Madrid
Unlocking Madrid ’ s secrets
PAUL COLSTON JOINS A SPANISH SPY TRAIL IN MADRID AND COMES AWAY WITH PLENTY OF INFORMATION FOR EVENT PLANNERS , ESPECIALLY THOSE ON A SUSTAINABLE MISSION
A
1940s themed spy mission to Madrid was a recent invitation from the capital city ’ s convention bureau to 16 selected European MICE buyers . CMW ’ s own secret sleuth joined the trail , aiming to track down the mysterious spy Tom Burns , following a programme inspired by one of the tours from the first edition of the Original Tours of Madrid .
The game-like format of ‘ The Missing Spy ’ element of the wider Madrid Agency Forum in September revealed a new and undiscovered side of the city . It also brought participants and the city ’ s suppliers and CVB members closer together in a spirit of adventure and collaboration .
HQ was the Westin Place Madrid , situated right in the heart of the city , next to the Cortes and the Prado Museum .
The spy trail was a great way to experience the city and its delights first-hand , with guides interspersing the game element with information on the city ’ s heroes and heritage .
There was plenty of time for tapas and sampling other culinary delights and , back at the hotel , the buyers were able to talk and meet with representatives of the city ’ s tourism industry in 300 separate and snappy business meetings .
There was a lunch at the traditional Posada de la Villa and a dinner amid the ornate setting of Casa de América , as well as site visits to the Four Seasons Madrid and the renovated Canopy by Hilton Madrid Castellana .
For this football fan , there was a chance to sit on one of Ronaldo ’ s beds – perhaps I should elaborate – more of a show round of the CR7 Madrid Gran Via hotel part-owned by the Manchester United football star . Certainly a boutique experience for those interested in a football themed venue and hotel .
There was a also a taste of Madrid ’ s old crafts and artisan sector , including a chance to see how a classical Spanish guitar is hand made .
The Madrid Agency Forum demonstrated in a very safe and healthy manner that the city is a safe and exciting destination for professional meetings and one with a clear emphasis on sustainability . Most of the activities were within walking distance , which made for healthy interactivity , as well as for a positive impact on the environment .
The practice of the trip dovetailed well with the strategy of Madrid for focusing planners ’ minds on measures to reduce the negative impacts of events .
Above : Casa de la Panaderia on Plaza Mayor Below : Agency sleuths in Madrid
ISSUE 115 / CONFERENCE & MEETINGS WORLD / 29