Interview with Édouard George, Chairman of Phoenix Voyages

"An exotic yet reassuring destination".

What are the strengths of Vietnam as a destination in general, and Saigon and the Mekong Delta in particular?

Édouard George - First and foremost, there's the collective memory of the French, Indochina... So it's both an exotic destination and something familiar and reassuring. Finally, the landscapes are fabulous and the infrastructure is now excellent.

How do you feel about the widespread cuts in corporate incentive budgets?

E. G. - Unfortunately, everyone still thinks that Asia is still affordable... obviously, this is no longer entirely true. The French market is getting closer and closer to its pennies, but that doesn't stop agencies from being just as demanding as before, and continuing to ask us for extraordinary things, sumptuous gala dinners... It's quite difficult to make people understand.

How many French groups did you welcome last year?

E. G. - Around ten, including a group of 250 people. All came from the pharmaceutical, automotive and retail sectors. On average, they stayed four or five nights. As far as France is concerned, I have to say that we are seeing a clear upturn in all the destinations we handle in Asia, including Vietnam. As you know, corporate tourism is fairly cyclical, with a lot of fashion effects.

What is the typical itinerary for a Saigon-Mekong Delta operation?

E. G. - Nostalgia in Saigon, but also the effervescence that reigns there. When it comes to the delta, there's always nostalgia. Of course we organise mini cruises, which are a must, but above all we offer a gently adventurous discovery, with bike rides, net fishing in the river, fruit picking with the farmers and the discovery of Vietnamese gastronomy, which is to die for.