DESTINATION SHOWCASE

Phuket

Five reasons to host an event in Phuket

Phuket is known for its white sandy beaches, offshore islands, delicious Thai food, and great hotels, and it's this combination that generates strong attendance for events held on the island. If you want to ensure everyone attends your next event, then stage it in Phuket, where business meets beach.

Here are five reasons why Phuket is the perfect destination for events:

Easily Accessible

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 Thailand's emergence as one of the world's major tourism destinations have helped drive the event sector," says leading tourism expert Bill Barnett of C9 Hotelworks. With close proximity to Asia's leading financial markets, such as Hong Kong and Singapore, Phuket is a winner with regional corporate meeting planners, as well as attracting long-haul attendees from Europe, North America, Australia, and the Middle East.

Event venues are plentiful

Although mainly famous for its beaches and nearby islands, Phuket is much more than sea and sun. "Blessed with impressive hotel spaces, renowned restaurants, landmarks, and luxury private venues, Phuket is a destination with exceptional event spaces," says Sumate Sudasna, president of the Thailand Incentive and Convention Association (TICA). The island offers a wide array of venue options for every style, preference, and budget. Supported by creative themes, high-tech audiovisual production, and experienced staff, Phuket ensures you'll find a venue that meets all your requirements for your next event.

Wide choice of hotels

"You're spoilt for choice with a wide range of hotels, from internationally branded to local heritage, from beachfront to the culturally charming Phuket Town, from large to medium-sized, from luxury to midscale, and all within easy reach of the airport, marinas, and major attractions," says Bjorn Courage, president of the Phuket Hotels Association. Whatever a meeting planner might be looking for, Phuket hotels will surely meet and exceed expectations.

Excellent Food

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 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 offers everything from delicious street food to Michelin-starred restaurants and everything in between, so international delegates will always find something to suit their tastes.

Sustainability is in focus

On the checklist for most event planners, sustainability is at the forefront of action in Phuket. "To meet the growing desire 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 hosting sustainable events that contribute to the environment and local community.