Steve Desmidt, MICE Manager for the Province of West Flanders

What are the strengths of the province of West Flanders?

Steve Desmidt - The diversity of atmospheres and landscapes generates a wide range of emotions. From a cultural point of view, Bruges is obviously very popular for its architectural treasures, the romantic atmosphere of its canals and old cobblestones, and the quality of its museums. If you're a fan of the picturesque, you can also discover the more modest but no less charming medieval villages in the countryside nearby. And then, of course, there's the atmosphere of a lively seaside resort like Knokke-Heist, which is very appealing.

How is the destination faring in terms of visitor numbers?

S. D. - Bruges is very popular, with between 3.5 and 4 million visitors every year. In the MICE sector, we are seeing a slow and steady increase of between 2 and 3 %. As far as Bruges is concerned, around 30 % come from foreign companies, mainly European, but also American, and 70 % from Belgian companies. As for Knokke-Heist, it's a more national market, with 90 % from Belgium and 10 % from abroad, mainly Dutch and French. It has to be said that in terms of accommodation, the shortage of rooms is glaring. Major property pressures have led to the sale of many hotels. This is now changing, notably with the opening of La Réserve, a five-star hotel with 110 rooms.

What are your plans for the future?

S. D. - Knokke-Heist is teeming with projects, some of which are grouped under the name Horizon 8300, the town's postcode. The most symbolic is the new casino. Steven Holl, whose work includes the Cité du Surf in Biarritz, envisages it as a complex incorporating a conference centre. The Anglo-Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid has also carried out a major study of the station and its surroundings. But for the moment, no timetable has been set.