18 minute read
29 London s Secret Charterhouse
LONDON’S SECRET, CHARTERHOUSE
by Geraldine De Compte
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In 1348 the land was used as a burial ground for victims of the Black Death plague. In 1371, the Charterhouse was built and in 1370 Sir Walter Manny founded the Monastery. Having many times explored the West End, Covent Garden, the South Bank and many more delightful corners of London, this weekend walk took us to the Square Mile of the City of London.
On normal days, this area is full of city gents walking the many old streets, home to the prestigious Mansion House, Bank of England and Royal Exchange.
A few weekends out of the first lockdown and London was still very quiet and empty of people, especially for a weekend in July! The benefit however was that you could hear church bells from afar and the birds tweeting loudly in the trees above.
But this was not what amazed us the most on our walk... We entered Charterhouse Square.
Like so many squares across London, huge mature plane trees filled the green park area in the centre of the square, with wild flowers, winding pathways and park benches to enjoy the serenity of this small city garden. A small signpost tells you that King Henry VIII’s 6th and final wife, Catherine Parr, lived in the square before she became Queen in 1543.
With stunning mansion houses on 2 sides, as well as an amazing Art Deco building of apartments, ‘Florin Court’, on the 3rd side, which is more famously known as the fictional home of the TV detective Hercules Poirot. On the 4th side of the square sits ‘Charterhouse’.
The Charterhouse is a former Carthusian monastery. Set in 7 acres on the border of the City of London.
In 1611, Thomas Sutton bought the house and turned it into a charity school and Almshouses; homes for poor or old people and disabled seamen, soldiers or those who lost everything by shipwreck. They were all known as ‘brothers’.
King James I kept his connection with the Charterhouse, becoming the 1st Royal Governor of Thomas Sutton’s foundation.
Today, the Almshouses are still homes to elderly ‘brothers’, while the school moved to Godalming, Surrey in 1872, but saw prominent pupils during its times.
The residents live in private flats but are free to come and go as they please. Most eat their meals in the historic 16th century Great Hall. After providing much needed homes for people for over 400 years, there are many practices in place, like saying a pray at lunch. Not all residents are practising Christians, but it’s expected that everyone respects the Church of England origins.
The Charterhouse is custodian of a wide range of historic objects, acquired over its 660 year history. Most of the historic pieces, archive and library are on display in the museum. There are over 2000 objects including paintings, drawings and prints; historic silver; social history; historic furniture; an d several library collections, which all tells the story of the Charterhouse.
The Great Hall
Needless to say, with such a heritage and stunning architecture and interiors, the Charterhouse is the ideal venue for various events from weddings to corporate events and dinners.
The Great Hall is a stunning and grand room (capacity for Reception 180, Theatre 120, Seated dinner 100).
The Great Chamber (Reception 180, Theatre 140, Seated dinner 120) is the last surviving Tudor Great Chamber in London.
The Norfolk Cloister (Reception 180, Seated dinner 100) is a stunning 14th century monastery cloister which was later made into a garden gallery. With a stone flag floor and original features including an original doorway leading to one of the Carthusian monk’s cells, makes for a historic and unique venue for corporate events, dinners and wine tastings.
For smaller events, The Governors’ Room with elegant wood panelling and prints of the Charterhouse on the walls offers capacity for: Reception 50, Theatre 40, Seated 28.
The Charterhouse Chapel accommodates 200 seated. The beautiful chapel is impressive with Jacobean carvings and Charterhouse’s founder Thomas Sutton’s tomb, the chapel is full of historical architectural detail and has excellent acoustics.
The Chapel Cloister (Reception 60, Seated dinner 40) sees a splendid doorway leading into the chapel. The chapel cloisters beautiful stone décor enables one to get a sense of what once was, reliving the rich history.
The Old Library (Reception 120, Seated dinner 50) is a stately room is ideal for meetings. With scars from the Blitz the Old Library highlights the history of the Charterhouse.
Others rooms and areas for venue hire include The Learning Centre, designed to be light and spacious which marries new design with the old. The Masters Court is the original entrance courtyard to the Tudor mansion, a perfect space to host welcome drinks, setting the scene for your memorable event. Outside the Norfolk Cloister is the very pretty and peaceful Norfolk Garden. This intimate garden is designed in the English Garden style. Washhouse Court is one of the earliest parts of the Charterhouse, this courtyard was originally used for laundry, bakery and kitchen for the monks. The original cobbles and patterned brick walls of the court gives a unique sense of another century.
Although currently closed due to the on-going health crisis, and in particular to protect the vulnerable ‘brothers’ this is a spectacular venue and offers a unique insight into London and the history of the site.
Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions & Venues
From 16-18 March 2021 the annual event will give buyers the opportunity to stay up-to-date with the market, friends and colleagues, meet new ones, start fresh business, help revive the industry... and all that in a very different way than any B2B Tradeshow before.
MEETEX 2021 PROGRAMME
Both Virtual And Live Experience! Although quite new as a project, MEETEX has after only 2 editions already become the flagship event of the Meetings Industry in Croatia, and challenging times will not stop them. Due to the global COVID-19 crisis, in March 2021 it will not be a physical event, however there is an innovative programme planned.
MEETEX 2021
Working Week in March 2021 – virtual part We are all tired of fixed timings and slots for webinars and online meetings, so this will be a bit different trying to make you feel more relaxed, but still give you the opportunity to do some serious business. You will have more than 100 hours for your free choice of your one-on-one appointments timing!!
ONE-ON-ONE prescheduled virtual appointments between Croatian suppliers and International Hosted Buyers will be held throughout the week 15-19 March 2021, at any time you prefer, in 30min slots. The appointments platform will offer round-the-clock slots from March 15 at 09:00 CET until March 19 at 21:00 CET. Maybe you want to have an appointment at 6 AM or 10 PM, we don't mind, it is completely up to you. No limits - except in the number of appointments each Exhibitor will choose.
The only slots when you will not be able to schedule One-on-one appointments will be pre-fixed slots for the content MEETEX has prepared for all of you during the ‘official’ meeting days – 16-18 March. And don't be afraid, we will not suffocate you; we are preparing a few captivating speakers, a panel for sharing ideas, Q&A sessions so that you can talk with speakers and maybe even us –organisers, a few inspiring movies about the beauties of Croatia, a few virtual venue tours, and some slots for our sponsors to show you what can they do for you. Please join those slots, and for the most diligent and hardworking ones there will be prizes!
All Hosted Buyers participating in MEETEX 2021 Working week are eligible for what is following in September as a second part of MEETEX 2021.... MEETEX 2021 Live Experience!
MEETEX 2021 Live Experience is scheduled to happen in September 2021, as a pleasure week on spot in Croatia, because we are all aware that nothing can replace a personal touch and on-site experience. It is planned to be a one week-long FAM TRIP for a larger group of approx. 20 buyers (chosen by Exhibitors in post-MEETEX working week survey) covering 5 most important Croatian Meetings Destination... or it will be a number of shorter trips for smaller groups and for selected destinations.
As this is a live component of MEETEX 2021, it will obviously rely on epidemiological situation in Croatia and generally in Europe as well as on sponsors and supporters. We all want to make sure that Buyers can fully enjoy Croatia – its destinations, venues, local culture & cuisine while traveling with assurance and confidence. Safety, professionalism, and fun will be our priorities. It’s time to discover Croatia MICE!
REED EXHIBITIONS ANNOUNCES ANNA DYCHEVA-SMIRNOVA AS CEO OF REED EXHIBITIONS UK
Reed Exhibitions has appointed Ms. Anna Dycheva-Smirnova as CEO of Russia, Turkey and the Middle East, effective from 1 January 2021.
Dycheva-Smirnova joined Reed Exhibitions as Deputy General Manager of Reed Exhibitions Russia in 2008 and became CEO of Reed Exhibitions Russia in 2017. In 2019, she was named CEO of Reed Exhibitions Turkey and Reed Exhibitions Middle East.
Dycheva-Smirnova said, “I am delighted to be joining such a passionate and knowledgeable team in the UK. In 2020, our industry underwent a tremendous shock right around the world. My first job will be to support our teams in the UK and rebuild our business - integrating our digital expertise into our future events – delivering compelling value for our customers and driving our company back to growth. I cannot wait to get started.”
REAL IN-PERSON MEETINGS GRADUALLY RETURN IF A LITTLE DIFFERENT!
In the past year, we have gone from friendly, cosy meetings and events with handshakes to buffet luncheons and goody bags, to QR code menus, hand sanitiser, face masks and seating 2m apart. This is not what the events industry is meant to be like! But as we gradually come to terms with this new norm, the desire to meet face to face is huge and it is possible to do so, when legally allowed and with success. Organising a safe and successful in-person event is possible, but requires a lot of planning, and adapting with active communication with attendees and suppliers and exhibitors.
The Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC) has secured 3 major conferences for 2021.
The British Society of Lifestyle Medicine is set to take place in September 2021, Cleantech Forum Europe in October 2021 and the Society for Endocrinology in November 2021. The EICC has been running online events during the pandemic and has produced economic impact of over UK£720 million since opening its doors in September 1995.
During that time, 3500 events have been held at the venue with total delegate numbers standing at 1,475,892.
MEETINGS MEAN BUSINESS CANADA'S STRATEGIC GOALS FOR 2021
A new year means a fresh start!
Meetings Mean Business Canada (MMBC), along with its partners and stakeholders, advocated tirelessly on behalf of the industry throughout 2020. And while much was achieved during that challenging year, they have already kick-started their goals for 2021.
Not only will they advocate for continued government support for the sector's hardest hit businesses, they will amplify their key messaging on the crucial role that business events play in economic development, revenue generation, sustainability and international growth.
Here are the key objectives they are working toward in 2021:
-Continue to advocate at the federal, provincial and municipal levels -Continue its work with coalition partners —Tourism Industry Association of Canada, the Canadian Travel & Tourism Roundtable and the Coalition of Hardest Hit Businesses—to align member voices in the push for federal relief. -Accelerate provincial government engagement by developing Provincial Leadership Circles to coordinate activities and facilitate communications and information sharing across the country. -Develop key relationships with government sector leaders as well as sector advocacy groups. -Lead project-based advocacy initiatives. -Become the central hub for advocacy information and communications support materials for industry partners. -Become the central depository for information (e.g., data, stats, case studies), for provincial and federal governments, researchers, etc.
THE BUSINESS TRAVEL CONFERENCE 2021, LONDON, UK
The 2021 edition of the Business Travel Conference will take place from 14-15 September in London, UK. The event has been a key fixture in the business travel world since 2007 as the major annual event of The Business Travel Magazine.
IBTM AMERICAS 2021 WILL BE HELD IN AUGUST
Reed Exhibitions Mexico, organiser of IBTM Americas, has confirmed that the event scheduled for 19-20 May 2021 will now be held from 18-19 August 2021 at Centro Citibanamex in Mexico City.
This decision has been made based on the country’s predictions about the health conditions that indicate that the second half of the year will be more conducive for holding events.
IBTM Americas has 10 years of history, and is a bridge to connect the leaders of meetings and events industry across the Americas. Its primary purpose is to bring the community together to do business, network and inspire each other, and so the event will also be offering virtual solutions alongside the in-person show in August.
PUSHING TO NEED AND POTENTIAL FOR EVENTS
Associated Spanish Event Agencies (AEVEA) wants to make known to society and institutions the strengths of corporate events and MICE since it is one of the industries most affected by the pandemic, and yet one of the least understood and taken into account.
E.V.E.N.T.O.S!
We start with the definition: An event is an act of live communication in which an organisation intends to transmit a specific message, to a specific audience, to provoke a response or generate an attitude.
E for Emotions ... Through creativity we seek to excite those attending the event, to impact them and cause the brand message to be engraved in their memory. Emotionalising the event makes it reach the heart, making the messages much more noticeable. According to science "without emotion there is no attention and without attention there is no memory." Neuromarketing techniques (electroencephalogram, eye tracking, galvanic skin response, biometry ...) applied to events help us measure the speed of our brain's reaction to a stimulus, determine if the emotions experienced by our audience are positive or negative, its level of intensity ... In this way we can evaluate the event programme, its speakers, the slogan, the proposed destination, the event website ...
V for Brand Visibility ... Events are a powerful communication and marketing tool with which brands launch their new products, inaugurate, reward, present results to their shareholders and the media, transmit their strategy to their employees, show scientists advance them to groups, promote sports, make a territory known and praise ... All through making experiences that make visible and position brands in the heads of employees, consumers, media, participants ...
E for Engagement… The event generates commitment, involvement, by involving the attendees of an event with the brand that promotes it. The power of face-to-face as an opportunity to capture attention and link people with the brand.
N for Networking ... Create business relationships, business opportunities, share experiences ... the face to face of events is something unbeatable in this field!
T for Transformation… An event can have the objective of motivating, creating a team, transmitting messages, training…, in short, it transforms behaviors and ways of relating, strengthens ties, promotes learning…, which translates into sales.
Or Omnichannel ... The combination of off and on is a binomial of success. Technology helps to work the event before (reaching the audience, focusing on their interests), during (causing face-to-face, two-way interaction) and afterwards, increasing the experience, lengthening it and thus also prolonging the moment of business generation.
S for Security ... If security was already an indispensable value in every event, now there are health protocols that minimise the risk of contagion to the maximum. Access management, capacity control, safety distance, specific measures for catering services, for audiovisuals, specialised personnel to comply with measures and recommendations ... make the organisation of professional events an industry Very safe.
Digital freelancers in Thailand can soon apply for the Smart Visa, allowing them to stay for 4 years without a work permit. The Board of Investment, proposal will allow foreign freelancers to apply for the Smart Visa. Up until now many have had to leave and re-enter the country to continue working there on a tourist, education or volunteer visa.
Those already in Thailand on a tourist visa would be able to transfer to a Smart Visa. Applicants would need to have an employment contract with a foreign firm for at least 6 months as well as proof of qualifications and experience.
BOI believes that that new Smart Visa for foreign freelancers will draw in more talent from overseas.
THE 7TH VIRTUAL ATHENS INTERNATIONAL TOURISM EXPO 2020 ENDED WITH GREAT SUCCESS
The business world of tourism, from Greece and abroad, gave potential presence at the 7th Virtual Athens International Tourism Expo 2020 sending at the same time a resounding message that the tourism industry will recover immediately.
In the new virtual edition of the Expo, due to the pandemic, the results surpassed expectations; the numbers speak for themselves:
They participated: 100 Exhibitors, such as Regions, Municipalities, Hotels, Travel Agencies and Tour Operators, 85 International Buyers and Travel Agents from 45 countries
They took place: 1,850 very successful B2B teleconference meetings between Exhibitors, Buyers and on-line visitors from Greece and Abroad.
4,650 on-line business visitors, from Greece and Abroad connected with the exhibition, visited the digital kiosks of Exhibitors, held on camera meetings with Exhibitors and the majority of them attended the Live events.
It is also noteworthy that, despite the adverse conditions prevailing due to the pandemic, after the end of the Exhibition, the majority of Buyers and Exhibitors characterised the Exhibition as extremely successful and with very important meetings which will lead to trade agreements for incoming tourism in Greece for 2021.
The Minister Tourism Mr. Ch. Theocharis inaugurated the exhibition, online, congratulating at the same time the organisation for daring to hold the Athens International Tourism Expo as an online version.
The Live Events of the Exhibition also took place with great success which were attended on line by professional visitors from Greece and abroad.
In Live Events: The Region of Crete with their Speakers Dr. Kyriakos Kotsoglou, Commissioner of Tourism & Mr. Nikos Alexakis, Head, Directorate for Tourism presented the topic "Sense the authentic Crete 365 days".
The Region of Central Greece with their Speakers Mr. Elias Bourma, Deputy Governor of Tourism & Culture & Mrs. Marianna Liaskou, Tourism Officer presented the topic “Region of Central Greece / Tourism-Culture / Gastronomy”.
The Attica Region, which unfortunately due to illness of the Regional Governor Mr. George Patoulis, did not have the opportunity to attend "live", he presented writing the theme “Attica Region: The tourism for the year 2021”.
The Athens Convention & Visitors Bureau with Speaker Mr. Vyronas Myrgiotis, International Account Manager, ACVB, presented the topic: “Forward Thinking Heritage ”.
Finally, the General Secretary of EOT Mr. Dimitris Fraggakis, with his message to Buyers stressed, among other things “2021 will not be a year of automatic return to normalcy. Recovery will take place, but it will be gradual. It is yet too early for predictions for the next season, but the initial messages we receive are encouraging, mainly as a result of the positive evaluation of the country’s efforts to safeguard the brand of Greece as a destination. Our current performance in the containment of the pandemic will largely determine the characteristics of the 2021 season, also in light of the future performance of our competitors. It is key that we persist to implement and abide by the measures advised by the experts.”
The organisation of the Expo warmly thanks the Ministry of Tourism and Ministry of Culture who put the Exhibition under their auspices as well as GNTO who, for another year, supported the Exhibition and stood as a helper to her effort. Warm thanks also to all the Exhibitors who, with their dynamics presence and their excellent digital kiosks, really supported, along with Buyers, the incoming tourism in our country in 2021.
The Organisers: LEADERTECH Co, Viantos str. 2, 10442 Athens, Greece, Tel. +30-210-6141164, info@leaderexpo.gr,
www.aite.gr
