UIA Asia-Pacific Round Table: Inspiring social functions in Bangkok

For over 100 years the Brussels-based UIA has been working to promote and facilitate the work of international associations. Since three years now they have organised Associations Round Tables in Asia-Pacific, bringing together representatives of international associations to learn practical skills and share experiences. Last September, Bangkok was the host city to the 3rd Round Table Asia-Pacific 2015.
Report Marcel A.M. Vissers

Boisterous Bangkok
For the Round Table in Bangkok, there were around 80 delegates from over 50 international associations across Asia, Europe and Australia. They were from 20 countries representing 20 diverse fields of professions ranging from medicine, insurance, law, natural resources, environment, education and sciences. For all these delegates, TCEB (Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau) in cooperation with DMC Destination Asia organised an exceptional city introductory visit that provided a unique perspective on the vibrant city.

The Arts of the Kingdom
The tour started by visiting the Arts of the Kingdom, which are housed in one of the most impressive buildings in Bangkok , the Ananta Samakhom Hall, the official Throne Hall of His Majesty the King of Thailand, inside the famous Dusit Palace. It now serves as a museum and is from time to time used for state occasions. This impressive visit showcased Thai fine arts at their best. Highlights included the viewing of the two stalls which are covered with paintings by Professor Galileo Chini and Carlo Riguli depicting the history of the Chakri Dynasty, from the first to the sixth reign.

Thai Boxing
After the art tour, it was easy to drive to Suan Santi Chaiprakarn for a short Thai Boxing demonstration. Thai boxing is Thailand’s most exciting national sport, with Muay Thai or Thai Kick Boxing. Widely considered to be the world’s most dangerous martial art, Thai boxing is a superb example of the speed, grace and discipline required to excel in such sport. And do not forget to go by tuk tuk convoy with police escort to Sala Rattanakosin for a stylish lunch. Tuk tuks are the most exciting means of transport in Bangkok. They are three-wheeled motorized trishaws affectionately named after the raucous chainsaw noise its engine makes.

Lunch at Sala Rattanakosin Restaurant
Excellent Thai food is a must in Bangkok. The Sala Rattanakosin is a scenic, riverfront restaurant, overlooking the Chao Phraya River and the Temple of the Dawn. This two storey restaurant offers indoor seating and an outdoor dining deck, serving a variety of delectable international dishes and a diverse selection of traditional Thai favorites. The river bar also features a variety of wines, beers and cocktails, and has become one of Bangkok’s most romantic and iconic dining experiences.

Thai Fashion Show
Thai fashion is becoming a worldwide sensation. In recent years, celebrities from Michelle Obama to Katy Perry have flown the flag for Bangkok’s designers. Whilst famous designers like Thakoon Panichgul and Koi Suwannagate make their mark on the red carpet, there are many other names worth checking out if you are looking for something special - up-and-coming designers are often students of the Bangkok Fashion School.

Ask for more inspiring Bangkok city tours at www.destination-asia.com. More info on Thailand as a business events destination: www.businesseventsthailand.com