Flashback FAMtrip 2024
With great enthusiasm, Leiden Convention Bureau organised the FAM-trip event on 11 November 2024 with the theme ‘Behind the Scenes’. During this event, participants got an exclusive look behind the scenes of Leiden as a convention and event destination. Participants visited different venues, met local partners and discovered the hidden gems and unique sides of the city.
Naturalis Biodiversity Centre
The day started at 10:00 am at the Naturalis Biodiversity Centre, the national research institute on biodiversity and one of the largest natural history museum. Here, participants were warmly welcomed by the team, Mechteld Molenaar (Head of Commercial Affairs) and Jenny Oerlemans (Room Rental and Arrangements Officer).
Our manager, Miranda Geerlings (LCB), gave an introduction about Leiden Convention Bureau (LCB), introduced the team and explained why Leiden is the city of Science & Culture. Leiden is known for its fusion of science and history, thanks in part to Leiden University, the oldest university in the Netherlands, which will celebrate its 450th anniversary next year.
Miranda also highlighted the importance of Leiden as an international conference destination, the unique cooperation within the city and the assistance offered by LCB, including services such as the new Leiden Booking Service.
This inspiring introduction was followed by a tour in Naturalis, culminating in the impressive exhibition on the Triceratops.
Biotech Training Facility
From Naturalis, we walked to the Biotech Training Facility, a unique location where professionals are trained in the biotech and pharmaceutical industries. With high-tech cleanrooms and laboratories, this facility plays a crucial role in Leiden's position as an international knowledge and biotech centre.
We were welcomed by Judith van der Zwan (Director of Business Development and Trainer), who gave an introduction about the facility and its operations. During a tour of the cleanrooms, participants discovered more about the innovative techniques and processes within the biotech industry.
This visit highlighted Leiden's status as a city of Science and Life Sciences, and gave our participants an inspiring glimpse of the innovative opportunities Leiden has to offer.
CORPUS Congress Centre
Around 12:30, we took the bus to the CORPUS Congress Centre, a unique venue where science, education and events come together. The Congress Centre offers several modern rooms perfectly suited for meetings and events.
Michelle Nieuwenburg (Project Coordinator) and her team welcomed us in the penthouse, where we were given a tour of the available rooms. We then took a special journey through the human body, an interactive and educational experience. We closed our visit with a delicious lunch in the impressive Intestines -Room.
After lunch, we left for the Leidse Schouwburg and explored the city centre, which its beautiful canals and historic sites that give Leiden its unique charm.
Leidse Schouwburg
At the Leidse Schouwburg, the oldest theatre in the Netherlands, we were warmly welcomed by Daniël op den Buijsch (Sales & Event Manager) and Lotte van Rhijn (Account & Event Manager). This iconic theatre is a perfect stage for art, culture and events.
After an informative tour of the halls, participants took part in an interactive theatre sports workshop organised by Moeders Mooiste. The enthusiasm was great and everyone participated fanatically!
Scheltema Leiden
The day ended with a pleasant reception at Scheltema Leiden, a unique event venue hosted by Jeroen Vreeken (Business Manager). Here, participants had the opportunity to network with our partners and learn more about the different spaces within Scheltema.
We concluded the day with a nice network bingo and a goody buffet, where everyone went home with a smile and a gift.
On behalf of Leiden Convention Bureau, we would like to thank everyone for their enthusiastic participation.
It was great to discover the city of Leiden together.
If you are interested in our next FAM trip, sign up for our newsletter here: https://www.leidenconventionbureau.nl/nl/over-ons/nieuwsbrief
We look forward to staying in touch!