Biz Events Asia June-July 2015

THE

Y LUXUUR E ISS

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ginA sin SENIOR WRITER gina@bizeventsasia.com

eL KWAng PUBLISHER MANAGING DIRECTOR el@bizeventsasia.com

Kristie thong EDITOR kristie@bizeventsasia.com

Biz Events Asia is published by Business & Tourism Publishing Asia Pte Ltd 51A Kreta Ayer Road, Singapore 089008 Tel: +65 6337 8781 Fax: +65 6337 9060 Email: hello@bizeventsasia.com Website: bizeventsasia.com

PUBLISHER/ MANAGING DIRECTOR El Kwang el@bizeventsasia.com DIRECTOR Geoff Batt-Rawden geoff@bizeventsasia.com

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EDITOR Kristie Thong kristie@bizeventsasia.com

DESIGN AND PRODUCTION PIXO fanix@pixosolutions.com

SENIOR WRITER Gina Sin gina@bizeventsasia.com

OFFICE MANAGER Rev Karunakaran rev@bizeventsasia.com

CONTRIBUTORS

CHINESE CONSULTANT KH Tok

SENIOR WRITER Claire Algarme claire@bizeventsasia.com

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# For years we have placed breath-taking destinations or stunning hotel and venue shots on the cover of the magazine. For this special luxury issue, we continue to strive for thought-provoking images to depict the term “luxury”, a ubiquitous word in hospitality. In the last few months, as we sought the definition of luxury through informal conversations at events, most answered enthusiastically by naming their favourite destinations and hotel brands. We pressed on and asked them to find words that they felt were associated with Asia. We received words such as “culture”, “diversity”, “growth”, and phrases such as “peaceful resorts” and “key business market”.

Seasoned travellers and event planners are accustomed to associating opulence with luxury products. We also believe what continues to draw them to Asia is an interest in our culture. On that note, we decided to put Kun Qu opera on the cover.

Developed between the 14-16th century under the Ming dynasty in southeast China, it is a popular theatrical form and is one of the oldest forms of Chinese

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OUR BREATH OF LUXURY opera still performed today (calling it the mother of Chinese opera). Like event planners, Chinese opera performers train hard and prepare for a flawless and memorable performance. Despite sweat and tears, they hold true to the motto “the show must go on”. No matter how modern Asia becomes and how advanced the infrastructure is, Asia does not and should not forget its cultural roots.

In the special duo-month issue of Biz Events Asia, we seek to provoke your thoughts on the topic of luxury as we bring you different interpretations of what the word can stand for. While we constantly yearn to spoil ourselves silly on the next luxurious getaway completely free from work or first world worries, we often forget that we are already living in luxury – of culture, time, health, convenience, and wealth. Live in the moment and appreciate the little things – be good to yourself and don’t wait till the next holiday to take in a breath of appreciation.

We hope you enjoy this issue.

Biz Events Asia, the only Asia-based media for ibtm america

Biz Events Asia is the official media partner and member of:

Our cover image is courtesy of Shanghai Municipal Tourism Administration. Read about Shanghai's continued progress as a business events destination on page 12.

SALES & MARKETING SINGAPORE OFFICE Michelle Lim michelle@bizeventsasia.com

THAILAND OFFICE Santhiti Arunsit Email: santhiti@bizeventsasia.com Tel: +66 81 422 4997

Charline Wong charline@bizeventsasia.com

AUSTRALIA OFFICE Tanya Brown Email: tanya@bizeventsasia.com Tel: +61 408 658 377

INTERNATIONAL MEDIA CHINA: Mary Yao Email: mary@mhichina.com Tel: +86 10 6551 5663 ext 8008 DUBAI: Lenora Bennis Email: lenora@themediavantage.com Tel: +971 52 846 6212 SOUTH KOREA: Alexander Paik Email: apcomm@naver.com Tel: +82 10 5042 1337

throughout the month: bizeventsasia.com Privacy Policy: Business & Tourism Publishing Asia is committed to managing your personal information in accordance with the Privacy Act. For a copy of our Privacy Policy, please go to bizeventsasia.com/privacy Printed in Singapore by Sunrise Printing & Supplies Pte Ltd. Reg no. 199002858D PPS 1785/04/2013 (022963) MCI (P) 131/02/2015

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CHINA

WasteMET China 2015 Shenzhen | July 2015

JAPAN

The 15th annual meeting of the Asian and Oceanic Society for Pediatric Radiology 2015 Tokyo | June 2015

MACAU

Asia Pacific Regional Internet Governance Forum July 2015

INDONESIA

Manufacturing Surabaya Series | Surabaya June 2015 | 7,000 pax

MALAYSIA

10th Malaysia International Dive Expo Kuala Lumpur | June 2015

SINGAPORE

Enterprise IT June 2015 | 26,000 pax

COVER STORY

#CoverStory

Shanghai SurgeS on ThE ChINESE CITY TErMEd “PArIS OF ThE EAST” CONTINUES TO ATTrACT BUSINESS EVENTS AS IT GrOWS IN ECONOMIC STATUrE ANd PrOMINENCE WhILE rEMAINING TrUE TO CULTUrE ANd INNOVATION.

Shanghai continues to attract business events as it grows in economic stature and prominence while remaining true to culture and innovation.

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EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS

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“Shanghai continues to offer a lot to event planners. It is very accessible, has opportunities for off-site events, and has many local attractions.”

MAX JANTASUWAN Managing director Events Travel Asia

WordS: KriStie thong

Yuyuan Gardens

Shanghai continues to perform exceptionally in business events, in huge part due to frequent and direct air accessibility from other major cities in the world. According to Patrick Chen, deputy director of Shanghai Municipal Tourism Administration, this convenience makes it effortless for Shanghai to attract prominent events that see visitors pouring in from different parts of the world. These include sporting events such as the Formula 1 UBS Chinese Grand Prix and Longines Global Champion Tour, as well as the revered Shanghai Fashion Week and the Shanghai International Film Festival.

Max Jantasuwan, global managing director of destination management company and event company Events Travel Asia, was recently in Shanghai earlier this year as a hosted buyer of IT&CM China, a business events trade show that takes place each year as part of Shanghai Business Events Week’s strong line-up of programmes.

Commenting on his experience, he shared with Biz Events Asia that Shanghai has changed a lot in the past five years in a good way.

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“Shanghai continues to offer a lot to event planners. It is very accessible, has opportunities for off-site events, and has many local attractions,” Jantasuwan said.

aLL the SPaCe in the WorLd Large-scale exhibition and convention venues are aplenty in Shanghai.

From the steadfast Shanghai New International Expo Center that has hosted the Motor Show for years to the Shanghai World EXPO Exhibition & Convention Center situated in the city centre, large-scale venues are aplenty

in Shanghai. The Shanghai International Convention Center is a venue that has attracted large-scale international conferences and business forums due to its integrated hospitality offering.

Situated in the heart of Shanghai’s financial and trade zone Lujiazui and adjacent to the ironic Oriental Pearl TV Tower, it offers a five-star hotel with 273 river-view rooms and suites on top of extensive event facilities. With a total capacity of 3,000 guests through a 4,400 sq m pillar-less grand ballroom and 30 multi-functional conference halls, it is no surprise the venue has attracted noteworthy events such as the Fortune Global Forum, APEC Leaders’

out oF the BoX Shanghai has a healthy number of exhibition and convention venues and also a plethora of luxury and business hotels that offer impressive and wellutilised event facilities. however, event planners looking for the unconventional will not have their ideas stifled in Shanghai.

Zhujiajiao ancient water town

Event planners can consider a space like M1NT, which is a modern-day members club for classy clientele. With a combined offering of a destination restaurant, cocktail lounge bar, roof terrace and night club, it can host

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Janet Tan-Collis President | SACEOS CEO | East West Planners

Summit, the 35th Asian development Bank Council Annual Meeting and the welcome dinner of EXPO 2010.

One of its newest venue additions may soon overshadow several competitors in the Asia Pacific market. The National Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC) has already attracted much hype within both the domestic and international marketplace calling itself the world’s largest exhibition venue. Co-built by the Ministry of Commerce of China and the Shanghai Municipal Government, NECC offers 500,000 sq m of exhibition space, with 400,000 sq m indoors and 100,000 sq m of outdoor display areas.

The indoor exhibition space includes 13 large exhibition halls each spanning 28,800 sq m, as well as three smaller 10,000-sq m halls – all of which are directly accessible by freight carriers.

It also has over 60 meeting rooms of different sizes, with seating capacities ranging from less than a hundred people to three thousand attendees each. NECC is a multi-purpose facility offering more than exhibition and meeting facilities; it is supported by a commercial centre, three office buildings, a five-star hotel, conference services, as well as international cuisine options and entertainment.

One cannot deny the prowess of Shanghai as a global city. As a clear representation of China’s booming economy, its impressive cityscape of skyscrapers and modern infrastructure presents a platform of boundless economic and business opportunities.

From the bustling Pudong district and the sleepless Xintiandi entertainment district to the renowned waterfront promenade Bund, Shanghai is one of the most dynamic cities with no end to experiences.

Damion Breust Director – Head of Event Marketing Asia Pacific | Barclays

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Selina Chavry Regional Director – Asia | Pacific World

Daniel Chua Managing Director AONIA MICE

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SOUTH KOREA

Korea World Travel Fair | Seoul June 2015 | 100,000 pax

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ISSUE 6 #SoundBites

TAIWAN

Computex 2015 | Taipei June 2015 | 4,000 pax

9 #TakingTheLead 10 #WebSpace

42 #DelveInto Singapore How the lion city stacks up for business events BONUS FEATURE: Behind the scenes of Forever Living Global Rally

69 #Engage Seoul’s first MICE cluster draws over 2 million Exploring different interpretations of luxury

70 #Engage A Canadian group gets acquainted with Hangzhou’s rich culture and scenic beauty

71 #Engage 36 #TalentAndMentor

Happy snaps from Wine Down Wednesday in April

The challenge of making a right hire in Asia

38 #Knowledge With a special luxury-themed issue comes a surprise in this section

AUSTRALIA

Communicable Disease Conference | Brisbane June 2015

Andrew Chan CEO | ACI HR Solutions

Ho Yoke Ping General Manager Business Events Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB)

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Don’t miss our special supplement

THERE’S NOTHING LIKE AUSTRALIA

Deanna Varga Director Deanna Varga Consultancy

Max Jantasuwan Group Managing Director Events Travel Asia

Sumate Sudasna President | Thailand Incentive & Convention Association (TICA) MD | CDM Thailand

Daniel Aswin Co-founder Absolutions

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#

GLOBAL Sojern, a performance and marketing platform for travel brands, has released its Q1 Global Travel Insights Report based on the rigorous analysis of more than 8,000 traveller’s intent data points. Thailand emerges as the only Asia Pacific destination in the top 10, with the United States, Spain, United Kingdom and Italy among them. Tunisia and Egypt (pictured) have suffered the ill effects of a recent terror attack and the announcement of tighter visa rules respectively. Interest in Cuba from around the world has also seen an increase after the easing of US embargo.

SINGAPORE More than 60 industry influencers from a variety of travel management companies and corporate end users – including American Express, CWT, Merck, Barclays, Bank Sarasin, and Shell – got a chance to hear from Accor corporate hotel representatives as they shared the latest on the group’s 3,700 properties worldwide. The event was held in a relaxing but sophisticated setting atop Sofitel So Singapore’s rooftop bar. Lisa Meehan, director – travel, card & meeting, Asia Pacific & Japan of MSD International GmbH (Singapore Branch), found the event a great opportunity to network and meet with the relevant hotel representatives in the group to learn of the latest happenings at Accor.

THAILAND Amara Hotels & Resorts ventures into Thailand with the soft opening of Amara Bangkok in the neighbourhood of Surawong. The hotel features 250 guest rooms, a rooftop infinity pool and bar on the 26th floor, a pillar-free ballroom with a 4.6 metre-high ceiling and two function rooms built with glass walls that allow natural light to fill the events space.

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GLOBAL Four Seasons has unveiled the hotel industry’s first fullybranded private jet, upping the ante for a fully immersive luxury experience in the air and on the ground. From hand-crafted leather flatbed seats by specialised aerospace Italian designer lacobucci and hand-woven woollen carpeting to fine tableware, cosy Mongolian cashmere blankets and cabin crew uniforms, no detail has been overlooked in meeting the core objectives of comfort and functionality. Personalised service experience comes in the form of 10 Four Seasons trained in-flight crew, including an executive chef, a sous chef, a Four Seasons Concierge and a global guest services manager. Each Four Seasons journey includes air travel and ground transportation, planned excursions, all meals and beverages provided throughout the trip, and luxurious accommodation at Four Seasons hotels and resorts around the world.

JAPAN Hilton Tokyo Bay has appointed Neil McInnes as general manager.

McInnes has over 20 years of experience with Hilton Worldwide. He was most recently regional director of revenue management for Japan, Korea and Micronesia. McInnes has also served as cluster director of business development for Hilton Tokyo and Conrad Tokyo, while fulfilling the role of executive assistant manager at Conrad Tokyo. As general manager of Hilton Tokyo Bay, McInnes will oversee refurbishment to the guest rooms on the sixth and seventh floors of the hotel, which are slated to be completed in early June 2016.

NUMBERS:

VIETNAM Starwood’s powerhouse brand, Sheraton, debuts in Danang as a beachfront property. Scheduled to open early in 2018, Sheraton Danang Resort will feature 250 guest rooms and boast 1,066 sq m of meeting and event spaces, including two ballrooms and five meeting rooms. The signed agreement with Oriental Sea Villas and Hotel Company Ltd follows closely behind the signing of Four Points by Sheraton Danang late last year.

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+64% The average rate of increase in room rates in Macau for Q1 2015 as compared to the same period last year. Macau has been actively developing its business events facilities in order to diversify and avoid over-reliance on gaming revenues. Hong Kong and Singapore fall closely behind during the same period, with an increase of 20 percent and 18 percent respectively.

Source: HRS Hotel Price Radar

3,582

The number of events staged in Vienna, Austria in year 2014, which created more than 17,000 year-round jobs. Of those events staged, 1,458 were congresses, while 2,124 were conferences and incentives.

Source: Vienna Convention Bureau

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# AMITE RETURNS FOR THE SECOND YEAR Singapore MICE Forum (SMF) 2015 is bringing back the Asia Meeting & Incentive Travel Exchange (AMITE) this year, a hosted buyer programme that connects Asia-based suppliers with thoroughly vetted buyers from Europe, North America and for the first time, Asia Pacific. The inaugural AMITE last year delivered 21 buyers representing USD23.6 million in business event contracts from European and North American countries and 18 suppliers from eight Asian countries. Held from June 29 to July 3, 2015 at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre, SMF 2015 is expected to welcome 750 business event professionals, suppliers, and 550 students to address skills and knowledge gaps in the industry through networking and training workshops.

AUSTRALIA The Victorian State Government has announced an investment of up to AUD210 million (USD168 million) for the expansion of Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) in the 2015 – 2016 State Budget. MCEC’s activities contribute AUD580 million to the economy annually, and has exceeded expectations following the Victorian State Government’s previous investment to build the new convention centre in 2009. The completion of MCEC’s expansion is expected to result in an additional 74,000 international visitors annually, creating hundreds of jobs and providing an estimated AUD167 million boost to the economy.

The Victorian State Government will work with Plenary and their partners to negotiate and finalise the proposed expansion master plan and reveal its details in the coming months.

FROM THE BUREAUX

JAPAN The Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau (TCVB) has won the bid for the 12th Asia Pacific Symposium on Cochlear Implant and Related Sciences (APSCI 2019). The win marks the first time this symposium will be held in Tokyo and the third time in Japan, following the one held in Osaka in 2001 and Kyoto in 1996. Over 800 doctors and scientists, including 600 overseas delegates, will converge in Tokyo to attend the symposium on November 5 – 8, 2019 at Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo. Prof. T. Yamasoba from

the University of Tokyo highlights that the bid owes its win to the continuing scientific contribution of Japanese specialists to the Cochlear Implant (CI) field, and from lessons learnt after their last bid loss in 2013. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government and TCVB lent a hand by providing support letters from the Governor of Tokyo and TCVB Chairman, and assisting with bid papers.

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#

Marriott launches events-specific website www.meetingsimagined.com is an innovative, Pinterestlike site that is also available as an app, providing ideas and inspiration for all types of events.

The National Geographic has chosen 24 unique boutique hotels across six continents to be in its new luxury hotel collection, one of which is the Kasbah Du Toubkal located in the snow-capped High Atlas Mountains in Morocco.

Are messaging apps the future of social media?

Social mobile messaging apps such as WeChat, Line, Kakao Talk, Viber, and Whatsapp are fast becoming popular in offering services such as news and information, gaming and payment.

Source: The World Bank Group News

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What you missed online on WWW.BIZEVENTSASIA.COM

Singapore extends visa for Chinese nationals The validity of these Multiple Journey Visas (MJVs) extends to a maximum of 10 years.

Alison Taylor fulfils her dreams Starwood’s senior vice-president of sales heads to the US.

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#CoverStory

SHANGHAI SURGES ON THE CHINESE CITY NAMED “PARIS OF THE EAST” CONTINUES TO ATTRACT BUSINESS EVENTS AS IT GROWS IN ECONOMIC STATURE AND PROMINENCE WHILE REMAINING TRUE TO CULTURE AND INNOVATION.

WORDS: KRISTIE THONG

One cannot deny the prowess of Shanghai as a global city. As a clear representation of China’s booming economy, its impressive cityscape of skyscrapers and modern infrastructure presents a platform of boundless economic and business opportunities.

From the bustling Pudong district and the sleepless Xintiandi entertainment district to the renowned waterfront promenade Bund, Shanghai is one of the most dynamic cities with no end to experiences.

Shanghai continues to perform exceptionally in business events, in huge part due to frequent and direct air accessibility from other major cities in the world. According to Patrick Chen, deputy director of Shanghai Municipal Tourism Administration, this convenience makes it effortless for Shanghai to attract prominent events that see visitors pouring in from different parts of the world. These include sporting events such as the Formula 1 UBS Chinese Grand Prix and Longines Global Champion Tour, as well as the revered Shanghai Fashion Week and the Shanghai International Film Festival.

Max Jantasuwan, global managing director of destination management company and event company Events Travel Asia, was recently in Shanghai earlier this year as a hosted buyer of IT&CM China, a business events trade show that takes place each year as part of Shanghai Business Events Week’s strong line-up of programmes.

Commenting on his experience, he shared with Biz Events Asia that Shanghai has changed a lot in the past five years in a good way.

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“Shanghai continues to offer a lot to event planners. It is very accessible, has opportunities for off-site events, and has many local attractions,” Jantasuwan said.

ALL THE SPACE IN THE WORLD From the steadfast Shanghai New International Expo Center that has hosted the Motor Show for years to the Shanghai World EXPO Exhibition & Convention Center situated in the city centre, large-scale exhibition and convention venues are aplenty in Shanghai. The Shanghai International

Convention Center is a venue that has attracted large-scale international conferences and business forums due to its integrated hospitality offering.

Situated in the heart of Shanghai’s financial and trade zone Lujiazui and adjacent to the ironic Oriental Pearl TV Tower, it offers a five-star hotel with 273 river-view rooms and suites on top of extensive event facilities. With a total capacity of 3,000 guests through a 4,400 sq m pillar-less grand ballroom and 30 multi-functional conference halls, it is no surprise the venue has attracted noteworthy events such as the Fortune Global Forum, APEC Leaders’ Summit, the 35th Asian Development

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“Shanghai continues to offer a lot to event planners. It is very accessible, has opportunities for off-site events, and has many local attractions.”

MAX JANTASUWAN Managing Director Events Travel Asia

Yuyuan Gardens

Bank Council Annual Meeting and the welcome dinner of EXPO 2010.

One of its newest venue additions may soon overshadow several competitors in the Asia Pacific market. The National Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC) has already attracted much hype within both the domestic and international marketplace calling itself the world’s largest exhibition venue. Co-built by the Ministry of Commerce of China and the Shanghai Municipal Government, NECC offers 500,000 sq m of exhibition space, with 400,000 sq m indoors and 100,000 sq m of outdoor display areas.

The indoor exhibition space includes 13 large exhibition halls each spanning 28,800 sq m, as well as three smaller 10,000-sq m halls – all of which are directly accessible by freight carriers.

It also has over 60 meeting rooms of different sizes, with seating capacities ranging from less than a hundred people to three thousand attendees each. NECC is a multi-purpose facility offering more than exhibition and meeting facilities; it is supported by a commercial centre, three office buildings, a five-star hotel, conference services, as well as international cuisine options and entertainment.

OUT OF THE BOX Shanghai has a healthy number of exhibition and convention venues and also a plethora of luxury and business hotels that offer impressive and wellutilised event facilities. However, event planners looking for the unconventional will not have their ideas stifled in Shanghai.

Zhujiajiao ancient water town

Event planners can consider a space like M1NT, which is a modern-day members club for classy clientele. With a combined offering of a destination restaurant, cocktail lounge bar, roof terrace and night club, it can host cocktail parties of up to 600 guests, or

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WHAT MAKES THE CITY OF SHANGHAI UNIQUE Oscar Cerezales, chief operating officer of Asia Pacific for MCI, weighs in.

Shanghai has a combination of three pillars: 1. It enhances relevant business exchange opportunities.

2. It has a consolidated industry community.

3. It has a leading positioning in market segments such as finance, real estate, healthcare, logistics, and innovation.

On the Bund

sit-down dinners of 160 guests. Event organisers can opt for food prepared by in-house M1NT chef Grant Brunseden. M1NT has hosted and catered for a wide variety of events, offering a chic touch to product launches, fashion shows, training and seminars, and after-parties.

Some brands that have used M1NT for events include Ferrari, Hermes, Jimmy Choo, Chopard, UBS, and Bvlgari.

Situated east of Shanghai’s old town is The Waterhouse at South Bund, which consists of a 19-room boutique hotel and an event warehouse.

Located in the vicinity of the 2010 World Expo site and next to The Cool Docks cultural hotspot, the venue has a disorienting yet refreshing design that charms planners in search of something out of the ordinary.

The event venue is a pillar-less, multi-purpose space converted from a former warehouse. Evoking the building’s industrial roots, the 743-sq m warehouse has a double-storey

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Shanghai Maglev Train; Waterhouse; Nanjing Road

ceiling and can be easily reconfigured to cater for all kinds of events and formats. It can take up to 800 guests for cocktail parties or 500 guests for banquets.

Anyone looking for an exclusive but sophisticated space in the heart of old Shanghai can consider Yong Fu Seventeen. A members-only club housed in a private whiskey and cigars bar complete with parquet wooden flooring and comfortable green leather armchairs, Yong Fu Seventeen can be hired for events of up to 100 guests with the choice of in-house or external caterers. On other days, it hosts regular whiskey and cigar tastings, vertical wine tastings, or oysters and champagne evenings.

THE SHOW GOES ON While the merits are endless as a global city, a metropolis that stays true to its roots is one that visitors return to time and again. Shanghai retains its history and culture in landmarks such as the 400-year-old Yuyuan Garden, the French Concession Region featuring old European buildings in Luwan and Xuhui, and the renowned taoist Chenghuang Temple (also called Yi temple). This culture works as a hook for pre- or post-conference tours or incentive travel programmes.

Groups can visit medieval water towns such as Zhujiajiao, located just 50 minutes away from the city centre by bus, or take the maglev high-speed magnetic levitation train to Hangzhou or Suzhou.

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MAKE TIME COUNT IN SHANGHAI DO YOU HAVE SOME TIME TO SPARE, OR A CHANCE TO MAKE USE OF CHINA’S 72HOUR VISA FREE TRANSIT POLICY? WE POINT OUT SOME INTERESTING FINDS IN THE GLOBAL CITY THAT MIGHT BE WORTH YOUR TIME.

Mercato; Starling

STARLING

MERCATO Mercato is an Italian restaurant from three Michelin-starred Chef JeanGeorges Vongerichten. Located on the sixth floor of Three on the Bund, it boasts stylish rustic surrounds with reclaimed wood and warm leather tones, exuding familiarity and a sensual feeling of comfort.

Looking out of the tall glass windows one will immediately feel directly in the heart of a vibrant city but away from the bustling crowds. Famous for its seafood, house-made pastas and wood-fired pizzas, dishes are presented family style allowing for sharing and sampling a bit of everything. Our personal favourite is the spicy salami, ricotta cheese and broccolini pizza. Mercato can also be booked for intimate dinner events, with a separate function menu available.

Stepping into Starling can feel like you are being teleported to Southeast Asia. Just down the street from Four Seasons Hotel on Taixing Lu, the pub evokes a colonial era through huge retro fans, soft lighting, and quaint birdcages. If you are living in Southeast Asia and need some convincing to check out this joint, let the cocktail menu wow you with its rum or gin-based concoctions that consist of spices and tropical flavours found in Southeast Asia. One of the must-try cocktails is the spicy Tom Yum Colada, made with coconut milk, pineapple and lime juice. The Pandan Collins and Roasted Pineapple OldFashioned are also some interesting options. These drinks can be accompanied by familiar tastes such as laksa, mango sticky rice, or beef rendang – courtesy of Malaysian chef Brian Tan.

Tian Zi Fang

TIAN ZI FANG (

)

This artistic district is a labyrinth of alleys filled with cafes, art galleries, art décor apartment blocks, and craft stores within the area known as the French Concession. Spend some time in some of the art galleries, or take a stroll in the elegant French Concession itself – a 10 squarekilometre district with old residential buildings and heritage hotels and edifices.

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#TheLuxuryIssue

THE LUXURY ISSUE WE LOOK AT WHAT LUXURY MEANS WHEN GIVEN OUR OWN INTERPRETATIONS. WORDS: EL KWANG KRISTIE THONG GINA SIN

It’s common knowledge that the demand for upmarket or exclusive experiences increases as Asia becomes more affluent. The growth of economies see many corporate companies rewarding high-achieving employees in the form of top-notch, luxurious experiences. And as a larger and younger demographic worldwide becomes richer, products and services work harder to find ways to attract the elite in an increasingly saturated market.

Proving luxury incentive travel continues to be in demand, Luxperience, a three-day event that aims to be the platform for luxury and experiential travel in the Australasia and Pacific region, has seen continued growth. The success of the show has prompted organisers to include a new program within Luxperience tailored for business events this year. Event buyers will be able to identify new opportunities within the luxury travel industry for incentives or exclusive events, while exhibitors will have a bigger platform to provide innovative solutions for meetings and events.

Event planners specialising in luxury experiences are now looking beyond luxury products. Clients are asking for unique, money-cannot-buy experiences.

Many of us consider luxury to be in the form of expensive items and exclusive retreats, while others believe it can be the simpler, intrinsic things in life that are often overlooked. However we choose to define it, one quote by Karoline Huber of IWC Schaffhausen (published by Boyden Global Executive Search) sums it up well: “Luxury is based on emotion and it is people who create emotional differences.”

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#TheLuxuryIssue

THE LUXURY OF CULTURE BRINGING THE BEST OF TWO JAPANESE LUXURY INCENTIVE CITIES THROUGH THE CONDUIT OF CULTURAL EXPERIENCES. WORDS: EL KWANG

OSAKA – JAPAN’S SECOND LARGEST CITY

Curate a stellar city adventure in Osaka and check the next residential conference or incentive into the 160room St. Regis Osaka. Located on Midosuji Avenue, the Ginza of Osaka where luxury international fashion labels reside, the purpose-built five-year-old hotel is the epitome of luxury. Ease delegates into the hotel with its signature afternoon tea or a rejuvenating treatment in the Iridium Spa featuring Sothys Paris.

Witness the daily champagne ritual held in the outdoor Zen garden adjacent to the lobby on the 12th floor, before heading to The St. Regis bar for a glass of Shogun Mary, the hotel’s concoction of the Bloody Mary cocktail.The

The Astor Ballroom of The St. Regis Osaka

welcome reception can either be held in the 210 sq m Astor Ballroom or in Italian restaurant La Veduta or French bistro Rue d’Or. Start the next day with an official meeting agenda in the Astor Ballroom, which also has optional breakout spaces in the four meeting suites on the dedicated events floor.

“At both The St. Regis Osaka and Suiran, The Luxury Collection, Kyoto, we believe in assisting our clients in curating memorable and experiences that are unique to our brands. The Luxury Collection is about travellers collecting local and authentic experiences. Let our hotels be your guide.”

FAY-LINN YEOH Brand Director The St. Regis and The Luxury Collection, Food & Beverage Marketing Asia Pacific Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.

The Library Suite Meeting Room

With its easy access, team-building activities are in abundance. Visit the 190-year-old Kuromon Ichiba Market for arguably one of the best Japanese food and seafood in Osaka. Another fun activity for all ages is a visit to the Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum, where delegates get to understand the history behind this post-WWII invention, try their hands at making it, and design their own “cup noodle”. Those keen to learn more about the Japanese culture can take a private behind-the-scenes tour of the Yamamoto Noh Theater built in 1921.

Planners can have the option of having performers hold coaching sessions for delegates on the actual performing stage. The art form has been recognised as a Japanese intangible heritage in 2006.

End the program in Kyoto with some of the city’s best retail shopping, before bringing delegates to Kyoto for more cultural elements.

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Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Kyoto

HISTORIC KYOTO

There are many forms of relaxation and recovery in the world of luxurious experiences. Some prefer retail therapy, while others opt for a digital detox by staying in a luxury hotel or resort. Embracing and experiencing the traditional Japanese culture and historic sites may reap benefits beyond soul searching. Its cultural myths and spiritual integrity continue to distract global visitors from their day-to-day worries; a true time out in Kyoto whilst stepping back in time.

A 13-minute bullet train ride takes you from the buzzing city centre of Osaka to historic Kyoto, the former capital of Japan for 1,200 years.

According to the Kyoto Convention Bureau, the ancient city is the cultural heart of Japan. It has 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites on a cityscape dominated by 2,000 temples and shrines.

A dish from Kyo-Suiran Restaurant

SUIRAN, A BRAND NEW BREATHING SPACE On the vibrant side of the Hozu River resides the brand new Suiran, a Luxury Hotel Collection, Kyoto. As the first luxury collection hotel in Japan, this hotel is perfect for exclusive management retreats or complete hotel book-outs. Upon entering the main gates of the 39-room hotel, a purposefully-laid footpath leads you on a tranquil trek through a Saryo Hassui café overlooking the river and misty Arashiyama hills and the hotel’s enchanting garden before bringing you to the hotel reception.

Off the main reception desk is a 100sq m Akane function room perfect for intimate welcome dinners of up to 48 guests. Enjoy an authentic Geisha performance, one of Japan’s indigenous wonders. Unfulfilled meeting agendas or higher-level business planning can be carried out

Authentic Geisha performance in Akane function room

Sight-seeing on Jinrikisha

in the unobtrusive meeting room or in the smaller 18-sq m Shogetsu room, a less formal, traditional Japanese setting that comes with its own bathroom and outdoor garden.

The luxurious and spacious guest rooms were designed with traditional motifs such as the culturally significant cherry blossom hues in spring and the lush verdure in summer. The carpet is a reflection of moonlight ripples on the Hozu River.

The superior rooms on the upper levels offer views overlooking the hotel’s foregrounds and its peaceful mountain and river surrounds, whilst the ground floor Yuzunoha deluxe terraces consist of outdoor air baths (onsen) complete with retractable private screen doors for a soak under the healing sun.

RECOVERY THROUGH THE ARASHIYAMA CULTURAL HUB The hotel’s concierge can assist in designing a customised menu in the hotel’s Kyo-Suiran restaurant (a restored building from its 1899 version) or an indigenous exploration of the Arashiyama village located near the hotel. Engage the strength of the young and energetic team of “Jinrikisha”, which are beautifully-

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RAMEN BONDING

Superior King Room at Suiran

Team bonding is a crucial component of incentive trips.

Asians culturally bond over meals. Consider organising nightly supper sessions of Japanese Ramen where delegates get to try and compare ramen from different ramen shops. Or drive a “best ramen eating” photo competition through social media channels.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Traditional tea ceremony

Kyo-Gashi making

Sake tasting

designed small two-wheeled rickshaws, and embark on a tour of famous Kyoto landmarks surrounding the hotel. Cross the Togetsu (crossing moon) Bridge and visit the Tenryu-ji Zen Temple established in 1339 by shogun Ashikaga Takauji in memory of Emperor GoDaigo. Existing buildings were restored to their closest originals after having gone through eight fires, centred by a Zen garden displaying the balance of Yin (rocks) and Yang (water).

The hotel can work with the temple to organise activities such as meditation and hand-copying of sutras. This is certainly a place to recharge and restore inner harmony after a productive conference in Osaka. Equally wondrous is a Jinrikisha ride around the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, which is a popular site for photography. The fresh air along with the staggering height and intense green hues of the bamboo makes one feel that all troubles will eventually come to an end.

EXPLORING FURTHER Venture further into other parts of Kyoto. Check out the must-see Fushimi Inari Taisha, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the gods of rice and sake, famous for its two-hour hiking path through the Senbon Torii shrine gates outlined by red overarching frames and fox

sculptures holding a key in the mouths for the rice granary.

Head over to Gion district and let your imagination go back in time as your stroll through the alleys of old tea houses, some of which are now converted into stylish restaurants and retail shops like Leica. As Gion is known as the geisha district, it is not uncommon to see Geiko (professional geisha) and Maiko (apprentice) throughout the day. There is a large variety of retail shops selling Japanese incense, tea, and arts and crafts such as “kanzashi”, an ornamental hairpin. Rest your feet while indulging in an epicurean experience at the Shimogamo Saryo restaurant, set in a

traditional Japanese house since 1856.

Post-dinner, head for some Japanese sake tasting at Machiya in Gion.

BEFORE FAREWELL Bid farewell to Kyoto on a high note by planning a series of cultural teambuilding activities with the Suiran hotel’s concierge. Team members can embark on a traditional Kyoto sweet-making (Kyo-Gashi) activity conducted by 260-year-old family business Tawaraya Yoshitomi, or try Ikebana, the age-old Japanese art of flower arrangements. End the teambuilding activities with a traditional tea ceremony, and learn how to receive and appreciate a cup of tea in the hotel garden.

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#TheLuxuryIssue

THE LUXURY OF TIME RETRIEVE LOST TIME AND ALLOW FOR TRUE INCENTIVE CONNECTIONS THROUGH THE HISTORICAL BEAUTY OF SIEM REAP. WORDS: KRISTIE THONG

Ta Prohm

Do you believe there are moments when we can feel the physical halt of time? Moments where the rush of everyday life and work commitments take a backseat, giving in entirely to a view or feeling so mesmerising it overwhelms you? Moments where personal problems cease to matter, albeit for a brief moment, for the magnitude of your problems feels insignificant in comparison.

For me it took standing at the West end of Angkor in Siem Reap, and taking in the view of Angkor Wat in its full glory. A sharp intake of breath as I marvelled at the workmanship of the intricate Khmer architectural carvings on the walls and pillars constructed in a century that did not have the tools and technology we have today. Like all tourists in Siem Reap, visiting Angkor Wat was one of the first things on the list. Leak, the helpful guide assigned by DMC Asia Expeditions, explained that Angkor Wat is only one of the many religious monuments in the Angkor area, a huge archaeological park that spans 400 square kilometres. It comprises a hefty number of remains of the different capitals of the Khmer Empire from the ninth to the 15th century. Once a Hindu and later a

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Buddhist temple, Angkor Wat was built in the 12th century and remains as the only religious centre in the area.

After emerging from an extensive brand transformation from micenet ASIA to Biz Events Asia that left us excited, satisfied but mentally drained, I jumped at the opportunity of visiting Siem Reap in Cambodia, a place I knew close to nothing about. Siem Reap may be an emerging destination, but it is already filled with tourists due to its rich line of historic and religious artefacts. The best jobs locals can have in Siem Reap are the ones directly fuelled by tourism – as tour guides and in hospitality. The high proficiency of the English language spoken everywhere is also a true sign of a thriving tourist destination in Southeast Asia.

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View of Angkor Thom Temple, Angkor Wat

Banquet dinner at Kravan Temple

ASIA EXPEDITIONS AN INCENTIVE OUT OF SIEM REAP The same feeling of time stopping was experienced through the hours spent exploring sites such as Bayon Temple and the ruins of Ta Prohm – a temple made famous by Angelina Jolie in Tomb Raider. We also headed up to the Kulen Mountain, which is not just a popular tourist site but where many locals visit during the weekends to relax or swim under the waterfall.

In a beautiful destination like Siem Reap, we are naturally inclined to switch off, making connecting with one’s self possible. It is where the 24 hours in a day pass seemingly slower, as though the seconds match the pace of a calmer beating heart. Without the usual modern worries, it also motivates incentive delegates to truly connect with each other, making incentive programs worth every penny spent.

LE MERIDIEN ANGKOR Despite the lack of existing MICE infrastructure, Siem Reap remains a viable option for meetings and incentive programs with its can-do attitude.

These are the sentiments of Dennis Kam, director of sales and marketing at Le Meridien Angkor. He shares that the hotel hosts up to four international corporate groups a month, of which most come from Singapore, China and Thailand. Besides the 200-guest Tara Ballroom, the hotel has an impressive and well-landscaped garden that works well for al fresco cocktail parties and gala dinners of over 1,000 guests. The lobby can also be easily taken over and transformed to the requirements of the event organiser. A popular choice is having a dinner hosted at a temple, where the hotel has hosted smaller groups of under 100 guests at the Kraven temple complete with stunning lights and warrior dancers.

In an exotic destination like Siem Reap, it takes a trustable destination management company to ensure everything goes according to plan. I had a guide who would go the extra mile to accommodate any last-minute changes, and knew exactly where to take me when I asked for something out of the norm or local. Apart from Cambodia, Asia Expeditions has a presence in Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam.

SHINTA MANI FOUNDATION Siem Reap is an ideal destination for corporate groups looking for a cultural incentive experience with a strong CSR element. Hiring the local Phare Circus troupe for an event allows groups to tick off their CSR KPIs. Many hotels also work with non-government organisations that help support the local community – be it through education, training or employment. The Shinta Mani Foundation is a registered local NGO that focuses on three core areas: education, small business start-ups and health care. On top of donations, USD 5 from a night’s room rate at the luxury boutique Shinta Mani Club or Resort is donated directly to the foundation.

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#TheLuxuryIssue

INTERPRETATIONS OF LUXURY TRAVEL NOT ALL THAT GLITTERS IS GOLD IN LUXURY TRAVEL. SOMETIMES IT’S JUST A BREAK FROM ALL THE DEADLINES YOU MAY OR MAY NOT HAVE MET, AND THE LUXURIES OF BEING ABLE TO ENRICH THE BODY, MIND, AND SOUL IN TRAVEL. WORDS: GINA SIN Depending on perspectives, luxury can mean catering to an upmarket audience, or simply having the luxury of space and time, and a chance to take a breather and relax. We learnt recently that Singapore-based Saakalya Travel is unique in the way that it provides these luxurious simplicities to busy professionals, away from the bustling and sometimes chaotic cities to some of the most beautiful and culturally-rich destinations in Southeast Asia.

The duration of the trips is kept short and hosted during the weekends so that they do not eat into the limited time of busy professionals, but yet sufficient in providing a deeply refreshing and rejuvenating experience. Luxury is what enriches us, be it physically, mentally or spiritually. Its value can be found in

something true and pure, whether that is attributing significance to the time and dedication spent on hand-crafting décor, as with the Saakalya Collection, or indulging in beautiful open spaces of scenery. The concept of luxury is a wholly personal perception.

Travel experiences at Saakalya are centred on somewhere new and something different. Bali is the current destination that Saakalya explores, with access to a richer variety of areas and opportunities built on the connections of Saakalya’s managing director Alexandra Schmutterer.

Locations are curated through the knowledge of locals working alongside Saakalya to embrace the concept of

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holistic travel. Each trip only allows for up to a maximum of 12 people in order to maintain an exclusive and personal experience. The variety of experiences, planned around tranquil surroundings, has been designed to encourage new passions, such as arts, cooking, wine tasting (you may be surprised Bali does have a winery) or yoga taught by world renowned instructors. Guests will also stay in personal villas in a luxurious resort, maintaining the feeling of exclusivity and privacy.

In pursuit of more exclusive and unconventional destinations, works are also currently underway to create such experiences in Thailand.

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#TheLuxuryIssue

LUXURY AT SEA THE GOLDEN AGE OF SAIL STEALS THE LIMELIGHT AT A RECENT OFFICIAL MEDIA LAUNCH OF ROYAL ALBATROSS IN SINGAPORE. WORDS: GINA SIN Some have always seen the appeal of having events held near water, whether it is an outdoor poolside cocktail event or a networking party on a dockside yacht against the sunset. Royal Albatross, originally built in 2001 and later acquired

by Tall Ship Adventures Pte Ltd, is the latest attention grabber for business events in Singapore.

Once a traditional sail training ship, Royal Albatross exudes sheer luxury with its hard-carved wooden interiors, sturdy aluminium masts, 22 majestic sails, and 60,000 LED lights customisable to 512 colours. It can accommodate just shy of 150 guests for day sailing or over 200 guests berthed.

The media launch perfectly encapsulated the experience of being on the ship. We went on a tour of its 185-square metre upper deck, Grand Salon and five ensuite cabins, and enjoyed cocktails and canapes specially prepared by Clubvivre. We watched its crew climb the ship’s masts in preparation for a ride out to Lazarus Island, where fire-eaters gave us a warm welcome and a delicious satay (barbequed meat on sticks) buffet awaited us. We headed back to reality eventually, but not before everyone was handed flutes of bubbly to end the beautiful night.

Royal Albatross

The Campus

LUXURY IN THE HEART OF BANGKOK EXPERIENCE THE LUXURIOUS FEELING OF SPIRITUALITY COMBINED WITH A HOTEL THAT KNOWS EXACTLY WHAT EVENT PLANNERS NEED. WORDS: EL KWANG Delve into Thailand’s spiritual culture at the Erawan Shrine, located in the heart of Bangkok’s Ratchaprasong precinct on Ratchadamri Road.

Proceed with a stop at Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok, a renowned luxury hotel located just next to the shrine.

Despite a lobby constantly abuzz with activity, it induces a calming effect on arrival as the fragrant air-conditioned setting cools you down. The newly-refurbished guest rooms showcase residential-styled amenities, making delegates feel right at home – perfect for residential conferences and events. The hotel offers event planners an incentive to a rejuvenating experience at the tranquil i.sawan Residential Spa & Club.

While “options” is a key component with creative event buyers, the hotel offers a high-end board room, a grand ballroom with an eight-

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metre-high ceiling, as well as The Campus event space, which continues to draw hot demand since its launch in 2009. A Singaporebased corporate event specialist feels The Campus “provides a fun environment that inspires creativity” where delegates can relax and be themselves, contributing to “better communications at an event”. Due to its unique setting, The Campus has also started to attract banquets and weddings.

With the rise of smaller-sized events and incentive groups, “the residence” offers a New Yorkerdesigned executive residential-styled setting. Whether it’s pre-event drinks in Apartment 305’S own Gallery or breakout creative sessions in any of the other four luxurious event rooms, “the residence” provides a unique environment for planners with the objective to strengthen team spirit and enhance relationships.

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#TheLuxuryIssue

THE LUXURY OF AUTONOMY INDEPENDENT HOTELS OFFER OFFBEAT OR EDGY LUXURY EXPERIENCES, BUT HAVE THEY GAINED THE TRUST OF EVENT PLANNERS? WORDS: KRISTIE THONG

Major hotel chains and their rapid growth in the Asia Pacific region have always gotten most of the attention in business events. The rise of independent hotels, however, has been evident in recent years as the category gains more prominence.

A Biz Events Asia survey conducted in May revealed that the majority of respondents (95 percent) are interested in independent hotels due to their unique product offering.

“Travellers today are looking for authentic and memorable experiences, where travel is aspirational and luxury is defined by personal life and style preference at any given time in your life,” says Josephine Lim, managing director of South East Asia for Preferred Hotels & Resorts.

“Independent hotels are often borne from entrepreneurial hotel owners with a passion for the art of hospitality. They deliver the authenticity of a destination – featuring the unique characteristics of specific cultures within their own brand of hospitality that allows discerning travellers to ‘live like the locals’,” she adds.

Also playing a significant role in the rising trend is a growing demographic of high-earning millennials with sizeable disposable incomes looking for exclusivity in cooler, trendier and off-beat experiences.

“Independent hotels pay a lot of attention to detail and design aesthetics. Though some of them may be smaller, the experience is often different and more magical. I tend to stay in such hotels if I want a different experience; they tend to feel more luxurious,” says Jeanne Hong, a 35-yearold finance professional who is also the

The Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai

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co-owner of The Snack Guru, an online store selling healthy, gluten-free snacks.

Royal Palm South Beach Miami, Starwood’s first Tribute Portfolio feature hotel

Putting independent hotels within a single alliance has long been industry practice, and there are many benefits to doing so. An independent hotel under a company like Small Luxury Hotels of the World or Preferred Hotels & Resorts can save costs by easily tapping into the hotel company’s global distribution channels, gain awareness through joint marketing efforts, or build continued satisfaction with the company’s loyalty program.

While individual properties may be overlooked when pitching for corporate business, joining a hotel company offers them tender opportunities with multi-national corporations.

These independent hotel companies have been gaining traction.

Worldhotels welcomed seven new members in the first quarter of 2015, adding to its portfolio of nearly 500 properties worldwide. Small Luxury Hotels of the World has announced at least eight member hotels and resorts, of which several will be opening throughout the year.

Meanwhile, Preferred Hotels & Resorts introduced six new properties ideal for the business events market that will be scheduled to launch by the end of 2015.

A CHAIN GOES FREE In early 2015, Starwood Hotels & Resorts announced the launch of its 10th brand that now falls within its extensive portfolio. Tribute Portfolio promises owners, Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) members and guests

the ability to “stay independent” with a selection of independent, upscale hotels in high-demand destinations.

While falling under the new brand name, the independent hotels within the portfolio will maintain their own unique identities and continue to promise boutique service.

Adam Aron, chief executive officer of Starwood, adds that the mission of the new brand is to “bring great hotels in great destinations to loyal SPG members, who make up more than half of all Starwood stays”. As with Starwood’s other nine brands, SPG members will be able to earn and redeem Starpoints at Tribute Portfolio hotels and enjoy in-hotel elite tier benefits, such as upgrades, welcome amenities, late check-out and more.

IT’S ABOUT THE SERVICE This recent development from Starwood may put independent hotel companies on alert, in particular due to Starwood’s strong and global branding as well as its loyalty program. While many independent hotel companies offer some form of loyalty program, most are only beginning to find a footing with loyalty programs specifically for event planners. Elaine Macy, senior vice president, group sales for Preferred Hotels & Resorts, revealed that a meeting planner loyalty program is currently undergoing a Beta testing in North America under iPrefer, the company’s point-based guest loyalty program. It was introduced in early 2015 to offer planners points for actualised revenue from rooms booked

NUMBERS FROM THE SURVEY:

95% LEADING HOTELS OF THE WORLD SMALL LUXURY HOTELS OF THE WORLD Event planners have stayed with a member hotel in these hotel companies at least once

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list something new and unique product offering as reasons why they will go for an independent hotel

35%

will take into consideration loyalty programs when considering the use of an independent hotel

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at member hotels, and already has more than 550 planners enrolled.

Perceptions of service standards and event delivery also differ. According to survey findings, perceptions are pretty much split down the middle when it comes to concerns over an independent hotel’s brand standards in event delivery.

“Travellers today are looking for authentic and memorable experiences, where travel is aspirational and luxury is defined by personal life and style preference at any given time in your life.”

JOSEPHINE LIM Managing Director of South East Asia Preferred Hotels & Resorts

While some believe the use of an independent hotel for an event may “not be able to benefit from the established international image of hotels”, others feel they offer a less mainstream and more intimate touch while not compromising on service standards. Many will take to leisurefocused research through sources like TripAdvisor or rely on word-of-mouth to gauge standards of an independent hotel’s ability to host events. Some however feel that the overall experience is dependent on the staff and service standards and do not take into account the hotel status.

Meet i ng f aci lit ie s , recognised by the wo r l d .

At the 5-star One World Hotel, you can expect ample space, luxuriously appointed with spectacular chandeliers and state-of-the-art facilities including simultaneous interpretation system, live feed facility and mood lighting with variable colour setting and free Wi-Fi. However, what makes corporate functions here extra special is the opportunity to put fun back into functions.

Anything’s possible in One World. To add some excitement to your next event, speak to our Conventions and Events team today at 03-7712 2289 or email cne@oneworldhotel.com.my

2015 Meeting Packages Half Day Meeting Package from RM218 per person per day

Full Day Meeting Package from RM228 per person per day

*Prices are in Ringgit Malaysia and inclusive of 10% service charge and 6% goods and services tax.

Find us on

Certificate of Excellence 2014 WINNER

International Star for Leadership in Quality Award 2013 Gold Category

One World Hotel

first avenue, bandar utama city centre, 47800 petaling jaya, selangor, malaysia. toll free domestic: 1300 88 7888 toll free international: 1800 88 7888 tel: 603 7681 1111 fax: 603 7681 1188 email: enquiry@oneworldhotel.com.my website: www.oneworldhotel.com.my

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#TalentAndMentor

THE LUXURY OF TALENT SCRAP THE IDEA OF A TALENT CRUNCH: WE HAVE THE TALENT IN ASIA. BUT DO WE KNOW HOW TO GET THE RIGHT HIRE? WORDS: KRISTIE THONG There is no argument – talent is one of the most common and hottest buzz words in business events and hospitality. While many companies experience what appears to be a talent crunch in Asia, one professional who has spent years in talent assessment and human capital strategies suggests the “right fit” might be the bigger issue.

Thomas Wai, director for Asia Pacific at Talent Plus, Inc., says the challenge of identifying, engaging and retaining talent differs for a region as large and diverse as Asia Pacific. With his work bringing him to over 30 cities in China, including the third and fourth tier cities, Wai has met “great people who are driven, honest and hardworking” and seen career fairs in Shanghai filled with tens of thousands of candidates expressing genuine interest. Identifying talent is likely to be an issue here, according to Wai, and the question companies should be asking is if there is a structured and effective interview system in place to identify the right talent.

For mature cities such as Singapore and Hong Kong, talent retention is at play.

“Unfortunately, many organisations do not pay sufficient attention in re-hiring their people. They pay little focus in developing their potential. They focus on people’s weaknesses rather than setting them up for success. As a result, talented people leave the organisation, and recruiters assume that they cannot find people to join them,” Wai says.

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IT’S NOT ABOUT THE MONEY There is a misconception that salary, compensation and benefits are the most crucial investments in employment or talent retention. While they used to be the key elements to attracting and retaining talent, evolving socio-economic factors along with a thirst for information and constant change brought on by the Internet age have shifted mindsets of working professionals. Wai calls monetary benefits “satisfiers” but not motivators.

“The key motivators to truly engage and help us to getting and retaining our performers are recognition, oneon-one time, mentoring, setting them up for success, paying attention to them, listening to their physical and emotional needs, helping them to become significant, and allowing them the freedom to be the very best,” he says.

We are well aware that a sustainable work force, be it in the West or Asia Pacific, starts from the top. And it may be the hardest but most rewarding step. Top leadership will first need to show commitment in building a talentbased culture, and demonstrate that they care about their people.

“Then you need to understand the DNA of your top performers, decode and understand what makes your successful people successful. Use these DNA/characteristics/traits to create an interview as part of your selection consideration when you are considering new candidates or promoting from within,” Wai says.

It is useful to evaluate his potential, so as to help him with his blind spots while putting focus on his strengths.

On top of constant and open communication, Wai recommends “stay interviews”. These interviews recognise the achievements of employees and identify subsequent steps for growth.

“This way, you would have a better chance of creating a sustainable work force for the future state of your organisation,” Wai adds.

SUCCESS SHOWS A sustainable workforce translates to a successful business. Wai cites the example of the Capella Hotel Group, where its property in Singapore continues to enjoy one of the highest occupancy rates since its opening six years ago.

When the group took over the Ritz-Carlton property in Bali, it enjoyed the “best year ever after 17 years in business”. Founder Horst Schulze was quoted in an interview saying it’s all about the right hire.

“What a customer wants is no defects, timeliness, and caring service. How do I know my front office manager is taking great care of my guests? I can ensure this by selecting the right talent. Somebody that has it in them.”

The effect flows through every aspect of the business.

“You could see the positive results from their high level of guest satisfaction, guest retention, employee satisfaction, and ultimately, financial rewards for the owner and investors as well,” Wai says.

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“

The key motivators to truly engage and help us to getting and retaining our performers are recognition, one-on-one time, mentoring, setting them up for success, paying attention to them, listening to their physical and emotional needs, helping them to become significant, and allowing them the freedom to be the very best.

THOMAS WAI Director, Asia Pacific Talent Plus, Inc.

“

KEEP THE MOTIVATION

talents and desires and their weaknesses and blind spots. create platforms for them to exercise their strengths. your teams to approach you with concerns, suggestions and innovative ideas for growth. their hard work and achievements, do it timely and sincerely. to understand why a team member would make the decision they made and why instead of rushing to judgement about a decision.

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#Knowledge

THE LUXURY OF KNOWLEDGE WE OFFER INSIGHTS FROM TOP INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS IN A SPECIAL KNOWLEDGE SECTION. GO DIGITAL WITH US BY ACCESSING FULL VERSIONS OF THESE ARTICLES ONLINE.

CHRISTINE GAMARRA Director of Operations, Asia Pacific LRA Worldwide christine.gamarra@lraworldwide.com

sales teams must be in the business of building relationships instead of taking orders.

THE ART OF FOLLOWING UP IT MAY SEEM OBVIOUS, BUT THE STARTLING TRUTH REVEALS A GAP IN HOSPITALITY SALES TEAMS AND THEIR ABILITY TO FOLLOW UP. In this day and age of email, SMS, Twitter and Gchat, personal contact is still the most important way to build relationships. In a world of everincreasing automation and impersonal service, a hotel must distinguish itself from its competition. Hospitality sales teams need to realise that product and price are very similar in today’s market. What will be the client’s reason for awarding a piece of business? The relationship with the customer and the loyalty built up over time. Hospitality

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A prompt and personal follow-through with the client is the most effective technique to gain commitment.

Following up not only displays a sense of urgency for the business lead, it gives the opportunity to advance the sales process towards a decision. The timeliness of a follow-up is another factor that will communicate your reliability to the client. A follow-up should not be later than 48 hours after the last communication with the client.

An effective follow-up:

the client to elaborate

for nothing what the client is looking for Read the full article online at bizeventsasia.com/luxury-ofknowledge-follow-up

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“Duetto’s new strategies within their systems might allow hotels to regain pricing power. “ PATRICK ANDRES Executive Vice President, Asia Pacific Duetto

THE GAME CHANGER WORDS: EL KWANG Duetto, a technology and services company offering medium to large hotel groups and casinos a three-year old system that assists in implementing revenue strategy. In an exclusive interview with Biz Events Asia, Patrick Andres, executive vice president, Asia Pacific for Duetto, explained that the program uses sophisticated algorithm to gather information from web shopping patterns, competitor hotel pricing, airline traffic, special events, and social – all to understand market behaviour. The systems will ideally allow hotels to optimise price profitability by category. It also provides hotels with visible real-time information to make necessary business decisions, such as adjusting accommodation rates on their websites or in contract negotiations.

It ultimately provides the opportunity for hotels to implement an “open pricing” structure that will benefit the consumer in the name of rate parity, yet allows hotels to sell at a more profitable rate. Open pricing is an evolution from traditional revenue management.

Instead of closing out lower rate categories, it allow hotels to shrink or increase price differentiation between the room categories. This hopefully leads to more yieldable corporate rate tender agreements in Asia, much like what the American market is experiencing. Yielding corporate rate agreements allow hotels to market profitable rates during peak demand periods.

Read the full article online at bizeventsasia.com/luxury-ofknowledge-duetto

JOIN THE PARTY WHAT SHOULD YOU LOOK OUT FOR BEFORE PENNING AN EVENT SPONSORSHIP AGREEMENT? Exclusivity – Most sponsorship agreements would provide some form of exclusivity. This is to avoid competitors sponsoring the same event, or to avoid association with a conflicting category. Where category exclusivity is provided for, its scope must be clearly defined. Eg. A soft drinks sponsor may agree to exclusivity for non-alcoholic drinks, or insist on being the only beverage sponsor.

Trademarks – The agreement should state the manner and form (colours, font, size, proportion to surrounding text / graphics, etc.) in which the sponsor’s trademark may be used. Likewise, the sponsor may wish to conduct its own advertising and the event organiser should also have control over the manner and form in which its trademarks and logos are used.

Payment – Often involves a hybrid arrangement where a percentage of the fees is paid up front and the remaining being paid in accordance

VICKI HENG Director Vicki Heng Law Corporation vicki@vickiheng.com

with a performance-driven schedule.

Where products/services are provided in lieu of sponsorship fees, the manner of determining their value should be spelled out, along with warranties as to their quality, standard and merchantability also incorporated.

Exit – Long-term agreements should have a termination clause allowing parties the opportunity to call it quits with and without cause anytime during the subsistence of the agreement. Grounds for termination may include either party bringing the other into disrepute, late payment of sponsorship fees and cancellation of the event.

Read the full article online at bizeventsasia.com/luxury-ofknowledge-sponsorship-agreements

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m i c e MEETINGS

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INCENTIVES

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#miceaSia

10-11 September 2015 Suntec Singapore convention & exhibition centre www.miceasiaexhibition.com

+852 3975 5710

CONFERENCES EXHIBITIONS

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5

100+ Exhibition booths 5000+ Visitors 500+ ConfErEnCE DElEgatEs 8 aCCrEDitED Workshops 2 frEE ConfErEnCEs 30+ prEsEntations

This prestigious Awards Evening will be judged by a panel of leading event organisers from throughout the Asia evening awards party will be after the exhibition on day one of the event and it will be a fantastic way to honour the work of Asia’s Event Professionals and provide a great

This event brings together leading: Event organisers, Meeting Planners, Corporate Buyers, Venues, Hotels, Attractive, Suppliers, Event Technology Tourism Boards, For more information about MICE 2015 and Awards Ceremony, please email: mice@oliverkinross.co.uk For exhibition ticket registration, please visit: www.etouches.com/miceasia2015

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UP K C STA RABLE O T UES D MEMO N I T ON AN C S E S POR BUSINE A G SIN E FOR Y H W LAC S. P A SIN CE AS N GINA | E G I R THON EXPE KWANG | KRISTIE L

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THE LUXURY OF HEALTH HIGH-ACHIEVING QUALIFIERS OF US-BASED HEALTHCARE MARKETING CONGLOMERATE FOREVER LIVING PRODUCTS WERE TREATED TO A TIME OF THEIR LIVES IN SINGAPORE. WORDS: KRISTIE THONG Soundproofed walls of the Sands Ballroom of Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands in Singapore could barely contain the pulsating excitement of the crowd. Upbeat, triumphant contemporary music and exuberant cheers could be faintly heard from the floor right below it. Walking into the ballroom as an observer was an experience in itself: illuminating hues of pink, blue and purple danced along to the beat of the music in sync with cheers and dancing amid the crowd; the dazzling lights fell against the unique clusters of crystal-like structures high on the ceiling, resembling thousands of balloons just about to fall.

Products, a multi-level marketing company that sells aloe vera-based drinks and bee-derived cosmetics, nutritional supplements and personal care products, hosts an annual Global Rally to celebrate the success of its representatives, also known as Forever Business Owners (FBOs), and award them hard-earned Chairman’s Bonus cheques. It is a time where the company shares new directions, launch new products, and provide training and inspiration.

“Our business model works in such a way that in order for our FBOs to be successful, they must first help others reach their goals. This ensures an environment of passion and compassion, where people can aspire to be what they want to be and are given

W This amazing sight was Forever Living Products Global Rally held in Singapore on April 19-27, 2015. Forever Living

“

e worked really hard to ensure that our attendees feel like they are getting a luxury experience, where we’ve thought of and arranged everything.

You really have to think of everything.

“

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the tools to change their lives for the better,” says Ashley Hower, director of marketing at Forever Living Products.

“By having leaders and qualifiers hearing and sharing their stories and tips for success, they are inspired to set goals and reach for their dreams.

The entire event is very celebratory and empowering – it feels like a big family reunion,” she adds.

Each Global Rally sees over 7,000 FBOs coming from 106 countries, and runs on an extensive itinerary comprising training sessions, lots of entertainment and unique experiences. Having previously hosted the rally in Hawaii and London and heading to Johannesburg in 2016, 2015 was the year for Singapore and for Asia.

“We are always looking for new and exciting destinations to take our FBOs. We want to make our Global Rally ‘an experience like no other’ and know that it begins with the destination selection.”

While the country naturally holds up as an attractive tourist destination, Hower shares that Singapore was also chosen in part due to its history that parallels Forever Living’s brand values. Drawing similarities to Singapore’s founding father Lee Kuan Yew and his passion to create a safe and prosperous society for its citizens, Forever Living Products’ CEO Rex Maughan thrives on a similar belief of helping people from all over the world look better, feel better and achieve their dreams.

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Team Japan

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Endless entertainment

“

ingapore was a fantastic incentive travel destination. The melding of the cultural history with the modern Marina Bay Sands gave our Forever Business Owners a luxury destination and a cultural experience they couldn’t have found anywhere else. Singapore was clean, safe, and easy to get around. Our Forever Business Owners enjoyed visiting Sentosa, sampling local cuisine, and exploring everything Singapore had to offer.

“

ASHLEY HOWER Director of Marketing Forever Living Products

Putting an incentive program of such scale is no easy feat. Forever Living worked closely with Pacific World to ensure seamless logistics for travel, meal planning and activities.

“We worked really hard to ensure that our attendees feel like they are getting a luxury experience, where we’ve thought of and arranged everything. You really have to think of everything – how the attendees will feel when they arrive at the airport, what their first impression of the hotel is, the convenience of getting around, what activities they enjoy,” Hower says.

Some of Singapore’s local culture and experiences were brought into the program this year. Qualifiers were brought to Sentosa Island for a fun-filled day, culminating in a beach party feast and entertainment. Top

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qualifiers were treated to a special dinner at Gardens by the Bay, followed by drinks and desserts at Ku De Ta – arguably Singapore’s hottest night spot on top of Marina Bay Sands.

Throughout the program, there was cultural entertainment infusing Chinese and Indian influences, and many opportunities for FBOs to try the local cuisine.

“Singapore was a fantastic incentive travel destination. The melding of the cultural history with the modern Marina Bay Sands gave our Forever Business Owners a luxury destination and a cultural experience they couldn’t have found anywhere else. Singapore was clean, safe, and easy to get around.

Our Forever Business Owners enjoyed visiting Sentosa, sampling local cuisine, and exploring everything Singapore had to offer,“ Hower says.

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CREATIVITY TAKES BUSINESS CENTRE STAGE 30 MINUTES WITH ALOYSIUS ARLANDO, CEO OF SINGEX HOLDINGS PTE LTD, GAVE BIZ EVENTS ASIA A LOOK INTO HIS VISION OF A SUSTAINABLE CONFEX BUSINESS MODEL. WORDS: EL KWANG

With a vision to be the leader in the APAC business events industry, Aloysius Arlando has no intention to rest on his laurels. Since his appointment, SingEx has invested a few million dollars in doubling staff strength and conducting robust research in curating events like the Internet of Things Asia, which saw more than financial gains for the organisation and its customers. The motivation to establish a more sustainable business model and the appreciation of the event subject matter saw the implementation of a two-prong approach in venue management and creating new industry-relevant business events that do not conflict with existing ones.

“Whether it is the event’s return on investment or objective, companies are looking for good return and value derived from matching buyers and

THE GROWTH OF INTERNET OF THINGS (IOT) ASIA: NUMBERS FROM IOT ASIA’S INAUGURAL EDITION IN 2014:

IOT ASIA’S GROWTH IN 2015: 44 sponsors and exhibitors representing 13 countries 10% increase

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sponsors and exhibitors representing 11 countries

58 speakers representing 15 countries presented at the conference

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A total of

1,630

trade visitors and conference delegates

85 speakers from 16 countries presented at the conference (almost double the # of speakers)

2,100 trade visitors and conference delegates 28.8% growth

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THE CHOICE FOR MEETINGS When you choose the Fairmont Singapore and Swissôtel The Stamford, you gain access to more than 70,000 square feet of state-of-the-art and multi-functional conference and meeting space at the Raffles City Convention Centre.

Strategically located at the heart of Singapore’s business district, just 20 minutes away from the airport, enjoy unparalleled convenience and accessibility. Our team of outstanding conference concierges offers support every step of the way and helps ensure that your meeting or event is a rousing success each time.

For reservations, please call +65 6431 5534, email sales.singapore@fairmont.com, or visit www.fairmont.com/singapore.

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“

hether it is the event’s return on investment or objective, companies are looking for good return and value derived from matching buyers and sellers as a business solution.”

“

sellers as a business solution,” said Arlando.

The process of creating events – whether it is based on a national agenda like Singapore’s wish towards hosting more healthcare events or opportunities identified through research on key industries to drive tomorrow’s growth – could take six to nine months.

Arlando explained that each curated event should have a lifespan of five to 15 years. It must meet the evolving needs of the industry and marketplace, while flexible enough to allow the event agenda to morph with the changes in technology or other trends. One perfect example is the way traditional exhibitions have morphed into CONFEX (conference-exhibition) multi-faceted platforms to drive engagement through meaningful content shared at conference sessions, and business connections and exchanges on the exhibition floor.

ALOYSIUS ARLANDO CEO SingEx Holdings Pte Ltd

Throughout the interview, the humble and pensive leader used the collective “we” more often than “I” in his sentences. When it comes to leadership and talent discussions, Arlando expressed his passion for meeting people from all walks of life. He ensures his team is a good mix of background and professional attributes. His team is important to him.

“We respect our team’s personal moments of needs, whether it is new working mothers or one who becomes a carer for the family. As human beings, if we can take care of our family needs, we have won half a battle (in life)”.

Arlando keeps his team engaged through no-strings-attached coaching and transparent communication. With a big smile and coy laughter, Arlando defined the importance of transparency by saying that he graciously obliged when his team asked him to smile more frequently.

EVENTS CREATED BY SINGEX KEY INDICATORS OF SUCCESS: Client feedback on successful connections No. of deals and business converted

NEW-TOMARKET EVENTS

WasteMET Asia 2012 & 2014 Last Mile Fulfilment Asia March 2015 RehabTech Asia March 2015 Internet of Things Asia 2014 & April 2015 Radiology Asia May 2015 WasteMet China July 2015 Green UrbanscapeAsia 2013 & November 2015

$$$ CONVERSION

MANAGED EVENTS

RSA Conference Asia Pacific & Japan 2013, 2014 & July 2015 International Conference on Sustainable Development 2013 ASEAN Business and Investment Summit 2014

403 SUCCESSFUL MEETINGS conducted at the exhibition floor

S$12.2 million 617 BUSINESS CONNECTIONS made at the inaugural Last Mile Fulfilment Asia 2015 in March 2015 48

worth of deals generated from inaugural Greenurbanscape Asia 2013

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CITY ESCAPE A RECENT STAYCATION AT PARK REGIS SINGAPORE SHOWS THE POSSIBILITY OF GIVING YOURSELF OR YOUR MOST DESERVING EMPLOYEES A BREAK EVEN IN THE MOST BUSTLING PLACES IN A CITY. WORDS: GINA SIN Just a stone’s throw from one of the most vibrant entertainment scenes along a historical riverside known as Clarke Quay, the 202-room Park Regis Singapore would do well for business retreats.

Quay Room

refuel with a power-packed breakfast at Twenty3 Drink & Dine with the wide variety from its buffet selection.

Surrounded by lush greenery, Park Regis Singapore was first opened in 2010, and has recently completed a SGD3 million (USD2.2 million) facelift that saw the reception move from the ground floor to the third; a new all-day dining F&B venue; upgrades on bed items; and a complete makeover of the lobby, meeting room and rooftop bar.

Clarke Quay may be popular for its nightlife, but there are also lots to explore, such as the numerous hipster cafés, bars and restaurants within the vicinity. Hotel guests get 10 percent off their bills of participating food and beverage outlets by presenting their room cards.

Stretch the lethargy away in the morning with a poolside yoga class, where a refreshing waterfall cascades into the 25-metre-deep pool. Then

Visit the Asian Civilisations Museum located close by, or attempt the adrenalin-pumping G-Max Reverse Bungy along the riverside. Choose to Singapore River Cruise

dine in one of the restaurants, or head back to the hotel’s Royal Pavilion for their signature Cantonese dishes such as the Royal Smoked Duck and the Wokfried Mashed Fish Noodle with Lobster.

Sign up for one of Park Regis’ cocktail classes as a team-building activity for up to 10 guests by June 2015, or conclude meetings with a sunset cruise disembarking from the quayside. Watch as the sun sets and the neon lights of Boat Quay and Clarke come to life. Spot landmarks and bridges such as the Raffles landing site, the Merlion, and the Cavenagh and Coleman bridges. End the day with more cocktails at Revive, the hotel’s rooftop bar that is not opened to public until the fourth quarter of 2015. It can be hired for intimate cocktail events of up to 50 guests with outsourced furniture.

An incentive package featuring some of the activities mentioned above is available for corporate group bookings until the end of the year.

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Hong

kong

24F6 8Z^OMZ 4^a_^aMcR FaMeRZ 4^]SRaR]PR

26 - 27 August | Grand Hyatt Hong Kong

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CMY

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Incorporating Luxury Travel

The 23rd IT&CMA and 18th CTW Asia-Pacific

29 Sep – 1 Oct 2015 Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld Bangkok, Thailand

Look At What We Achieved In 2014!

Over 2,500

MICE and Corporate Travel professionals including association executives and luxury travel buyers, from 55 international territories

Very impressed with the overall organisation, quality of buyers and remarkable welcome reception. euromic, Belgium Exhibitor | Christophe Verstraete, Executive Director

I got to renew or discuss contracts and build new relations.

Panorama-Medica Group Co. Ltd, Thailand Buyer | Katherina E. Lempert-Dober, Chairwoman

40%

of Buyers confirmed procurement on-site with Exhibitors

Association of the Polish Media, Poland Media | Robert Pawelek, Journalist

Twice the percentage of Buyers, than in 2013, expect to conduct business valued at over

Gemalto, Singapore

1million

Corporate Travel Manager | Jean Bey, Senior Buyer - Asia

Exhibitors & Sponsors Corporate Travel Managers Conference Delegates Media | Corporate Travel

Exhibitors | MICE & Luxury Travel Buyers | MICE & Luxury Travel |

Association Professionals & Executives Media | MICE & Luxury Travel

Organised By

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of Exhibitors expect to receive orders within a year

Great avenue to obtain research information from diverse regions and destinations.

The discussion session was a good sharing session for all my peers.

www.itcma.com

84%

www.corporatetravelworld.com/apac Supported By

Host Country

Industry Partner

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THERE’S NOTHING LIKE

AUSTRALIA

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UNLOCKING AUSTRALIA’S NEWEST TREASURE The Adelaide Convention Centre welcomes the world to its new state-of-the-art facilities, designed with the event planners’ future requirements in mind. It is surrounded by premier entertainment, sporting and medical precincts, and set on the city’s revitalised waterfront district.

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#Engage

C-FESTIVAL IN SEOUL DRAWS GLOBAL AUDIENCE THE INAUGURAL “C-FESTIVAL” PROMOTED THE CAPABILITIES OF A NEWLY-FORMED, GANGNAM-BASED “MICE CLUSTER” OF EVENT VENUES, SHOPPING, AND ENTERTAINMENT PROVIDERS. WORDS: BEN JORDAN

From April 30 to May 10, a total of 2.35 million visitors – including 153,000 international attendees – took part in 200 events conducted throughout host venue Coex, from culture exhibitions and conventions to promotions, performances, and even a beer festival, all of which served as an effective marketing platform for the cluster’s stakeholders.

Among the major events, Asiamania, a multi-nation business and cultural trade show running from April 30 to May 3, included promotional booths from Korea, Japan, China, and Russia, each exhibiting various cultural assets from across the region. Contributing to the local MICE presence was the Seoul Tourism Organization, whose promotional stand was modeled after

Love Heart Project

Seoul’s ancient city walls, while the Korea Tourism Organization stand introduced visitors to other national destinations. Other key events included a “Culture Tech” fair, and a “Creative U” exhibition zone. The festival was organised by the World Trade Center Seoul MICE Cluster Committee.

Created to increase competitiveness and allow for joint marketing strategies among members, the MICE Cluster initiative unites 13 major companies involved in the business events community including and surrounding Coex, which, along with the nearby Korea World Trade Center, was recently designated a “Special MICE Tourist Zone” by local government agencies.

Members also include business hotels, department stores, entertainment complexes, PCOs, and more, such as Korean entertainment agency SM Entertainment, which appointed K-pop stars EXO as official C-Festival ambassadors.

In addition to the festival’s promotional benefits for its members, the ROI across 11 days also demonstrated the effectiveness of the event. The Coex Seven Luck Casino, a foreigners-only

venue, for example, saw a 40.1 percent increase in custom compared with the same period in 2014, while the five-star Grand InterContinental Seoul Parnas – also part of the complex – saw a 20.9 percent increase in room occupancy over the same comparative duration.

“Through our first C-Festival, we were able to see both new growth and the take-off of the MICE industry, which is still a new industry for Seoul,” said Coex president and CEO Byun Bokyung.

He went on to affirm his commitment to “continue building and showcasing diverse content in order for the Korea World Trade Center to become the centre of the MICE industry”.

Stephen Kwak, an assistant manager at the Seoul Tourism Organization, agreed with the growth potential of the C-Festival in the coming years, saying, “It helped Seoul by emphasising various tourist attractions that MICE delegates would enjoy visiting during their stay.”

With the weekend proving the most popular for Asiamania, Kwak said that feedback for the Seoul booth was positive, with visitors remarking that it “well-represented the city’s diverse offerings”.

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WEST LAKE STORY A TRIP PLANNED AROUND HANGZHOU’S REVERED WEST LAKE TELLS OF THE DESTINATION’S RICH CULTURE AND SCENIC STORIES. With many UNESCO-heritage listed sites and venues in the world to choose from, one group chose the much revered West Lake in Hangzhou as the centrepiece for an event. Some 90 guests from Canada’s York House School travelled to the picturesque destination for a cultural trip planned around a golf tournament.

The guests arrived at Hangzhou Sofitel Westlake Hotel on the first day. What awaited them was a lavish welcome cocktail and gala dinner, set up at the Sky Garden with views of West Lake as its background.

The next day was where the program truly began. Guests were divided into two groups – the Golf group and Parents-Child group – according to what guests preferred. The group for golf headed for a friendly tournament at Fuchun Resort Golf Club, while the other enjoyed a spa session and a tea tasting ceremony. The children spent time at Zoo Coffee, a creative club located in a shopping mall, where its unique set-up resembled a quiet forest wonderland with a myriad of wild animals.

Guests then went for a boat ride over West Lake, and watched a large landscape live performance created by three renowned directors – Zhang

Sofitel Hangzhou Westlake Hotel

Yi Mou, Wang Chao Ge, and Fan Yue. Guests visited the largest isle in West Lake, which is called “Three Pools Mirroring the Moon” and covers an area of 6,000 square metres. The shadow of the isle, the elegant garden and the scenic beauty combined makes the isle one of the top 10 West Lake attractions, particularly popular during the MidAutumn Festival.

The group also visited the ancient He Fang Street, which has a profound history. Consisting of the historical, commercial, civil and architectural culture of Hangzhou, it is the best place

to get acquainted with the destination.

Groups also enjoyed the “Song Cheng Eternal Love” drama, which is known as one of the more acclaimed shows in the world. The performance describes the hardship of Liang Zhu ancients, the magnificence of Song Palace, the fierce battle of Yue Gu Jun, the song of Liang Shan Bo and Zhu Ying Tai, and the song of the white snake and Xu Xian. These stories are told through a spectacular display of sound, light, and stage effects.

Golf tournament

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#Engage

HAPPY SNAPS FROM WINE DOWN WEDNESDAY April’s Wine Down Wednesday organised by ACI HR Solutions and Biz Events Asia gave guests the privilege of a first look at the new Club Lounge at Hotel Jen Tanglin Singapore (formerly known as Trader’s Hotel at Cuscaden Road). Over 90 professionals from the MICE, travel, tourism and hospitality sectors networked over drinks and a buffet spread with an impressive display of sweet treats. Guests also had the chance to look at guest rooms on the newly revamped Club Floor. The event was sponsored by Hotel Jen Tanglin Singapore and duetto.

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