Welcome to Flanders Flanders lies tucked away in the Northern part of Belgium between France, Germany and the Netherlands. The region offers an assortment of cosmopolitan easy to reach towns and cities offering visitors far more than just the traditional main squares and conventional architecture. It surprises visitors with historic attractions, as well as world renowned cuisine, chocolate and good quality beer. Flanders’ popularity amongst meeting groups stems from its variety of venues and locations, the short distances between cities, a worldwide reputation for high standards and customer care, multicultural experiences and above all an ‘art de vivre’. In short, it’s a destination that works!
foto: Tom Dhaenens
Every day, thousands of people from all over the world fly into Brussels Airport, the capital and heart of Europe. Today, passengers
There is no better way to travel from Belgium’s
fly directly from more than 200 business and leisure destinations in
neighbouring countries than with the high speed
the world. Belgium’s main airport is not only located in the heart
trains: Eurostar, Thalys and ICE. Amsterdam, London,
of Europe, it is also located in the heart of the country offering easy
Paris, Köln and Frankfurt are situated less than three
access to its major congress cities. Brussels Airport is not only home
hours from Brussels South Station. It will be a jour-
to Brussels Airlines, but is served by other European, US, African,
ney you’ll remember for its ease!
Middle East and Asian airlines. Over the past few years, the network of low cost carriers to and from Brussels Airport has been quickly expanding.
Nederland
Knokke-Heist
Antwerpen
Oostende
Antwerpen
Brugge West Flanders
Gent
East Flanders
Limburg
Mechelen Flemish Brabant
Hasselt
Deutschland
Leuven
France
Brussel/Bruxelles
Wallonie
one hour circle
Flanders’ state of the art transportation network allows for seamless travel within the country. All of Flanders’ major meeting cities are less than one hour from either Brussels Airport or Brussels South Station (Eurostar/Thalys/ICE). Belgium has one of the densest networks of local trains, trams and buses. Another benefit of Flanders is the compactness of the cities. All hotels and conference centres are within walking distances from each other. This cannot only reduce the cost of transfers but is also an environmentally friendly solution.
Getting to Flanders and around 5
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Destination Flanders for corporate meetings Flanders is undoubtedly a popular destination for corporate mee-
The Event Organizers & Destination Management Companies
tings & meetcentives. The good accessibility – geographical
(DMC’s) in Flanders are simply the best at combining working ses-
setting in the heart of Western Europe – but also
sions and relaxation in a clever way. By listening to the customer’s
the compactness of the destination – with short distances
needs and objectives they can create bespoke teambuilding pro-
between cities – make the travelling time extremely comfor-
grammes that give you plenty of time and space to have effective
table and swift. The broad range of conference infrastructure, from
meetings, whilst at the same time leave an indelible impression on
international hotel chains, ‘boutique’ hotels, and exclusive speci-
all the participants. There are programmes lasting for a couple of
al venues guarantee an abundance of choice. Meeting in the art
hours or a few days. From intense physical challenges to plain in-
cities, the Flemish countryside or the Seaside, you will enjoy art and
dulgence, for the larger or smaller budget, there is something for
culture, sophisticated gastronomy, great shopping and above all
everyone. Almost one hundred ideas were brought together in our
excellent hospitality.
brochure ‘Official Incentive Guide to Belgium - Flanders & Brussels’. Visit www.belgiumconventionbureau.be to order your free copy.
Destination Flanders for association meetings Brussels houses the largest number of association headquar-
Plus Programme provide additional discounts on flights
ters in the world. This makes Brussels the third most important
for all participants. Once arrived at the destination the organiser
conference city globally (source: Union of International Associ-
does not have to organise transfers. Due to the accessibility of
ations). In addition to Brussels, Flemish cities Antwerp, Bruges
Brussels Airport to the various congress cities, as well as the ex-
and Ghent also have renowned conference centres, each with
cellent public transportation within those cities, onward travel
a capacity of up to a few thousand people. The good acces-
is easy. The majority of the hotels are in walking distance from
sibility, state-of-the-art conference facilities and the attraction
train stations and conference centres, and this makes the orga-
of the art cities are again decisive elements in the choice of
nisation significantly less expensive and easier. What’s more, it
the destination. Participants can travel to Belgium quickly and
also lends the environment a hand!
cost effectively. The Brussels Airlines Official Carrier
See our website (www.belgiumconventionbureau.be) for more
Programme and the Star Alliance Conventions
information on the partnerships.
9
How the Belgium Convention Bureau for Flanders & Brussels can help? The Belgium Convention Bureau for Flanders & Brussels is a service
transportation and accommodation. Equipped with
within the Marketing Department of the Tourist Office for Flanders.
a broad range of promotional materials, the Bureau’s team sup-
Primarily, it is in charge of the promotion of Flanders and Brussels as a meeting and incentive destination.
pitches to clients. Maps, guides and brochures are all available for
plies destination brochures and audiovisual material to help launch teaser mailings to participants.
The Bureau’s professional team is an essential first point of contact for meeting planners staging events in Flanders and Brussels.
To provide a tailor-made service, the Bureau has Meet-
The Bureau is fully subsidised by the Government of Flanders and
ing Representatives in the UK and USA. It’s team
therefore offers impartial advice and guidance ‘free
participates in a large number of networking activities and is al-
of charge’ to you.
ways present at major industry events such as EMIF in Brussels, IMEX in Frankfurt, EIBTM in Barcelona, CITBM in Beijing, GIBTM
The Belgium Convention Bureau for Flanders & Brussels has a
in Abu Dhabi, MITT in Moscow and AIBTM & IMEX in America.
valuable partnership with its 12 local convention bureaus of which their extraordinary co-operation allows
In addition, the Bureau is a member of the International Congress
for the development of original proposals and the organisation of
& Convention Association (ICCA), the Society of Incentive Travel
site inspection trips.
Executives (SITE), Meeting Professionals International (MPI), the Union of International Associations (UIA) and the American Society
In addition, the Bureau provides planners with all the
necessary contacts and information on venues,
10
of Association Executives (ASAE).
Many planners know that a critical component in the success of their international event is finding a talented and dependable Destination Management Company (DMC) or Professional Congress Organizer (PCO). Not only do they need a DMC or PCO who can offer a full-service operation, but it must also have a complete understanding of, and a passion for the destination. But what exactly does a DMC do and how can you find the right on-site partner to act as your right hand in Belgium?
Finding the right partner? Most DMC’s provide a wide variety of products and services that will meet and ideally exceed your delegates’ needs. Services cover logistical roles such as meet and greet, transportation services, local tours, day trips, hotel bookings, congress venues, catering companies, customised programmes, theme events and entertainment. Acting as a cultural liaison, a DMC can also provide its local knowledge at the registration desk, giving the planner and delegates an added sense of comfort and security. A PCO takes on the role of co-ordinator and consultant, responsible for the logistic, technical, administrative and financial matters involved in the organisation and preparation of meetings. There are undoubtedly many advantages of working with a local DMC or PCO. But how do you go about finding a professional organisation with expertise, adequate infrastructure and staffing to provide you with exceptional service? Several research options are available to you such as professional association directories. Most DMC’s and PCO’s that are truly professional belong to one or more professional organisations; BAPCO (Belgian Association of PCO’s – www.bapco.be) or ABITO (Association of Belgian Incoming Touroperators – www.abito-incoming.be).
12
Oostende Brugge
Gent
Brussel/Bruxelles
Knokke-Heist
Antwerpen
Flander’s meeting Mechelen cities Leuven Hasselt Belgium Flanders Brussels
Wallonia
Antwerpen (Antwerp)
Accessibility (how to get to Antwerp)
Antwerpen
Hotel Accommodation
By Air:
Number of stars
# Hotels
Total number of rooms
From Brussels Airport • distance: 45 km • public transport: every hour – by coach from Brussels Airport to Antwerp Central Station – the trip takes 30 minutes. From 2012 on: direct train connections from Brussels Airport to Antwerp Central Station.
4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4
7
158
19
1340
18
2148
1
174
From Antwerp Airport (daily flights to London City Airport, Manchester, Frankfurt) • distance: 7 km • public bus services to Antwerp City Centre
By High Speed Train to Antwerp Central Station: From Paris Nord & Paris Charles de Gaulle • in 2 hours 7 minutes (Thalys) – change at Brussels South Station From Amsterdam Central Station and Schiphol Airport • in 2 hours (Thalys) – change at Brussels South Station From London St Pancras • in 2 hours 20 minutes (Eurostar) – change at Brussels South Station From Köln Hbf • in 2 hours 53 minutes (Thalys) – change at Brussels South Station
Contact Antwerp Tourism & Convention Grote Markt 15 • B-2000 Antwerpen Tel: +32 (0)3 338 81 81 • Fax: +32 (0)3 338 81 32 www.antwerpen.be/visit • mice@stad.antwerpen.be
16
Meeting Venues Largest capacity in the city of Antwerp • Auditorium: 2071, Flanders Congress & Concert Centre • Seminar style: 4000, Hangar 29 • Theatre style: 4000, Hangar 29 • Reception: 4000, Hangar 29 • Banquet: 3600, Hangar 29 • Exhibition Space: 16.548m²; largest hall: 6000m² Largest Convention Centre in the city of Antwerp Flanders Congress & Concert Centre Largest capacity • Auditorium: 2071 • Seminar style: 100 • Theatre style: 350 • Reception: 1500 • Banquet: 750 • Number of break-out rooms: 6 • Location: next to Antwerp Central Station
Why Antwerp? Antwerp, home to Rubens, fashion and diamonds, a vibrant city and a world port located on the banks of the river Scheldt, is the ideal hot spot for your meeting or event. The city offers many unique venues and conference locations in historical and contemporary surroundings. They are the beacons of a rich cultural heritage and of a constant drive for innovation, creativity and trendsetting. Antwerp also boasts a great choice of fine restaurants and quality accommodation, ranging from luxury, international properties, to small and intimate boutique hotels. High-speed train connections link Antwerp to Amsterdam, Paris, London and KĂśln. You will arrive in the magnificent Antwerp Central Station with its 19th century grandeur and its 21st century efficiency. By car, Brussels and Antwerp International Airports can be reached in a mere 30 and 10 minutes respectively. From the Middle Ages onward, the city has been an important trade centre, multi-coloured and multi-national, never constant, ever growing and changing, and yet a safe harbour for its many citizens and visitors. Antwerp Tourism & Convention provides free, tailor-made advice about Antwerp as centives, congresses and events.
Š Mike Louagie
the ideal destination for your meetings, in-
Brugge (Bruges) Brugge
Accessibility (how to get to Bruges)
Hotel Accommodation
By Air:
Number of stars
# Hotels
Total number of rooms
From Brussels Airport • distance: 100 km • public transport: every 15 minutes from Brussels Airport to Bruges – change at Brussels South Station – the trip takes 1 hour 20 minutes
4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4
22
402
44
1160
31
1540
1
93
By High Speed Train to Bruges Railway Station: From Paris Nord & Paris Charles de Gaulle • in 2 hours 40 minutes (Thalys) – direct train to Bruges From Amsterdam Central Station and Schiphol Airport • in 3 hours (Thalys) – change at Antwerp Central Station From London St Pancras • in 2 hours 50 minutes (Eurostar) – change at Brussels South Station
Contact Meeting in Brugge Congresbureau Toerismehuis Sint-Jan Mariastraat 40 • B-8000 Brugge Tel: +32 (0)50 444 666 • Fax: +32 (0)50 444 665 www.meetinginbrugge.be • meeting@brugge.be
18
Meeting Venues Largest capacity in the city of Bruges • Auditorium: 1289, Concertgebouw • Seminar style: 500, Beurshal • Theatre style: 2000, Beurshal • Reception: 2000, Beurshal • Banquet: 1300, Beurshal • Exhibition space: 4500m², Beurshal Largest Convention Centre in the city of Bruges: Site Oud Sint-Jan Largest capacity: • Seminar style: 250 • Theatre style: 600 • Reception: 750 • Banquet: 350 • Number of break-out rooms: 21 • Exhibition space: 2855m² • Location: city centre – 10 minutes walking distance from the Bruges’ railway station
Why Bruges? The beautiful city of Bruges is always a winner for event organisers and meeting planners. Here’s a little SWOT: Surprising strengths A Unesco world heritage city where all venues lie within walking distance. Bruges is a green and safe city, with the purest air of all the Flemish art cities. Wonderful weaknesses Bruges is a feast for all senses, and delegates often find it hard to distinguish between business and pleasure, with its culinary temptations and quaint boutiques. Out-of-the-ordinary opportunities Most charming hotels with a great tradition of hospitality, historical convention and dining venues and most renowned museums. Threats and treats Delegates will tell you the meeting was way too short, the cultural offering is too rich and diverse for one meeting, and there are too many meetcentive ideas. The Bruges official convention bureau ‘Meeting in Bruges’ offers fast & free services: finding ideal venues, offering an overview of availability and prices, providing the right contacts, guided site visits and professional advice.
Brussel/Bruxelles (Brussels) Brussel/Bruxelles
Accessibility (how to get to Brussels)
Hotel Accommodation
By Air:
Number of stars
# Hotels
Total number of rooms
From Brussels Airport • distance: 15 km • public transport: every 15 minutes – by train from Brussels Airport to Brussels North, Central and South Station – the trip takes 18 minutes.
4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4
29
745
45
3634
46
7175
13
2599
By High Speed Train to Brussels South Station: From Paris Nord & Paris Charles de Gaulle • in 1 hour 25 minutes (Thalys) From Amsterdam Central Station & Schiphol Airport • in 2 hours 45 minutes (Thalys) From London St Pancras • in 1 hour 51 minutes (Eurostar) From Lille Europe • in 35 minutes (Eurostar) From Köln • in 2 hours 20 minutes (ICE & Thalys) From Frankfurt & Frankfurt Airport • in 3 hours (ICE)
Contact BI-TC BI-TC Koningsstraat / Rue Royale 2-4 • B-1000 Brussel / Bruxelles Tel.: +32 (0)2 513 89 40 • Fax: +32 (0)2 513 83 20 www.brusselsinternational.be • mice@brusselsinternational.be
20
Meeting Venues Largest capacity in the city of Brussels: • Auditorium: 8000, Forest National • Theatre style: 4000, Tour & Taxis • Seminar style: 4000, Tour & Taxis • Banquet: 3000, Tour & Taxis • Reception: 5000, Tour & Taxis • Exhibition space: 115.000m², Brussels Expo Largest Convention & Exhibition Centres in the city of Brussels: Brussels Expo Square – Brussels Meeting Centre • Auditorium: 1860 • Auditorium: 1200 • Theatre style: 1800 • Theatre style: 1600 • Seminar style: 900 • Seminar style: 1600 • Banquet: 1500 • Banquet: 1600 • Reception: 2000 • Reception: 1600 • Nr. of break-out rooms: 13 • Number of break-out rooms: 25 • Exhibition space: 115.000m² • Exhibition space: 2440m² • Location: by metro from • Location: next to Brussels Brussels Central Station Central Station
Why Brussels? Brussels is home to numerous international institutions. It is today, one of the concerning decision making centres in the world on the economic and political matters. A city always on the move, Brussels holds quite a number of surprises for its visitors. Green and spacious, gastronomic, avant-garde, Brussels stands at the cutting edge of creativity, making it a preferred destination for holding business meetings and events, as well as for leisure activities. Brussels is strategically situated in the heart of an international market of around 500 million consumers, at the crossing of the Latin and Anglo-Saxon cultures, with remarkable access, either by plane, highspeed trains or roads. Our message is very simple: Brussels is “The Meeting heart of Europe”. Not only does our city have an outstanding choice of meeting facilities and professional services, it also offers visitors an unforgettable “Art de Vivre”. It is a compact city, easy to reach with a unique atmosphere in its many different districts. Despite its European dimension and all of the varying languages spoken on each street corner, Brussels is still inspired by a very “village like spirit”. Everyone feels at home in Brussels. But the most significant reason to meet in Brussels is the value for money it provides. At a time when Europe’s largest cities have become prohibitively expensive, Brussels offers you world-class services and facilities that are truly affordable.
Gent (Ghent) Gent
Accessibility (how to get to Ghent)
Hotel Accommodation
By Air:
Number of stars
# Hotels
Total number of rooms
From Brussels Airport • distance: 65 km • public transport: every 30 minutes – direct train from Brussels Airport – the trip takes 53 minutes
4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4
9
403
12
558
7
691
By High Speed Train to Ghent Railway Station: From Paris Nord & Paris Charles de Gaulle • in 2 hours 10 minutes (Thalys) – change at Brussels South Station From Amsterdam Central Station & Schiphol Airport • in 2 hours 45 minutes (Thalys) – change at Antwerp Central Station From London St Pancras • in 2 hours and 30 minutes (Eurostar) – change at Brussels South Station
Contact Gent Congres – Convention Bureau for Ghent and East Flanders Van Rysselberghedreef 2 Bus 3 Citadelpark • B-9000 Gent Tel.: +32 (0)9 224 44 95 • Fax: +32 (0)9 224 44 98 www.gentcongres.be • info@gentcongres.be
22
Meeting Venues Largest capacity in the city of Ghent • Auditorium: 975, ICC Ghent-International Convention Centre • Seminar style: 800, Flanders Expo • Theatre style: 1070, ICC Ghent-International Convention Centre • Reception: 1600, ICC Ghent-International Convention Centre • Banquet: 900, ICC Ghent-International Convention Centre • Exhibition space: 54.000m², Flanders Expo Largest Convention Centre in the city of Ghent: ICC Ghent-International Convention Centre Largest capacity: • Auditorium: 975 • Seminar style: 235 • Theatre style: 1070 • Reception: 1600 • Banquet: 900 • Number of break-out rooms: 16 • Exhibition space: 6261 m² • Location: 20 minutes walking distance from the city centre – 5 minutes walking distance from the Ghent Railway Station
Why Ghent? Authenticity is an asset: Ghent has a lot to offer. Besides its central location it has the right
The city houses hundreds of charming taverns and original restau-
infrastructure and all of the facilities to make it such an attractive
rants where you can enjoy popular regional specialities.
venue.
Ghent has magnificently preserved its medieval heritage and re-
What defines Ghent as a congress destination is not only the
cently, it was nominated by National Geographic Traveller as the
strength and knowledge from the Ghent University, but also his-
third most authentic historical destination in the world which only
torical buildings with all the variety and venues that appeal to your
confirms the qualities.
delegates. There is a range of stylish international hotels on offer,
A perfect mix between new and old, Ghent is a breathtaking city,
in addition to trendy, smaller boutique hotels.
full of light and life.
Knokke-Heist
Accessibility (how to get to Knokke-Heist)
Knokke-Heist
Hotel Accommodation
By Air:
Number of stars
# Hotels
Total number of rooms
From Brussels Airport • distance: 125 km • public transport: every 15 minutes – by train from Brussels Airport to Brussels South Station – change and then direct train to Knokke-Heist – the trip takes 1 hour 41 minutes.
4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4
2
50
25
500
8
231
By High Speed Train to Heist Railway Station: From Paris Nord & Paris Charles de Gaulle • in 2 hours 30 minutes (Thalys) – change at Brussels South Station From Amsterdam Central Station & Schiphol Airport • in 3 hours 34 minutes (Thalys) – change at Antwerp Central Station From London St Pancras • in 3 hours (Eurostar) – change at Brussels South Station
Contact Toerisme Knokke – Heist Zeedijk-Knokke 660 • B-8300 Knokke-Heist Tel.: +32 (0)50 63 03 86 • Fax: +32 (0)50 63 03 90 www.knokke-heist.info/mice • mice@knokke-heist.be
24
Meeting Venues Largest capacity in the city of Knokke-Heist • Auditorium: 420 (Cultuurcentrum Scharpoord) • Seminar style: • Theatre style: • Reception: 1000 (Casino Knokke) • Banquet: 750 (Casino Knokke) • Exhibition space: 1400m² (Cultuurcentrum Scharpoord) Largest Convention Centre in the city of Knokke-Heist Cultuurcentrum Scharpoord Largest capacity: • Auditorium: 420 • Seminar style: 50 • Theatre style: 50 • Reception: 700 • Banquet: 400 • Number of break-out rooms: 7 • Exhibition space: 1400m² • Location: 15 minutes walking distance from the railway station
Why Knokke-Heist? Remember the old saying about “All work and no play…”? Well, Knokke-Heist and its immediate surroundings offer you and your meeting- or conference-goers plenty of ways to relax. Whatever your taste – super-sporty, educational or blissfully laidback - Tourism Knokke-Heist can help you find just the activity you want. Knokke-Heist combines the allure of a fashionable spa town with the charm and cosiness of a picturesque village. Knokke-Heist is also quite rightly known as the largest and most fashionable shopping area on the Belgian coast. Shopping is a real experience in the town’s 1.200 exclusive boutiques, which include many major label outlets. For your shopping convenience and pleasure, most shops are open on Sundays. Gourmets and food connoisseurs are also well catered for, with Knokke-Heist’s unsurpassed range of restaurants and bistros. We can find the right address for every taste and every budget. Planning a corporate meeting or activity? Then contact us any time for more information or for a selection of hotels that suit you.
Leuven Leuven
Accessibility (how to get to Leuven)
Hotel Accommodation
By Air:
Number of stars
# Hotels
Total number of rooms
From Brussels Airport • distance: 24 km • public transport: every 30 minutes – by direct train to Leuven – the trip takes 14 minutes.
4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4
5
142
8
430
2
109
By High Speed Train to Leuven Railway Station: From Paris Nord & Paris Charles de Gaulle • in 1 hour 55 minutes (Thalys) – change at Brussels South Station From Amsterdam Central Station & Schiphol Airport • in 2 hours 5 minutes (Thalys) – change at Brussels South Station From London St Pancras • in 2 hours 20 minutes (Eurostar) – change at Brussels South Station From Köln • in 1 hour 50 minutes (ICE & Thalys) – change at Liège-Guillemins From Frankfurt & Frankfurt Airport • in 3 hours 5 minutes (ICE & Thalys) – change at Brussels South Station or at Liège-Guillemins
Contact Meeting in Leuven Professor Van Overstraetenplein 1 • B-3000 Leuven Tel.: +32 (0)16 27 27 27 • Fax: +32(0)16 27 28 38 www.visitleuven.be • meeting@leuven.be
26
Meeting Venues Meeting Venues Largest capacity in the city of Leuven • Auditorium: 800, K.U.Leuven • Seminar style: 300, K.U.Leuven • Theatre style: 3500, Brabanthal • Reception: 4500, Brabanthal • Banquet: 2500, Brabanthal • Exhibition space: 5200m², Brabanthal Largest Convention Centre in the city of Leuven Provinciehuis Leuven Largest capacity: • Auditorium: 200 • Seminar style: 190 • Theatre style: 220 • Reception: 400 • Banquet: 120 • Number of break-out rooms: 10 • Exhibition space: 500m² • Location: city centre – 5 minutes walking distance from the railway station
Why Leuven? From its central location in Belgium, Leuven is easily accessible by air, train or car. This centuries-old, dynamic University City has many attributes for the success of your meeting, congress, event, incentive, or exhibition. Magnificent medieval architecture, an incredible number of lively bars and superb restaurants, a wide range of original meeting possibilities and a young, friendly atmosphere. As a business and university centre located in the heart of Europe, Leuven has acquired a top position – both nationally and internationally – in the fields of innovative research and development. Are you, as an organiser or planner, looking for a new exciting destination? If so, then LEUVEN is meant for you.
Mechelen Mechelen
Accessibility (how to get to Mechelen)
Hotel Accommodation
By Air:
Number of stars
# Hotels
Total number of rooms
From Brussels Airport • distance: 22 km • public transport: every 15 minutes train to Mechelen – Change at Brussels South Station – The trip takes about 40 minutes As from 2012 direct train connections from Brussels Airport to Mechelen (only 10 minutes)
4 4 4 4 4 4 4
10
378
3
132
By High Speed Train to Mechelen Railway Station: From Paris Nord & Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport • in 1 hour 55 minutes (Thalys) – change at Brussels South Station From Amsterdam Central Station & Schiphol Airport • in 2 hours 20 minutes (Thalys) – change at Antwerp Central Station From London St Pancras • in 2 hours and 11 minutes (Eurostar) – change at Brussels South Station
Contact Mechelen Congresbureau Van Beethovenstraat 8/10 • B-2800 Mechelen Tel.: +32 (0)15 29 49 00 • Fax: +32 (0)15 29 49 09 congresbureau@mechelen.be
28
Meeting Venues Largest capacity in the city of Mechelen • Auditorium: 400, De Merode • Seminar style: 400, De Merode • Theatre style: 500, Lamot Congrescentrum • Reception: 10.000, Nekkerhal • Banquet: 10.000, Nekkerhal • Exhibition space: 18.542 m², Nekkerhal Largest Convention Centre in the city of Mechelen Lamot Congrescentrum Largest capacity: • Auditorium: 298 • Seminar style: 298 • Theatre style: 298 • Reception: 500 • Banquet: 350 • Number of break-out rooms: 8 • Exhibition space: 2300m² • Location: city center – 10 minutes walking distance from railway station
Why Mechelen? Welcome to Mechelen, a city that was once the capital of the Burgundian Netherlands (present-day Belgium and Holland)! Mechelen has one of the highest concentrations of monuments north of the Alps and is unique in Flanders, as it’s listed four times on the UNESCO list of World Cultural Heritage sites. A compact city spun in a medieval web around the gigantic Saint Rumbold’s cathedral, the city centre offers an inviting range of squares, terraces and shops, all within walking distance. Don’t miss a visit to the skywalk of Saint Rumbold’s tower, walk through two magnificent beguinages and the ancient town centre, and try the local beers. There is plenty you can do to enrich your programme. Mice-wise, Mechelen offers your company a wide range of possibilities: congress accommodation at Lamot Congress centre, a well-equipped expo hall at Nekkerhal, and much more, all near the town centre. Mechelen is ready to welcome you!
Oostende (Ostend)
Accessibility (how to get to Ostend)
Oostende
Hotel Accommodation
By Air:
Number of stars
# Hotels
Total number of rooms
From Brussels Airport • distance: 125 km • public transport: every 15 minutes – by train from Brussels Airport to Ostend – the trip takes 1 hour 41 minutes
4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4
14
478
23
1181
4
401
By High Speed Train to Ostend Railway Station: From Paris Nord & Paris Charles de Gaulle • in 2 hours 30 minutes (Thalys) – change at Brussels South Station From Amsterdam Central Station & Schiphol Airport • in 3 hours 34 minutes (Thalys) – change at Antwerp Central Station From London St Pancras • in 3 hours (Eurostar) – change at Brussels South Station
Contact Toerisme Oostende vzw / Convention Bureau Monacoplein 2 • B-8400 Oostende Tel.: +32 (0)59 25 53 15 • Fax: +32 (0)59 70 34 77 mice@toerisme-oostende.be • www.toerisme-oostende.be www.zininzaken.be
30
Meeting Venues Largest capacity in the city of Ostend • Auditorium: 2065, Kursaal • Theatre style: 4779, Sleuyter Arena • Seminar style: 850, Kursaal • Banquet: 700, Kursaal • Reception: 3100, Kursaal • Exhibition space: 3600m², Kursaal Largest Convention Centre in the city of Ostend Kursaal Oostende Largest capacity: • Auditorium: 2065 • Theatre style: 850 • Seminar style: 550 • Banquet: 950 • Reception: 1500 • Exhibition space: 3600m² • Number of break-out rooms: 10 • Location: city center – 5 minutes walking distance from railway station
Why Ostend? A true City by the Sea
thing you need within walking distance. Take a stroll along the
Ostend gets you in the mood. In the mood for sand between your
beach, visit the authentic Three Master Mercator in the harbour,
fingers and salt on your lips. But also‌ in the mood for business!
shop till you drop in the traffic free streets or enjoy the fresh sea-
Ostend has built a solid reputation in Belgium as a destination for
food at sunset in one of the many gastronomic sea view restau-
corporate events and meetings. Its easy accessibility and the lack of
rants and trendy bistros. Toerisme Oostende Convention Bureau
traffic jams, the wide range of comfortable hotel and meeting fa-
has the right skills to introduce you to its meeting possibilities, the
cilities, the diversity of inspiring special venues and Kursaal Ostend,
range of motivational events and all the ins and outs that Ostend
the splendid event and congress temple built up the image of this
has to offer. Their expertise is entirely at your service.
burgeoning corporate interest.
If you like to combine business and pleasure, than Ostend is the
A vibrant city in a healthy maritime environment offering every-
place to be.
Regional Convention Bureaus Seaside The Flemish Coast is something of a secret: along the picture perfect coastline stand 10 resorts, each with its own distinct style and character. There is something to suit everyone: long sandy beaches at De Panne and Bredene, fishing ports and excellent seafood at Nieuwpoort and Zeebrugge, leisure and sporting activities at Blankenberge and Middelkerke and designer shopping at Knokke-Heist. While De Panne is famous for its sand-sailing, Koksijde is cultural and Knokke-Heist is very exclusive. In contrast, De Haan is a good old-fashioned beach resort that evokes memories of childhood and Ostend is the city by the sea. The coast is an ideal meeting place and an original location for teambuilding or product presentations. With charming hotels, seminar rooms for 10 to 2000 people, sea and beach activities, boat trips, interactive activities such as shrimp peeling competitions, as well as a great deal more. The coast offers you all the possibilities for a successful meeting and a rewarding event.
Limburg Limburg, located less than an hour from Brussels and Antwerp, is Flanders’ easternmost province. This green region not only offers a wide choice of venues but also imaginative and diverse experiences to enhance any meeting. Imagine teambuilding exercises surrounded by orchards, beautiful flowers in bloom or on the banks of the Meuse River. For an event set amidst an idyllic, rolling landscape, Haspengouw is the place to be. Envisage an unforgettable event, surrounded by countless blossoming flowers in springtime. Options include receiving your guests in one of the stately castles the Haspengouw region boasts. Most locations are nestled in peaceful, wooded surroundings just the thing for teambuilding and nature activities. In the Maasland, water themed meetings can be created as well as providing events in one of the nearby shopping outlet villages. For sparkling city life you have to be in Hasselt, the capital of Limburg. It has acquired a strong reputation as a fashion city. Although small, it offers everything what bigger cities are famous for. In Hasselt and second largest city Genk are located the biggest hotels. In short, it is the combination of professionalism, natural beauty and hospitality that makes Limburg an excellent place to meet.
Contact: Westtoer
Koning Albert I-laan 120 B-8200 Sint-Michiels Tel.: +32 (0)50 30 55 00 Fax: +32 (0)50 30 55 90 www.meetingkust.be steve.desmidt@westtoer.be
Antwerpse Kempen The Antwerp Kempen is a magnificent region teaming with nature, only minutes away from Antwerp city centre. Are you looking for a stunning meeting location in the middle of a wonderful green environment? Do you want to combine your meeting with a teambuilding activity or an incentive? Or, are you looking for a peaceful location close to Antwerp city centre to meet your clients or colleagues in style? In that case, the Antwerp Kempen is what you are looking for. Located in the north east of Flanders, it is strategically situated between important business cities such as Eindhoven, Brussels, Antwerp, and Cologne making it an easily accessible destination for delegates to get to. Perhaps you’d like, in addition, a traditional Belgian beer after the meeting? Do you want to take your clients to lunch by a lake or in one of our beautiful gardens? Or do you fancy an adventurous jeep-safari, a windsurfing experience or a paintball session? In the Kempen, top hotels and upmarket seminar centres’ are conveniently situated next to forests, meadows and lakes, which makes the region the perfect destination for those who want to combine a meeting and an incentive. Contact: Meeting Kempen
Contact: Meeting Limburg
Maastrichtersteenweg 254 B-3500 Hasselt Tel.: +32 (0)11 26 31 93 www.meetinglimburg.be jean-marie.lemlijn@unizo-lim.be
Grote Markt 44 B-2300 Turnhout Tel.: +32 (0)14 40 82 76 Fax: +32 (0)14 42 88 01 www.meetingkempen.be joris.engels@tpa.be
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DENMARK & SWEDEN
ÖSTERREICH
The Belgian Tourist Office for FlandersBrussels Vester Farimagsgade 3 - 3rd Floor DK-1606 Copenhagen V Tel.: +45 33 93 01 30 Fax: +45 33 93 48 08 info@flandern.dk www.flandern.dk www.flandern.se
Tourismuswerbung Flandern-Brüssel Mariahilfer Strasse 121 B A-1060 Wien Tel.: +43 1 596 06 60 Fax: +43 1 596 06 95 office@flandern.at www.flandern.at
34
CHINA
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Tourist Office for Flanders - Belgium Heiwa Daiichi Building Hirakawacho 1-4-5, Chiyoda-ku 102-0093 Tokyo Japan Tel.: +81 3 32 37 71 01 Fax: +81 3 32 37 84 00 info@belgium-travel.jp www.belgium-travel.jp INDIA
Mileage Communications (India) Pvt. Ltd. Representative Tourist Office for Flanders - Belgium 30, Hauz Khas Village (3rd Floor), 110 016 – New Delhi India Tel.: +91 11 2651 1423 Fax: +81 91 11 2651 1246 mileage@vsnl.com