The fresh mountain air and spectacular scenery of northern Laos never fail to inspire the imagination and stimulate the senses. For meeting planners, this invigorating ambience is ideal for out-of-town events, team bonding sessions and corporate retreats with a twist.
In the past however, it has not always been possible to match the needs of international conference organisers with professional facilities and innovative itineraries. But since it opened its doors in July 2018,Pullman Luang Prabang has successfully elevated the region’s MICE sector by blending outdoor experiences and socially-responsible activities with world-class meeting spaces – including the biggest ballroom in Luang Prabang.
Nestled in 16 hectares of beautiful countryside, surrounded by lush paddy fields, rivers and mountains, Pullman Luang Prabang is an idyllic five-star resort. Event organisers can choose from the 368 square metre Nam Khong Ballroom and 116 square metre Nam Khan function room, both of which can be divided into smaller spaces, and Le Salon, the intimate boardroom. This trio of flexible venues creates options for events of all sizes, from three to three hundred delegates.
Complementing its exceptional onsite facilities, Pullman Luang Prabang has teamed up with a series of local partners to create unique off-site activities that help MICE groups strengthen their bonds of friendship and give back to the local community.
For example, corporate guests can visit the Laos Buffalo Dairy – the first dairy farm in Laos which supplies local products including buffalo mozzarella to Pullman Luang Prabang. Delegates will learn how this socially-responsible enterprise is working with Lao farmers and diversifying the local agricultural industry. Guests will be able to meet the owners, Susie Martin and Rachel O’Shea, enjoy close encounters with their 150-plus buffalos, visit the dairy and of course taste their delicious products first-hand.
Alternatively, groups can head to Ock Pop Tok, a sustainable textiles business that empowers the women of Laos. Launched in 2000 by local weaver Veo Douangdala and British photographer Jo Smith, this start-up has evolved into one of the most successful socially-responsible organisations in Laos, working with more than 500 artisans throughout the country. MICE planners can arrange for their delegates to visit the textile factory and even take part in a group weaving class.
Back at Pullman Luang Prabang, groups can head out into the paddy fields, which provide rice for the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant L’Atelier. Seasonal rice cultivation classes can be organised for corporate groups, allowing delegates to discover this ancient Asian occupation. Further enhancing the resort’s environmental ethos, the unused rice husks are donated to MandaLao Elephant Conservation Camp, which cares for rescued elephants.
“Responsible tourism is at the heart of everything we do, and this is reflected by our innovative and inspirational MICE programs. We understand that meeting planners are increasingly seeking bespoke, CSR-related activities to enhance their events; with our breath-taking setting, world-class facilities and inventive group experiences, Pullman Luang Prabang is sure to leave a lasting impression on incentive guests and corporate groups,” said Denis Dupart, acting general manager of Pullman Luang Prabang.
Pullman Luang Prabang’s professional events team can create inspirational activities which are tailored to the specific requirements of each group. From invigorating morning yoga and tai chi classes on the resort’s rooftop deck, to alms-giving at a temple in UNESCO-listed Luang Prabang, unforgettable adventures await every guest.
From now until 31st August 2019, the “Meet and Play” MICE package enables groups to create their own customised corporate retreat in northern Laos, including full- or half-day meetings, one free room night for every 15 paid rooms, round-trip airport transfers for one VIP guest, discounts on group cocktails and dinners, and more*!
