England Offering exclusive MICE opportunities

England is not an unfamiliar destination to Indians and London has always been a favourite place for MICE and leisure travellers. Reem Khokhar, Regional Manager – Asia Pacific, VisitEngland, in conversation with MICEtalk clarifies some misconceptions related to visa clearance, shopping in London, etc., and provides vital information related to MICE opportunities in the country.

What kind of growth do you see from India in the MICE segment?

Business visitor numbers from India to England was approximately 90,000 in 2012. We’re hoping to see an increase of at least an additional GBP 2 million worth of business.

How do you intend to position England in India?

England is synonymous of world-class facilities, variety, accessibility and a truly memorable experience. You can explore the excellent range of world class conferencing facilities across the country – from Brighton to NewcastleGateshead; unique venues for meetings or gala dinners like Spitbank Fort where you could have a lovely private island reserved for the group or a stunning gala dinner in Bath at the Roman Baths and Pump House with an atmospheric backdrop of the steam rising over the hot water springs, the torches alight with the magnificent Bath Abbey rising up in the background. England is a compact country. If in a city, you’re never very far from the countryside. Thus you can easily integrate a varied landscape into your itinerary – planning a fun treasure hunt in the countryside for a day or adventure sports like coasteering around the coastal parts of the country.