David Barrett’s Post

Planning an event at The Slate? Here are some tips from our event experts Lalida Khanthong and David Barrett

I am asked many times, “Can you book meetings internationally?” My answer would be, “Of course!” We book hotels all over the world. In fact, this week I helped a client secure the Westin Josun Seoul in South Korea for their meeting. #SharonGatesBooksMeetings #MeetingsProfs #EventProfs #EventPlanning

🌟 Hotel New York, Vlora was visited by representatives of the General Directorate of Industrial Property. 🏢 In this informative meeting, in addition to the challenges and problems encountered by the tourism sector this year, the importance of trademark registration and the advantages that benefit entities that register industrial property objects were discussed. 📜💡 The meetings aim to provide guidance to businesses on how to register and the rights arising from this process. This registration helps protect against imitation and ensures fair competition in the free market, creating more protected and competitive businesses. 🛡️💪

I am currently in Bangkok 🇹🇭 with the Mikskaar team, exhibiting at a trade show Horti ASIA. Over the past few years, I have delved deeply into the differences between low and high-context cultures and have started to notice some distinctions. Thailand 🇹🇭 is a high-context culture, but this doesn't mean that all Thai people adhere strictly to these cultural norms. The biggest challenge is to be creative in different situations while communicating. For example, two years ago, I made a mistake by providing a lengthy explanation of how things should be done in the exhibition hall. Although the staff were Thai, in some situations, you need to be simple and clear. Typically, high-context cultures are not straightforward, but there are instances where simplicity and clarity are necessary. Today, for instance, I ordered additional services from the NCC team. They have set up four categories to help exhibitors, each responsible for a different area: furniture, electrical equipment, and lighting, graphics, and so on. There was no point in explaining to the person in charge of electrical equipment that a print needed to be added. Initially, I did just that because I was used to dealing with one person and didn't immediately realize I was talking to the wrong person. Once directed to the right person, my problem was solved in one minute. I wasted three minutes explaining to the wrong person due to my mistake instead of going directly to the correct person (by the way, they had BIG signs on the desk, which I just didn’t read). They solved it in 30 seconds. ➡ This is just one example from today, but I counted around eight similar moments in one day. 💡 Takeaway: Be creative and read signs. The fantastic team behind this trade show is very well organized, and communication has been clear and effective! My special thank you Kamolchanok Nantaburom! #highcontextculture #thaiculture #hortiasia #exhibitions #tradeshows

Malaysia at a glance: Our Fun Map of Malaysia With our "Fun Map of Malaysia" you have all the important information about Malaysia at a glance!  From language and currency to entry and climate - everything is clearly presented.  This cool map not only answers many of your questions when planning your trip, but also shows you the country's most exciting attractions.  Perfect for adventurers and explorers who want to get the most out of their trip. Have fun! To Download: https://shorturl.at/Il6yW #FernwehnachMalaysia #MalaysiaTrulyAsia #FunMapofMalaysia #map #malaysia #visitmalaysia

The third example of regenerative tourism in practice is the authentic protection of culture and heritage. Omanawa Falls, a beautiful waterfall in the Bay of Plenty, had no safe access or visitor management. After countless emergency service calls and two fatalities, it was permanently closed. Yet, people still risked their lives for a photo. I deeply apologize for my role in this chaos. In 2014, during my first year in tourism marketing, I allowed Omanawa Falls to be anonymously featured on The Bachelor New Zealand. The 'secret' location was soon revealed on social media, worsening the situation. A heartfelt apology and meeting with the rightful stewards, Ngati Hangarau, opened my (tear filled) eyes to the site's true history and spiritual significance. The stories they told were unlike anything I had ever heard before, and incredibly, authentically, beautiful. My new awareness of Māori wisdom as stewards of our land was profound. Tourism Bay of Plenty and the Councils realized Ngati Hangarau's voice was missing. In 2018/19, the Parks Leaders Forum, led by Geoff Canham recommended a new co-governance structure, bringing Ngati Hangarau to the table as a partner. It was a journey with many twists and turns, but some five years later, On 1 December 2023, 'Te Rere O Omanawa' reopened to Ngati Hangarau hapu and visitors, showcasing cultural and physical safety. This collaborative effort won the Te Tohu Waka Hourua award for excellence in Māori-Council Partnerships. Te Ha Tāpoi | The Love of Tourism's regenerative destination management plan highlighted the importance of Māori culture and natural landmarks, for the first time and we became strong advocates for more cultural partnership. I am proud of our region’s progress in cultural awareness and understanding, which is now showcased at Mauao and Te Rae o Pāpāmoa and cultural sites of significance. Though there is still much to do, led by our land’s rightful stewards, huge respect to all involved in these incredible projects that step in the rightful direction. https://lnkd.in/gP6V5Xdc #destinationstewardship #destinationwayfinder

Commercial Considerations in IP Selection The decisions you make can shape the destiny of your business. Join us as we uncover the essential factors driving commercial success of choosing the right IP #businessdevelopment #innovation #thailand #attractions #entertainment #commercial #realestate #familyentertainment #business

Experience the magic of #Singapore without spending a dime! Dive into our blog to find out how you can enjoy six wonderful FREE activities in this tiny nation. 🌟💰 #TravelToSingapore #TravelTips #FreeThingsInSingapore

🌟 Memorable Gala Dinners Many of our clients face a common challenge: they seek something truly exceptional for their corporate events. They aren't just looking for a standard gathering, but rather an experience that will captivate their guests and create lasting memories. That's where we step in. At WildChina Corporate Services, we specialize in curating bespoke gala dinners that exceed expectations. We guide our guests to discover hidden destinations and cultural treasures they may not have known existed. We craft events that are not only memorable but also transformative — journeys to a different reality where every detail tells a story of China's rich heritage. From selecting the perfect venue that exudes local charm to designing immersive cultural experiences, we ensure every aspect of your event reflects the uniqueness and beauty of local culture. Imagine surprising your guests with a gala dinner under the stars in a desert, or hosting an elegant event in a breathtaking traditional Chinese garden. We know how to create events that surpass expectations and fulfill the desire for something extraordinary. #GalaDinners #CulturalHeritage #EventExperiences #WildChina #MICE

#BehindTheMic — When people think, “Being an emcee is just holding a mic and chatting, so why charge so much?” 😮💨🤔 If only it were that simple. Behind every event is meticulous planning, a deep understanding of the audience, and the skill to keep things running smoothly. As an emcee who takes pride in seamlessly code-switching between Bahasa Melayu and English, I’ve been hosting corporate events from the start. Only recently have I selectively ventured into wedding ceremonies. The value lies in the skill and experience I bring to every event. I’m not the cheapest, and rejections come with the territory, but quality and expertise are worth investing in. 😊 So when is your next corporate event? #TheEmcee