This year had to be Europe but on "neutral ground"

Photo: Grimaldi Forum

What were the selection criteria and process that led to the Principality of Monaco's proposal being accepted?
Dr. Guex: First I should explain that the host city for each UIP congress, held every four years, is decided on during the preceding congress, in this case in Rio in 2005. In addition the congress is organised jointly by the two leading European national phlebology societies, the French and German, which have to agree on the venue; for this year that had to be Europe but on "neutral ground".
Compared with Turkey, the other candidate, Monaco presented numerous advantages: an attractive location, an exceptional Congress Centre, top quality infrastructures, everything close by so no long bus journeys like in Rio, a sense of security again far superior to Brazil, and the proximity of Nice's international airport.

In what way does the Grimaldi Forum fulfil your congress's requirements?
Our congress brings 1.500 participants together over the rather long period of five days and comprises conferences, meetings and an exhibition. So in the Grimaldi Forum we shall be occupying the Prince Pierre and Camille Blanc auditoriums (capacity 800 and 400 respectively), all the breakout rooms that are ideally located on one floor, and Espace Diaghilev for the exhibition. This unity of place makes life very easy for organisers and participants alike.

Did the fact that the congress is taking place during the summer season present any problems, as regards hotel prices particularly?
 Thanks to the Monaco Meetings package that aspect wasn't a problem. Although 2- and 3-star hotel accommodation is limited in the Principality, I have to say that the 4-star hotels seem more affordable than, and compete very favourably with, cities such as Paris and Berlin. I expect many participants to extend their stays and also that incentive meetings will be held on the sidelines of the congress.

What do you feel are Monaco Meetings' main selling points?
Unquestionably the hotel prices determined in advance, plus the cocktail party that the Tourist Department hosts for all the participants, the free shuttle service and the entertainment possibilities.

Your congress coincides with the Grimaldi Forum's big summer arts exhibition. Do you see that as an added-value factor?
Undeniably so. Our idea is to use this exhibition to make our cocktail party very special as well as suggesting it to some of our partners for organising their private functions.

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