Saint Petersburg, renowned for its architectural marvels and historical heritage, has recently emerged as a vibrant destination for MICE and weddings in the travel and tourism industry.
Often celebrated for its stunning palaces, grand dukes’ residences, and unique architectural ensembles, the city’s lesser-known facet is captivating Indian audiences seeking novel avenues.
Exploring Saint Petersburg’s Untapped Potential
When presented with an invitation to experience the city’s Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) facilities, our curiosity was piqued. It offered a revelation – a side of Saint Petersburg not widely known in India. Intrigued, I embarked on a three-day trip to delve into what this thriving cultural hub had to offer to the Indian MICE and wedding segment.
City Overview: A European Tapestry in Russia
Constructed in alignment with Peter the Great’s vision of a Russian-European city, Saint Petersburg bears the influences of Amsterdam, Swiss, Italian, and French architects. Upon arrival, the city’s European-style buildings, well-designed transport system, flowing rivers through intricate canals, and charming boutique-style streets create an immersive experience. This fusion is evident in its extensive canal network, earning it the moniker “Venice of the North.”
The Significance of Business Tourism
Business tourism has emerged as a pivotal aspect of Saint Petersburg’s appeal. Recognized internationally as a premier destination for events, the city hosts over 500 business events annually. Boasting 200 diverse venues for business events, the city anticipates a surge in business tourists, reaching over 1.1 million in 2023. This segment contributed approximately 50 billion rubles to the economy in 2022, with sustained growth projected.
Sergey Korneev, Chairman of the Committee for Tourism Development of St. Petersburg, emphasizes the economic and image-building significance of business tourism. “Business tourism is very important because it allows increasing the utilization of the hospitality industry, even during the low season,” states Korneev.
Strategic Initiatives and Ambitious Programs
St. Petersburg Convention Bureau subordinate to the Committee for Tourism Development of Saint Petersburg consistently elevates St. Petersburg’s status through participation in international tourism exhibitions and organizing events like the Saint Petersburg International Tourism Forum TRAVEL HUB.
The Convention Bureau’s ambassador program, launched in 2018, engages representatives from various industries to attract international events. This initiative showcases the city’s culture, scientific innovations, and investment potential.
Key MICE Venues in Saint Petersburg
Expoforum – Convention and Exhibition Centre: A versatile venue accommodating exhibitions, conventions, concerts, banquets, and sports events, Expoforum has garnered numerous awards since 2017. Nestled in the heart of Saint Petersburg, Expoforum stands as a testament to versatility, excellence, and innovation in the realm of events.
This state-of-the-art Convention and Exhibition Centre has not only become a symbol of architectural brilliance but has also earned acclaim for its ability to seamlessly host a diverse range of gatherings. Expoforum’s vast exhibition space, spanning up to 50,000 square meters, provides an ideal canvas for showcasing products, innovations, and artistic creations as well as accommodating up to 30,000 delegates in the conventions. Not to forget, notable annual gatherings like the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, St. Petersburg International Gas Forum, and Russian International Energy Forum find a home at Expoforum. Expoforum is a vibrant hub that annually attracts over 1.4 million visitors, demonstrating its popularity and effectiveness in facilitating a wide array of events.
Hotel Astoria: For intimate events hosting approximately 150 guests, this historic five-star hotel proves to be an excellent choice. With multiple banquet options and a total of 169 rooms, it offers a splendid view of St. Isaac’s Cathedral and Square. The strategic location adds an extra layer of interest to the property, enhancing the overall experience.
Hotel Angleterre: Positioned as one of the pioneer hotels in St. Petersburg, Angleterre stands adjacent to Hotel Astoria, creating an internal connection between the two. Boasting 192 rooms designed in a modern classic style, equipped with all contemporary facilities, it serves as an ideal choice for various events. Both venues can seamlessly combine to accommodate larger MICE events, providing a cohesive and well-connected space.
Hotel Wawelberg: A harmonious blend of modernity and history, Hotel Wawelberg is conveniently located within a 6-minute walk from Saint Isaac’s Cathedral and in close proximity to Palace Square. Originally built as a bank by the Wawelbergs, a prominent Polish banking family in the Russian Empire, it underwent a transformation into a 79-room hotel. What sets it apart is the high-tech infrastructure; all rooms feature cutting-edge digital solutions, including remote control of lighting and climate. The iPad-based interactive system further allows guests to order a full range of hotel services. The hotel’s strategic location places popular tourist attractions like the Hermitage Museum and Alexander Garden within walking distance, making it a desirable choice for travelers seeking both convenience and modern amenities.
Culinary Delights
Indulge in Authentic Indian Flavours at “Oh Mumbai”
For those yearning for the familiar tastes of home in the heart of Saint Petersburg, “Oh Mumbai” stands as an inviting haven. As you step into this cozy restaurant, you’re greeted by the warmth of hospitable staff, interiors adorned with Indian inspiration, and a friendly, harmless crocodile casually dwelling in the aquarium. The culinary experience transcends borders, resonating with the palates of both local Russians and intrigued visitors. Once you savor the delectable offerings, you’ll find yourself joining the ranks of admirers who have embraced the rich flavors of India served at “Oh Mumbai.”
Schastye: A Culinary Gem in the City Center
Nestled in the central part of the city, Schastye is a culinary gem that boasts a delightful backdrop, likely featuring a prominent cathedral. The culinary offerings are nothing short of amazing, with standout dishes like Veg Ravioli in Napoli sauce and cream cheese mousse. To sweeten the experience, indulge in their Banana Passion Fruit cake, a perfect addition to an already stunning evening. Don’t forget to explore their local twist on cola – the Funky Monkey – for a refreshing and unique beverage option.
BLOK: Where Classic Meets Contemporary
BLOK captures your attention immediately with its classic interiors, complemented by massive modern chandeliers and vibrant decor. The visual feast continues with the culinary offerings, making this restaurant a hotspot in the city. The pleasing ambiance, combined with delightful food, establishes BLOK as one of the most happening places in Saint Petersburg.
VETER: Cosy Russian Charm on the Petrovskaya Embankment
As a personal favourite, VETER restaurant offers a cozy French and Russian retreat, delighting patrons with its delicious cuisine and breathtaking landscapes along the Neva River on Petrovskaya embankment. Housed in a ship, this restaurant takes dining to new heights, serving the city’s best Pavlova cakes alongside mouth-watering French specialties.
Marso Polo: Lively Evenings and Scrumptious Pizzas
For those seeking a lively evening and a diverse menu, Marso Polo beckons. This restaurant offers a wide array of culinary delights, with its freshly baked Pizzas stealing the spotlight for a perfect dinner. Whether you’re a pizza enthusiast or looking to explore various culinary options, Marso Polo promises a memorable dining experience.
Must-Visit Attractions
State Hermitage Museum: The largest museum in Russia, housed in the former official residence of Russian emperors, showcasing world-renowned masterpieces. This cultural treasure trove left me awe-inspired and thanks to Ms Tanya, our guide, this experience become more enjoyable and a learning one. The lavishly decorated rooms and the world-renowned masterpieces on display create an unparalleled artistic journey. It’s not just a museum; it’s a captivating exploration of history and art.
Palace Square: Stepping onto Palace Square was like entering a masterpiece itself. As one of Saint Petersburg’s main squares, it not only serves as a hub of cultural and historical significance but also stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The architectural ensemble surrounding the square is nothing short of breathtaking. I found myself immersed in the rich history and witnessed the echoes of milestone events that have shaped Russia’s narrative.
PlanetariumNo.1: The visit to PlanetariumNo.1 was a highlight of my trip, providing an extraordinary cinematic experience beneath one of the world’s largest projection domes. The immersive 3D shows, filling the colossal 37-meter dome with 40 8K projectors, left an indelible mark. The Planetarium’s total area of 4000 m2, housing a star hall, a museum of space exhibits, virtual reality interactive rooms, and educational classes, is a testament to its commitment to science and education.
Mikhailovsky Theater: Attending a ballet performance at the Mikhailovsky Theater, one of Russia’s oldest opera and ballet houses, was a cultural delight. The performance of Bayadere, set against the royal past of India, unfolded a story of eternal love, mystery, fate, vengeance, and justice. The historic setting of the theater added to the enchantment of the evening, leaving me with memories of a captivating blend of art and history.
Travel Tips for a Seamless Experience
Currency
Currently, no international credit or debit cards are operational here. Therefore, it is advisable to carry sufficient currency with you. If you are carrying dollars, ensure there are no stamps or that they are intact, as this could pose a challenge when exchanging the currency. It’s essential to obtain an ample amount of the local currency from the forex counter at the airport, even though it may be slightly more expensive. This precaution is necessary due to potential language issues, delays, and the likelihood of possessing certain documents that are required. For larger sums, it is recommended to locate an authorized bank near your hotel for currency exchange to secure better rates.
Internet
Accessing the internet in the city poses a challenge as free Wi-Fi is not available anywhere unless you have a Russian number or international roaming. Purchasing a local SIM card is not advisable, as it may not work on your phone (Personal experience with a Metfone SIM, despite activation by the shopkeeper, resulted in no service throughout my stay, leading to the loss of 600 rubles) Opting for international roaming is the better choice as it ensures uninterrupted internet access throughout the day. It’s worth noting that many websites, such as Instagram and Facebook, may not function properly. Using a VPN is recommended if you need access to these sites.
Language Issues
Communication and navigating the city may present challenges due to most signages being in Russian without English translations. Additionally, not everyone speaks English, making it difficult to interact with locals. For those booking a package, it’s crucial to ensure that the travel agent is reliable, drafting the best itinerary and providing a proficient English-speaking guide. Solo business travellers who prefer not to have a guide can utilize translation apps like Google Translate for communication, reading road signs, using local transport, and other essential tasks.
Conclusion:
Saint Petersburg’s evolution into a thriving hub for MICE and weddings unveils a side less explored. With its rich history, architectural wonders, and a burgeoning business tourism sector, the city beckons travelers to discover the perfect blend of business and leisure.