Top Incentive Ideas

August 2019 Mauritius is the Indian Ocean’s rising star

Shaping Hiroshima’s events future KDN PPS1888/02/2017(025626) AIA buys out Disneyland Asia-Pacific’s intelligent business events resource

TOP INCENTIVE IDEAS From living the life of a Crazy Rich Asian to taking it slow with a stroll and lunch on the Great Wall, here are some of the most alluring experiences to inspire top performances

Celebrating 45Years D BE ON YOUR NAME COUL KOK THIS TICKET TO BANG er 2019 24 – 26 Septemb BOARDING PASS In Partnership with:

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Newly Introduced Specialised Tracks Buyer Activities Up to 100% Ho For Different Bu sted Buyer including an inter yer Pre-Scheduled active ice Segments Privileges breaker, brand showcase Appointments including flight featuring freshly curated s and presentations, e with the largest collection xhibition highlight accommodation for s to meet MICE, of Asia-Pacifi walk-abouts, meet-the- c MICE and qualified MICE, Association and Corporate Association corporates and more Corporate Travel Suppliers and Corporate Tra FROM Travel objectives vel buyers TO NAME GATE SEAT Exhibitors | MICEJOB TITLE Buyers | MICE | Association Professionals Exhibitors & Sponsors DATE & Executives Corporate Travel Managers FLIGHT Media | MICEE &MAI AssociationsL Conference Delegates www.itcma.com Media | Corporate Travel [email protected] www.corporatetravelworld.com/apac [email protected]

Organised By Host Country and Strategic Partner Supported By Ofﬁcial Airline Ofﬁcial Venue EDITORIAL Karen Yue Group Editor ([email protected]) S Puvaneswary Editor, Malaysia/Brunei Keep calm ([email protected]) Mimi Hudoyo Editor, Indonesia ([email protected]) Pamela Chow Reporter ([email protected]) and carry on Rachel AJ Lee Sub Editor ([email protected]) Adelaine Ng Australia The news is depressing these days, with headlines screaming ([email protected]) about an impending global recession. The pensive mood is ag- Marissa Carruthers Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam gravated by Deutsche Bank’s move in July to start trimming its ([email protected]) global workforce with 18,000 job cuts. Caroline Boey China & Special Projects ([email protected]) Here in Asia, warning bells were recently sounded by the Prudence Lui Hong Kong/Greater China Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, and ([email protected]) financial forecasting firm Oxford Economics. A joint report by Rohit Kaul India ([email protected]) Tiara Maharani Indonesia the two entities predicted that six South-east Asian economies ([email protected]) – Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Julian Ryall Japan ([email protected]) Karen Yue Rosa Ocampo The Philippines Vietnam – will experience slower growth in 2020. Published in ([email protected]) Group Editor June, the report singled out Singapore as the economy to be hit Feizal Samath Sri Lanka/Maldives ([email protected]) the hardest by the ongoing US-China trade war. Redmond Sia, Goh Meng Yong But it appears that the doom and gloom is stopping short at Creative Designers the threshold of the business events industry – for now perhaps. Lina Tan Editorial Assistant Many events specialists are still reporting business as usual, SALES & MARKETING Pierre Quek some with clients proceeding with trips and events as planned, Publisher and Head Integrated Solutions while others are taking cautious steps to spend a little more ([email protected]) Ar-Iene Lee Senior Business Manager wisely. ([email protected]) And when it comes to corporate incentive trips, not a single Jonathan Yap Senior Business Manager ([email protected]) events specialist is expecting clients to put a freeze on them Shirley Tan Senior Business Manager even if recession does set in. Recognised as an effective perfor- ([email protected]) mance motivation, enquiries for corporate incentive trips are still Chelsea Huang Marketing Executive ([email protected]) streaming in. Delia Ng Digital Marketing Strategist There’s money for incentive trips, but it is money that destina- ([email protected]) Cheryl Lim Advertisement Administration tions and events specialists must work harder to get. Cautious Manager ([email protected]) spend and the plethora of perks and assistance offered by eager Carol Cheng Asst Manager Administration & Marketing destinations come together to make winning that client contract (Hong Kong, [email protected]) even harder. PUBLISHING SERVICES If there is a time for destinations, incentive houses and event Jonathan Wan Head, Operational Support Services suppliers to get more creative in what they can do to entice cor- Kun Swee Qi Publishing Services Executive porates and convince them that they make the best lures for top Nur Hazirah Web Executive performance, then the time is now. Katherine Leong Circulation Executive Be done with off-the-rack leisure activities and overused ideas OFFICES for incentive programmes. Invest in customised ideas that top Singapore TTG Asia Media Pte Ltd, achievers cannot buy on their own. 1 Science Park Road, #04-07 The Capricorn, Don’t just bring top achievers to Kyoto; bring them into the Singapore Science Park II, Singapore 117528 Tel: +65 6395 7575, fax: +65 6536 0896, email: secret world of Japanese anime studios to meet the geniuses who [email protected] create animated sequences. Don’t just place top achievers in the Hong Kong TTG Asia Media Pte Ltd, 8/F, E168, embrace of luxury resorts in Langkawi; give them a chance to 166-168 Des Voeux Road Central, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong explore secret islands. Don’t just bus top achievers into the city; Tel: +852 2237 7288, fax: +852 2237 7227 roar them in on Harleys with buff biker dudes.

TTG ASIA MEDIA PTE LTD More ideas are for your picking in our annual feature (36 Top Darren Ng Managing Director incentive ideas, pages 8-13). We hope you find them useful, but feel free to let us know what other fascinating experiences we have missed out. Sharing is caring!

TTGmice, endorsed by the Asian Association of Convention and Visitors Bureaus, is published by TTG Asia Media Pte Ltd, and is mailed free-of-charge on written request to readers Asia-wide who meet a set of predetermined terms and conditions. Annual airmail subscription charges are US$70 (Asia) and US$90 (elsewhere). All rights reserved. No part of this publi- cation may be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission of the publisher.

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COVER STORY 8 Top incentive ideas From living the life of a Crazy Rich Asian to taking it slow with a stroll and lunch on the Great Wall, here are some of the most alluring experiences to inspire top performances

COUNTRY REPORTS 14 Mauritius // Indian Ocean’s rising star Mauritius is gradually making its way to the front of the resort destination DEPARTMENTS crowd, and Xinyi Liang-Pholsena shares why the island nation should be 1 To our readers earmarked by incentive planners 3 Connect 16 Japan // Shaping a city’s events future 4 Marketplace Hiroshima is putting its dark history behind and stepping forth with a sharp suit to attract major business events, writes Julian Ryall 6 Talk of the trade 20 Case study 18 Qatar // Qatar gets the nod for events New business hotels, modern event venues and good air connectivity are 21 Over coffee with boosting Qatar’s chances with planners. By Marissa Carruthers 22 People TTGmice August 2019 • 3

Snapshots PERSPECTIVES @ttgmice Joanne Sully of American Express Global Business Travel (GBT) says business travel is changing, and TMCs need to have their technology keep up with the evolving needs of business travellers

TTGmice heads to Osaka for a 4D/3N fam It’s all in a day’s work for TTGmice’s Rachel AJ trip to experience the city’s unique sights and Lee, who is at Kishiwada Castle to feel what it’s sounds. like to be in a ninja costume! June 4 June 6 INTELLIGENCE Pacific World has released a report revealing its choice of emerging destinations for 2019, which companies can use as a tool when considering their next meeting or incentive travel location. Among the destinations of choice are Aix-en-Provence in France and Qingdao in China.

Smiling heads of ICCA, UFI and AIPC come (L to R) Perth Convention Bureau’s Gareth together to celebrate the launch of Global Martin, Australian High Commissioner to Alliance, a tripartite initiative to benefit Singapore Bruce Gosper, Western Australia members. tourism minister Paul Papalia, and Singapore June 27 Airlines’ Edwin Chiang met with corporate travel managers and event planners at a Western Australian event in Singapore. July 1

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What’s happening

September 18-20 September 24-26 October 16-18 PATA Travel Mart IT&CM Asia and CTW Asia Pacific MICE Show Asia Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan Bangkok, Thailand Singapore Marketplace

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Meet at the DMZ and spread the word on peace

South Korean tour company DMZ Spy Tour is promoting two new experi- door barbecue and entertainment in the form of a K-pop cover concert ences for corporate groups that give participants a clearer understand- or jazz concert. ing of the relationship between North and South Korea. The other corporate tour is a boardgame-based teambuilding activ- The tour company specialises in tours at and around the DMZ – the ity built around the Korean War, and a private tour along the North Korean Demilitarized Zone which exists on the border between North Korean Spy Commando Invasion Route. and South Korea. Both are good for groups of up to 70 pax. Shrek Lee, head director of DMZ Spy Tour, explained that as tensions Lee claims that the signature DMZ Spy Tour is offered exclusively between the two Koreas rose last year along with renewed media atten- by his company, and has so far been popular among American and tion on North Korea’s nuclear weaponry, foreigners were hesitant to visit Singaporean holidaymakers. “Bookings from OTAs out of Singapore the South as they thought there was unrest on the Korean Peninsula. alone (numbered at) 80 last year, bringing us an estimated revenue of “So I approached Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) and South Ko- US$50,000,” he said. rean army agencies, and told them we needed to do something to show For the MICE spin-offs, Lee said promotion work has only just travellers how we are able to defend ourselves and that there is peace at started, through fam trips organised with KTO, but feedback has been the border,” Lee said. positive. As a result, the signature DMZ Spy Tour, with an angle tailored for “Buyers who went on these experiences were pleasantly surprised corporate groups, was born. The tour comprises activities at the South that the border is so peaceful and that meetings can even be held near Korean army camp, a conference opportunity at an indoor venue, an out- the border,” he added.

New Queensland show captures Aboriginal spirit

Australia’s Queensland State has unveiled a new indigenous interactive culture experience entitled Spirits of the Red Sand. During the interactive production, guests move from set to set as they journey back in time to 1880s Queensland and experience the trials and challenges as the British and Aboriginal ways of life collide. Told by Jarrah, the only surviving member of three Aboriginal brothers, the show is set within a real 19th-century Austral- ian town complete with Church, Pub and Indigenous village. The theatre and dinner experience can be found in Beenleigh, a town located between Brisbane and The Gold Coast. Round-trip transfers from select hotels from both Brisbane and The Gold Coast. Tickets cost A$120 (US$85) for adults, and dinner is a chargrilled Australian barbecue with dessert and a licensed bar. The space can cater for groups of up to 1,000 for theatre and dinner – held at the same site. There is no minimum F&B charge or capacity for venue buyouts, and the same ticket price applies. Spirits of the Red Sand is the only South East Queensland tourism experience to be endorsed by Tourism Australia’s Discover Aboriginal Experiences Program. TTGmice August 2019 • 5

Hello Kitty cosies Spruced-up Lagoon up to corporates Deck reopens

Starting from September 2019, Hello Kitty Banyan Tree Phuket has reopened The Lagoon Land Tokyo (also known as Sanrio Puroland) Deck – a new indoor venue built over an in Japan will open its doors for both private open-air space – for event bookings, following and corporate events. renovations. There are two options for event hire. Inter- Featuring 454m2 of space with floor-to-ceil- ested parties will be able to do a theme park ing windows, the pillarless space offers over- buyout, in which case it would be closed to sized glass windows overlooking the resort’s the public. Otherwise, it is also possible to main lagoon and gardens, allowing maximum hold a private event in a space such as the daylight into the space. At night, it transforms Fairyland Theater, Märchen Theater, Enter- into a dreamy venue bathed in moonlight. The tainment Hall or Yakata Restaurant. Lagoon Deck’s interior design keeps with the Throughout the duration of private events, contemporary Thai architecture and design of participants will be able to access all of Hello the 25-year-old resort. Kitty Land Tokyo without any restrictions. The property’s largest event space is able Reservations start from one million yen to hold celebrations for up to 500 guests, (US$9,222), and includes 200 day passes, sit-down dinners for up to 300 guests, or cor- lighting, and audio/PA system. Meanwhile, porate meetings for up to 220 guests. the entire theme park can be booked for ¥10 Venue rental of The Lagoon Deck is 65,000 million, together with 300 day passes or Four Seasons goes baht (US$2,033), while a minimum of 105,000 more and other customisable options such baht F&B charge for full venue hire applies. as the appearance of a favourite Puroland to Bengaluru character or an exclusively designed show. In total, Hello Kitty Land Tokyo can host up to The second Four Seasons hotel in India, the 6,000 people. Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru at Embassy Venue hire will only be available until ONE, has opened in the capital of India’s March 2020, though reservations beyond southern Karnataka state. that can be negotiated. Set amid 2.3 hectares of land, the property offers 191 rooms and 39 suites, some of which offer views of the Palace Grounds. Meanwhile, the Garden Suites come with a living and dining area, as well as a private terrace, bedroom, large bathroom and double closets. Regardless of category, all accommodation feature the fully-customisable Four Seasons Bed with a mattress topper. Embassy ONE is also home to 105 Four Seasons Private Residences, the first of its kind in India. Facilities on-site include an outdoor pool, In the pipeline the Infuse Spa with 11 treatment rooms, and no less than five F&B options ranging from a cocktail bar to the Far & East restaurant serving Chinese, Japanese and Thai cuisines. Minor Hotels in Yangon Event planners may avail the 1,540m2 Thailand-based Minor Hotels will debut event spaces ranging from the Grand Ball- its Avani and Oaks brands in Yangon, room and open terrace, the largest of which with the development of two hotels as can accommodate up to 1,000 guests. part of a management agreement with Kajima Yankin, a wholly-capitalised sub- sidiary of Kajima Overseas Asia. Construction work has begun and vertical construction is scheduled to Danang’s Golden Bridge New scenic flights ply commence in 2021. The 250-room Avani Yangon Hotel and 221-key Oaks Yangon Danang-Hue route are both set to open in 2024. Hai Au Aviation, the provider of Vietnam’s first and only seaplane experiences, has commenced a new Danang-Hue route that includes a scenic aerial tour of the latter UNESCO World Heritage site. The daily 40-minute flight is operated Hotel JAL City Toyama between Danang International Airport and Set to open in 2022, the 250-key Phu Bai International Airport, and allows Hotel JAL City Toyama will sit in front of passengers to also book scenic flights over Toyama station, which is served by the Danang’s famed Son Tra Peninsula and its Hokuriku Shinkansen with direct con- 30km-long coastline as well as Hue’s Citadel, nections to Nagano and Tokyo. Facilities Imperial Enclosure, and coastal lagoons. The on-site will include restaurants, a bar aircraft used for this route is the 12-passen- and a library. ger Cessna Grand Caravan 208B-EX. Talk of the trade

Competition among Major conference exit regional MICE deals blow to Sri Lanka tradeshows heats up By Feizal Samath IBTM is now the latest entrant into the Despite initial considerations to postpone Asia-Pacific region with a dedicated busi- the 71st meeting of the Convention on ness events tradeshow. International Trade in Endangered Species This announcement follows on the (CITES) of Wild Fauna and Flora Stand- heels of Messe Berlin’s reveal of its inau- ing Committee from May to September gural MICE Show Asia 2019, scheduled in Colombo, following the devastating Burdiak/shutterstock Volodymyr for debut this October 16-18. Easter Sunday bombings, event organisers IBTM Asia Pacific will take place from eventually chose to move the gathering to April 6-8, 2020, in Singapore, at the Ma- Geneva. rina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Cen- CITES’ secretary-general Ivonne tre. It will bring together international, Higuero announced in June the decision Wildlife experts skip Colombo regional and local meeting planners and to shift the conference to Geneva, and it exhibitors for two days of pre-scheduled will now run from August 16 to 28. to bring in 2,000 participants, and was business meetings, education and net- “This conclusion was reached after viewed by stakeholders as a huge boost working. a consultation process with the CITES to Sri Lanka’s business events sector until Shane Hannam, portfolio director, Standing Committee where they ex- the April 21 bombing shattered hopes. IBTM, said in a statement that the com- pressed security concerns; after careful Shiromal Cooray, chairperson of pany is drawn to the region’s strong busi- consideration of the report of the mission Jetwing Hotels, said the cancellation of ness events industry, which “is expected of the United Nations Department of CITES was a blow to the industry just as to see the highest growth rate in the Safety and Security to Sri Lanka to assess travel advisories were being relaxed. Aus- world to reach US$441.1 billion by 2025”. the security situation on the ground; and tralia, India, China, the UK and Germany Hannam added that IBTM Asia Pacific after discussions with the Sri Lankan are among countries that have relaxed will allow the company to refocus its Government,” Higuero explained. travel advisories. IBTM China event on connecting Chinese Sunil Dissanayake, director and CEO of Cooray said arrivals to the country are buyers with international exhibitors and Bandaranaike National Memorial Founda- improving and that bookings, though international buyers to do business. tion – Sri Lanka’s biggest convention slow, are trickling in for July and beyond. Other prominent business events trade- centre where the conference was to take She believes the situation will further shows focused on Asia-Pacific include place – confirmed the conference’s move improve from December, but has braced IT&CM Asia and CTW Asia-Pacific, taking to Geneva. herself for a 20 per cent dip in business place in Bangkok every September, and The wildlife conference was supposed compared to the same time last year. AIME in Melbourne every February.

TCEB, private sector roll out experience enhancers Building on Thailand Convention and Participating service providers include creative solutions that will enable return Exhibition Bureau’s (TCEB) Redefine Your ICONSIAM, King Power Mahanakhon, on investment, return on time and return Business Events branding, the bureau’s Siam Takashimaya and ABC Cooking on happiness for overseas MICE travel- Business unit has rolled out its new Studio, among others. lers. I believe MICE Thailand Signature “MICE Thailand Signature” campaign “Partnering with private sector under campaign will achieve that aim,” said which offers exclusive privileges and spe- our new branding is aimed at finding Nichapa. cial discounts to event attendees coming to Thailand. Some 262 establishments around the Kingdom have come together to dangle perks that encourage event attendees to maximise spending, extend their stay, or combine their business with selected up- scale leisure, activities and experiences. Leading the charge, Nichapa Yoswee, TCEB’s senior vice president – business, said: “TCEB – Business created the campaign to capitalise on Thailand’s world- renowned hospitality, activities and rich culture. Thus, the 262 service providers joining the campaign represent such business as culinary, café, hotel, wellness and spa, shopping, show & entertainment, and workshop like Muay Thai and cook- Thailand MICE Signature campaign was launched last Thursday at Mahanakhon SkyWalk, Thailand’s newest ing classes.” iconic travel landmark; TCEB’s Nichapa Yoswee (second from left) stands with her programme partners TTGmice August 2019 • 7

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NE MINUTE with IT&CM Events Asian incentive to SwitzerlandAsia-Pacific’s Only Doublebill Event inspires more corporate bookings By Karen Yue Kong office, the business came through IT&CMA and CTW The 12,500 top performers from Jeu- its Taiwan office. G2 previously handled nesse Global’s operations in China who Jeunesse’sAsia-Pacific’s incentive toOnly Germany Doublebill for 4,000 Event Asia-Pacific 2019 descended on Switzerland across three people in 2016. weeks in May have not only captured me- To manage the massive movement, G2 Event Updates split the group up in three, with each ar- dia attention, but also the eyes of other Keynote Lecture Asian companies deciding on their next riving on May 9, May 16 and May 23 and Sustainability – Future Proofing Your Business staying for five days. A total of 35 hotels incentive destination. Digitizing business for the future Ivan Breiter, Switzerland Tourism’s were used in Zurich and Basel, along with Environmental conservation director South East Asia, told TTGmice 45 restaurants,Asia-Pacific’s and 100 Only Swiss-registered Doublebill Event Community based tourism that the event demonstrated the country’s coaches – as required by the local authori- Investing in sustainable businesses ability to “organise everything” to preci- ties. Gala dinners were hosted in Lucerne Find out what this all means for you on a sion, like a Swiss watch. Messe and Zurich Arena. professional and personal level, and be a The operator of the massive incentive “We took careful steps to ensure we part of the solution that constantly challenges movement was G2 Travel. According to did not inconvenience the locals,” Mulen- businesses, governments and society. Al Mulenga, director of G2 Travel, Hong ga said, adding that the G2 team worked More Knowledge Sessions closely with the Swiss tourism authority In addition to the keynote and the local police to manage the traffic. lecture, gain valuable perspectives The group also called at Liechtenstein, from the best expert-led and peer-sharing platforms through Association Days Forum, where similar precise ground arrange- Asian MICE Cruise Conference, ASEAN ments were made. MICE Forum, CTW Asia-Pacific Corporate Mulenga expects the Jeunesse event to Travel Conference, and more.. inspire more incentive buyers to pick the Largest Collection Of Asia-Pacific already popular destination. Destinations And MICE Suppliers Breiter agrees, saying: “We often have Meet CWT, Centara Hotels & Resorts, Dubai to adjust the number of guests upwards Business Events, India Tourism, Jeju Covention & Visitors Bureau, Japan National Tourism during the (reward) promotion period – a Organisation, Korea Tourism Organisation, sign that Switzerland is en vogue.” Macao Trade and Investment Promotion According to Breiter, Switzerland hosted Institute, Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau, MEET TAIWAN, Ministry of Tourism, more than 100 incentive trips from the Republic of Indonesia, Seoul South-east Asian region last year and is Tourism Organisation, Thai Airways, Jeunesse Group at Inseli Park in Lucerne likely to exceed that count by end-2019. Worldwide Cruise Associates and more.. Engagement Events Get up close with Dubai Business Events, TNZ to quantify conference legacies Japan by JTB, Japan National Tourism Organisation, Thailand Convention and Tourism New Zealand (TNZ) has Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), OMT Group René de Monchy and more, over brand showcase launched a project to measure and max- presentations, exhibition walkabouts, imise the lasting benefits generated by meet the corporates luncheons, conferences for the local community. cocktails, dinners, tours and more.. With more than 76,855 international Lucky Draw Prizes For Buyers* visitors arriving in New Zealand each Thai Airways year to attend business events and post- BKK-SIN Return Flights ing an economic contribution of over Resorts World Sentosa NZ$500 million (US$326.2 million) over Universal Studios Singapore Adult One-Day the past five years, conferences in New Tickets Zealand are regarded as big business. S.E.A Aquarium and The Maritime René de Monchy, Tourism New tourism, economic development, environ- Experiential Museum Adult One-Day Tickets Zealand’s director of commercial, said mental impacts, and social processes. Adventure Cove Waterpark Adult One-Day Tickets in a statement: “We know that business It will identify conferences with the Dolphin Discovery Programme events deliver millions to our communi- ability to provide long-term benefits for Adult One-Day Tickets ties each year, but we want to find out New Zealand and work with conference and more… more about the lasting positive impacts organisers and delegates to make this *Terms and Conditions Apply they have on our people and communities happen – such as through advancing Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2019 beyond the dollars.” research opportunities – to create positive Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. To do this, TNZ is taking a collabora- lasting outcomes and benefits for the Secure One of The Limited tive multi-sector approach, incorporating country and its people. MICE | Association | Corporate Buyer Hosting Places [email protected] | www.itcma.com Visit TTGmice.com for more news or subscribe to TTGmice e-News to get updates delivered right to your inbox twice a week 24 to 26 September | Bangkok, Thailand Cover story

Lie under the Negev night sky 01 After a year of hard work, it is time for top performers to smell the roses – or stare into starry skies in Israel’s Negev Desert. Glamp it out in an oversized, luxurious tent filled with soft cushions and blankets, while Bedouin entertainment and an exotic gourmet feast served in authentic tradition complete the experience. Make something sweet Stargazing also gets kicked up a notch with it happening at the Ramon Crater with an accom- 03 Mondo Nougat is a family-owned panying experienced astronomer. The Ramon Crater is the first designated international dark sky business located in Swan Valley, park in the Middle East because of its clear skies and undisturbed night environment. Peer into a Perth, Australia. In April 2019, the powerful telescope to see the Milky Way as the astronomer explains the marvels of the universe, company officially launched a Nougat Master- and relates how stars and constellations tie into biblical events. class that will be offered to groups until April • Good for groups of any size 2020. Thereafter the company will gauge its • amiel.com viability and popularity for the future. • [email protected] Classes can be conducted at the Swan Val- ley factory, or it can be done off-site in a hotel. Everything is provided, and prices will vary depending on chosen flavours and ingredients. • Good for groups of 10 to 30 people • [email protected] • mondonougat.com.au

Step this way into an 04 anime studio Japan’s anime scene draws many visitors, but gaining access to one of the nation’s anime studios is difficult. High-end travel company Luxurique has teamed up with a studio and the renowned Kyoto University of Art and Design to offer a number of tailor- made anime experiences, including visiting a studio and working with artists to produce short animated sequences. Planners can work with Luxurique on a programme that includes lectures and anime workshops at the university to explore the painstaking work that goes into each hand- drawn anime “cell” that forms the final work. TOP INCENTIVE IDEAS • Good for up to 10 for hands-on arrangement; up to 100 for presentations From living the life of a Crazy Rich Asian to taking it slow • luxurique.com with a stroll and lunch on the Great Wall, here are some of • [email protected] the most alluring experiences to inspire top performers Live the life of a 05 Crazy Rich Asian Get into the wild and go glamping in the Enjoyed the Crazy Rich Asians mov- Go glamping in the heart of Cambodia’s tropical jungle. Cambo- ie or book series? Protravel International turns 02 Cardamom Mountains dia Tented Camp in the remote Cardamom fiction to reality for top achievers with its Crazy Mountains can arrange a variety of adventure- Rich Americans Love Singapore experience, based activities for incentive winners, including priced at an eye-watering US$30,000 per scavenger hunts through South-east Asia’s person and features scenes from the movie. largest intact rainforest, overnight camping Highlights include a Singapore Airlines treks led by rangers who protect the area, first-class suite experience, a private chauf- wildlife-spotting hikes, barbecues and water- feured car, a private viewing of creations by based activities. local fashion designers, and a Mahjong lesson The eco-resort’s nine luxurious safari-style by a master. There is also the option of having tents are the perfect place to recuperate at the a silk gown or suit fitted at one of Singapore’s end of each adventure, with king-sized beds, best-known dressmakers – just in time for the hot water showers and western-style bath- award gala. rooms. • Enquire with Protravel for capacity • cardamomtentedcamp.com • vacation.com/itineraries/singapore-crazy- • [email protected] rich-asians-tour TTGmice August 2019 • 9

Discover Japan’s Journey to New 08 hidden gems 10 Zealand’s scenic south Explore some of the hundreds of Incentive winners will get to take in islands that dot the Seto Inland Sea, between two of New Zealand’s most stunning fiords in Japan’s main island of Honshu and Shikoku, Fiordland on South Island – Doubtful Sound aboard a spacious catamaran. Cruise company and Milford Sound – set amid a breathtak- Foucault has yachts that can be reserved for ing landscape of majestic mountains, native longer periods to explore a part of Japan that forests and beautiful waterfalls. They will first is unspoiled and still largely undiscovered by climb onboard a spacious and stable catama- foreign tourists. ran, where a hot buffet lunch can be served Guests can go ashore on the islands – some in their own private lounge or on the outdoor of which are famous for the Setouchi Trien- deck. There is also a licensed bar onboard. nale art exhibition, held from spring through • Good for up to 63 people autumn every three years, including in 2019. • [email protected] They can also hike or cycle across the islands, • www.southerndiscoveries.co.nz Meet the kings of swim, fish and kayak. 06 the jungle • Good for 16 people • foucault.co.jp/en/ Top achievers can live out The Jun- •[email protected] gle Book adventure on the boundless plains and rugged outcrops of East Africa’s legendary Masai Mara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater which is a photographer’s dream of picture- perfect light, coloured by the unrivalled hues of Have a sensational African sunrises and sunsets. 09 Seasation Treat participants to game drives where Did you know that five of the 104 they will meet Simba and his friends, islands in Malaysia’s Langkawi archipelago nature walks, night drives and a day in the are only visible at low tide? Discover these Ngorongoro Crater, looking for big tuskers and secluded islands and the wider Langkawi the endangered rhinoceros. UNESCO Global Geopark onboard the Seasa- • Good for groups of any size tion, a 16.8m-long twin-deck catamaran. • andbeyond.com Have your top achievers do more than • [email protected] sail the sea – kayaking around an isolated island, taking a jungle walk and participating in a frisbee tournament can all be part of the memorable experience. Bring nimble mixologists onboard to ensure a free flow of cocktails and mocktails, as well as local chefs who will turn out a barbeque feast on the deck. • Good for 65 guests • [email protected]

Explore a wacky wine factory 11 Described as a Willy Wonka wine factory, d’Arenberg Cube in McLaren Vale, South Australia offers an intriguing experience that plays with the human senses on multiple levels. From an unfolding front door to video projections, contemporary artworks and a ‘virtual fermenter’ that simulates the experience of being immersed in a tank of grapes, guests can expect the unexpected. Top achievers can be rewarded with a Day of Decadence which starts in an Alternate Realities Museum and ends with an unconventional degustation. Other packages may include scenic Relive Kazakhstan’s flights, helicopter tours, a tailor-made ‘Dinner with the Winemaker’ experience or a yoga class 07 space quest among the vines. • Good for six for Day of Decadence The modern world’s space quest is • darenberg.com.au always a spectacular story to tell, and bespoke • [email protected] tour specialist Scott Dunn is able to bring to life Kazakhstan’s space rocket launch through a luxury programme that includes a once-in- a-lifetime chance to witness an actual rocket launch, a visit to Baikonur Spaceport Museum and a look at where spacemen Yuri Gagarin and Sergei Korolev once lived. Besides the space rocket trail, the programme also offers gems such as a short stay in the ex-Soviet city of Almaty, and optional extensions to legendary Silk Road cities of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva in Uzbekistan. • Good for groups of any size • scottdunn.com/signature-departures • (65) 3165 4050 Cover story Sydney Harbour Exclusive See Sydney on 12 a superyacht Experience the iconic Sydney Harbour in luxurious style onboard the new Superyacht Auspro, where guests relax in Ital- ian designed interiors while enjoying views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House in an extra-smooth-sailing journey, thanks to its Seakeeper gyro stabilsers. The yacht boasts expansive entertainment areas, a stylish saloon in gloss mahogany and teak curved timbers, and a full service bar. There are four bedrooms available, including a Master Stateroom that includes a Queen bed, private lounge, two ensuites and a spa bath. The experience can be followed by dinner at Australia’s famous Quay restaurant, where every seat has views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and/or the Sydney Opera House. • Good for 45 people during the day; eight overnight • sydneyharbourexclusive.com/charter-boat- hire/auspro • [email protected]

Blend your own Take in both nature and city sights 13 bottle of wine 14 A luxurious stay at The Peninsula Hong Kong can never be wrong for top achievers. While they are there, sign them up for a chance to appreciate both Hong Kong’s lush Take your group to a vineyard locat- nature and modern city skyline through the Yacht and Hike programme designed by the hotel’s ed on the undulating hills of Algarve, Portugal events team. There are hiking routes of varying durations, from relaxing two-hour trails to more where grape varieties unique to the country challenging six-hour exercises. Whatever the choice, conclude the activity with a yacht cruise – such as Touriga Nacional – flourish. A local where participants are paid for their hard work with elegant refreshments as they take in spec- winemarker will give a tour of the winery, tacular views of Victoria Harbour. imparting tips on how to analyse different wine • Good for six to 15 people varieties. Top achievers will get an opportunity • peninsula.com/en/hong-kong/special-offers/events/the-peninsula-yacht to blend and bottle their own signature wine • [email protected] under guidance. This unique experience offers a behind-the-scenes peek into the cellar, as well as typically off-limit areas. • Good for 12 people per session Kick it with Buakaw • condradhotels.com 16 Buakaw Por, a welterweight Muay • [email protected] Thai kickboxer and one of Thailand’s most celebrated boxers, runs Banchamek Gym in Chiang Mai where private experiences of traditional Thai boxing can be had. Affectionately known as Buakaw Village, the facility is set among green fields backed by majestic mountains and lush forests – providing a restful getaway from the city. The complex includes a rubber farm, a longan farm, rice fields, a restaurant and 10 villas. Boxing classes can be customised and pack- aged with accommodation and meals. With Coast around Auckland advance notice, Buakaw himself would conduct 15 on a motorbike lessons. Incentive winners can lean back • Good for up to 25 people comfortably into their Harley Davidson Motor- • banchamekgym.com bike as they ride pillion around Auckland. From • [email protected] the buzzing downtown area to the sparkling Waitemata Harbour, winners will be able to smell the fresh air, feel the wind in their face, and see the sights of the city up close and personal. Tours last at least two hours, and the company will provide all other gear such as helmets, jackets and gloves. Riders should wear long trousers and covered shoes for protection. • Good for up to 20 people •motorbikesnz.co.nz/tours/chauffeured- passenger-tours TTGmice August 2019 • 11

Get suited up in 17 Thai grandeur If you are celebrating your top performers in Thailand, dress them up extrava- gantly – as deserving of victorious individuals. Thai traditional outfits are beautiful and regal, and are best tailored in the Kingdom. Nachart Studio, located in the Old Siam Complex in Bangkok’s old town, can do just that and counts high ranked officials and high society personalities among its clientele. Spend a week in Each outfit may take a month to five to tailor, depending on its complexity, so plan A cut above the rest 20 the Galápagos this in advance. Alternatively, ready sets for 19 Wada Shoten, a fourth-generation Built for those truly deserving, gentlemen can be purchased off the shelves by owned knife shop in Sakai City this seven-night adventure in the Galápagos the final quarter of this year. No more than 15 – part of Osaka Prefecture – has been in Islands onboard the all-suite Celebrity Flora outfits are made each month. business for 150 years. The aged artisans in features feasts crafted by a Michelin-star • th-th.facebook.com/nachartstudio the shop are able to teach incentive winners chef who uses locally sourced produce, shore • [email protected] how to sharpen their own blades, and knock excursions led by certified naturalists (such the handle onto the sharpened knife after. as snorkelling with sea lions, sea turtles and Knife blades can also be personalised with marine iguanas), and some of most spectacu- names, where each participant will eventually lar accommodation options available on luxury be able to take home their own work of art. Ac- yachts. As a bonus, this seven-night Galapagos tivity will cost 14,000 yen (US$129) per person Inner/Outer Vacation was only launched in with an interpreter, or 6,500 yen without. June this year, giving your C-suite winners real • Good for up to 15 people bragging rights. • sakaiwada.com • Good for 100 people • [email protected] • [email protected]

Celebrate on a 21 vintage rice barge Banyan Tree’s vintage-styled rice barge provides a ready canvas on which to design an exclusive and luxurious dinner party for top achievers. The Apsara Dinner Cruise drifts down the Chao Phraya on a two-hour journey, allowing guests to take in the city’s iconic sites such as the Temple of Dawn and the Royal Palace at a leisurely pace. Menus and entertainment can be customised. • Good for up to 76 people • banyantree.com • [email protected]

Where the land and sea meet 22 Combine a luxury cruise of UNESCO World Heritage Site Halong Bay with an exclusive bird’s-eye view of the bay’s beauty. Live out a tale of Bhaya Cruises was recently the only operator given access to Trinh Nu Cave, and te company has stylishly renovated the cave and beach to cater to tailor-made corporate groups. Once the cruise is 18 onsen and washoku over, cap off the Vietnamese experience and climb board Northern Vietnam Helicopter Company’s Walk Japan, pioneers of off-the- helicopter, for an exclusive flight over Halong Bay for unforgettable views and lasting memories. beaten track walking tours in Japan, has • Good for up to 346 guests on Bhaya Cruises’ The Au Co; up to three guests per helicopter, with recently launched two Onsen Gastronomy staggered take-offs for larger groups tours that focus on Gifu and Nagano, and • vnhn.com.vn/en; bhayacruises.com/ Oita and Kumamoto. These tours can be • [email protected]; [email protected] customised for incentive groups. The Onsen Gastronomy tours are led by expert tour leaders. Besides taking in beautiful rural landscapes on foot, top achievers can immerse themselves in the traditional Japa- nese way of bathing at onsens, recharge at charming local inns, and feast on exceptional washoku (traditional Japanese cuisine). The experiences can be customised across various aspects, including duration, extent of walks and accommodation choice. • Good for up to 30 people • walkjapan.com Cover story

Restore one’s equilibrium 23 Complete relaxation awaits incentive winners as they sail Mauri- tius’ turquoise waters onboard a private catamaran. Dolphin watch- ing is first on the agenda, and if lucky, winners will be able to catch these beautiful mammals as they frolic in Tamarin Bay. The boat will then make its way to a patch reef that is home to colourful fishes and small crustaceans along the country’s western coast, where guests will be able to snorkel in the cool waters while a barbecue lunch is being prepared. More swimming, or lounging, can be had in the Indian Ocean after lunch, before the catamaran glides back to the pier in the late afternoon. Prices start from US$90 per pax, and includes beers, soft drinks, and lunch. • Good for up to 15 people per catamaran • kreola.mu • [email protected]

Dine well tonight Take an intimate look Get on the Pampanga 24 Singaporean company The Inside 26 at the world’s largest 28 and Zambales circuit Access offers a luxurious dining water show Deliver an all-rounded reward trip experience with its signature Chef On Board The House of Dancing Water show at the City in two Philippine provinces – Pampanga, the series, featuring a sundowner cruise with hors of Dreams Macau has been viewed by many, country’s culinary capital, and nearby Zam- d’oeuvres prepared by a culinary team or an but few have been allowed under its layers to bales, a paradise for tropical adventures. executive chef from a notable restaurants. see the secrets behind the massive production. At Pampanga, work in a trip to the crater Restaurant partners include big names like Grant your top achievers this precious peek of Mount Pinatubo on foot or by ATV; culinary Sushi Jin, Bistro Du Vin, Salted and Hung, and behind the scenes, where they will in 60 min- stops for rare foods like fried frogs legs and Pollen. Guests will also enjoy free flowing bev- utes discover machines that make the show crickets; retail therapy with export-quality erages and cocktails by the resident bartender, come to live, explore the unique backstage, furniture; and visits to vintage churches. who can deliver a customised drink based on and marvel at elaborate costumes and props. Over at Zambales, make time for beach any ingredient presented. • Good for eight to 20 people bumming, interactions with the indigenous • Good for 20 people • [email protected] Aeta communities in the mountains; and team- • theinsideaccess.asia building in the jungle. • [email protected] • Good for groups of any size • corporateintl.net More wine, anyone? • [email protected] 27 Discover a lesser-known side to Vietnam with Vietnam Wine Tours, which offers curated tours through Ninh Thuan, Dalat and the Mekong Delta taking visitors to off-the-beaten-track destinations to explore the country’s burgeoning – and widely unknown – wine industry. Tours can be curated for incentive winners and be combined with stops at grassroots businesses, including family-run textile shops, restaurants, medicine farms and herbal gardens. • Good for groups of any size • [email protected]

Make a toast Dive into a rare 25 The 300-year-old Naniwa Masam- une sake brewery in Hannan City 29 marine adventure hails from the Edo era, and is one of the oldest This is an incentive trip that in Osaka Prefecture. bestows upon participants abundant bragging From October to March, incentive winners rights, as the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is will be able to see how sake is made, from the only open for three months every year – March fermentation right through to the bottling. Visi- till June – and access is a pricey affair. tors who pop by other months of the year will The rare trip is made onboard a luxury ship, not get to see the brewery in production, but and participants will get to dive in the Sulu will still get a peek behind the scenes. Brewery Sea, at the centre of the Coral Triangle be- tours include a walkabout the 10th-generation tween Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines owner’s childhood home, which is a registered – said to be one of the best dive sites in the cultural asset of the city. world. It is home to nearly 600 species of fish, The tour ends – of course – with a tasting, up to 400 species of coral, 11 shark species, 12 where different types of sake can be sampled. dolphin and whales species, green sea turtles Kanpei! and more. • Good for up to 50 people • Good for 100 people • naniwamasamune.com • kirschnertravelmanila.com • [email protected] • [email protected] TTGmice August 2019 • 13

Ply a lesser-known Take in vistas atop 30 part of Halong Bay 31 the Great Wall Heritage Line’s new 10-suite vessel Get a rare opportunity to experience Ylang offers a 3D2N Senses of Lan Ha package two of The Great Wall of China’s prized that takes travellers on a trip around the region sections, Badaling and Mutianyu, in one day. of Lan Ha Bay, a quiet extension of the famed The six-hour journey, arranged by The Halong Bay. Incentive winners will begin their Peninsula Beijing for guests, begins with a cruise from a pier on Cat Hai island near Hai luxury transfer to the Badaling section. There, Phong, and go on land excursions from cycling they are met by a guide who will share stories to leisure hiking on the island of Cat Ba, as and historical facts throughout the climb. The well as visits to a remote Lan Ha Bay fishing reward is a breathtaking vista at the peak. At village. All excursions include a free half-day Mutianyu, a sumptuous brunch in a private Back to basics in onboard for participants to swim, kayak, prac- pavilion awaits. 34 Penampang tise yoga, or relax in a spa. • Good for up to 20 people When the city buzz gets too much, • Good for up to 20 people • [email protected] sneak your top achievers away to Penampang • heritage-line.com/ Village in Sabah, Malaysia where a half-day • [email protected] cultural experience awaits. Penampang Village is the hub of the Eye on the tiger Kadazandusun community, a mere 15-minute 32 To raise awareness of the dwindling drive from capital city Kota Kinabalu. population of wild tigers, Belmond Guests will visit the local market to pick is partnering Save Wild Tigers to offer a up food products and handicraft, and get to six-night itinerary onboard its Eastern and sample delicacies such as sago worms and Oriental Express, taking guests from Bangkok rice wine. The group then proceeds to Madam to Singapore through historic tiger territories Nurhanidah’s Kitchen for a hands-on experi- in Malaysia and Thailand. The package also ence cooking Borneo dishes such as hivana includes stays at the Siam Bangkok and (pickled fish salad), lihing (chicken with local Raffles Singapore, as well as a guided visit to rice wine), and rice cooked with yam and the River Kwai and a tour of Kuala Kangsar. wrapped in a leaf. • Enquire with Belmond for capacity • Good for 20 people • belmond.com/trains/asia/eastern-and- • borneotrails.com.my oriental-express/ • [email protected]

Arrive in style Go off-road in Mauritius 35 Give your top achievers a sexy 33 For the adventurous, this two-hour- entrance into Kuala Lumpur, with long quad biking activity with Pont rides on deep growling Harley Davidson Naturel Quad will hit the spot. Admire a diverse motorcycles that will also take in a scenic city landscape while riding on a 450cc quad through tour. sugarcane fields, vegetable plantations, and Begin the ride from Batu Caves, the oldest small rivers. The tour culminates with a stop at Hindu temple in Selangor with 272 steps, and Pont Naturel, a volcanic rock formation with a end at Petronas Twin Towers, the capital city’s natural bridge. Helmets are provided and a quick icon. Along the way, appreciate Malaysian course on handling the quad is conducted before landmarks such as the King’s Palace, National the fun begins. Monument, Perdana Botanical Gardens and • Good for 20 to 50 people on double quads old railway station. • www.noudeal.com/product/double-quad-ride/ • Good for 40 people • [email protected] • [email protected]

Get your groove on 36 at MARQUEE Break away from the gala dinner tradition and celebrate your winners with an extravagant carnival-esque party at the new MARQUEE night club in Marina Bay Sands. The three-storey megaclub – Singapore’s largest – spans more than 2,300m2 across three floors, with dramatically high ceilings of 30m. The venue promises to wow guests with its larger-than-life indoor fittings: a full- sized, eight-armed Ferris Wheel; a three-storey-high slide and a 20m-tall, 8k resolution LED screen – the largest in the world. • Enquire with the venue for capacity • marqueesingapore.com • marquee.reservations@marinabaysands. com Destination: Mauritius

auritius may be at least a medium-haul flight from most Indian Ocean’s parts of the world, but the island na- tionM definitely has the makings of an incentive destination. rising star The island nation of 2,040km2 is rich in scenic beauty and boasts a dramatic coastline fringed by white- From top: Aerial view Mauritius is gradually making its way to the sand beaches and turquoise waters, of Le Morne Brabant alongside a extensive bucket-list of peninsula; tee off at front of the resort destination crowd, and Xinyi Tamarina Golf & Spa activities both on land and in water Boutique Hotel; stand Liang-Pholsena shares why the island nation to provide once-in-lifetime experi- -up paddling at a ences to visitors. resort in Mauritius should be earmarked by incentive planners The country’s top tourism leaders and industry players see under-developed opportunity to grow Mauri- tius as an outbound destination for Asian travellers, whether for leisure or business. Anil Kumarsingh Gayan, minister of tourism, said: “We believe that Mauritius needs a share of the global tourism market. We want to promote Mauritius as a quality destination, and peg the country as a high-end destination.” In support of this, Arvind Bund- hun, director of Mauritius Tour- ism Promotion Authority (MTPA), revealed that the NTO has rolled out “big visibility campaigns” in key Asian markets like India and China to shore up destination awareness of Mauritius among travel opera- tors, OTAs and travel consumers alike. To court more incentive visitors to its shores, the MTPA has launched a Special Incentive Scheme, which includes grants of up to MUR200,000 (US$5,648) to MICE promoters; and provides a VAT refund scheme on accommodation costs for events with at least 100 foreign delegates staying a minimum of three nights. Bundhun also sees potential in “developing the golf market from Asia” for Mauritius, where ample greens are set against breathtaking Indian Ocean backdrops. On the island, travel and hospitality suppliers are getting into the act of wooing more corporate incentive groups too. Lahlali Moussa, general manager of Riu Le Morne Club Hotel & Resort and Riu Creole Club Hotel & Resort – two all-inclusive resorts located adjacent to each other on the Le Morne Peninsula in – told TTGmice that both properties have introduced Asian theme nights spot- lighting Thai, Indonesian and Chi- nese cuisines in their F&B outlets. TTGmice August 2019 • 15

DEVELOPMENTS TO WATCH

The Africa-Asia Air Corridor was launched in 2016 to connect both continents through the airports of Mauritius and Singapore. This project was envisioned1 to develop Mauritius as a major aviation hub of the region.

Head of the Catholic church, Pope Francis, is set to visit Mozambique, Madagascar and Mauritius from September 4-10. A Deluxe Villa in the Marguery Exclusive Villas resort 2When in Mauritius on September, he will celebrate a mass at Marie Reine Both resorts are also starting to make Mauritius a more attractive de la Paix, a popular prayer spot that oversees Port Louis. His visit is likely target corporate incentive groups destination for Asian markets. to cast global attention on Mauritius, from Asia. Said Moussa: “We are “Affordability and visibility” are a multi-ethnic country of which looking at possible venues in our key challenges for Mauritius, shared Christianity is among the key faiths. resorts to host events. Meanwhile, MTPA’s Bundhun, especially when we already have standard meeting it comes to marketing Mauritius to Air Mauritius’ new Airbus rooms with teambuilding and cook- the Asian markets, as competition is A330-900neo aircraft, ing classes.” intensifying especially between other Air Mauritius has taken Over in Black River-Tamarin resort destinations like the Maldives delivery of its first two Airbus district, Marguery Villas Conciergery and the Seychelles. A330-900neo aircraft, which3 are currently deployed on the & Resort – with its villa collec- Connectivity is hence key to make carrier’s London and Geneva routes. tion varying between one and four Mauritius a top-of-mind destination The addition of the A330neo, touted to rooms, each with their own pools for Asian corporate incentives and be more fuel efficient and flexible, will and garden gazebo – is a prime leisure market alike, a point that Air bolster the national carrier’s plans to fly example of Mauritius’ exceptional Mauritius’ CEO Somas Appavou is to more cities in Asia. and growing pool of lodging. Offer- now seeking to address. ing tailor-made services through its In Asia-Pacific, the national carrier concierge services, this property will currently flies to Delhi, Mumbai, make an ideal retreat that combine a Chennai and Bengaluru in India, vacation setting for C-suite meetings Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Shanghai, Taking inspiration from Singa- or teambuilding events. Hong Kong and Perth. pore as a key Asian hub, Appavou As well, Mauritius’ splendid natu- Appavou remarked that Air Mau- sees opportunity in positioning ral landscapes make an awe-inspir- ritius was climbing in Chinese traffic Mauritius as a hub between Asia ing backdrop for corporate incentive three years back, but the ongoing and Africa, having started the and teambuilding programmes, and Sino-US trade war coupled with an Africa-Asia Air Corridor a few is a key reason driving Sweety Mo- eroding yuan has caused the destina- years ago. heeputh, a veteran with two decades tion to lose momentum in courting This initiative has also helped of tourism industry experience, to the Chinese market. to market Mauritius as part of the set up her own quad bike company On its end, Air Mauritius is now “Blue and Green Safari” joint last year. trying to seal more alliances with campaign, which sees the Pont Naturel Quad offers ATV Chinese carriers. Said Appavou: “We island nation promoted as at- rides, as well as teambuilding and are working on (securing) partner- tractive tourism destinations private group tours to its namesake ships with Chinese carriers, and we alongside Kenya and South Pont Naturel (Natural Bridge) – an have started discussion with China Africa, said the tourism iconic volcanic rock formation that Eastern Airlines.” minister. looks like a man-made bridge – in southern Mauritius. Quad rides go around Pont Naturel, as well as to “Mauritius has a good mix of culture, nearby sights like Old Sugar Mill. Already, Pont Naturel Quad has gastronomy, activities and beautiful made inroads into the Chinese beaches which appeal to the Asian corporate incentive market, riding on market and caters to all tastes and the connectivity gains made with Air Mauritius’ connection to Shanghai as ages. Mauritius gives a feeling of well as seasonal charter flights from home better than home.” China. However, Moheeputh would like Arvind Bundhun the airfares and connections of Air Director, Mauritius to improve, in order to Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority Destination: Japan

the 58th Orient and South-east Asian Lions Forum. Shaping a city’s To prepare itself for more business events, Hiroshima has created four distinct convention zones, which can be utilised in isolation or combined events future for larger events. The Peace Memorial Park Zone brings together the International Hiroshima is putting its dark history behind Conference Center Hiroshima, Hiroshima City Cultural Exchange and stepping forth with a sharp suit to attract Hall, and JMS Aster Plaza; while the major business events, writes Julian Ryall adjacent Kamiyacho Zone covers the Hiroshima Prefectural Sports Center, Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima, NTT egional cities in Japan local businesses such as Mazda Mo- Cred Hall, and Hotel Mielparque with a compelling tale to tor that have contributed to the city’s Hiroshima. tell, the facilities to host prosperity. Next, the Hiroshima Station Pe- major events and the “Hiroshima’s position as an in- ripheral Zone includes the Hiroshima desire to build up their ternational city of peace and culture Convention Hall, Hotel Granvia Hi- Rbusiness events sector are reaching was further enhanced in 2016, when roshima, Sheraton Grand Hiroshima out to organisations and planners then-president Barack Obama – who Hotel, and Hiroshima Prefectural that are open to the idea of alterna- won the Nobel Peace Prize for his Medical Association Hall. The Grand tive host cities. efforts to achieve a world without Prince Hotel Hiroshima makes up And Hiroshima – best known nuclear weapons – became the first the final designated area, the Retreat around the world for its dark his- sitting US president to visit Hiro- Meeting Venue. tory – is leading the charge, with the shima,” she elaborated. Takefumi Yoshida of the city’s aim of building a brighter economic Events that Hiroshima has staged MICE Strategy Division, shared that future with the help of the business since then include the G7 Foreign the sector is working hard to “raise events sector. Ministers’ Meeting in April 2016; a the profile of Hiroshima at domestic “After Hiroshima was devastated 900-pax 25th International Congress and international trade fairs, (and) by the atomic bomb in 1945, people on Sound and Vibration in July 2018; reaching out directly to academic or- said that no plants would grow here and the One World, Many Voices: ganisations and through the nation’s From left: Miyajima for the next 75 years,” Akemi Saka- Science and Community that drew MICE ambassadors.” Island’s floating torii guchi, spokesperson of Hiroshima 604 delegates, also in July 2018. Sakaguchi added that Hiroshima gate; Rihga Royal Convention & Visitors Bureau’s pro- But the city has ambitions for is the “ideal destination for MICE Hotel Hiroshima events because it can encourage stands close to the motion department told TTGmice. larger events, and will test its mettle Hiroshima Peace “But Hiroshima has achieved this coming November when 10,000 solutions to problems and promote Memorial Park remarkable development, thanks to people are scheduled to take part in research”. TTGmice August 2019 • 17 TTGmice August 2019 • 17

“(Hiroshima is the) ideal destination for MICE events because it can have a presence in the city. cial and rural communities where Grand Prince Hotel But Kent believes that the outlook cooperation, collaboration, mindful- Hiroshima offers encourage solutions to extensive meeting for a city with a globally known his- ness and sustainable living – all the and conference problems and promote tory and a commitment to improving big words in global society today – facilities, and research.” its offerings is positive. continue to be the sinews of Japan’s overlooks the port “Getting off the Golden Route famed communal strength,” Kent and Miyajima Island Akemi Sakaguchi allows this situation to still be true elaborated. Spokesperson, promotion in 2019,” Kent added. “And it allows “These are the communities that department, the investment of coming to Japan grow the rice that fuels the cities and Hiroshima Convention & Visitors (to yield) a high return, by exposing provide MICE events with exquisite Bureau participants to what they have come sake-tasting experiences.” to experience – interaction with and As Matsuo Basho, Japan’s own learning from Japanese expertise and Shakespeare, so beautifully put The city is also promoting indi- culture, both traditional and modern. it, the true essence of Japan, and vidual venues and post-conference “Despite being home to one of the true learnings about Japanese attractions and facilities. These the world’s megacities in Tokyo, and people, society and culture, really include 12 unique venues within despite the accepted wisdom that are to be found in abundance on The the Hiroshima Regional Urban Kyoto is the spring from which all Narrow Road to the Interior (a travel Area, including art galleries, tradi- Japanese culture flows, the essence diary of linked prose and haiku), and tional Japanese gardens and temples. of Japan is very much in its provin- away from the Golden Route. Similarly, the A-Bomb Dome and Itsukushima Shrine, on the nearby island of Miyajima, are both UNESCO- recognised sites and consistently in TripAdvisor’s top three must-see sites DEVELOPMENTS TO WATCH in Japan. James Kent of Tokyo-based DMC Ten new hotels are scheduled to open in Hiroshima by the end of 2020, The J-Team, said an event in a adding more than 1,900 rooms to the city. Further along in 2022, the regional city like Hiroshima would Hilton Hiroshima is due to begin operations with an additional 415 rooms, give visitors to Japan a better sense restaurants and a spa, alongside state-of-the-art convention facilities for up to of what the country was like before 1,000 guests. mass international tourism arguably 1 took away from the experience at Hiroshima is pioneering an artificial intelligence (AI) system that is some of Kyoto’s most famous sights, designed to help visitors better plan their journeys to avoid congestion for example. around Itsukushima Shrine, the UNESCO World Heritage site on nearby Miyajima Island. “One of the joys of (organising) Named Hiroshima Sandbox, the system provides users with an MICE events in Japan in 2005 and 2estimated time for them to reach the site based on time of day, and mode of transport before was the fact that business to reach the ferry terminal to cross over to the island. To avoid car traffic, the system events could interact with experts provides visitors with information on how to best use public transport to reach their in its field that are from Japan and destination. The project will also estimate how many people are at the shrine at any the chosen event destination,” Kent given time and suggest other times in the future when it is likely to be less congested. said. “Put simply, the event could be The project is scheduled to run for three years and act as a pilot scheme for similar somewhere truly Japanese, and truly systems elsewhere in Japan. focused on the destination.” Hiroshima still needs to add hotel The city’s conventions bureau is developing a series of technical visits with major companies including Mazda Motor that are based in Hiroshima or accommodation, preferably at the have production facilities in the city or nearby. These will take the form of higher end of the spectrum, Kent factory tours or other interactions with representatives of these companies. opined, while business events would In all, the bureau is hoping to have 10 companies from a range of industries also appreciate opportunities to inter- take3 part in the scheme, which will enhance any large-scale event focused on act with some of the companies that industrial innovation and business. Destination: Qatar

s a swathe of interna- tionally-branded hotels geared towards the Qatar gets the business market open, and more innovative at- Atractions and activities emerge, Qatar is positioning itself as an attractive nod for events destination for business meetings and incentive travel. New business hotels, modern event venues Huge efforts are being ploughed From top: Doha’s ultra into transforming Qatar into a tourist modern cityscape; and good air connectivity are boosting Qatar’s destination, with the government dune-bashing fun in outlining the industry as a major the Qatari desert chances with planners. By Marissa Carruthers player in its Qatar National Vision “I also expect to see 2030, and the business events mar- more growth from ket’s potential is being realised. existing Asian markets Gerhard Stutz, general manager of Dusit Doha Hotel, which opened looking for new its doors in April, said: “The Qatar destinations (for business government is leaving no stone un- events).” turned in making the tourist journey in Qatar one of the most cherished.” Steve Lidgey, As part of the push, Qatar General manager, National Tourism Council (QNTC) Travel Asia a la Carte launched the country’s first global destination campaign to highlight visitor experiences, and celebrate the nation’s heritage last year. The campaign has being rolled out across 15 existing and target markets, with the goal of reaching more than 250 million travellers. As part of this, QNTC is aiming to capture business event travellers. Added Stutz: “There are exciting opportunities on the horizon as QNTC works towards enhancing the MICE sector.” Ahmed Al Obaidli, director of exhibitions at Qatar Tourism Author- ity (QTA), said Qatar was awarded TTGmice August 2019 • 19 the rights to host six major business DEVELOPMENTS TO WATCH events between 2019 and 2022, last year. This year, it will host the World Hamad International Airport (HIA), the global gateway to Qatar, has started Corporate Games – the first time it the second phase of its terminal expansion plans to accommodate 53 million has been held in the Middle East passengers annually by 2022. Coming up are a new cargo terminal and an – and is expected to attract about airport city which comprises a free trade zone, office and business complex 8,000 participants. and hotels. Al Obaidli added that Qatar offers 1 a variety of authentic experiences, Qatar Airways plans to increase its reach to around 220 destinations by including explorations of archaeolog- 2022, up from its current count of around 160 destinations. In December ical sites, forts and towers, as well as 2018, it started direct flights to Danang in Vietnam. Its network will grow this helicopter rides and a variety of city year with additions to Davao in the Philippines, and Langkawi in Malaysia. and desert tours that can be curated 2 for incentive groups. As Qatar gears up to host the FIFA World Cup 2022, the tourism industry is Qatar’s rich seafaring heritage cashing in. New hotels are preparing to open to cater to the influx of visitors, can also be explored with a cruise with an estimated additional 60,000 rooms entering the market ahead of along Doha’s shoreline in a tradi- the major sporting event. Additional activities and attractions are also being tional wooden dhow boat, and camel 3 developed, with huge infrastructure improvements being carried out. racing and a 4WD dune-bashing adventure can be carried out in the southern desert. There is also a range of watersport activities along Doha’s coastline. TALKING NUMBERS The nation is also home to a range of sophisticated convention and 68 exhibition facilities. The percentage of hotel occupancy The Qatar National Convention rate in 1Q2019, an 11 per cent YOY Centre (QNCC) features a 4,000-seat increase conference hall, 2,300-seat theatre, three auditoriums and several meet- 3.87 ing spaces. The centre also offers The average length of stay in 40,000m2 of column-free exhibition 1Q2019 in hotels and hotel space across nine halls, providing apartments, slightly up from 3.86 seating for up to 10,000 delegates. a year ago Meanwhile, Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre spans 90,000m2 1,079 spread across five pillarless halls, The number of new rooms in Qatar capable of seating more than 34,000 “With (all its hardware in 1Q2019 through six new proper- visitors. and accessibility ties. This brings the total of rooms Several of the destination’s to 26,890 across 129 properties heritage sites also provide a unique strengths), Qatar is setting for business events, such as sure to grab tourists’ the Katara Cultural Village and the eyeballs and emerge Museum of Islamic Art. tors – the potential is there. Stutz noted that with the country as the fastest growing Blaiklock remarked: “The govern- gearing up to host the FIFA World hub that offers an ment has an appetite to stage events. Cup 2022, a range of state-of-the-art all-encompassing I think Doha can position itself as a infrastructure is being developed, great MICE destination.” which will help raise the destina- experience, be it for work While Dubai remains the top tion’s profile globally. or leisure.” choice in the Middle East for busi- He added: “Aside from its globally ness events, Blaiklock observed that trending monuments and cultural Gerhard Stutz many corporates are now seek- heritage, Qatar boasts of hosting General manager, Dusit Doha Hotel ing somewhere different. He said: global trade fairs and conferences, “People are looking for new places which make it one of the most to go. Qatar is interesting, afford- lucrative destinations for business Markland Blaiklock, Centara’s able, easy to get to, and somewhere travellers, where they can double up deputy chief executive, said: “We that provides choices and alternative for their work, as well as plan some want to develop in the region as we activities.” leisure activities.” saw a great opportunity. Its loca- Qatar’s connectivity is another And Qatar’s tourism and business tion is the gateway between two selling point, with it serving as a events potential is drawing investors. continents and has an exotic nature. major transit hub between the east Thailand’s Centara Hotels recently Taking buggy rides to bash the dunes and west. The government has eased opened Centara West Bay Residences isn’t something you can do any- visa restrictions for many nationali- and Suites in Doha, and a second where.” ties and Qatar Airways operates its 509-key Centara Grand property He added that while tourism is QMICE arm, a one-stop-shop for is slated to open in the same city still in its infancy – in 2018, the meeting and incentive planners and before 1Q2020. country welcomed two million visi- conference organisers. Case study TTGmice August 2019 • 20 A splendid run in the park AIA discovers that plenty of good comes out of building a private sports event for staff and special guests on top of a public race, writes Prudence Lui

Event brief theme park zones were cordoned off. Space AIA Hong Kong and Macau has been the title along the running route was provided for at- Event sponsor for Hong Kong Disneyland Resort’s tendees to cheer runners on. AIA Vitality @ Work All In All (HKDL) 10K Weekend race for the past three As soon as the race concluded at 18.15, years. For the 2018 edition, the life insurance Appreciation 2018 Adventureland was swiftly reopened for regular group leveraged the public sports event to park visitors, while Toy Story Land and Grizzly create a special activity for its staff, business Venue Gulch remained closed for the event. partners, clients, and almost 100 guests from Hong Kong Disneyland Resorts To attract runners, a lucky draw was ar- underprivileged families and NGOs such as the ranged for the first 30 who completed the race, Music Children Foundation. Date where AIA dangled prizes such as a compli- AIA Vitality @ Work All In All Appreciation November 2, 2018 mentary stay at the new Frozen Suite at Hong 2018 was held on November 2, a day before Kong Disneyland Hotel. As a result, more than the public race. The 1.5-hour in-park route run Attendance 1,700 people participated in the private race. was combined with a buyout of HKDL, granting Approximately 6,700 participants access to the theme park’s limited- Key takeaways time Halloween attractions. By combining the HKDL 10K Weekend race Other highlights included a race kick-off of- with the park’s Halloween buyout experience, ficiated by CEO Peter Crewe and CHRO Maylie As well, as the event was held on a weekday AIA was able to fulfil its objectives of provid- Lee, accompanied by Mickey Mouse and Min- afternoon from 16.25 to 18.00, organisers had ing a staff incentive, engaging underprivileged nie Mouse in sports gear; an extra showing of to entice participation from family members of communities, and living out its commitment to the We Love Mickey Projection Show; a guests- the staff, clients and business partners. helping people live healthier, longer and better only performance of Moana: A Homecoming Alternative programmes also had to be ar- lives. Celebration; photo opportunities with Iron Man; ranged for participants who chose not to run. Building the private event on top of a promi- and a special balloon twister and atmosphere nent public event also reinforced corporate performances in Fantasyland. Solutions pride through extensive branding, from event To clearly identify event attendees from regular stage backdrop and finish arches to AIA logo Challenges park visitors, event organisers created a range projections by Gobo light at Tomorrowland, Large-scale events typically come with logisti- of branded credentials such as bibs for run- Toy Story Land and Adventureland entrances cal challenges. As the AIA Vitality @ Work All ners, colourful lanyards, specially-designed during the run. In All Appreciation 2018 private run was held runners T-shirts, and wristbands for all guests. Additionally, the private run allowed Disney inside the Disneyland park and during regular As well, separate entrances were designated VoluntEars – a CSR effort managed by Disney- operation hours, event organisers also had to for event attendees. land cast members – and AIA corporate volun- take into consideration park visitors to ensure To accommodate the private run, Adven- teers to collect recyclable plastic cups used by safety for all. tureland, Toy Story Land and Grizzly Gulch runners to minimise waste on site.

“HKDL 10K Weekend embodies our vision for healthy living. Combining the event with an exclusive park buyout is the perfect platform for us to deliver a truly special experience to engage our clients, staff and the wider community, and share our messages and values. The Disney team always goes the extra mile to make every one of our events magical.” Peter Crewe, CEO, AIA Hong Kong and Macau Over coffee with TTGmice August 2019 • 21

5,000m2, World Trade Center Manila has 10,000m2, and SMX Convention Center Manila has 10,000m2. All three combined Renato Padilla offer less than 30,000m2 of space. How is PICC doing on the exhibition As general manager of the Philippine front? We need an honest to goodness exhibi- International Convention Center (PICC) for the tion centre connected to PICC. We need last 15 years, Padilla knows the country’s MICE an area where we can exhibit heavy materials like military equipment, boats, panorama like the palm of his hands. He tells trucks, etc. Money is in exhibitions. Where before Rosa Ocampo what the Philippines needs to an exhibition was part of a congress, now exhibitions are standalone events. restore its shine in business events Organisers will sell on a per square foot basis that they get from an exhibition centre, and that is where the money The Philippines was once the toast of they don’t understand. (comes from), even for local associa- the business events industry in Asia, tions. with PICC being the first convention Philippine convention centres are centre in South-east Asia. How can we dwarfed by big venues in the region. But there’s not enough space within bring back the heyday? Can the Philippines catch up? the PICC grounds. What we need is a mindset from the De- We’re already behind in Asia. At the mo- PICC is within the Cultural Center of the partment of Tourism (DoT) to strengthen, ment, our South-east Asian and (wider) Philippines (CCP) complex. CCP has di- and work on selling and marketing the Asian neighbours have managed to build vided the 60-hectare property into seven Philippines as a convention destination to structures as huge as 100,000m2. zones to develop into revenue-producing international and regional associations. We cannot even bid for big trade exhibi- clusters like theatre, condominium, etc. We tried that in 1978 when I was the tions. If a country is to become a member I brokered discussions between CCP marketing manager of the Philippine of the United Federation of Exhibition and the Development Bank of the Philip- Convention and Visitors Corp. (PCVC), Centres, (it pines – the infrastructure bank of the now the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB, needs to have government – to sell the land to Bangko DoT’s marketing arm). We were very suc- a) minimum Sentral ng Pilipinas (Philippine Central cessful. of 30,000m2 Bank), which owns PICC. An interna- Convention promotion was handled by of exhibition tional convention centre and an interna- TPB while DoT concentrated on tourists. space. tional exhibition centre are complement- (As such) we already had one foot in the Sad to ing projects (but there are no results yet). associations door in the 1980s. say we don’t TPB formed a MICE department recent- have that in Being government-owned, does PICC ly, but a Philippine Convention Bureau the Philippines. get marketing assistance from the must be formed. Today, practically every PICC has government? city in the world has a convention bureau PICC has to market itself. to handle destination market. In compari- son, we do not have a convention bureau So what is PICC doing itself to and neither do our cities. bring in business? Infrastructure is being built and new One of the successful things PICC hotels are coming up but the government did was to have the Office of the has to take the lead in promoting and President issue a circular in 2017 marketing (the country for events). directed at government agencies and government-owned and con- Is the government receptive to these trolled corporations to hold events ideas? at PICC, where no downpayment Ten years ago, we tried persuading them was required. to have a convention bureau. It’s all in The campaign is snowballing. We the mindset. Local government units had a 30 per cent increase in business (LGUs) have to be development-oriented but more now. and help the business events industry. Several years ago, we formed the Some LGUs are doing that but (in a) very PCAAE (Philippine Council for Associa- limited (way). We tried to talk to Pasay tions and Association Executives) with City (where Manila’s main convention CEO Bobby Peralta and TPB in the hope centres including PICC are located), but that it will pick up the education and information aspects for local associations, and empower them to be able to “We’re already behind in Asia... bid for their counterpart institutions and We cannot even bid for big trade congresses. PICC has provided the venue for the exhibitions.” yearly PCAAE summit. People TTGmice August 2019 • 22

Appointments

Bruno Huber Jill Goh John Davison Martin R Smura Melanie Taylor

Bruno Huber three decades worth of with Mandarin Oriental John Davison guidance and leadership. The Swiss hotelier has management experience. Hotel Group since 1993. Four Seasons Hotels and been appointed general The Malaysian has Resorts has named John Melanie Taylor manager of Mövenpick Jill Goh served in various capaci- Davison as its president Cloud-based venue BDMS Wellness Resort The Landmark Mandarin ties in both the corporate and CEO effective im- software company Bangkok. The 15-year Oriental, Hong Kong’s office, and in the group’s mediately. An 18-year EventBooking now has veteran of Mövenpick newest general manager properties in London, veteran of Four Seasons, representation in Asia- Hotels & Resorts’ has has been with has been Singapore and Macau. Davison had been serv- Pacific with the addition ing as interim CEO since of Melanie Taylor to the the end of 2018. He first team. She joined the joined the company’s company in the newly- executive ranks in 2002 recreated post of Asia Catch up and has served as CFO Pacific sales director, since 2005. overseeing VenueOps from Australia. Martin R Smura James Kang Kempinski Group has Patrick Imbardelli appointed Smura as Next Story Group has CEO. Prior to joining appointed Patrick Im- Kang shares how his passion for bringing still thinking about the Kempinski, he was bardelli as chairman of people together led him to the formation of company! executive chairman of its board. The hospitality MEPS International, South Korea the board of the Dorint veteran was formerly the Do you have a hidden chief executive Asia- talent? Hotel Group. Smura has Pacific of InterContinen- What inspired you to ter, what would it be? I can drink very fast. I can also spent 15 years with start your own event A machine that could clean out a cup of iced Intercontinental Hotels tal Hotels Group, and management company? duplicate me! I could use Americano in 15 seconds Group (IHG) in various the chief executive and I wanted to connect peo- five of me at least! or a bottle of water in half capacities such as direc- board member of Pan ple, and business events is a minute. Since I cannot tor operations in East Pacific Hotels Group. all about bringing people What’s keeping you seem to control my drink- and Western Europe. together. It is a simple rea- busy – or awake at night ing speed, I usually order Shannon Hyland son, but it is not an easy – these days? a hot drink even if the Martin Sirk RoomIt by CWT has ap- job. To make my vision a weather is sweltering. I’ve got many mega Global Association Hubs pointed Shannon Hyland reality, I chose to start my – Karen Yue events that are up in as senior vice president own event management the air, as clients are Partnerships has ap- of global supply. Prior to company. still deliberating the pointed the former ICCA destination or DMC. head to lead it into a joining, Hyland was CEO What aspect of business Also keeping me up at new era as its interna- and executive vice presi- events management do night are thoughts about tional advisor. In his new dent of Radius Travel for you love most? how I can develop and role, Sirk will provide the past 11 years. I love the planning pro- optimise my business. cess which requires plenty of creativity and imagina- I hope you get to relax! tion. I also like delivering Speaking of that, what on the ideas. I find it very do you do for fun in satisfying when I see my between events? guests enjoying the fruits When free time does of my labour. open up, I travel and catch up with If there could be a new friends. But technology invention to even so, help you do your job bet- I’m always

Martin Sirk Shannon Hyland 24 – 26 September 2019 Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld Bangkok, Thailand

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