In the ever-evolving ecosystem of travel and hospitality, a fascinating niche has been steadily gaining momentum, captivating the attention of both business professionals and leisure enthusiasts! It goes by the name of MICE tourism – an acronym that refreshingly captures the essence of Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions. Beyond the conventional touristy experience, MICE tourism births a new realm where business goals intertwine with leisure pursuits, creating a unique blend of productivity and pleasure.
You ask, how is MICE relevant today more than ever?
Well, with the perpetual hustle and bustle of the modern workplace, it has become easy for employees to get lost in their tasks, deadlines, and individual responsibilities. We often find ourselves captivated by our tasks, heads down, focused solely on the work at hand. In the midst of this hustle frenzy, oftentimes we miss out on one of the most valuable aspects of our professional lives — the opportunity to cultivate deeper relationships with people we work with.
What we’ve forgotten is that deep down, we humans are inherently social creatures. We crave connection, understanding, and belonging. And, especially in a time where remote working has become the norm, the power of face-to-face interaction and team bonding activities cannot be overstated.
While team-building exercises within the office can be beneficial, there’s something uniquely powerful about stepping outside the confines of work to cultivate connections. Whether it’s in the form of a weekend retreat, an outstation meeting, a friendly sports match, or an activity amidst nature, these experiences can be transformative, shaping not just professional relationships but also creating a sense of camaraderie that transcends the workplace.
Let’s take a closer look at the four important facets of MICE Tourism.
‘Meetings’, the cornerstone of MICE tourism, serve as a platform for professionals to exchange ideas, collaborate, and innovate. Whether it’s a corporate brainstorming session, a strategic meeting, or a product launch event, MICE tourism provides unique infrastructure and ambience that creates space for refreshed perspectives and valuable contributions.
‘Incentives’ is another integral facet of MICE tourism, offering a blend of work and reward. Imagine a scenic getaway to exotic beaches with luxury accommodations, exclusive experiences, and immersive cultural encounters. These incentive tours not only serve to boost employee morale but also contribute to enhanced loyalty and retention within organisations.
‘Conferences’ and conventions serve as a platform for knowledge where thought leaders, innovators, and stakeholders come together to share insights, best practices, and emerging trends. Through MICE tourism, conferences can be given a new character!
‘Exhibitions’ – the final element of the MICE acronym! These events offer a canvas for showcasing products, services, and innovations. Through MICE tourism, one can create captivating displays to widen the imagination and ignite curiosity amongst the audience.
Now comes the question –where to begin with MICE tourism? Well, we don’t have to saunter too far from home. Our country has it all!
India, with its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and booming economy, has emerged as a compelling destination for MICE. Our country’s exceptionally warm hospitality, historical and cultural legacy, exotic business hotels and excellent infrastructure make it the most sought-after MICE destination in the world.
Within each city of each state, there’s something unique to experience and indulge in So sit back and relax in our JCBL RV. Recline in your swivel chairs and sip a tall glass of sparkling cider (Hey! we’re still on the clock as we write this) and embark on a virtual journey of India’s top destinations for MICE Excursions.
MUMBAI: THE FINANCIAL CAPITAL WITH A DREAMY FLAIR
Mumbai, the bustling metropolis of India is the city where one roams with wide-eyed fascination for all things BIG! Everything seems to touch the sky— the high-rise buildings, the ocean, and the dreams of millions of Mumbaikars. The city has a myriad of flavours to offer—from high-powered boardroom meetings in skyscrapers to soul-stirring walks along the iconic Marine Drive, Mumbai has a little bit of everything. Its modern infrastructure, state-of-the-art facilities, and ultra-luxurious hotels make it a great MICE destination.
A few off-beat things to do in Mumbai:
- Explore the vibrant street food scene at Fort and Colaba and visit iconic 100-year-old Parsi and Iranian cafes that also cater to varying social strata in the city.
- Mumbai also boasts a diverse array of art galleries that showcase both local talent and global artistic perspectives. Delegates can immerse themselves in the vibrant energy of Kala Ghoda, a neighborhood renowned for its art galleries. Alternatively, the Jehangir Art Gallery stands as a cornerstone of Mumbai’s art scene, hosting exhibitions that span genres and media, while nearby spaces like the National Gallery of Modern Art provide a deeper dive into India’s modern artistic heritage.
Trust us, Mumbai gives you a tingling feeling; one that will make your MICE experience unforgettable.
DELHI: WHERE HISTORY MEETS THE FUTURE
Delhi, the capital city of India, presents a fascinating amalgamation of tradition and modernity, making it a perfect destination for MICE tourism. The city boasts world-class convention centres, such as Pragati Maidan and India Expo Centre, equipped with cutting-edge facilities to host conferences and exhibitions of any scale. Business travellers can also delve into Delhi’s rich history by visiting historic landmarks like the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and Humayun’s Tomb. What’s more? Delhi’s vibrant culinary scene, bustling markets, and lively nightlife offer tons of opportunities for networking and unwinding after business hours.
A few off-beat things to do in Delhi:
- Browse Asia’s largest wholesale spice market at the Khari Baoli Road, the western end of Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi.
- Experience Pehelwani First hand! Get up close and comfortable as you watch and perhaps take part in a traditional Indian wrestling match known as kushti (or Pehlwani), that takes place every Sunday at Meena Bazaar opposite the Red Fort.
GOA: BUSINESS, BEACHES, AND EVERYTHING SCENIC IN-BETWEEN
While renowned for its sandy beaches and vibrant nightlife, Goa has recently emerged as a favoured destination for corporate retreats and MICE events. No other state in India boasts luxurious resorts and tantalizing hotels better than Goa! Equipped with modern facilities nestled in the lap of nature, Goa promises a refreshing change of scenery for business travellers. After meetings, delegates can unwind through water sports activities, explore Portuguese-era architecture in Old Goa, or simply relax on the cool beaches with a refreshing drink in hand. You can take our word for it, Goa’s laid-back atmosphere and tropical charm provide the perfect backdrop for team-building activities!
Off-beat things to do in Goa:
- Join the ‘Drum Circle’ at Arambol.
Arambol Beach offers an excellent opportunity to relax and connect with leisurely travellers from various corners of the globe. It is especially fun at sunset as travellers, yogis, singers, magicians, and dancers from around the world congregate for the drum circle. The pulsating rhythms of the drums combined with the festive atmosphere are sure to invigorate you. You can stand by and watch or join the revelry.
JAIPUR: THE PINK CITY OF REGAL ELEGANCE
As the capital of the royal state of Rajasthan, Jaipur exudes an aura of opulence, history, and cultural richness, making it a captivating destination for MICE tourism. Believe us, if you want to treat your employees to royalty, Jaipur is the city for you!
A few off-beat things to do in Jaipur:
- Explore the Panna Meena Ka Kund – A 16th century stepwell. This ancient stepwell, located near Amer Fort, is not as crowded as other attractions. You can marvel at the intricate architecture and enjoy a serene atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
- Get a bird’s eye view of Jaipur’s stunning landscapes, forts, and palaces by taking a hot air balloon ride. This adventure offers a unique perspective of the city’s beauty.
KERALA: WHERE BUSINESS DIVINELY BLENDS WITH LEISURE
In the enchanting state of Kerala, every corner is infused with natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Imagine conducting your business meetings amidst lush greenery, tranquil backwaters, and the soothing melody of birdsong. Kerala’s state-of-the-art convention centres and conference facilities seamlessly integrate with its serene landscape, providing the perfect backdrop for productive discussions and brainstorming sessions.
A few off-beat things to do in Kerala: After a day of fruitful meetings, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Kerala.
- Experience the vibrant Theyyam performances, which are traditional ritualistic dances held in northern Kerala. These colourful and elaborate rituals are deeply rooted in local folklore and offer a fascinating glimpse into Kerala’s cultural heritage.
- Unwind with Ayurvedic wellness sessions and Ayurvedic massages that are performed using traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations.
For a truly unwinding and soul-stimulating MICE experience, simply put your faith in God’s Own Country, Kerala!
MICE tourism is so much more than conventional corporate meets and traditional business tours. Thankfully, India offers a diverse tapestry of destinations that don’t just meet the requirements of a MICE tour, but truly elevate the whole experience. Each of the above-mentioned destinations creates its own unique blend of business amenities, cultural experiences, and recreational activities—holding the ability to make your MICE tour unforgettable. So, whether it’s the bustling metropolis of Mumbai, the historical charm of Delhi, or the beach bliss of Goa, business travellers are sure to find purpose, pleasure, and more, in these high-vibrational destinations of India.
