Pattaya, Thailand – International Congress & Convention Association (ICCA) President Mr. Leigh Harry has observed that the multi award-winning Royal Cliff Beach Resort and the Pattaya Exhibition and Convention Hall (PEACH), a world-class, multipurpose convention facility of the Resort, provided an "exceptional conference experience" to the delegates of the recently concluded 46th ICCA Congress & Exhibition.

Themed "Thailand 2007 Fast Forward", the congress and exhibition attracted 814 participants. The congress in Pattaya, which incorporated the ICCA General Assembly as well, was the largest event in the history of ICCA and was 30% larger than any previous event held outside Europe.

With offices in the Netherlands, Malaysia, U.S.A and Uruguay and over 800 members in almost 80 countries, ICCA is one of the most prominent organisations in the world of international meetings. It is the only association that comprises a membership representing the main specialists in handling, transporting and accommodating international events.

In a statement, Mr. Leigh Harry attributed the success of this year’s congress to the efforts of the association’s local host committee, led by Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau, and the integrated facilities that the Royal Cliff Beach Resort and PEACH have offered. "As the convention centre (PEACH) is located in the same complex just a few paces away from the accommodation, there were no transfer hassles. This was a critically important factor that contributed to the success. The unique combination of a 5-star Resort and a world-class convention centre provided an exceptional conference experience," he observed.

He said the variety of cuisines offered by the 10 restaurants of the Resort, the friendly and always-smiling attitude of the Resort staff and wonderful scenic attractions such as the Sanctuary of Truth and the Three Kingdoms Park further enhanced the delegates’ experience. "The response from them (delegates) was overwhelmingly positive," he added.

Mr. Harry extended special thanks to every member of the Operations and Food & Beverage teams of the Resort and PEACH. "They went out of their way! There were many delegates, who were allergic to certain foods. None of them was served the wrong dish, be it at breakfast, lunch or dinner, and this was quite exceptional," he emphasised.