The success of an exhibition is measured by the satisfaction of its exhibitors. Based on that simple rule, the Phuket & Samui Property Exhibition — organized by this company, together with Graham Doven and the Phuket Gazette — was an outstanding success. The November 2002 exhibit was the first of its kind, and its success was by no means a given, with all organizers entering the magnificent Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre with some trepidation.

What would happen? Many months of work had gone into the organization and promotion of the exhibition. Over 20 clients from Samui and Phuket had expressed sufficient confidence in us to hand over a considerable sum for each booth. But success would ultimately depend on the number of potential Hong Kong-based buyers who made the effort to come to the Convention Centre and seek out Room 401. Despite an extensive and expensive advertising campaign, there was no way of knowing in advance.

But come they did, in a solid, never-ending trickle. Over the three days about 1,000 people visited the show. As it turned out, however, even those healthy numbers were not the winning factor. According to Paul Moorehouse of Phuket's Lakewood Hills, "It wasn't just the number — which in itself was quite good — it was the quality of the people. At least 80 percent of them were genuine buyers looking for the right place to invest."

William Barnett of Phuket's famed Laguna complex was also enthusiastic: "The feedback has been very positive. We have 50 good leads, and expect to turn 4 or 5 sales from the show. We would fully support the show next year, were it based on Phuket and Samui, and could do much more promotion. Anyway, you guys did a great job."

Koh Samui was strongly represented at the event, with a number of local developers showing a united spirit, joining forces to create the exhibit's largest and most eye-catching booth. They too came away talking of an even bigger and better display at next year's show.

In addition to housing developers, such contributors to modern life on the islands as Bangkok Airways, Dulwich International School, Bangkok Phuket Hospital, and boat-charter company TML were also represented. Most have expressed an interest in joining the 2003 version of the show.

This exhibit is currently being organized with this year's lessons in mind. Word of last November's success will naturally attract more developers, while the organizers will also encourage more peripheral industries that support modern island lifestyles to present their products and wave their respective flags.

The dates and venue of the 2003 exhibition will be announced soon -perhaps before this magazine hits the streets.