Interview with Veronika Handl, Director of the Tirol Convention Bureau

How important is the French market in Tyrol?

Veronika Handl - Even though we receive requests from French agencies for small-scale incentives or events, this market is not yet very developed. It's a shame, because Tyrol offers very good value for money. Especially as the region has so much to offer, starting with its top-class tourist infrastructure, excellent hotels and service providers, and event venues just a stone's throw from the hotels. Not to mention an acute sense of hospitality and renowned gastronomy.

What are the region's most popular MICE destinations?

V. H. - There's Innsbruck, of course, which can host conferences for up to 2,000 people. The city is very dynamic, thanks in particular to the proximity of three universities and the presence of a scientific community specialising in many industrial fields. But there's also Kitzbühel, Kufstein, Seefeld, Sankt Anton and Alpbach, a charming little village that can almost be made private for an event... All these destinations can meet the expectations of organisers and host events of all sizes.

What are Tyrol's assets?

V. H. - Tyrol offers the perfect mix of nature and culture. This is particularly true of Innsbruck, where you can visit some sumptuous monuments, then take the cable car and climb the mountain in around twenty minutes. Then there's Hall, with its medieval town centre, castles and Baroque churches galore, or Kitzbuehel and Sankt Anton, where you can enjoy the full range of outdoor sports, in winter or summer, in magical surroundings.