Rediscover Meetings & Weddings
In an interview, Necip Fuat Ersoy, MD, International Mice and Wedding Forum, shares the viability of Turkey as a suited wedding destination, for the global market
How has IMWF grown in stature?
The event showcased the third edition. The first one was held in Mumbai and Delhi, India. It was like a daily workshop in two cities with hotels and wedding planners. Last year, we did it in Belek, Antalya. We merged the event with the EEMA Leadership Summit. This year, it was branded as ‘IMWF'. We want to create something with intellectual ground for everyone and give an opportunity to network, and not just develop some business.
What is the reason for choosing Antalya as the venue?
After last year's achievement of the event, held in Anatlya, the Titanic Group of Hotels, showed keen interest to become the Hospitality Partner. The group has exemplary convention facilities and green spaces, golf course, and so on. Therefore, IMWF was a viable option to be showcased at the Titanic Deluxe Golf Belek, Antalya.
What are the key takeaways from IMWF? One of the key takeaways for the industry professionals, attending IMWF was the inspirational speech of Sabbas Joseph, Founder, of Wizcraft. Based on the theme, 'rediscover', we wanted everyone to introspect why they chose this line of work and rekindle the enthusiasm. The high point was experiencing the 1800-yearold iconic Aspendos Amphitheatre. The sit-down dinner, sound and light show, also, one-on-one meetings with scheduled appointments.
What events do you have lined up for 2018?
There could be one more event lined up at the end of 2018 or early 2019, outside of Turkey.
What MUST DO activities are available for MiCE?
It depends on the size of the group. If it is an incentive travel group, then Belek is an ideal location because it is in close proximity of local attractions and hotels. The old city, harbor, markets and the night life in downtown is just 25 minutes' drive from Belek. For meetings, Antalya is suited, as it has diversity of service and products to fulfill needs of any MiCE group. On the other hand, Belek offers plenty of choices. It is the resort capital of world's tourism. Of the 25 million tourists coming to Turkey, 12-13 million come to Antalya.
Eighty per cent of the capacity takes place in six months. There is something for every taste and budget in Antalya, especially with the all-inclusive packages offered. There is great variety of cuisine option for vegetarians as well.
How does IMWF help to elevate MiCE and weddings for Turkey? Through showcase of numerous offerings and value for money, the country has to offer for groups, IMWF will surely bring in more MiCE business in years to come.
Enumerate your growth chart since the past fiscal? Demand was five times more this year than the same period last year.
Of the 25 million tourists coming to Turkey, 12-13 million come to Antalya. 80% of the capacity takes place in six months