scene,” says Soorian.
“Designated as a Gastronomic City by UNESCO, the island serves up delicious street food to Michelin starred restaurants and everything in between, so international delegates will always find something to their taste.”
There’s local expertise
“Phuket’s soft power with talented people is our strength,” says Claude Sauter, general manager of all villa and suite property, The Slate.
“Phuket’s events industry and its people have a reputation for being warm, welcoming and willing to help.
“This ‘can-do’ attitude is present in our events planners who take pride in going above and beyond to nail the brief, and in our hospitality staff who are passionate about their line of work and deliver service with a smile.”
Sustainability is in focus
On the checklist for most event planners, sustainability is at the forefront of action in Phuket.
“To meet the growing urge to give back to the destinations we visit and operate low-carbon footprint events, Phuket’s tourism industry provides event planners and participants with the opportunity to leave a lasting impact,” says Bhummikitti Ruktaengam, president of the Sustainable Tourism Development Foundation (STDF).
“Corporate social responsibility (CSR) can take many forms from turtle releases, tree planting and beach clean ups.
“And for socially responsible culinary experiences, where sustainability is on the menu with locally sourced produce, Phuket is committed to operating sustainable events that contribute to the environment and local community.”
Imagine dining on the tastiest Thai cuisine. Sipping a Singha beer. Meeting in a magical setting. Imagine Phuket – where business meets beach.
David Barrett is a MICE consultant, marketing strategist and digital video advocate in Bangkok. His video series, Trends, features conversations with trendsetters in business and enterprise, tourism and hospitality, events and happenings, sustainability and start-ups and the arts and entertainment. Recent episodes include a chat with Luzi Matzig from VIP Jets and Asian Trails and exploring the art of luxury travel in Southeast Asia with Dan Fraser, CEO of Smiling Albino.
