turizm YEAR:aktüel 21 • NUMBER: 2018/4 • MAY/2018 • YIL: 21 • SAYI 2018/4 • MAYIS/2018 • ISSN: 1301- 4587

SERDAR SOYLER: YOU WILL FEEL HAPPY FIRUZ WHEN YOU ARE IN TURKEY BAGLIKAYA: MICE HAS BECOME A SECTOR ITSELF IN TURKEY TURKEYWILL BE THE CENTER OF CONGRESS TOURISM BAHADIR YASIK: KERIM SIPAHILER: ISTANBUL ISTANBUL DESERVES TO RETURNS TO BE IN THE FIRST PLACE IN ITS OLD DAYS INTERNATIONAL MEETINGS IN CONGRESS AND EVENTS! TOURISM THERE IS ONLY ONE ISTANBUL WHY ISTANBUL FOR CONGRESSES? HUSEYIN KURT: WE WILL ORGANIZE A WORLD WIDE MICE ORGANIZATION IN TURKEY EVENT TECHNOLOGIES Just imagine Everywhere where there is sound, light, music and CONCERT vision.. LAUNCH CONFERENCE FESTIVAL MEETING SOUND CONGRESS LIGHT WEDDING & INVITATION MUSIC FASHION SHOW MEET WITH VISION SUCCESS AT OPENING CEREMONIES LED SCREEN NOVOTEL HOTELS SPORT ACTIVITIES S T A G E IN TURKEY PROMOTIONAL FILMS PERFORMING ARTS FAIR Straddling two continents, Turkey fascinates and intrigues visitors. Homeland to many civilizations, Turkey is an ideal destination both for business and leisure travellers with many stylish addresses designed to provide expert guidance for your conferences,meetings, and seminars. Enjoy our modern and spacious rooms and meeting facilities equipped with latest technology, relax and unwind in our well being areas and savour your tastebuds with tempting Turkish cuisine. Our professional service team will look after every detail and ensure the success and quality of your Meeting at Novotel in Turkey.

Novotel Istanbul Zeytinburnu . Novotel Istanbul Bosphorus . Novotel Gaziantep . Novotel Kayseri Novotel Konya . Novotel Diyarbakır

Phone Number: +90 212 243 22 69 www.mavigrup.com mavigruptechnicalproduction maviweddingmusic novotel.com | accorhotels.com | [email protected] | +90 (212) 414 3930 Turizm Aktüel WE AIM TO Year: 21 • Number: 2018/4 • May/2018 Yıl: 21 • Sayı 2018/4 • Mayıs/2018 ISSN: 1301- 4587 GIVE DIRECTIONS PUBLISHING CENTER TO THE WORLD YAYIN MERKEZI Kent Turizm Araştırmaları ve Yayıncılık MICE SECTOR Yerebatan Cad. No: 43 Hüdaverdi İş Merkezi K. 3/8 Cağaloglu İstanbul Tel:+90 212 511 25 61 Doors of our association is open to anyone serving in the MICE sector. Fax:+90 212 513 63 59 e-mail:[email protected] All colleagues without being a member can register for the events. www.turizmaktuel.com

OWNER AND MANAGING EDITOR Sahibi ve Sorumlu Yazı İşleri Müdürü Hasan Arslan [email protected]

PROJECT COORDINATOR Projeler Koordinatörü Doç. Dr. Volkan ALTINTAŞ İzmir Katip Çelebi Üniversitesi Turizm Fakültesi [email protected]

GENERAL COORDINATOR Genel Koordinatör Özcan Mutlu [email protected] SERDAR SÖYLER

CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR - JOLLY MICE PRESIDENT - I-MICE COORDINATOR Kurumsal İletişim Koordinatörü Hakan Metin ICE industry is a branch that serves to the establishments, contains all branches [email protected] Mof tourism and internalized high level of service quality. MICE industry has a very big potential. To activate this potential is our duty. PHOTOGRAPH EDITOR Fotoğraf Editörü Before the International Association of MICE Industry, there wasn’t any corporation Halil Tuncer to represent our sector. We were feeling the lacking of it. We were speaking about our [email protected] problems, sharing them but were not able move them into a official platform. Than we decided to founded International Association of MICE Industry. MEDITTERANEAN AREA MANAGER International Association of MICE Industry aims to give directions to the world MICE Akdeniz Bölge Temsilcisi Halil Öncü sector with the events it organizes. Our goals are: to gather the shareholders of indus- [email protected] try, to increase the collaboration of the shareholder, to create solutions for the problems of the sector, to establish a representing structure, to start new cooperations between PRINT Baskı Birinci Baskı members and shareholders, to strengthen the existing relations, to provide member- Matbaacılar Sitesi. Mahtepe Mah. ship advantages to the members, to produce projects for the improvement of the sector, Davutpaşa Çifte Havuzlar Sk. No: 2/61 Zeytinburnu/İstanbul Tel: 0212 612 00 88 to create educational opportunities and ensure ethical continuity of the cooperations. Doors of our association is open to anyone serving in the MICE sector. All colleagues PUBLICATION TYPE Local Periodical - Monthly Magazine without being a member can register for the events. YAYIN TÜRÜ Yerel Süreli Yayın - Aylık Dergi As the association we care a lot about the education. We will collaborate with universi-

© TURIZM AKTÜEL DERGISI ties. We will provide qualified professionals to the sector. T.C. YASALARINA UYGUN OLARAK YAYIMLANMAKTADIR. DERGIDE YAYIMLANAN YAZI, FOTOĞRAF, HARITA, ILÜSTRASYON We think that being a member of International Association of MICE Industry is a priv- VE KONULARIN HER HAKKI SAKLIDIR. İZINSIZ KAYNAK GÖSTERILEREK DAHI ALINTI YAPILAMAZ. © TURIZM AKTÜEL DERGISI BASIN MESLEK İLKELERINE ilege. We invite all managers and their workers and corporations to be a member of our UYMAYA SÖZ VERMIŞTIR. association.

4 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 CEREMONY

ALSO THE BOSSES OF CONGRESS INDUSTRY SAID ‘ISTANBUL’ International Congress and Conventions Association-ICCA held its annual Board Meeting, held in a different destination every year, in Istanbul this year. CCA board meeting in İstanbul, ob- tained as a result of individual meetings Iand promotional activities of Istanbul Convention and Visitors Bureau’s (ICVB) at IBTM World Fair last year, is also con- sidered as a key of the return of the inter- bul Bomonti Hotel. ICCA President Nina stating that Istanbul has numerous beau- national congresses to the city. Freysen-Pretorius thanked the Istanbul ties and is a city full of surprises said, “We 19 ICCA Executive Board Members from Chamber of Commerce and ICVB for this have many ICCA members from Turkey. different countries attended the meeting successful organization. In her speech, As ICCA we are very pleased about this. held between 14-18 February. In the event Freysen-Pretorius also stated that pub- Our Turkish members have always been organized by ICVB and supported by lic and private sector cooperation is very supportive. We wish them success.” Turkish Airlines, the natural and histor- important and effective in order to bring The event was also supported by: Ministry ical beauties of Istanbul were also intro- more congresses to the destination. of Culture and Tourism, Istanbul Metro- duced. Accommodation support for ICCA ICCA President Nina Freysen-Pretorius, politan Municipality, Istanbul Chamber Board Members was provided by Conrad who expressed her admiration for Istan- of Commerce and Turkish Airlines, Con- Istanbul Bosphorus. bul, put into words her gratitude for being rad İstanbul Bosphorus Hotel, Hilton İs- Members of the ICCA Board of Directors here. Afterwards, a gift was presented to tanbul Bomonti Hotel, Portaxe, Çırağan got together with Members of the Board Nina Freysen-Pretorius on behalf of the Palace, The Sofa Hotel/Frankie Restau- of Directors of TUGEV-ICVB and spon- Chamber of Commerce of Istanbul and rant, Deluxe Golden Horn Sultanahmet sors in the dinner held on the evening of the Chairman of the Board of Directors Hotel, Levni Hotel & SPA, Mevlana Ba- February, 15th, hosted by Hilton Istan- of TUGEV-ICVB. The President of ICCA zaar, DenDen Maritime.

6 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 INTERVIEW

YOU WILL FEEL HAPPY WHEN YOU ARE IN TURKEY If we want to have the right to say a word internationally in MICE sector, we need to increase the promoting activities. We should have international organizations done in our country. erdar Söyler, director of Jolly Mice ferent speeds. There are meeting places broadly structured sector? and I-MICE President, saying that of good quality and equipped with high There was no association to represent our Sthe guests preferring Turkey for technology infrastructure. Thanks to sector. We received many good reactions MICE events find anything they look for in when we opened our project to our fel- our country, underlined that Turkey has a low shareholders in the sector. Everyone very big potential for MICE tourism. Söy- wanted to be a member and collaborate. ler also shared future projects of I-MICE In a very short time we reached a level to with the Turizm Aktüel readers. represent our industry. For a long time you give corporate ser- Would you tell us more about the future vice in the MICE sector and you repre- projects of I-MICE? sent the sector with the projects you re- Our biggest project is to organize World veal. In your opinion what would be the MICE Summit in İstanbul. Among our success criteria in MICE industry? perpetual targets there are: to create solu- To be successful in MICE industry you have tions to the problems of our sector, to give to have a flawless infrastructure and meet- organizational sufficiency certificates, to ing organization, incentive trip, congress organize vocational trainings, to provide and event specialists in your team. The the foundation of MICE departments in most important criteria of the success in universities, to organize b2b meetings in this sector is to have all these qualifications. the country and abroad, have represent- Why do you thing guests who prefer Tur- atives in the country and abroad, to or- key for MICE tourism choose Turkey? ganize networking events, to help the ones Because they can find anything they are looking for a job and an employee. looking for. They can economically get the I-MICE is preparing to host interna- quality service from a team that thinks tionally reputable organizations. What The guests preferring Turkey for MICE events find anything they look for in our country. They get the opportunity to work with experienced teams with the understanding of “there is no limit in service”.

“there are no limits in service”. They get many boutique and chain hotels there are would be your words about this? happier when they come to Turkey. Be- many alternatives for accommodation. World MICE Summit is a very important cause we are people who love to host guests With these features Turkey is very suitable project. We aim to gather worldwide share- with smiling faces and try to help them in for MICE tourism. holders of MICE industry and produce new any way we can. Could provide us some information projects all together. This excites us a lot. How do you evaluate the MICE tourism about the International Association Is there anything you want to add for news Turkey? What are the things that of MICE Industry of which you are the closure? makes us different than other countries President? If we want to have the right to say a word when it comes to technical and infra- International Association of MICE Indus- internationally in MICE sector, we need structural conditions? try is a big and important organism that to increase the promoting activities. We Turkey has a very big MICE tourism po- includes and cares to represent all share- should have international organizations tential. Our country can easily be reached holders of MICE industry. We aim to make done in our country. Also functional in- from any part of the world. Airlines, cruis- positive impact to the sector with the ac- centives for the MICE industry are need- Serdar Söyler, director of Jolly es and land route are the kinds of trans- tivities we did and plan to do in the future. ed. Industry professionals should act to- Mice and I-MICE President portation that can be useful and in dif- How did you succeed at gathering this gether for the solutions of the problems.

8 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 9 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 INTERVIEW INTERVIEW

shareholders and speak about your prob- cultural and natural wealth of our coun- the list and in the demand. We believe that lems and create projects in order to solve try, with the hotels, congress centers, event either public either private sectors leaping, MICE HAS BECOME A them, it is not possible to be successful. centers and improvement of the techno- projects, promotions and works will give With this vision, with the presidency of our logical infrastructure Turkey’s share in the Turkey its place. SECTOR ITSELF IN TURKEY Minister of Tourism and Culture, partici- market has grown and our name climbed When we compare Turkish MICE sector pation of 9 important NGOs, initialized by up in the list. Turkish MICE industry has to the European countries, what are the The introduction of congress tourism in Turkey happened with HABITAT II in 1995 held in Istanbul. TÜRSAB we founded the “Tourism Con- shown very good signs of improvement in characteristics that makes Turkey dif- iruz Bağlıkaya, the President of sultation Committee”. the last 15 years with modern and interna- ferent than others? TÜRSAB, told Turizm Aktüel about Could you please give some information tional standard hotels, infrastructure and Turkey with the rich historical and cultur- Fhow Turkey met with congress about the MICE industry? ease in accessibility thanks to Turkish Air- al treasure, hosts meeting and congress in tourism and its development journey in Turkey met the congress tourism concept lines and is more than a branch of tourism, the crossroads of Europe and Asia. Our our country. when HABITAT II was held in Istanbul in it became a sector by itself. country is an ideal destination with first Firuz Bağlıkaya, 3 months passed after 1995. For congress tourism first thing to Especially Istanbul, recording a leap in class accommodation services, number of your election as the new president of have is restructuring of congress center this field, caught an increase of 280% in facilities, easily accessible from major cit- TÜRSAB. How would you evaluate these 3 months? As the “Change Movement” and leaders we first believed in change. We have re- vealed a wonderful spirit. We bunched up. We all worked a lot and succeeded. Now the election is over. We started to get to- gether with all travel agencies. Right after the elections we attended in ITB Berlin Tourism Fair with the board members. Afterwards we took our place in our stand in the other important fair: MITT Russia. Both fairs were fruitful. We have had important meetings with many ministers. We received support from all of them. I thank them again. We updat- ed the 20% discount in museum tickets for agencies to 25% till the end of April. We had the word of Minister of Finance, Naci Agbal, on the “incentive per delegate” about the congress tourism. Now we are working on the MICE report that will be presented to the Ministry. or centers. Turkey had its first congress the number of the congresses of the last ies of the world, natural beauties and good We had the word of Numan Kurtulmus, center, Lutfi Kirdar Congress and Exhib- 15 years. It was in 40th place at the begin- climate conditions for lower costs in com- Minister of Tourism and Culture, on sup- iton Center, finished for HABITAT II. Be- nings of 2000s, 17th in 20019. Between parison to its alternatives. porting us to expand our stands in the fairs fore HABITAT there were congresses held 2019-2015 it successfully protects its place International chain companies that have in 2019. All the bids on TÜRSAB are open in Istanbul but it is obvious that the turn- in the top ten. branches or offices in Istanbul, makes it to all of our agencies. We have realized ing point of congress tourism for Istanbul In the international congress and meeting an attractive destination for internation- our first workshop about the problems of and for Turkey has been HABITAT II. tourism Turkey took the 19th place in the al congresses, meetings and event. Along transportation and their solutions. The The increasing number of branches of in- world with 190 international congress- with Istanbul Antalya, İzmir and Anka- second one will be on May, 14th. ternational chain companies, the raise of es and Istanbul took the 9th place in the ra steps forward. With the experience we For the industry shareholders, we planned the business trips, meetings with scientific world with 130 international congresses gained in the accommodation sector, we 50 organizations containing 25 inspir- content, motivational events for inlander hosted. In 2015 Turkey was 18th with 211 serve with high standards. ing panels and speeches and 25 personal and outlander customers, trips, launches, congresses in the countries’ list and İs- Trained and experienced labor, accessi- Firuz Bağlıkaya, growth trainings until the end of 2019. We internationally participated sports games tanbul was 8th in the cities’ list with 148 bility with a 4-hour-flight, location ad- the President have already realized two trainings. had a positive impact on the development congresses. vantages, cultural and historical heritage of TÜRSAB If you don’t sit on the same table with sector of congress tourism. Besides historical, In the past 2-3 years we overcame a fall in registered in UNESCO World Heritage list,

10 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 11 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 INTERVIEW

newly establishes congress and fair centers, Can you follow the trends of the world? more valuable while 60% said that they various trip and activity opportunities, the The raise in the travel technologies, smart are more positive about bleisure than they network of our national airline company, phones and tablets, the use of social media, used to be 10 years ago. When we open our hospitality and rich cuisine are factors shrinking world, fast transportation, face a little the concept of bleisure we come that make us special and differentiate us. to face communication and similar factor across to a not very complex tourism type. Why should European MICE agencies have an impact on events as well. I want The travelers tired of meetings and panels prefer Turkey? to say that as the country we follow many want to make their travel more fun with As they will enjoy a flawless organization events in the world as trends and modify trips, entertainment and concert, shop- in high standard hotels, congress centers our events and organizations accordingly ping, good food and activities that include and meeting rooms, they will experience or use the tools appropriately. local products and local culture. our hospitality and have the opportunity In the world there is a concept called This actually is a change very harmonious to live in the peerless ambiance of our city. “bleisure” for the last few years. Basically with the trend of inclining to the new and What would you say to the guests espe- it is a new kind of tourism, the combina- personal experiences. This concept makes cially European agencies who prefers tion of business and pleasure and is in the countries like Turkey more special and

MICE operations in Turkey? agenda of the world in recent years. The Turkey steps forward in the choices. The Our country is not dispensable with its separation of business and pleasure, with activities within the organizations (meet- features. Even when we had the security whom the sector is familiar comes to an ings, trainings, cingresses, etc) directly worries we were saying: “Turkey is as safe end. Although there are still strict people effects the level of satisfaction. as the rest of the world.” I can say that in with their agenda each day the number of Finally, do you have anything else to say? this period, the worries about the security people who combine both step go up. MICE segment is the pearl of the tourism has disappeared. According to the “The Bleisure Report”, sector. We can’t deny that it is a big eco As we make up the shortage and increase a research done by BridgeStreet in 2014, system with approximately 60 sub sectors the communication and collaboration of 60% of the travelers claimed to have done and economies are fed by it and its con- sector shareholders we have arrived to a bleisure tourism while 30% said that they tribution to the promotion and income of better point. I can say that I am looking prolonged their business vacation by add- the sector. We are aware of its importance. forward to host our guests specially the ing 1-2 days. Also 78% of the participants That is why we have 2 MICE professionals ones from the MICE sector. think that combining business with pleas- in our board of directors. We are in closer In business tourism what are the trends? ure makes business deals and contracts relationship with the sector.

12 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 UP FRONT EVENT

BIG CHANGE IN THE INTERNATIONAL MICE ASSOCIATION International MICE Association, one of the most dynamic associations of tourism sector changed its name as International Association of MICE Industry in the Extraordinary General Assembly.

nternational MICE Association decid- attention that International Association blueprint-printing, fair, animation and ed to continue its work as Internation- of MICE Industry is of high energy, said entertainment and floating establishment TURKISH MICE INDUSTRY Ial Association of MICE Industry in its that they have a lot to do and the energy services in our new executive team.” Has the growing capacity to serve the sector and the world with meetings, incentives, congresses and 1st Extraordinary General Assembly held needed comes from the executive board of events for the last 40 years with world standards and cutting-edge technology. in İstanbul CVK Park Bosporus Hotel in 30 members. Hüseyin Kurt telling that in MALI KANJI: WE ARE April 21st, 2018. the new term they will take the steps with STRONGER NOW urkey is at a very and previous civilizations. this big constructions we’re finished and In the extraordinary general meeting the shareholders continued as follows: “It “As work groups and commissions under important point in International film indus- inaugurated with the cutting-edge tech- numbers of permanent and substitute should be remembered that if you don’t sit the supervision of members of the execu- Tthe industry and a try, documentary industry, nological infrastructure. members are revised in 9+9 instead of 5+5. on the same table with sector shareholders tive board we put ourselves in for the duty very preferable destina- advertisements prefers the In Turkey numerous cultural, artistic fes- President Serdar Söyler giving informa- and talk the problems together there won’t of creating and started to take the action. tion because of the geo- present natural wonders of tivals and concert organization are held tion about the activities of the association be solutions. If you don’t create the projects Our belief in the success we will reach is graphical location. Service Istanbul and Anatolia with and internationals artists come to perform said that they realized 7 trainings, 1 social together they won’t be successful neither. profound” said Mali Kanji adding that quality of the sector has the local hospitality. their art. With these activities spread in responsibility project, 2 domestic fam trip With this context we included friends ac- they have an agenda of 3 years before them. reached a high level with The guests visiting Tur- 365 days, there cities that live 24 hours. and 3 network events for sector share- tive in hotels, transportation, decoration, the provided venue, tech- key want to come back and Turkish event companies organize differ- holders in 2017. sound-light-technic, human resources, NEW EXECUTIVE BOARD OF THE nical equipment, creating suggest their friends to ent, creative and high tech events in other Hüseyin Kurt, Vice President drawing management, guiding, production, IT, INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION thinking and design. 90% YAVUZ ÖZDEMIR visit Turkey. countries especially in the close ones. OF MICE INDUSTRY of the event and tourism CHAIRMAN OF EXECUTIVE Because of the globali- Turkish construction sector and industry Serdar Söyler - Chariman of the Executive BOARD - FYM CREATIVE GROUP service offered biggest zation of the terror in the firms are world widely known because of Board companies of the world received positive recent years, Turkey has started to gain the high quality work and service pro- Hüseyin Kurt - Vice Chairman of the Ex- feedback. Digital events developed in the its reputation 2018 and the demand in- vided by the managers, businessmen and ecutive Board last years in the world has been used in all creased. Istanbul has become an attrac- workers in different locations for the chain Işıl Özmen - General Secretary events with current standard. tion center with the luxurious hotels, con- companies. Mali Kanji - Treasurer Istanbul being the first to be chosen be- gress centers, events, cultural and artistic Turkish MICE agencies are awarded in Umut Kaya - Member cause of its location on 2 continents and organization, entertainment activities and foreign countries because of the good work Serdar Uğur Girgin - Member then the other cities of Anatolia host MICE malls. Internationally corporate events, they offer. Turkey will be an attraction Nurçin Yürekli - Member events and different organizations with the weddings, international sports activities point again like it used to be in the previous Ferhat Özdemir - Member geographical beauties, historical texture are held in MICE and event industry. For decades with its destinations and services. Kubilay Şahin - Member

14 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 15 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 INTERVIEW

EXPERT OF ENTERTAINMENT: HANDE GIRGIN The elements of a joyous wedding organization is good music and light setup. Hande Girgin, Project Coordinator of Mavi Group Technical Production, explained the details of an unforgettable wedding. he dreams guide our lives. The dance and the music during the cake cere- atmosphere. All the guests watching your fairiest of all dreams might be how mony. These 3 tracks should be picked very first dance from the LED screens is a de- Twe will be getting married. With carefully. It should be remembered that tail that will make the night unforgettable. the technology of today dreamlike wed- these 3 songs will be remembered for the Of course all the things I am telling now dings are a major dream of our lives. The rest of your life. are abstract concepts. This is exactly why starrings of a wedding is sound and light- Unfortunately lighting is left as a second- the company you are working with should ing system after the bride and groom. ary thing or even not taken seriously in the have good references in order not to face You should be very picky with the music wedding ceremonies and other events. It with bad surprises. The meeting you have choices and lighting design of the place like is an important detail and generally not one week before the event to rehearse and you would be for the wedding dress of the taken good care of. For instance a themed to coordinate with the company that you bride, tuxedo of the groom, food you serve watch-out or robotic light show according sign the contract one month before the to your guests. The most important thing to the concept of the night as the bride and event will calm your worries and lead you that will make that night very beautiful is groom enters and later will create a unique to the flawless wedding ceremony. the quality of the technical infrastructure, the music you choose with the dj. Music is made of many alternatives like the menu of the night. The general concept of the wed- ding, bride and groom’s expectations, the age of guests are the factors that will de- termine the musics of the night. Dj and the hosts of the event should meet beforehand, the guests’ profile should be introduced to the dj and with the experience of the dj a playlist that will not repeat itself and sat- isfy all age groups present in the ceremony. One of the stages of the organization is the entrance of bride and groom, their first

16 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 UP FRONT

SERDAR UGUR ERGIN, THE TECHNICAL ARCHITECT OF THE DREAMLIKE EVENTS MY MOST PRECIOUS HOBBY IS MY PROFESSION The secret of Serdar Uğur Ergin who does his job flawlessly from A to Z and makes a difference wherever he touches is seeing his job as his hobby. avi Group Technical Pro- our job. Our company Mavi Sound, Light, watch-out suitable for the concept, musi- duction, under the tutelage of Music, Video System Services under Mavi cians and singers. MSerdar Uğur Ergin offers DJ Group Technical Production is working Could you please tell us about I-MICE services to the conferences, congresses, very hard in the MICE sector and is one Association of which you are one of the meetings, organizations, weddings, spe- of the leading companies of the sector. Mv members? cial events, festivals, concerts, videos, LED and Visuals Company specialised I-MICE is an NGO found by the sector advertisements, tv shows, fashion shows, on projectors, LED screens, mapping and leaders iN 2016 in Istanbul. I-MICE is sports activities, spring festivals and tech- watch-out systems and giving professional operating as a very important and proud We bring together the business world with health and nature in the Ramada nical infrastructure and production ser- visual service also in non congress, meet- association as it consists of the whole sec- vices to the live performances since 2002. ing, gala events and Mavi Plus providing tor, experienced teams, visionary identity, Resort Kazdaglari Thermal & SPA which is the best meeting hotel in the Is it possible to leave all the technical professional decoration, stage, runway ethical structure. It is also important since Aegean Region. details of an organization to your com- and truss serves under the roof of Mavi it is the first Turkish MICE association in pany or there needs to be another com- Group Technical Production. the world. pany for the details? What are the services you provide for the Mavi Group Technical Production is a Ramada Resort Kazdaglari Thermal & SPA which is located pretty close to Of course it is possible. Actually what we events? member of YEPUD (Association of Cre- the Ida Mountain which has the second highest oxygen rate in the world, really care for is to finish the technical or- We provide rental service for the tools ative Events and Planning) and I-MICE ganization services by one hand. Therefore for lighting, sound, music, stage, runway (International Association of MICE) and offers a fascinating meeting opportunity for all valued guests. from beginning to the end every detail is systems, backdrop systems, LED screen, SITE GLOBAL.

Our elegantly styled spa and thermal hotel consists of totally 121 roomsand event can be held up to 480 people in theatre style in ball room.

Güre Köyü Yolu 10395 Edremit / Balıkesir Telefon : 0 266 372 07 77 E-mail : [email protected] Web : www.ramadaresortkazdaglari.com ramadaresortkazdaglari ramadaresortkazdaglari 18 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 UP FRONT

HOWEVER, OUTSTANDING BEACH FRONT LOCATIONS LABRANDA Hotels & Resorts offer THE CHANGE professional setting for all your Begin your journey with an HANDAN BOYCE corporate needs and meetings. unforgettable ceremony at the beach CONSULTING - OWNER. ADVISOR TO PRESIDENT OF IS INEVITABLE Whether a meeting or or a romantic honeymoon getaway in TURSAB, TURKISH TRAVEL Turkey and its leading destinations may not be ranked at AGENCIES ASSOCIATION MPI conference space, look no further, one of our dream suites. TURKEY CLUB PRESIDENT where we believe it deserves to be now, but it is not for long. as our hotels in the Mediterranean and Aegean region have it all! ould you give us an overall difficult times last couple of years. As everybody admits, Istanbul was and is evaluation about Turkey’s However, the problems and the challenges not more dangerous than any other city WMICE industry and the des- we faced as the industry and the country around the world, however the negative tination’s position with a current and near were not much different than some other perception was somehow over our ability future perspective. destinations dealing with similar issues as the industry to change. Turkish meeting industry and the desti- except that the perception versus reality However, the change is inevitable. Turkey nation itself has gone through some really issue was not to our favour unfortunately. and its leading destinations may not be ranked at where we believe it deserves to be now, but it is not for long. The industry, industry associations, local and national governments are all join- ing forces more than ever to restructure, reorganize and re-evaluate the position and the future of the meeting industry in Turkey to take strategic actions in the near future. With an extensive knowledge, experience and service excellence, I believe our des- tination will continue to add value to the international meeting industry and with no doubt will regain its well-deserved reputation and place on the map of global meeting industry

20 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 www.labranda.com

Labranda_Turizm_Aktuel_22x30.indd 1 10.05.2018 13:57:18 REPORT REPORT

Güniz Atış Azrak, General Timur Bayindir, President of Union Coordinator of Lütfi Kırdar Erkan Yagci, President of Mediterranean of Turkish Hoteliers (TÜROB) Congress and Exhibiton Center Touristic Hoteliers Association(AKTOB)

al and international congresses are held. with more than 100,000 beds is capable tion is the biggest difference. There should Istanbul is leading the list. There are 3 of hosting 30,000 guests at the same time be VAT exemption for the companies or TURKEY WILL BE congress centers in Istanbul with world says Tuğçe Memişoğlu, vice president of establishments coming to Turkey for con- standards and strong technical infra- ICVB. “Istanbul is powerful enough to gress tourism. This will comfort us in this THE CENTER OF structure: Lütfi Kirdar Congress and Ex- compete with many European cities with period of distress.” hibition Center with the capacity of 2000 its beauty and growth potential.” people, Istanbul Congress Center with the CONGRESS ATTRACTION OF CONGRESS TOURISM capacity of 3700 people, Haliç Congress GOOD SIGNALS FROM ANTALYA Center with the capacity of 3000 people. LUTFI KIRDAR FOR 2018 There is 600,000 bed capacity and Congresses are essentials of the tourism sector with its high profile participants. For the congress Güniz Atış Azrak, General Coordinator 175,000 seat capacity in Antalya for the tourism that started to accelerate after a period of slowing down, new investments are on their ICVB IS BEHIND THE WHEEL of Lütfi Kırdar Congress and Exhibiton congress tourism. ATSO Atatürk Congress way. Istanbul being the locomotive is followed by Antalya, İzmir and Ankara. Eskisehir starts to The most important driving establishment Center, informed that they have hosted Center, Glass Pyramid-Sabanci Congress in congress tourism in Istanbul, Istanbul 170,000 people this year so far in differ- and Fair Center, Antalya Expo Center, accelerate too. Here are congresses and their investments. ✍ ÖZLEM KAPAR BAYBURS Congress and Visitors’ Bureau (ICVB), is ent events. “We hosted 185,000 people Mediterranean University Congress Hall ongress and meeting tourism is Mostly male guests from mainly Europe- a high profitable position worldwide. working with full concentration to increase in 2015, 229,921 guests in 2014, 213,000 and Konakli Congress Center are the main the leading branch of the tour- an and American congress tourism origin According to the numbers declared by the number of congresses and meetings guests in 2013. The most intensive months venues to host congresses. ICCA Congress Cism sector as it is fastest to grow stay 2 or 3 nights. The participants of high International Congress and Convention held in Istanbul and thus to raise its place of congresses are October-November and has been a very important and barnburner thanks to the high capacity and number income groups like businessmen, manag- Association (ICCA) 12,293 congresses in in the list of favourite destinations. ICVB March-April-May. We are still negoti- organization for Antalya. G20 and NATO of visitors. It constitutes 25-35% of the ers, delegates of congresses spend 2 or 3 accord with the standards of ICCA were representatives attending international ating for congresses in 2018 and I can say meetings are among the important events yearly income and occupancy of the hotels. times more than tourists and this puts it in held in 2016. According to the data given congress and fairs and meeting with as- that there are 2 international congresses held in Antalya. Erkan Yagci, President of by ICCA on 2016, USA leads the list with sociation representatives tell the details that 90% likely to be held in Lutfi Kirdar.” Mediterranean Touristic Hoteliers As- 934 congresses and is followed by Ger- about the Istanbul’s present congress and sociation(AKTOB) says: “There are more many with 689, England with 584. Tur- meeting potential. ICVB organizing fam VAT EXEMPTION than 400 five-star hotels in Antalya and key has successfully reached 18th place trips to the press members of world’s con- WOULD BE A BREATH each hotel has enough congress and meet- in 2015 but in 2016 with 103 congresses gress industry’s publications with wide Timur Bayindir, President of Union of ing rooms. Now we are mostly hosting local has fallen 19 steps and become 37th in the circulation, tries to make Istanbul visible Turkish Hoteliers (TÜROB), says that the congresses. We have the transportation list. Although it seems very negative, the in every platform using the speed and ef- congress tourism requires long term plan- and technical services of high quality to congresses planned point to a recovery, fective force of social media as well. ning. “Recently for a congress in 2020, be able to serve for international organi- an upswing. proposals are given. We need to have zations. In spite of negativity in the inter- NEW INVESTEMENTS strong hands for new congresses, which national markets, this advantages will pro- ISTANBUL THE LOCOMOTIVE WILL EMPOWER means that we have to develop marketing vide the return. All indications show that OF THE SECTOR Istanbul with its strong infrastructure strategies. In the proposals given for con- 2018 will be better in general and congress In Turkey annually around 2000 nation- and high capacity congress centers, hotels gress tourism application of VAT exemp- tourism will get its share.”

22 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 23 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 REPORT

Ekrem Demirtaş, Chairman of Executive Board of İzmir Chamber of Commerce

Hilton Dalaman Sarıgerme Resort&Spa

Tunç Batum, General Seçim Aydın, Coordinator Manager of Hilton of Ankara Chamber of Dalaman Sarıgerme Commerce Congress Resort&Spa and Visitors’ Bureau. IZMIR AND AYDIN to organize the congresses indoor. “says The total number of congress/meeting FOR AEGEAN REGION Ekrem Demirtaş, Chairman of Executive rooms of these hotels is 206 and total In İzmir there are many accommodation Board of İzmir Chamber of Commerce. capacity of them is 38,112. An average of facilities with meeting rooms under their 40% of the congresses held in Ankara is roofs. Also various profession groups and ADDITIONAL SEAT ARE international. When we look closely to cultural-artistic centers have meeting ON THE WAY IN DALAMAN the sectors, medical, social sciences and rooms. Swiss Hotel, Hilton, Kaya İzmir Tunç Batum, General Manager of Hilton engineering congresses constitutes 5% Convention Hotel, Çeşme Altınyunus Dalaman Sarıgerme Resort&Spa, start- of all.” said Seçim Aydın, Coordinator of Hotel, Çeşme Sheraton, Wyndham Grand ing that the have a capacity of 800-900 Ankara Chamber of Commerce Congress Izmir Özdilek, Richmond Ephesus Hotel, people continued as follows: “We will and Visitors’ Bureau. Özdere Paloma Pasha Hotels are some of construct new halls. These new halls will the hotels that are constructed in accord- operate in November 2018. By this the ESKISEHIR ASKS FOR ance with congress tourism. hotel would be able to host 1600 congress A SHARE OF THE CAKE guests. The biggest union of Indian travel Eskisehir is also ready to get its share ASIAN AND PACIFIC agencies, Travel Agencies Federation of from the congress tourism. Eskisehir COUNTRIES ARE TARGETED India (TAFI) will have its congress with Chamber of Commerse (ETO) is run- “As Izmir, our hotel capacity is over 272 700 people in between 27-29th of Octo- ning a project named Eskisehir Fair and bed capacity is over 50,000. We have ber in our facility. Congress Center. In the center still being alternative tourism in our city that sup- constructed on an area of 4000 square plements congress tourism. We are at a THE FOCUS ON NATIONAL meters in the centrum, there will be a point where we can support the congress CONGRESSES IN THE CAPITAL congress center. The complex that will period’s before and after with nature, slow “In 6 congress centers in Ankara there include an auditorium with a capacity of food, culture, religion, cruise, gastronomy, are a total of 39 congress and meeting 750 people, and 5 meeting rooms with ca- fair tourism. In our 30 districts there are rooms with a capacity of 13,000 people. pacities of 100, 50 and 25 people will be alternative destinations that can be includ- Besides these centers in 20 hotels of An- inaugurated as an investment in Eskise- ed in the tour packages. It is not necessary kara congress and meetings can be held. hir’s congress tourism.

24 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 UP FRONT

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES OF COUNTRIES IN THE ECE DELEN MICE INDUSTRY CO-FOUNDER DESTINATION OPTIONS Within the MICE organizations along with the state corpses and international DESTINATION MANAGEMENT COMPANY security summits we carry on all of the local touristic services of world’s giant firms.

owever there were difficult times unhappy. Their unhappiness will put you ing the tour. Destination is the foundation when we practiced these. What in a very bad position in front of 3rd per- of the event to-be-constructed. You chose Hwas the difficult part? The des- sons and then you face with “why didn’t your destination even before you chose tination’s insufficient facilities. The we you warn us then” questions. your partner and you experience as much learned to ask that question in time: Is it In particularly organized international as your destinations contribution to your possible to have MICE tourism? meetings, congresses, symposiums, team goal. work meetings this lack of technical sup- At this point Turkey is a destination that IT IS NOT port might make you think of a different serves to the MICE sector. It certain- Why? If your organization is just incentive destination: hotel with a small accommo- ly should be utilized. One of the biggest organization, first you might say you can dation capacity, lack of rooms big enough reasons of this, as known, is the impor- realize in any country. Because in incen- to host the organization, technologically tance of hosting a guest, serving the ser- tive tours the goal is to try the cuisine of insufficient systems in the country, not vice and giving importance to luxury that that country, to get to know the culture, having enough qualified staff. originates back in the Ottoman Imperial to learn the history and to see the geogra- When serving to MICE tourism we prac- period. It still has its place in our mod- phy. But even in this there might be some tice one of the most difficult jobs in the ern culture. Besides that there is Turkish problems. In general in that country there world. Each profession practices one or Airlines, the company with the most di- might not be the vehicle that you will use maximum 3 major components in their rect flights, there are the newest cars in for MICE groups. The newest car might be jobs, in our job we have to practice much the country, high technology is utilized in a 2000 model, or the most suggestible fa- more different components in order to the events, there is attention in high levels cility might have only 4 stars. Restaurants obtain customer satisfaction. We have on security. With all these you can com- might be very good but the service might the organize the flight that will take the fortably have MICE events in Turkey. Do not. When you take all of these little things guest while arriving to our country and the not forget: destination is the foundation you participants are left unsatisfied and menus of the 3 meals she/he will get dur- of the event.

26 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 INTERVIEW INTERVIEW

gresses of Ministery of Tourism and Cul- nical subjects. ture, attending international workshops The destination and the calendar of con- and sales markets, publishing and dis- gresses are decided very early. In this peri- tributing visual promotion tools like İs- od of time preparations are done and can- tanbul Meeting Planner Guide, support- cellations are almost impossible. Hence ing national associations in the period of congress sector is not effected deeply and preparing congress candidacy folders and quickly by the periodical political, eco- presentations, hosting foreign purchasers nomic crisis. in incentives, creating job opportunities Congress tourism requires infrastruc- by participating international fam trips, ture, architecture, technology and ser- workshops and general assembly meetings vice of high quality. This means improve- of international corporations and repre- ment or development in the city life and in senting our country and city while doing general image. As known congress sector so. ICVB continues to work in accordance because of the profile of the customer, with the foundation goals since its foun- expected equipment in the facilities and dation. service standards requires high quali- Is ICVB any international association? ty service offers and specialization. This ICVB is a member of ICCA (Internation- brings the development and improvement al Congress and Conventions Associa- in resources, use of technology and similar tion), ECM (European Cities Marketing), areas. DMAI (Destination Marketing Associaon What is the position of Istanbul in world International). ICVB is the only establish- congress industry? ment to represent İstanbul in all of these When we look at the distribution of con- associations. gress tourism in the world, conventional What is the role of congress, fair and North American and Western European conference tourism for İstanbul’s tour- countries have reached a level of satura- ISTANBUL RETURNS ism in general? tion, and Eastern European countries. For this it is necessary to understand the Mediterranean, Middle East and Asian role of meeting and congress tourism for Pacific countries increasing their shares TO ITS OLD DAYS IN the destinations. Congress tourism en- of the market. Bahadır Yaşık, Vice Chairman of ICVB, “ICVB continues to work in sures the development of the destinations. Istanbul will regain the congresses that accordance with the foundation The delegates of the congresses have a it lost in last 2 years of discontinuation of CONGRESS TOURISM goals since its foundation.” purchasing power 3-4 times better than tourism. Our works to make İstanbul the The board of directors and executive board of ICVB consists of pioneer names ICVB? normal tourists. They have also a high level host of big congresses again continues. The purpose of founding ICVB was help- of traveling culture. Thus it revitalizes the What are things that should be done so and establishments of public and private sectors. ✍ HASAN ARSLAN ing the marketing as promoting Istanbul’s commerce of the city including the hotels, that the tourism of Istanbul reaches de- ahadır Yaşık, Board Member as a non profit and impartial, marketine ICVB’s operation in the scope of its mis- organizational potential and infrastruc- restaurants, museums, entertainment served levels? of Istanbul Chamber of Com- and promoting foundation in 1997 under sion which can be shortly summarized as ture in congress, conference, fair and venues, shopping malls, banks and even In congress sector we don’t have any in- Bmerce (ITO) and Vice Chairman TUGEV (Tourism Development and Ed- promoting and marketing the destination exhibition sectors nationally and interna- credit card companies and increases the frastructural problems. We have rooms of ICVB, told the works of Turkey’s first ucation Foundation). The board of direc- as a whole in national and international tionally. Providing the branding of Istan- tax income. and hotels big enough to answer the needs. destination promotion office, ICVB, and tors and executive board of ICVB consists congress sector, in general is same as the bul, to advertise the congress tourism in Also they have a potential of coming back However we need more 3 and 4 star hotels the future tourism route to the readers of of pioneer names and establishments of operation and standards of international our country and to help the delevopment of to the city they love with their families, for congress and city tourism. Turizm Aktüel. public and private sectors since the first congress bureaus. It needs to be mentioned tourism by city’s and country’s promotion. friends or business partners. They are The active use of historical and cultur- How was the big contributor of Istan- day of establishment. This structure con- that the administration of Istanbul’s first What are the main activities of ICVB the tourists with high purchasing power al venues in congress and meeting sector bul’s branding and promotion in in- tributed a lot to the development of ICVB. official promotion web site howtoistanbul. and what have ICVB done until today? whose numbers should be increased in Is- increased the attraction of Istanbul but ternational platforms ICVB (Istanbul ICVB accepts the membership of private com is given to ICVB by the Istanbul Gov- ICVB carries on the marketing and pro- tanbul. The verbal impact of these people we need more than that. İstanbul needs to Congress and Visitors’ Bureau) was sector. ICVB’s members profile consists ernorship. motional activities in order to strengthen has a role in the promotion of the cities as develop politics in congress and tourism founded? What are the changes that it of 4 and 5 star hotels, congress organizing With taking over the management of how- the Istanbul brand in congress and meet- well. Meetings and congresses contribute sectors in accordance to the city’s eco- has gone through, since the foundation? agencies (PMO/DMC), restaurants and toistanbul.com ICVB’s “Visitors” depart- ing sector and to ensure continuity of the also to the academic life and specialists’ nomic strategies and collaborate firmly ICVB, being the first destination pro- suppliers of similar services and MICE ment is activated. market and awareness. We can give exam- levels as it brings the scientific world to with intellectual capacity with the univer- motion bureau of Turkey, was founded companies. What is the foundation purpose of ples like organizing the meetings and con- our door on important medical and tech- sities, research institutes of the city.

28 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 29 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 CONGRESS WHY ISTANBUL FOR CONGRESSES? Istanbul sets itself apart from other destinations with its dynamic nature and constant development. A magnet for dynamic and talented people from around the world, Istanbul is the ideal meeting destination with its vibrancy, modernity, swathe of new infrastructure and enviable position. city with a global outlook, Istan- bul is a meeting point between AEast and West as well as being a leading congress destination offering unique and exciting venues. With its 7 convention and 3 exhibition centers the city has the capacity to host every type of event, from bespoke incentives to meet- ings for up to 30,000 participants. Com- bined with Istanbul’s historic venues, pal- aces, cisterns, high-tech modern venues and more, it offers meeting planners a va- riety of remarkable options to create truly outstanding events. Accommodation in Istanbul, with unique Visitors Bureau-ICVB was established ordination with its members and tourism Turkish hospitality, is both numerous - at in 1997 under the umbrella of the Tour- industry associations, chaired by Istanbul 112,000 plus beds – and diverse with a se- ism Development & Education Founda- Chamber of Commerce. lection across the spectrum including more tion-TUGEV. ICVB is also an active member of inter- than 219 five-star and four-star hotels. A non-profit destination marketing organ- national meetings industry organizations Easily accessible from around the world, ization, ICVB represents Istanbul around such as the International Congress & Istanbul is served most of the interna- the world and is the leading resource for Convention Association (ICCA), Europe- tional airlines at its two airports. Turkish international associations and corpora- an Cities Marketing (ECM) and Meeting Airlines, has a network of more than 300 tions seeking to hold events in Istanbul. Professionals International (MPI) direct flights and flies to more countries ICVB has played a key role in Istanbul’s than any other airline in the world, con- rapid rise in popularity as a destination for OUR SERVICES necting Istanbul with 5 continents. Two high-profile international congresses and ICVB offers a wide range of services de- billion people living within six hours’ fly- events, ranking among the world’s most signed to help promote Istanbul as a con- ing time of Istanbul and being the only city popular congress destinations. gress, meeting and incentive destination on two continents gives the city a unique ICVB’s members, cover the full spectrum and also to assist organizers in creating and privileged position. of the meeting industry, including leading fabulous events in the city; hotels, conference and exhibition centers, Bid Support. Venue Finding . Consulting ISTANBUL CONVENTION & DMC/PCOs, restaurants, unusual venues & Advice. Site Inspections VISITORS BUREAU and other companies involved directly or Promotional Materials . Delegate Boost- Turkey’s first destination marketing or- indirectly in the conference and incen- ing Kit. Online Congress Calendar ganization, the Istanbul Convention & tive tourism sector. Working in close co- Visitor Information.

30 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 INTERVIEW INTERVIEW

WE WILL ORGANIZE A WORLD WIDE MICE ORGANIZATION IN TURKEY Turkey because of many reasons like its position, its cultural and historical wealth, the national flight company’s wide Founding partner of Oliva MICE, Vice President of I-MICE and board flight network, our people’s hospitality, our personnel’s member of TÜRSAB Huseyin Kurt capacity, is one of the leading preferred countries. ounding partner of Oliva MICE, cision. Would you tell us about this pro- to create advantages domestically and in- pact principles, critical thinking and de- a job and the ones looking for a personnel. tels, PCOs, MICE firms, administrators Vice President of I-MICE and cess? ternationally. cision making, NLP, protocol manners, We informed the shareholders about the of citys’ and municipalities’ of brand value Fboard member of TÜRSAB Hu- In an event in Haliç Congress Center two Besides to provide trainings for personal general manners, emotional intelligence sectoral carrier news and sectoral devel- will come to our country. We plan to or- seyin Kurt told the founding purpose and years ago, we put the problems in tour- growth and expertness of our members in business life, motivation of the person- opments. A lot of event and work has our ganize an important summit where we work of Association of I-MICE and Tur- ism on table with sector professional and shareholders, to organize fam trips nel. signature underneath. Thus the expec- discuss the MICE sector’s past, present key’s position in the world’s MICE indus- colleagues. Sector was getting through a for new domestic and abroad destinations By the end of 2019 we will have made 25 tations from our association have raised. and future along with the problems and try in the interview with Turizm Aktüel. tough time. There was a need for a mass for our member agencies, to organize pro- panels and speeches by inspiring speak- With the motivation of being useful for the solutions. Turkey is seen in one of the countries in interlocutor. Sector shareholders needed jects/b2b events in order to contribute to ers under the roof of TÜRSAB. Along with sector we continue so. Is there anything that you want to add? which the most important MICE organ- to sit on the same table and speak about the shares of sector shareholders and fi- those we will also have done 25 personal To organize the Intenational MICE As the exigence of our responsibility, we izations can be held. Why do you think the problems together. The problems in nally to be the guide of the MICE market training programs. I want to express that Summit in Turkey is in your short term had extraordinary general assembly in Turkey is being preferred? What are the tourism needed to be solved. “If we can not in our country and in the world are among all of these training are welcoming all sec- projects. What would you say about this? April. We had structural and functional things that make Turkey preferable? sit on the same table and create solutions, our missions as well. tor shareholders and students. We care a lot about this organization. The changes in our plenum. We changed our Turkey because of many reasons like its it is not possible to be successful with these I-MICE by including all shareholders position, its cultural and historical wealth, problems” we thought and by this vision of the sector creates an important for- We care a lot about the International MICE Summit that we plan to realize in Turkey. the national flight company’s wide flight and with about 30 founding partners’ mation breeze in the air. Also organiz- We see this summit as a “prestige” organization in favor of our country. network, our people’s hospitality, our per- contribution, we founded our association. es important certification programs for sonnel’s capacity, our features of being What are the targets and ideals of the personnel trainings which is a need Why does I-MICE raise the level? What negative perception in abroad of our sec- name from “International MICE Asso- organized very quick, solution oriented I-MICE? Which long term and short in the sector. What are the reasons to do are the reasons? tor and country needs to be switched very ciation” to “International Association of work and practicality, many active trans- term projects does I-MICE have? all these? Our association has become a welcoming, quick. With a correct organization and PR MICE Industry”. We increased the number portation tools in our infrastructure, rich The aims and missions of our association By the principle “happy personnel-hap- project creating association that reaches and press collaboration we have to provide of directors in the board from 5+5 to 9+9. cuisine, venues we have for congresses and are; to create a new contact and collabo- py guest” the more we organize useful people and creates benefit. In a very short our country and city to be back in the top of We created our supervisory board of 3+3 events, the importance we give to technol- ration opportunities between members events and trainings for the sector and time like 1 year, we realized 7 trainings, 2 the list like it used to be. We see this sum- members and disciplinary board of 3+3. ogy and quality is one of the leading pre- and sector shareholders, to contribute shareholders the more the sector becomes abroad fam trip, 3 network events, 1 social mit as a “prestige” organization in favor of Our association will be managed by an ferred countries. to the existing communications, to pro- happy. responsibility project and sectoral sur- our country. executive board and sub groups and com- In Turkey that already has a very good tect the ethical frame between members When we plan the trainings we aim to de- veys. We created new communication and Within the “World MICE Summit”, the missions of 30 people. I can say that our tourism potential you established the and shareholders and to find solutions to velope the qualified labor that our sector collaboration opportunities between our foreign Ministers of Tourism, airlines, association will have its name mentioned a biggest MICE Association of Turkey or their problems, being able to be a mass re- needs. The trainings we have done until shareholders. bureaus of congress and visitors, impor- lot in and out of the country in 2018-2021 even the region by a very important de- spondent to private sector and public and now were on persuasion science and im- We brought together the ones looking for tant NGOs, press, important chain ho- term.

32 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 33 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 UP FRONT

WHY HAVE A CONGRESS IN TURKEY? The guests coming to Istanbul do not only attend to the meetings. They have the opportunity of seeing one of the most beautiful cities in World: Istanbul. irst I salute all my colleagues. the meetings. They any center in any world. All or most most of you might think have the opportuni- But I can be very clear Fthe reason why you should have a ty of seeing one of the about that: in Istanbul, meeting in Turkey and in Istanbul. First most beautiful cities in Turkey, you are as of all your questions must be answered so in World: Istanbul. Is- safe as you are in any that you can organize your meeting in Tur- tanbul is not a city of country or in any Euro- key. I want to answer your question with just history and cul- pean city. another one: Why don’t you? ture. This magnificent As Hümanitas, we are What do we need to have a meeting? In- city keeps glamouris- a MICE agency that itially an adequate congress center or ing its guests with its serves both in coun- IRVIN EYÜP hotels with enough meeting rooms with rich cuisine that con- MANDEL PEHLIVAN try and abroad. In 10 enough capacity. Istanbul is a city that is tents of local and world HUMANITAS MICE years we have organized able to satisfy these needs with 3 big con- restaurants along with many national and in- gress centers and dozens of hotels. its natural beauty, peerless view and his- ternational congresses, meetings and in- Istanbul already hosted hundreds of con- torical texture. centives with our experienced team. gresses and hosted the guests with no Guests as long as they create time, can also We organized the EACID congresses in problem. Istanbul is also adequate with visit touristic highlights of the country Kirghizistan, Kazakistan, Azerbaijan, the total bed amount. such as Cappadocia, Ephesus, Bodrum, Bosnia, Albania, Serbia and Georgia, and In Istanbul there are technical companies Hierapolis(Pamukkale), Antalya. The WFHSS (World Sterilization Congress) serving with the technical infrastructure meeting can be held also in Antalya, the in Antalya. We organized the meeting of in the level of the world standards. All paradise on earth, famous city for its re- pharmaceutical companies’ and other kinds of technical tools exist for sound and sorts and is assertive about congress tour- firms’ of different sectors year end assess- display. Since there is experienced service ism as well. Antalya has the needed infra- ment meetings in Antalya and Istanbul. and technical staff as well, there is noth- structure just like Istanbul. We also organized many national com- ing to worry about that. All vehicles and I also want to underline that compar- pany’s congresses in different city’s of our infrastructure is suitable for transfers and ing to European centers, Turkey will be country. inner-city transportation. Subway line is more economic alternative for all kinds of We are ready to give the best quality ser- spread in major part of the city. Especially events. vice to your guests coming from any part to arrive to the airport and centrum is very “Ok with all these but what about secu- of the world with our experienced team easy and fast. rity?” you are saying, right? You might be and technical infrastructure. We invite There are direct flights to Istanbul from right but the security problems occurring you to Turkey. We guarantee that you will cities of Europe and world. The guests ime to time in Turkey are not exclusive to be proud of the unforgettable meeting you coming to Istanbul do not only attend to Turkey. You can ask the same question for offer to your guests.

34 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 UP FRONT TURKEY IS A COUNTRY WITH ADVANTAGES FOR THE MICE TOURISM It is important not to cluster MICE sector in one region but to spread it. This, while regains the outlander participants, would be an advantage for us. ağız Öngen, Vice Chairman of income is of MICE origin. The most im- company and provided services but also in the Executive Board of Ramada portant subject in this sector is to attract natural, cultural and historical wealth and YResort Kazdağları (Mount Ida) foreign firms to our country and distrib- the things they can do in the area. Thermal&Spa, telling the advantages of ute MICE industry to 81 cities. If we spread Our major problem is the perception. We our country in the MICE tourism in his the sector to whole country, it will ensure need to prove again that we can host these interview, introduced Ramada Resort Ka- development of whole country. It is im- organizations peacefully, securely and zdağları Thermal&Spa which is an alter- portant not to cluster MICE sector in one steadily. Unfortunately there is a bad repu- native destination in the MICE sector. region but to spread it. This, while regains tation of our country abroad. MICE indus- What are your thoughts about the MICE the outlander participants, would be an try steps forward as a tool to change this. potential of Turkey? advantage for us. We will advertise turkey When we compare Turkish MICE sector Turkey is a country with many advantages to the world again by MICE sector. Now with the European equivalents, what are The tourist arriving in our country can find in MICE industry. The 1/3 of our tourism people are not only interested in hotel, the things that differentiate Turkey? whatever she/he looks for. Either mountain or sea, thermal, nature, either history or Yağız Öngen, Vice Chairman of the Executive Board of Ramada Resort Kazdağları (Mount Ida) Thermal&Spa culture. All of these even more are present in our country. Our country already dis- tinguishes from other countries with the quality of the service we provide, sectoral experience we have and the care we have about our guest. Technical infrastructure, organization and management of them, venue and venue management are at utmost professionality. When we add our country’s beauties to this, there is no reason not to be the first country to come to mind and pre- growth. The effort of International Asso- with one of the pioneers of eco tourism in ferred most in the MICE sector. ciation of MICE Industry of which I am Turkey, Öngen Country Hotel in 2000. Why should European MICE agencies proud to be a part, can not be denied. What Öngen Country Hotel is a very special prefer Turkey? matters is to unite all shareholders and facility built without harming one single First of all because of our experience. Tur- work for the sake of our country together. tree. At the same time it is one of the first key has overcome very big and important That’s why our association that started its boutique hotels of Kazdağları. organizations. Then we have to put for- path with the motto “Claim Your Sector!” After a few managership experience, our ward our countries beauty that no other is very much important. I hope that our company has launched Ramada Resort Ka- country has. We have the potential to country and sector will be at the deserved zdağları Thermal&Spa in 2016. It is a eye make a difference in all branches of MICE level in the coming years. catching hotel with Green Key that offers industry. We need to be aware of our po- In the end, would you please tell us about different activities, organic garden and ad- tential and use it wisely. the Ramada Resort Kazdağları Ther- vantages of the zone in which it is located. How do you see the future of MICE in- mal&Spa of which you are the Vice Pres- Thanks to these it hosted some very impor- dustry in Turkey? ident of Executive Board? tant events. Last year we were awarded as There is serious growth in MICE sector in Our company with exception of a few the Best Meeting Hotel of Aegean Region. our country. NGOs have a serious role in branches is a company focused on tour- Our hotel occupies a serious vacancy in this growth and the sustainability of the ism. We started our function in tourism providing an alternative MICE destination.

36 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 37 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 UP FRONT & DMC

One Istanbul is the 3rd most popular CONFERENCE CONFERENCESOLUTIONS THERE IS ONLY city branding account on Instagram, SOLUTIONS and Istanbul is one of the most photographed cities in the world. TEAM ONE ISTANBUL TEAMBUILDINGS collaboration between Istanbul if they live in or previously have visited it. ments with their loyal millions of follow- BUILDINGS Metropolitan Municipality, Is- The official social media handle @oneis- ers on Instagram and Snapchat. This also Atanbul Chamber of Commerce tanbul and the hashtag #oneistanbul is helped One Istanbul acquire new follow- and Istanbul Convention & Visitors Bu- being tagged on thousands of amazing ers and spiked the engagements through INCENTIVES reau, One Istanbul keeps growing strong photographs by Instagramers every sin- likes, comments and shares. INCENTIVES on social media platforms, as well as gle day. This provides an endless flow of Istanbul comes the third (following Lon- through it’s highly popular photo contest. compelling and authentic visual content, don and Paris) in the city ranking of “the Istanbul, a vibrant crossroads of cultures to share on all One Istanbul’s social and most photographed cities in the world”. It’s and civilizations, never loses its popular- digital media channels. Thanks to talent- no wonder, 532.000 One Istanbul tagged ity for millions of travellers. With one arm ed professionals and amateurs alike, One photographs and videos have been shared reaching out to Asia and the other to Eu- Istanbul by far has the most engaging and on Instagram to date and it’s just getting MEETING rope, Istanbul stands out with its unique visually stunning social accounts, com- bigger every day. This impressive success MEETINGPLANNING cityscape built on two continents and the pared to other metropolitan cities around is also a result of One Istanbul Instagram PLANNING breath-taking Bosphorus strait running the world. Contest, an exciting and rewarding pho- GROUPS through. Being the capital of two empires Istanbul’s globally renowned beauty, his- tography project. The contest bring par- GROUPS for more than 1.500 years, Istanbul is bless- torical and the cultural assets also at- ticipants together with all the colors of this ed with magnificent Byzantine and Otto- tracted many of world’s most followed incredible city. The goal of the contest is to SPECIAL man monuments, which also makes it one of photographers and Instagram influenc- emphasize the very well known assets and INTERESTSPECIAL TOURS SPECIAL EVENTS the most Instagramable cities in the world. ers including but not limited to Christina beauty of Istanbul to a global audience, INTEREST TOURS SPECIAL& PRODUCTIONEVENTS Launched in April 2015, with a vision to Tan (@sassychris1), Christoffer Collin (@ as well as highlight the city’s hidden gems & PRODUCTION become the key source of inspiration and wisslaren) and Gil Antolin (@luxury- through the lens of photographers, both information for both residents and vis- worldtraveller). These talents repeatedly Turkish and foreign. Instagram contest is itors, One Istanbul’s popularity keeps paid special visits to Istanbul past years open to public application and to take part thriving. Within two and a half years, One and photographed some of Istanbul’s is as easy as to follow @oneistanbul on In- Istanbul already built a powerful commu- iconic attractions, neighbourhoods and stagram, and then tag both #oneistanbul nity of those who love Istanbul, no matter hidden gems, and shared their special mo- and #istanbul in the captions. was established in 1987. Phone : +90 212 296 71 11 Phone : +90 212 296 71 11 38 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 With 31 yearswas of established knowledge in and 1987. experience, Mail: [email protected] With 31 years of knowledge and experience, Mail: [email protected] servesWith 31 as years the Jolly of knowledge Tour brand. and experience, Adress: Hikaye Sokak No:11 34394 Esentepe Şişli / İstanbul serves as the Jolly Tour brand. Adress: Hikaye Sokak No:11 34394 Esentepe Şişli / İstanbul INTERVIEW THE DIFFERENCE IS THE SYSTEM The most important difference between European MICE players and us is the system. They continue with the system and quality management principals in the MICE industry that already etches in every aspect of their lives.

Deniz Dikkaya, Director of Sales and Marketing of Wyndham Grand Istanbul Kalamış Marina Hotel

eniz Dikkaya, Director of Sales a system that can operate itself. The num- other sector professionals act sensible like In the MICE industry where discipline agency and organizers earn almost noth- that has high quality service, economic and Marketing of Wyndham ber of the branches with whom the sector us and our raise becomes steady. and rules command, one needs to be of ing. That is why the sector’s big union has prices and high satisfaction rates. DGrand Istanbul Kalamış Marina works and to whom the sector gives a job is When you compare Turkish MICE in- good quality and experienced in order to an important role. Also there are many service and prod- Hotel, says that one of the factors of the raise more than 100. The importance of MICE dustry to the Europe, what are the things get the job. Unfortunately in our country Why should European MICE agencies uct alternatives in our country that other in tourism of Turkey is MICE industry. Dik- industry comes from this truth. The sector that differentiate Turkey? in any address a MICE company can be prefer Turkey? countries don’t have. At last our natural kaya says that the number of the branches has a big economically connected family. As Turkey is a country with 20 years of history established and start to operate just like Turkey took its lessons from the past nega- ability to solve problems very practically with whom the sector works and to whom you know in 2018 we were in the 7th place in MICE industry. We are aware that like- In the MICE industry where discipline and rules command, one calms the European agencies. the sector gives a job is more than 100. Dik- in the congress tourism. Then because of wise other branches of tourism we have Is there anything that you want to add on? kaya told the readers of Turizm Aktüel about the political and safety reasons that none to work very hard on MICE in order to needs to be of good quality and experienced in order to get the job. MICE industry is very important for our the differences betweeen Turkish MICE of us had anything to do with in 2016 we compete with the developed world coun- that. The industry that provides the most tive experiences. Our country will take its country. Because of this the players of this sector and the European players. reached down to the bottom. 2018 will be a tries. The most important difference be- income to the companies can not make place next to the World’s strongest MICE sector should not be limited just with their Could you please tell us the place and very important year for tourism. If the trend tween European MICE players and us is that money in Turkey because of this under countries thanks to the natural and cul- roles in the sector. We have to participate the importance of MICE industry in the of increase in 2017 continues, the sector will the system. They continue with the system the counter agencies that pulls down the tural characteristics, hospitality, lead- in the sector NGOs, most importantly in Turkish tourism? grow constantly. We as the tourism profes- and quality management principals in the prices in order not to loose the job. The ership in gastronomy. European MICE I-MICE, and raise reputation and aware- One of the factors of the raise in Turkish sionals took our lessons in this crisis peri- MICE industry that already etches in every sector became a sector that not the quality agencies might increase their profits by ness and collaborate in order to look at the tourism is the MICE industry. MICE is not od and are working accordingly. Hopefully aspect of their lives. but the customer wins and hotel, hotelier, bringing their customers to our country future with hope.

40 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 41 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 INTERVIEW

ISTANBUL THE CITY OF MICE The landlord of 3 empires, the connector of Asia and Europe, center of the world, the capital of the world and all beliefs, the most important MICE city.

ased on the world history, İstanbul, world with its high tech congress centers host of the most crowded events, is and infrastructure higher than the world Bthe magical city where people all standards, hosts MICE guest perfect and UMUT KAYA over the world loves the most with its his- makes everyone fall in love with it. FOUNDER - BOSS EVENT MARKETING tory and cultural texture. To organize MICE events in Istanbul has BOARD MEMBER OF INTERNSTIONAL ASSOCIATION OF MICE INDUSTRY Beginning from East Roman Empire then been always a privilege. With its museums, [email protected] the Ottoman Empire and finally in the Re- sea, history and cultural venues and most public period many were hosted in Istan- importantly the uniqueness of its people, no borders exist. While the heart of the bul. Mixing the actual conditions with its Istanbul is a city to be in love with. world MICE industry beats in Turkey, you historical heritage, with the modern struc- When you think of the city’s on which can organize your MICE events in Istan- tures in world standards and cutting-edge books have been written, Istanbul is one bul, and using the advantages provided by technology infrastructure present for the of the first names to come to mind. It is the city itself, let your guests return their service of MICE guests along with the ho- a city you can find the accommodation, homes happily after an unforgettable trip tels and congress centers Istanbul is de- transportation, food and beverage servic- to an unforgettable country. clared to be capital of modernism. es in perfect shape. It is a city that lives 24 All seasons offer unforgettable memories Istanbul MICE industry, growing and re- hours of the day with surprises. With di- and events for the visitors of İstanbul. It newing each day, satisfies the needs and rect flights thanks to the wide flight net- would be a privilege to be in this city in any expectations of people from all over the work of Turkish Airlines it is a city where time of the year.

42 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 INTERVIEW ISTANBUL DESERVES TO anymore to describe the work that we are of high service quality. I haven’t seen any BE IN THE FIRST PLACE IN doing. Meeting & Events industry is being destination to compete with our dedica- used more and more nowadays. tion. INTERNATIONAL MEETINGS Turkish Events Industry is passing through I believe that, as meeting and event desti- turbulent times right now. Because of the nations, the prices in Turkey and in Istan- We are a team that has accomplished many reasons that we all know, in the last three bul are much below than what should be. AND EVENTS! “ firsts” in the Turkish event industry and years there is a shrinkage in the Turk- We have to carry this up to the deserved we work a lot to continue being that way. ish Events market. This shrinkage caused levels as soon as possible. Not only istan- some serious decrease both in revenues bul but also Bodrum, Antalya, Cappado- and in profits. However Turkish Events cia, Mardin and many other magical cities Industry, with its competitive structure, and regions whose names I didn’t mention creative solutions and customer focused are the causes that Turkey has become an approach, is at an important level in glob- attractive destination. We have a cuisine al arena. Our prior need is conducting a that I think attracts our guests. The re- well planned marketing and PR campaign cently opened gourmet restaurants, cof- which aims to change the perception of the feehouses and similar shops are the factor customers in target markets. that elevates us. Could you please give us information One of our most important advantages is about Turkish Events Industry’s place in our hotels. The hotels and rooms stand- the world arena? ards of Turkey can be found in rarely in Not too long ago, like four years back from a few countries in the world. Our prices now, Istanbul was in the 7th place in the are very reasonable. But we need to work most preferred destinations meetings and a little to increase both the number and events list. I think Istanbul having gone up to the variety of congress centers and special the 7th place, has the potential to go up to the event venues. Thanks to the existing ones, first place if we have fair competition condi- those that brought us today, however there tions and a peaceful work environment. should be more investments in that area. Is there anything that you want to add? Richard Branson, We invited famous entrepreneur, found- Kerim Sipahiler er of Virgin Airlines, Sir Richard Bran- son as the keynote speaker of the Istanbul TALKS Conference that took place in 16 March 2016. He, as a strong believer of Turkey, accepted our invitation. Besides his valuable contribution to our Istanbul TALKS Inspired Conference, he had some very striking words on security; Kerim Sipahiler, “Terror can happen in any part of the the President of Sipahiler Events world. It is not special to Istanbul or Lon- don or Paris or any other city. Thus we need erim Sipahiler, the President of portant MICE companies of Turkey and customers and our suppliers. This is one of live and work in other companies to keep traveling to each other’s country, to Sipahiler Events that has accom- Europe. What is the secret of this suc- our main principles. for various reasons. So Sipahiler different destinations.” Kplished many firsts in Turkish cess? As I just mentioned, we are a team that Events is a school! What he said was totally true. Thanks God! MICE industry, said that Turkish event Sipahiler Events is established in 1994. has accomplished many things for the first Would you please share your the level of terror declined to almost zero industry with its competitive structure, We have team members that are with us time in Turkish Events Industry. We work opinion about Turkish MICE level when compared to two years ago. Our creative solutions and customer focused since the day of our foundation, we have a lot to continue being that way. There is a industry? irreplaceable cuisine, high quality facil- approach is at an important level in the customers that work with us since the day very democratic work environment in our Firstly, I think it is more correct to use Most of the players in the Turkish Events ities, dedicated and hardworking teams, global arena. Sipahiler shared his opin- of our foundation, and there are suppli- company. The ideas our colleagues are Turkish Event Industry instead of Turkish Industry are very hardworking and ded- creative solutions and magical country, I ions on the future of MICE sector with the ers that we work together since that day. very valuable for us. We are proud of the MICE sector. I try to follow the trends in icated. They do not avoid sacrifices when strongly believe that we are prepared again reader of Turizm Aktüel. We love to continue our long term busi- success of our former employees who made the world as much as I can. In many major needed to reach their business targets. The to host our guests with legendary Turkish Sipahiler Events is among the most im- ness relationship with our employees, our their first steps in our company, but had to markets, the term MICE in not being used only part that is not sacrificed is the level hospitality and professionalism.

44 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 45 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 UP FRONT Solution Partner for M.I.C.E. and Destination Management in Turkey

TURKEY HAS BECOME THE FAVOURITE OF THE INTERNATIONAL FAIRS Turkey being in the triangle of Asia, Europe and Middle East, attracts foreign participants because of regional closeness as an advantage of geographical location. ne of the sectors in which Turkey A lot of our fair organ- ographical location. is leaping forward internation- izations are among the However I think what puts Oally is fair and congress sector. most important fairs in Turkey apart from other Turkey is hosting bigger organizations the world. Especially the countries, provide this with the fair and congress centers that has fairs in Istanbul started to success and that the dif- Incentive House Co-marketing Agency modern infrastructure and quality service attract very much atten- ference that will take the and state incentives. Today international tion and started to take its strategical role in future is and rather comprehensive fairs are or- place among the most im- hospitality and flexibility ganized in Turkey almost on every topic. portant fairs of the sector. of the service. In the or- Home textile, machinery, tourism, marble, With these, Turkey is at- ganizations held in other construction are only a few of them. tracting attention of the countries all services are Event Management NERGIS ASLAN Very modern fairs where participant firms international fair organ- standardized and are GENERAL MANAGER - are creating very good business connec- izers. We observe that TUREKS INTERNATIONAL FAIR previously documented. tions, guiding products and services of the these firms are collab- With us, instant problems sector are exhibited, investment for the orating with local firms or else entering are interfered very quickly and the servic- Concept events, launches, opening ceremonies, roadshows, future and intensive marketing happens themselves in the sector with their own es can be changed according to the stand- domestically and internationally, are ap- projects. The important reason for this ard and the desire of the participant. This inbound & outbound sales promotion events, training sessions... preciated very much as successful organ- is Turkey’s spurt in the sector and geo- provides a very fruitful labor potential to izations. graphical superiority. Turkey being in the the sector professionals. As a representative of this sector, I am triangle of Asia, Europe and Middle East, In the end I can say that I think we should proud that the fairs organized in our attracts foreign participants because of be ready to host leading fairs on more country has become a international brand. regional closeness as an advantage of ge- themes in the coming years. AGE TOURISM & EVENTS Miralay Sefıkbey Sok. No: 5/7 Gumussuyu 34437 Istanbul - Turkey 46 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 Tel : +90 212 251 12 00 • www.agetourism.com • Contact: [email protected] UP FRONT UP FRONT

BOSPORUS TO BE PROMOTED AS A SEPARATE DESTINATION Istanbul’s pearl, Bosphorus, is a value to be promoted and commercialized and dancers would increase the brand separately with its accommodation and food and beverage facilities. value of Bosphorus and attracts the real or touristic zones, to introduce get out of the small circle of Hagia Sofia, travelers. themselves separately under an- Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace, Blue Within the frame of this main idea it will Fother headline in their countries Mosque, Grand Bazaar and Spice Market. be very useful to plan festivals, artistic ac- has been a common method. Moreover we Considering the worldwide positive image tivities and authentic cuisine events and witness that some destinations are pro- of Bosphorus, I think that it should dis- to promote them in the international level moted independently from their coun- tinguish itself. Bosphorus, is a value to be with a macro plan. Along with the involved tries, some have separate booths from promoted and commercialized separate- establishments, the idea platforms created their countries in the fairs even without ly with its accommodation and food and by NGOs can guarantee the success of this the name of their country being mentioned beverage facilities. movement in medium term. at all. Istanbul’s this very precious area should On the other hand, not only foreign tour- GÖKALP ÖZDIKICIOGLU For instance Belek in the important fairs step forward with its natural beauty, his- ists should be the target of this project. GENERAL MANAGER takes place not in the countries section but torical texture and architectural richness. AGE TOURISM & EVENTS Also local tourists need events of good in the golf tourism section with its name The advertising Bosphorus as a comple- quality on Bosphorus. There should be only. Even, in the period when we were of mentary feature along with the other world there are very ordinary and poor seasides new products with high quality for the lower tourism profile, a Turkish tour oper- widely known features will create a new with rich content. ones who live in the city and who come to ator had a booth with the name of “Riviera touristic attraction around a new brand. We have to talk about the mistakes as well. the city from other parts of the country. Belek” just across the booth of Turkey, not This move will also help to create new The folkloric shows organized in venues We the tourism professionals are trying with pleasure along the coast of the Bos- to the songs written for the districts on getting into the negativeness of the name products with rich content about Bos- in basements in the city center in the past to do our share in this. As we try to cre- phorus” during spring months on every Bosphorus. Then there will be a project of Turkey and Antalya in that period. It phorus where there are only a few hours unfortunately moved to the boats on Bos- ate a public awareness and demand in the Saturday between 5 pm and 9 pm is one with the songs written for Istanbul and succeeded pretty much in attracting visi- of a boat trip but nothing else. Bosphorus phorus. The tourists are stuck with the subject, we contribute to create authentic of them. On the way up to the north with Bosphorus in foreign languages and the tors. already hosts a good amount of tourists repetition of the loud shows and the visual and rich content with our experience and the daylight we listen to the interesting series of stories not less than the stories We see also that time to time Istanbul cre- with the hotels with peerless view and tra- quality of Bosphorus has become second- with the belief we have in the importance stories in the mansions, fortresses and of “1001 Nights”. ates groups with touristic elements. But it ditional fish restaurants. Unfortunately ary. However the unique and authentic of Bosphorus. palaces; on the way down to the begin- We call every person who put their hearts is not successful as expected since it can’t it remains very ordinary and poor when shows prepared by competent musicians The boat trip “Songs and untold stories ning point with the moonlight we listen in tourism to create and work on this.

48 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 49 • TURIZM AKTÜEL • MAY 2018 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE Working together for nearly 20 years with famous artists and groups in Turkey, Kosanadam organization is among the first in the industry with approximately 1,000 concerts that have been made in Turkey annually. Over the years, they have gained the trust of famous Turkish artists and groups.

Besides the M.I.C.E groups that are in our portfolio, we would like to inform you that we would be pleased to work with you, and we wish you a good season.

t: +90 216 456 0088 a: Hukukçular Towers B-Blok D:100 34865 Kartal / İstanbul / TURKEY www.kosanadam.com.tr @OneIstanbul