2012
The Editor of MICEreview was initially not very keen of reviewing Krakow, Poland, as a potential MICE destination. There was a preconceived image of Poland as a grim reminder of World War II and Nazi atrocities. It didn’t help that filmmakers in Hollywood find it fit to make a Holocaust movie every other few years. But there is more to Krakow than just the Auschwitz Concentration Camp, and what a pleasant surprise MICEreview found here.
There are many surprising attractions in Krakow for tourists, and some of these sites are excellent alternative meeting and dining venues for MICE groups. The most spectacular attraction must be the 327m deep Wieliczka Salt Mine (the tourist route reaches a depth of 135m underground). Apart from preserving the mine and showcasing life inside the mines since the Middle Ages, there are chapels, dining halls and well-equipped conference rooms. The management of the Salt Mine can organize team-building exercises for corporate customers with themes ranging from the adventurous to the spiritual.
Another underground attraction sits beneath the bustling Cloth Hall at the Main Market Square. Podziemia Rynku (Rynek Underground) reveals the foundation and archaeological remains of the original market square from 10th century onwards. Visitors travel back to the past through a fusion of modern technology and original ancient artifacts.
Of course, for its historical value, visitors should not miss the Auschwitz Camp, where thousands of Jews were killed by the Nazis. Nova Huta is like a walk-back in time to the Communist era. Visiting Krakow is really an adventure and a lesson in history.
There is a variety of accommodation choices, from international branded hotel chains to cosy boutique guesthouses. With just a handful of convention class hotels, the city is currently best suited for events of up to 500 delegates. Unique venues such as the Wieliczka Salt Mine and other historical buildings also help accommodate small to medium-size MICE groups. 
However, new large venues such as the Sports & Entertainment Arena and the ICE Congress Centre (right: artist’s impression) will soon be ready to take on mega conventions and exhibitions.
Unique MICE Experience in Krakow
3/4/12
Krakow may not be ready for mega-sized MICE events, but it has unique venues for meetings and incentive groups of up to 500 persons.
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