After a few pandemic-ridden years, things are almost back to normal now. But the ‘normal’ also means that we are returning to the concrete jungle again—to the cubicles of stress and monotonous thoughts. Re-igniting the spark you once lost somewhere in those cubicles often only takes getting out of the concrete jungle and liberating your mind from the serenity of nature. Unsurprisingly, the global MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) market is expected to hit $1237.96 billion in 2032. Thailand, especially the North and the Chiang Mai region, is swiftly becoming an international corporate-favorite locality to conduct MICE. Creating an ideal milieu for the MICE & tourism industry to thrive in Northern Thailand is International Travel Consultants (INTCO).
Since 1975, INTCO has been the region's industry leader for premier travel. Over the past five decades, the company developed a deeper understanding of what it takes to re-ignite that vital spark that people lose within the walls of the corporate world over time. Lend your ears to Max Thammaraks, the company’s Managing Director. Max says, “We have been developing our products and understanding our clients for nearly 50 years. We pay attention to every detail of the experience from start to finish.” He adds, “Chiang Mai is a lovely city.
It might lack technologically wonderful or futuristic venues, but it has its own distinctive and special ones. We can create an amphitheater in the woods or a team-building venue amidst nature. We can also be eco-friendly and socially responsible by recycling, upcycling and minimizing our carbon footprint in our sustainability program. We can deliver value while being aware of our effects on the environment and the local communities.”
Personalized Experiences
Today, INTCO is a specialist in MICE, having created several signature programs, especially in the food and education sectors. In truth, Max’s passion for different Thai cuisines and regional delicacies has transformed into one of the company’s matchless propositions. Furthermore, his collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand and his role as the Ambassador of Thailand for the World Food Travel Association allow him greater access as well as input and impact.
The result? While a major wedge of the industry acts as booking agents, INTCO offers access to fine restaurants and interesting venues. In other words, rather than selling services, the company listens to its clients’ sophisticated needs and speaks the language of food and amazing personalized experiences, including, but not limited to, wine pairings, aperitif, digestif, floral arrangements, music as well as special themes.
INTCO never shies away from challenges—a quality the company inherited from Max, who has a unique history of thriving the most when faced with challenges. For instance, in 2004, when the Tsunami wreaked havoc in Thailand, Max was working for one of the biggest travel agents in the country. The situation forced him to step up, and he did and continues to do so.
“You need to be attentive and proactive. Communication is key. We listen to and understand our clients' diverse needs and intentions. We overcome communication challenges and clarify their expectations. However, it is also our job to inform our clients what is possible and what isn’t. We use our experience to meet their needs and inform them of the possibilities and limitations. The total understanding, transparency and intact communication lead to positive feedback. After each event, we always seek improvement,” Max adjoins.
A Lot to Look Forward to
With close to 50 years of experience, INTCO is ready to grow further. The company is rigorously marketing its locally-inspired programs, which it developed in collaboration with entities such as the Royal Projects and the Green Road. It manifests the company’s commitment to taking care of its partner communities, especially the hill tribe villages of Panghai and Mae Khi, where INTCOians have been living and working for decades. “We respect and preserve our roots while delivering programs that we are proud of and constantly improving ourselves. We care for the environment, advocating for the forests, the wildlife and the people; we recycle and upcycle; we have established social enterprises; and we are always assessing and enhancing our performance for our clients. We strive to be better while staying true to our roots and our programs,” concludes Max.
Chiang Mai and the North of Thailand have a bright future ahead, with many exciting developments in the pipeline. A new airport, numerous luxury properties, mega business projects, international festivals and impressive infrastructure will enhance and showcase the region to the world. Chiang Mai is a wonderful place with a lot of charm and beauty, as well as rich nature, culture and history. INTCO is ready to be a huge part of the city’s bright future.
Max Thammaraks, Co-Founder & MD
Max has been traveling the world since he was a child and has a passion for exploring new cultures and cuisines. Since he took over the family business in 2008, he has grown it to offer more diverse and personalized services, such as food tourism and custom catering, to cater to the needs of modern travelers.
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