A Hidden Gem In Asia – Events Inspired By Vietnam

Famous for its stunning natural landscapes and flavorful southeast Asian cuisine, Vietnam is a must-see destination for travelers from around the globe. And for event planners who are looking for ways to imbue their next event with new, exciting flavors, Vietnam’s unique culture and cuisine provide plenty of inspiration.

The lantern festival in Hoi An is a must-see for anyone visiting Vietnam

Sheraton Grand Danang Resort

Beachfront at Sheraton Grand Danang Resort

A TRUE HIDDEN GEM

Vietnam is famous for its cultural richness and natural beauty. Every full moon, the Hoai river’s calm surface reflects the sparkling light of hundreds of colorful paper lanterns as they float downstream. For inspiration, bring some of the magic of the Hoi An lantern festival to your next nighttime event by lighting some lanterns of your own.

If you find touristy festivals stressful, get a real slice of the Vietnamese culture by stopping by the underrated city of Danang, a true hidden gem and only a 20-minute drive away from the Hoi An Old Town.

Danang has some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world. The 5-star Sheraton Grand Danang Resort is located on the alluring Non Nuoc Beach, whose long stretches of white sand complements perfectly with the green water and blue skies. Perfect for an intimate board meeting or a relaxing company retreat!

JW Marriott Hanoi has won multiple restaurant awards, for their authentic and world-class dining experience.

JW Marriott Hotel Hanoi

Try local fresh fruits and coffee break snacks the local way.

ENJOY A “POT AU FEU”

Vietnam is famous around the globe for its “pho.” Typically paired with thinly sliced beef or chicken, pho is actually the result of the fusing of colonial French and local Vietnamese cuisine. In fact, even the name is a Vietnamese approximation of the French word “pot au feu,” which is a type of traditional stew.

Because of its unique heritage as a product of two different cultures, pho is a not only a delicious and versatile dish, it’s also a great source of inspiration for event planners to embrace diversity in all aspects of their events. Try serving a pho noodle bar that lets guest mix-and-match toppings from diverse cuisines around the world.

Not only will you broaden your guests’ horizons, but you’ll also give them the opportunity to express their unique personalities as they share their creations with other attendees. Keep the event local by hosting it at the stunning JW Marriott Hotel Hanoi, which sits in the West Hanoi’s central business district, steps away from the National Convention Center. Immerse yourself in an authentic street food experience during your coffee break, where traditional desserts and snacks, such as Banh gio (pyramidal rice dumpling), Bo bia (fresh springroll with jicama and eggs_and Banh tieu (Vietnamese hollow donut) are served on the backs of bicycles. With professional and personalized service, elegantly-designed rooms and Executive Lounge, as well as award-winning MICE facilities and culinary options, your guests will certainly remember this pho-tastic event experience. 

Rue de Lamark is the heart of the JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa

Lamarck University campus at the JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa

The Department of Chemistry Bar

The Department of Carpentry offers a whimsically-designed boardroom meeting space

The Department of Bad Inventions is ideal for casual brainstorming sessions.

PILGRIMAGE DOWN MEMORY LANE

Every year, thousands of faithful Buddhists make the long trek up hundreds of steep stone steps to pray in a sacred cave for prosperity in the new year. Along the way, they’re surrounded by captivating vistas of lush, green rice paddies and craggy mountain peaks. Movement stimulates the mind; instead of hosting an event with a completely static location, why not turn your next gathering into a mini-pilgrimage or a journey down memory lane.

The JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort can teach us a thing or two on how to let our imagination run wild when designing event venues. Standing on the ground of the former Lamarck University, inaugurated in 1904, the resort has repurposed various former academic buildings to create imaginative meeting spaces. The former Department of Chemistry is now where explosions of ideas happen, with the help of some unique cocktails, champagnes and pastries, of course. The Carpenter Room has been turned into a Boardroom and the Rue de Lamark is transformed into a street of a beautiful, aged building containing spa, gift shops, galleries and fitness & gym. Indulge yourself with a creatively Vietnamese event experience on the “campus” where tradition meets surprises and business is mixed with leisure.

Send your guests on a journey by including a walking tour to keep things interesting while providing attendees with a shared goal of reaching the destination together. Add even more excitement by making the ultimate destination a surprise for your guests!

We believe a great event deserves more rewards!

If you liked these Vietnam-inspired event ideas but still want more, why not host your next event there? Your guests will be able to experience all the colorful culture and delectable cuisines that this unique region has to offer while enjoying top-of-the-line comforts provided by the event professionals.

Enjoy three fabulous perks when you plan your next meeting or overnight soiree at Marriott Bonvoy™ participating hotels and resorts in Asia Pacific. Redeem your rewards now with our latest Meet & Be Rewarded promotion.