Ljubljana: A Hidden Gem for MICE Events
As part of the Powwow team's commitment to staying on top of trending and emerging destinations, I recently had the pleasure of attending the All About People event in Ljubljana, Slovenia at the end of March. This vibrant weekend gathering brought together UK MICE buyers and international suppliers, offering a perfect opportunity to explore what this charming European capital has to offer our clients.
Why Ljubljana?
Slovenia might not be the first destination that comes to mind when planning corporate events, but that's precisely what makes it such an exciting find. Ljubljana offers similar appeal to popular destinations like Copenhagen or the Netherlands, but with a significantly lower price tag – a key consideration for many of our clients in today's economic climate.
What truly sets Ljubljana apart is its impressive commitment to sustainability. Much of the city centre is pedestrianised, creating a peaceful atmosphere for events and networking. Free electric shuttle buses make getting around effortless, and the city has implemented numerous eco-friendly initiatives that would appeal to our more environmentally conscious clients.
Event Highlights
The All About People event was masterfully organised, balancing productive business meetings with authentic local experiences:
Networking Opportunities: The event featured two dedicated "1on1" meeting sessions, providing valuable face time with potential event partners and suppliers. These structured meetings were complemented by informal networking during meals and activities.
Ljubljana Castle Gala: One of the standout moments was the gala dinner held at Ljubljana Castle, a stunning historic venue overlooking the city. The castle would make an impressive backdrop for any corporate event seeking to create lasting memories.
Lake Bled Excursion: Perhaps the most breathtaking part of the trip was our excursion to Lake Bled, just 45 minutes from Ljubljana. Lunch at Bled Castle followed by a traditional wooden boat ride to the island in the middle of the lake offered a glimpse into the diverse experiences Slovenia can offer beyond the capital.
Cultural Immersion: A guided walking tour through Ljubljana provided valuable insights into the city's rich history and architecture, showcasing the blend of modern amenities and preserved heritage that makes this destination special.
Key Takeaways for Our Clients
Value Without Compromise: Ljubljana delivers exceptional value compared to more established European destinations without sacrificing quality. Clients looking to create impressive events on tighter budgets should consider this emerging destination.
Sustainability as Standard: For organisations with strong ESG commitments, Ljubljana's green credentials make it an ideal choice. The city's sustainable infrastructure isn't an add-on – it's integrated into daily life.
Expanding Our Network: Through this event, we've established connections with high-quality local DMCs and venues, including Nomago DMC, InterContinental Ljubljana, and key representatives from Slovenia Meetings. These relationships ensure we can offer our clients seamless experiences in this emerging destination.
My Final Thoughts
Ljubljana represents exactly the kind of destination the Powwow team seeks to discover – somewhere that offers fresh experiences, excellent value, and aligns with evolving client priorities around sustainability and unique experiences. As the MICE industry continues to look beyond traditional destinations, Ljubljana stands ready to welcome events with its charm, efficiency, and distinctive character.
Have a project that might be perfect for Ljubljana?
Get in touch with Powwow Events today by emailing us at hello@powwowevents.co.uk