MICE is a type of tourism that combines conferences, seminars, exhibitions, event organization, and corporate incentive travel for employees and partners. MICE - stands for Meeting, Incentive, Convention, and Exhibition. MICE tourism experiences are already familiar in many countries, but only in recent years has this tourism utility penetrated the office world in Vietnam.
There are many ways to participate in a MICE tour. In particular, this can be a reward from the company's leadership for employees after a year of dedication to the business. After a year of hard work with contracts, books, and figures, the end of the year is the right time to receive the 13th month salary. This is an amount of money outside of living expenses and savings, so it is very suitable for the time when the company rewards for a trip abroad.
With KPI performance always reaching No. 1 for 4 quarters in 2024, my team and I were awarded by the company with a 4-day, 3-night MICE tour to Taiwan through a travel agency based in Taiwan. Quan Hong visa policy is very open, no need to prove financial status, so my group of 7 people was quickly granted visas after only one week under the sponsorship of TourOne travel agency.
What I liked most about starting this trip was the flight time. The Starlux flight departed at 11:40 and arrived at Taoyuan Airport at 15:40, just in time to check in at the hotel and have dinner. Unlike previous trips where we had to plan a detailed itinerary but were always disrupted due to lack of familiarity with traffic and directions, the trip was supported by the tour, making everything go smoothly and quickly. The representative of the travel agency who greeted the group at the airport with an eye-catching yellow sign was unmistakable. After checking in at the hotel, the group had an hour to rest before going to the restaurant booked by the tour at Taipei 101.
Taipei welcomed me in the most ideal weather of the year.
In the bustling atmosphere of the end of the year, the streets of Taipei seem to be covered with a coat of bright lights. The atmosphere of Christmas comes early and the cold air has created a winter scene that could not be more wonderful. The weather in Taiwan is not too cold, so it is very convenient to wear beautiful winter clothes while still feeling light and comfortable. This is the reason why all the sisters in the group could not hide their excitement when they knew that the company's reward was a trip to Taiwan.
Taiwanese cuisine is famous for its unique flavors and health benefits. Now the group enjoyed dinner at Umami restaurant located in Taipei 101 building with delicious dishes beautifully presented. Umami makes a strong impression on anyone who steps in with its elegant and luxurious space.
Taiwanese seasonal dishes are delicately prepared by chefs, preserving the full flavor, not only impressing the taste buds but also making every member of the group excited, when they can save pictures to share with family or on social networks. In particular, fresh beer brewed on the spot is the perfect choice when traveling with friends. The first day passed quickly, after finishing dinner, the group visited the night market and returned to the hotel to rest, preparing for the next journey the next day.
Steamed Dumplings with Shrimp and Abalone are a favorite at 85TD
The second day was the longest of the holiday. The weather in Taipei was a bit chilly in the morning, but it got warmer as we moved down to Taichung. This was the perfect weather for us to experience grape harvesting and relax in the middle of nature. Visitors can participate in activities such as picking fresh grapes, enjoying tea parties under the shade of grape trees, and participating in DIY crafts. Lunch or afternoon tea here is not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes with the picturesque surrounding scenery.
In addition, the farm also organizes outdoor classes and is a great place to take souvenir photos with romantic landscapes, similar to vineyards in France. This is a suitable destination to enjoy the countryside life and be close to nature. With great support from the travel agency, we were able to travel on the Unicorn Bus for the first time - 5-star class. The car was beyond imagination with comfortable, spacious spaceship seats, with staff serving tea and snacks throughout the journey. We only knew about this wonderful experience when participating in the MICE tour.
Unique experience on Unicorn Bus
If independent travel provides a suitable experience for 2-3 people, MICE travel is suitable for groups of 7 or more. Because without the support of a travel agency, when traveling in large groups, it is easy to make mistakes, be late... When planned by an experienced travel agency, all interests of everyone in the group are taken into account. That is why the group's 3rd day schedule is a time to fully enjoy the time at the hot spring: Yang Ming Shan Tien Lai Resort and Spa.
Lunch at the vineyard
Yang Ming Shan Tien Lai Resort and Spa is a wonderful destination located in the Yangming Mountain area, famous for its natural scenery and high-quality hot springs. The hot springs here are taken from the Sihuangping spring source, with a gentle pH of 5-6, providing relaxing and health benefits. Services here include an outdoor bath, jacuzzi, and sauna, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy the fresh air of the mountains. The hot spring area is open from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm, so you can relax your muscles and tendons after a tiring journey at any time.
The 4-day, 3-night trip passed quickly, but the memories of my first MICE trip will be unforgettable. With this wonderful trip, I believe that our group will inspire many colleagues in the company, helping them to improve their working spirit and achieve higher KPI performance in the coming year, so that they can enjoy similar experiences. Thank you Taiwan for bringing me such a different and valuable MICE experience!
