On a dark afternoon, while the mist covered the mountain view of Chiang Mai and its vicinity, the large expanse of the Chiang Mai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (CMICE) appeared before us as we approached the compound.
A giant skeletal structure of a dinosaur stood at the open area, giving us a preview of what’s in store inside. Coincidentally, the National Science and Technology Fair 2014 was also taking place at CMICE as we made our ocular of the venue.
CMICE, a two-story building with three major areas, was newly opened in 2013. Its largest zone, the exhibition hall, has an area of 7,935-square meters which can accommodate up to 20,000 guests.
During our visit, school children, students, young monks and even adults filled up the halls occupied by exhibit stalls of various sizes that utilized LED screens and interesting displays.
Featured exhibits were about the dynamic earth, with a 4D theatre that brings visitors to prehistoric times. There was also an area on smart farming where they show new technologies in agriculture. Exhibits from various countries were also found inside the hall. Other displays focused on crystallography, sustainable energy, water innovations and careers in science.
We toured the other halls inside CMICE and were astounded at how advanced the venue is when it comes to hosting large events such as conferences and exhibits. But what really had me in awe was the Ratchapruek Convention Hall 2, with its elegant Thai design, which has been converted into a VIP lounge and can rival a five-star hotel lobby. It seemed like you walk into a royal venue inside this hall because of the intricate designs and the beautiful Thai aesthetics of the booths, especially the large one at the center that occupied almost the entire hall.
With such world-class facilities, Chiang Mai is truly getting ready to becoming a major destination for meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions. These events will bring together new ideas and concepts, paving way to a vibrant creative society. Who knows, maybe such science and technology fair events will lead to more new inventions and discoveries. So, I wondered as I walked out of CMICE, if who among the youth I’ve seen in the venue will someday emerge as great scientists of their time. Only time can tell.
More photos are uploaded in my Facebook page.
Such a fantastic place for visit. thanks for posting nice views.