Why Exotic Group Getaways are so Effective
To get the latest perspective on international group travel, we talked with Rainer Stampfer, Regional Vice President for Thailand, where Four Seasons offers four distinctively different properties.
GATHERINGS: Why are group events in exotic destinations still a valuable investment?
RAINER STAMPFER: For incentive programmes, the advantages are obvious. An exotic destination is always more inspiring and rewarding. But for meetings, it's also very effective to take your people away from the normal business environment. They get to experience a different culture and a different approach to the world, and that promotes fresh thinking and creativity.
GATHERINGS: What are the advantages of holding a group event at a resort versus an urban hotel?
RAINER STAMPFER: People are more relaxed. They step outside their regular city routine, where they're typically on a tight schedule and there's an underlying sense of stress. At a resort, they're dressed more casually and comfortably. They're more open-minded and receptive to new ideas. And our resorts offer team-building opportunities that are truly one-of-a-kind. This makes a lasting impact on people.
GATHERINGS: What makes Thailand such a desirable destination?
RAINER STAMPFER: Thailand is really a wonderful introduction to the Far East. Other Asian countries now have more of a Western influence and they feel more contemporary. Thailand still feels exotic and traditional. The architecture is beautiful, the clothing is unique, the food is delicious, and of course, the people are so gracious and warm and friendly. Thailand has a unique ability to motivate and inspire.
GATHERINGS: What kind of experiences does Four Seasons offer?
RAINER STAMPFER: Chiang Mai is unique because it's a country retreat, not a beach resort. It's a very spiritual place, lush in greenery, and it gives an authentic experience of Thai culture. Your group can take lessons in Thai cuisine at our professional cooking school. Or they can learn how to plant rice in the rice paddies. Our Spa focuses on Thai traditions, and it's been voted the best spa in the world two years in a row by
Travel & Leisure. The whole Resort has been revitalised, and we've just completed a stunning new meeting facility to host 60 people.
Koh Samui is the only beach property in Asia where every room has a sea view and private pool. It's great for smaller groups. There's a beautiful spa within a forest of palm trees. There's boating to nearby islands, and some of the best golf in Asia. For gala dinners, we offer a gorgeous torch-lit night on the beach.
At
Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, we take people by boat into the jungle. There are only 15 luxury tents, so this is really the smallest and most exclusive property in
Four Seasons portfolio. Groups spend hours of time with our own herd of elephants, interacting and learning to ride. They explore the jungle and meet local hill tribes. Even the most advanced travellers who have seen everything are totally blown away. One of the specific benefits of the Tented Camp is that groups of 30 can do a full buyout and have it completely to themselves.
Of course,
Bangkok is a fascinating, historical city with lots of great shopping and sight-seeing. And our hotel includes extensive meeting facilities.
GATHERINGS: How can the four properties work together in a group itinerary?
RAINER STAMPFER: They provide a good balance of business and recreation. Often groups combine Bangkok and Koh Samui, or Bangkok and Chiang Mai, or Chiang Mai and Golden Triangle. Or they visit all four properties to get a full experience of Thailand.
Transportation is very easy. Bangkok is an international hub for air travel, and we have a Four Seasons team at the airport to fast-track connections to the various resorts. We make it a seamless experience. Guests only check-in at the first property. We handle all the luggage transfers. Then they check-out at the final property and only pay one bill.
GATHERINGS: What makes a Four Seasons event in Thailand so effective?
RAINER STAMPFER: We offer beautiful properties with a consistent standard of care – and staff who go above and beyond. But what it really comes down is the Thai people and their culture of hospitality – their gentleness and graciousness. It's something that really needs to be experienced in person, and it makes Four Seasons events truly unforgettable.
