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Promoted officially as a ‘hospitable, safe and modern country for MICE events, Greece, of course, has the oldest possible track record of organising congresses through its Delphic traditions. And resulting from the success of the 2004 Olympics there is now both an enviable reputation for event management, and a legacy of exceptional visitor infrastructure. In Athens, there are over 100 hotels with three-, four- or five-star ratings; whilst the Megaron International Conference Centre offers a total of 143,000 sq.m. of purpose-planned space, including 18 meetings suites for up to 6800. The medieval city of Rhodes offers over 250 three-, four- or five-star-rated hotels with the largest venue (Sofitel Capsis Hotel) seating up to 3000. The northern city of Thessalonika offers around 50 three- to five-star hotels, with the main conference centre capable of seating up to 1400. Elsewhere, around the country, there are literally dozens of professionally-run and well-equipped convention centres.
Appealing to meetings and incentive travel participants visiting Greece are unique archaeological and scenic sites; the mild climate; the many sun-bathed islands in the Aegean and Ionian Seas; yachting option for nautical events; the Acropolis Museum in Athens; the welcoming friendly people; outstanding sports facilities; cultural distinctiveness through music, folk dancing, nightlife, and cuisine; and not least, a sense of offering terrific value for money.
Modernised transportation facilities in Athens include new roads, more tram routes, a new state-of-the-art subway service, the improved (in 2001) international airport, and flights into the country via around 50 overseas airlines.
To conclude …. Greece spectacularly offers the best of all worlds … old and new, land and sea, city and country, relaxation and recreation, culture and sun-worshipping. A time-honoured mix!
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