IT&CMA and CTW Asia-Pacific September 27, 2017 • Bangkok, Thailand

Breaking MICE away from tourism

By Pamela Chow For some countries, CVBs played by Singapore, said growth across the economy, said associations can even “play a Despite the region’s burgeoning are non-existent while in others James Latham, The Iceberg Williams. leading role in talking to the growth in MICE numbers, CVBs they play a limited role – like in and the Joint Meetings Industry This includes local associa- government” to develop a city’s grapple with limited support India where the India Conven- Council. Although MICE devel- tions, private companies in the MICE capabilities. from government bodies, citing tion Promotion Bureau does not opments share the city-state’s industry and the academic com- To this effect, TCEB has the main problem of being con- bid for events and Hyderabad tourism budget, it responds munity. pulled its weight in the ASEAN flated with tourism. Convention Visitors directly to the Prime Minister’s Williams cited the example of committee. “In Asia-Pacific, Bureau is the country’s Office under the Singapore how Gaining Edge worked with Waraporn shared that the everybody’s been only city-level CVB. Tourism Board. universities such as Melbourne bureau “has been engaging eager to jump onto Conversely, un- This has allowed Singapore, University to lobby more gov- with ASEAN, and for next the MICE bandwagon, der the Thailand as well as other cities such ernment support for scientific year’s ASEAN Tourism Forum, but (because) they 4.0 scheme, TCEB’s as London, to target specific academia and research – an we’ve created the ASEAN MICE don’t all understand “strength” is in report- sectors for economic effort which led to the Forum”. why, most of them are ing directly to the growth by creating construction of a new She added: “We looked into driven by the need to Latham: Prime Minister’s Office, “clustered” events like international conven- engaging city-level profession- grow visitor num- MICE supports said Chiruit Isarangkun Singapore Medical tion centre. als and ASEAN experts to meet bers. As such, (MICE economic growth Na Ayuthaya, president Week and London Tech He also mentioned within an official framework”. has) been driven very much of TCEB. Week. that the Malaysia Jason Yeh, president of ICCA by tourism efforts,” said Mike This has in turn created One solution to Convention & Exhibi- Asia Pacific and association Williams, senior consultant, the opportunity for a holistic unlocking support and tion Bureau currently president and destination mar- Gaining Edge. marketing strategy, as well as funding is that CVBs Williams: helps develop and keting of Taiwan Convention Thailand Convention and allowed TCEB to benefit from should collaborate with communicate with strengthen associa- and Exhibition Association, Exhibition Bureau’s (TCEB) firsthand information and “key industry com- the government tions’ local presence to urged CVBs to have targeted Waraporn Sornprom agreed, and updates on government policies, munities” to commu- build membership and initiatives by “(creating their) observed: “The MICE industry explained Chiruit. nicate to the government that foundation before bidding on an own events to match desti- is not heard on government Such integrated government the MICE industry is “more international platform. nation positioning and city platforms (in Asia).” support is the same advantage than tourism”, but also spurs Williams added that, in fact, branding”. Terror fears sink in globally IT&CMA, CTW gears up for the future as they hit milestones Terror threats and security Despite sharing Tran’s concerns are having a bigger observation that security tends As IT&CMA celebrates bearing on choice of incentive to be a secondary priority to its 25th edition this year destinations today, buyers at budget, Anthenie Leonardo, and CTW Asia-Pacific its IT&CMA said. branch manager of FCM Travel 20th, organisers TTG Asia Bernd Maesse, managing Solutions, said: “News has Media announces an ex- director of MaesseMarketing- huge impact on (choice of) tension of its partnership Consulting based in Cologne, destination, for instance the with Thailand Conven- said over 50 per cent of his Marawi incident, a number of tion and Exhibition Bu- incentive clients today are more Belle Horizon Travel Ventures (local) incentive groups were reau (TCEB) until 2020, sensitised to safety concerns Philippines’ Jobelle Co Lim and FCM cancelled.” with TCEB president such as terror attacks, altbough Travel Solutions Philippines’ Athenie However, in particular cases, Chiruit Isarangkun Na Leonardo the effect varies depending conferences attract more par- Ayuthaya affirming the on the sector. Pharmaceutical safety concerns – even without ticipants when held in areas in show’s “instrumental” From left: TTG Asia Media’s Darren Ng, TCEB’s companies for example are official travel warnings. tumult. role in showcasing Thai- Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya and Thai more guided by safety fears In such cases, clients tend to Joe Calstas, director general, land’s business events Airways International’s Pariya Chulkaratana give compared to the automobile either be advised by Prestige, board member of the Geneva- potential and multiplying IT&CMA and CTW Asia-Pacific 2017 a thumb-up sector, where factors such as which relies on ground opera- based Institute of Journalism the events and visitors to where companies do overseas tors for information, or make and Communication, said deci- Thailand over the past decade. ing the two-day Associations business with also determine up their own minds. sions to hold conferences in a “We have come a long way Day programme. the incentive destination. Jonathan Tran, executive particular country are based since IT&CMA’s inception in Hoping to “question and He said Turkey and Egypt are director of Lac Hong Voyages, on their relevancy to current 1993 and CTW Asia-Pacific’s answer the rapidly changing no longer the hot destinations Vietnam, said that the foremost issues, and participation tends in 1998,” said Darren Ng, MICE and corporate travel in- they once were for his clients. considerations when choosing to not been impacted by safety managing director of organiser dustries” in Asia-Pacific are the “Once the government issues a destination for incentive and concerns. Citing an example, TTG Asia Media, reflecting over 20 educational sessions a travel advisory about a par- corporate meetings are budget, he said the Nuclear Accord: on how the double-billed lined up this year, led by over ticular destination, clients will safety and then facilities. Great Step Towards Respect show was initially born 50 speakers from government avoid the destination because Unrest in certain areas in and Stability conference which out of the lack of business bodies, industry specialists, they will not be covered by the Philippines is affecting took place in Iran in 2015 events and corporate travel academia and associations. insurance,” he added. domestic buyers too. Jobelle attracted 107 delegates, more specialisation in and around This year’s event will stretch However, Kuala Lumpur- Co Lim, general manager of than was anticipated. Similarly Asia-Pacific. networking beyond show dates, based Prestige Vacation Belle Horizon Travel Ventures, in 2015, a conference in Istan- Today, the show floor beginning with Bangkok Mar- Network managing direc- said some Filipino clients are bul with content on the Middle has witnessed a 43 per cent riott Marquis Queen’s Park’s tor, Terence Chew, said his avoiding Mindanao and choos- East attracted 739 delegates, growth in booth expansion pre-show work-and-play re- incentive clients are avoiding ing destinations perceived to be again exceeding the expected and take-up, with some CVBs treat, and ending with Tourism countries such as Myanmar, the safer, such as Singapore, Japan turnout. – Mimi Hudoyo and S expanding their outreach by Promotions Board Philippines’ UK, Paris and Belgium due to and South Korea. Puvaneswary opting for presentations dur- post-show fam trips. Talk of the trade

Bangkok most Business events to ensure visited, Shanghai sees best biz- inclusive growth for all: TCEB leisure split

But the real impact of business events jobs could be created for the locals,” As Bangkok clinched top spot in the runs far deeper than the numbers can said Chiruit. Mastercard Global Destination Cities reveal. He said: “Tourism and business Illustrating an example of what TCEB Index for the second year running in events grow at a different pace. Business will do, Chiruit pointed to the annual 2016, Mastercard revealed that the 20 events growth follows the country’s Lanna Expo in Chiang Mai, which fo- most visited cities are seeing majority of investments and trade. It boosts tourism cuses on products and services originat- travel for leisure rather than business. performance, but the two are not the ing from the Northern Thai provinces. Shanghai emerged as an exception, same. TCEB stepped in to hire an experi- with a considerable 48.4 per cent of “The problem for us is that many enced organiser who guided the show visitors on business, compared to Kuala people still see business events and towards a better structure, such that Lumpur, which saw the largest percent- tourism as one and the same. I’ve been different products were categorised and age of leisure visitors (92.2 per cent). trying to explain the difference to both featured properly, and to host members In terms of overall international the government and the private sector. of different Thai chambers of commerce visitor numbers, Bangkok led the pack Even the UNWTO defines business as well as traders from Myanmar and (19.4 million), followed by London events as a component of tourism, Laos to give the event a B2B focus. (19.1 million), Paris (15.5 million), which (deepens) the misunderstanding. “This year, we are pouring four Dubai (14.9 million), Singapore (13.1 “Top-level people in the government million baht into research to boost the million), New York (12.7 million), Seoul needs to understand the definition of show’s B2B focus,” he shared. (12.4 million), Kuala Lumpur (11.3 mil- business events in order to give it the For the Lanna Expo, TCEB works lion), Tokyo (11.2 million) and Istanbul TCEB’s new chief, Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, right attention and support for develop- closely with Chiang Mai’s Ministry of (9.2 million). reveals plans to nurture domestic tradeshows ment.” Commerce “to bring the show’s focus Among the top 10, Tokyo is projected TCEB’s victory for now is that it sits beyond the domestic market, to acquire to see highest growth (+12.2 per cent), By Karen Yue right under the Prime Minister’s Office, the foreign buyer presence, and to push followed by Dubai (+7.7 per cent), The new president of Thailand Conven- “which bodes well for business events domestic trade shows and the local Kuala Lumpur (+7.2 per cent) and tion and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), related policies”, according to Chiruit. trade they support into the international London (+five per cent) – while New Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, is “While TCEB’s main responsibility is marketplace”. York is the only city expected to witness determined to drive home the fact that to bring in international business events The ultimate goal is for Lanna Expo a dip (-2.4 per cent). business events and tourism is not one and delegates, we must never forget – and any other tradeshows TCEB sup- The report also revealed that lodg- and the same. the importance of inclusive growth. ports – to fly independently. ing was the most expensive part of the And to do that, TCEB is using trade- We need to also help develop domestic Chiruit shared that TCEB has also trip when visiting Paris (44.8 per cent), shows to support the development of enterprises, so we can all share in the started a tradeshow in Chiang Mai that Milan (40.4 per cent) and Rome (40.4 local industries. benefits,” he said. focuses on coffee and bakery. per cent). And with efficient transport In an interview with TTG Show Daily With this plan in mind, TCEB will “TCEB isn’t just interested in support- systems, less was spent on transit in ahead of IT&CMA 2017, Chiruit shared appoint area managers in emerging Thai ing OTOP (One Tambon One Product, London (4.3 per cent), Singapore (4.6 that over the last decade, Thailand has destinations like Khon Kaen and Chiang a local entrepreneurship sustainability per cent), and Hong Kong (4.6 per made approximately 150 billion baht Mai to develop small tradeshows that programme) type of initiatives. We cent). (US$4.5 billion) in revenue from the will grow the destination for business would like to also grow a local ceramic Osaka is a key contender for top 10, business events industry. The business events as well as advance local busi- tradeshow, a silk tradeshow, an automa- with strongest growth performance events industry created 164,000 jobs nesses. tion tradeshow or any tradeshow for (for 2009-2016 period) at 24 per cent, and brought the government around “These managers must have the mind industries aligned with the Thailand 4.0 followed by Chengdu (+22.7 per cent) 10.5 billion baht in taxes. of an economist, to be able to see how (economic model),” he said. and Colombo (20.3 per cent).

PIGS DMC flies with “Rolls Royce of dinners”

TTG Travel Trade Publishing is a business group A gala dinner that features seven rare of TTG Asia Media vintage Champagnes which come paired Editorial with a curated musical programme of Karen Yue Group Editor opera, jazz, classic vinyl pieces, dances, Xinyi Liang-Pholsena Deputy Editor, TTG Asia and Michelin inspired dishes will soon S Puvaneswary Editor, Malaysia/Brunei Mimi Hudoyo Editor, Indonesia be an experience available to those Pamela Chow Reporter, Singapore looking to impress the crème de la Rachel AJ Lee, Yixin Ng Sub Editors crème of their business partners. Redmond Sia, Goh Meng Yong Aptly named The Ultimate Cham- Creative Designers Caleb Richard Lai Photographer pagne Dinner, the idea was developed Lina Tan Editorial Assistant by Athikom Jeerapairotekun, manag- ing director of Thailand-based Premier Special Projects Division Paige Lee Pei Qi Assistant Editor, Incoming Group Services – PIGS DMC. Special Projects The Ultimate Champagne Dinner was launched yesterday at IT&CMA 2017, CONTRIBUTORS Prudence Lui, Rohit Kaul, through a surprise opera performance Julian Ryall, Rosa Ocampo, by Stefan Sanchez, CEO of Grand Opera Marissa Carruthers, Thailand and impresario during a sales & marketing morning coffee break. Sanchez is also Michael Chow Group Publisher the curator of The Ultimate Champagne Ar-lene Lee Senior Business Manager Dinner’s musical programme. Pierre Quek Publisher, Online Section Ingrid Chung Business Manager “This is the Rolls Royce of dinners. Delegates emerging from the ASEAN MICE Forum yesterday for their coffee break were surprised by an Cheryl Lim Advertisement It’s a once-in-a-lifetime event and, due opera performance by Grand Opera Thailand’s Stefan Sanchez (centre), a fun stunt by Premier Incoming Administration Manager to the scarcity of the vintage Cham- Group Services – PIGS DMC for its launch of a new luxury dinner event idea. Photo by Richard Caleb Lai Cheryl Tan Corporate Marketing Manager pagnes, this is not for everyone and is Kwek Wan Ling Marketing Executive reserved for a very exclusive and extra To complete the exclusive experience would love to arrange this at The Slate publishing services special occasion,” remarked Athikom. promised by The Ultimate Champagne in Phuket or at 137 Pillars or Dhara Tony Yeo Division Manager While Athikom declined to state the Dinner, Athikom recommends that a Dhevi in Chiang Mai,” he said. Lynn Lim Web Executive Katherine Leong price range for this idea, David Barrett, “flexible and fabulous” venue be used. The event ideally takes 12 to 16 Circulation Executive CEO of Hype Global, who represents “Our preferred venues would be Nai guests, or up to 32 people. PIGS DMC is PIGS DMC as its publicity agent, re- Lert Heritage House in central Bang- able to execute the event in other desti- TTG Asia Media Darren Ng Managing Director vealed that one of the vintage cham- kok. We also have a couple of palaces nations, and is in talks with clients who Raini Hamdi Senior Editor pagne costs a whopping 50,000 baht and historic landmarks that we can have requested for Vietnam, Cambodia (US$1,507) per bottle. open doors to. (Beyond) the capital, we and Dubai. – Karen Yue

2 SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 • TTG Show Daily IT&CMA and CTW Asia-pacific Talk of the trade

for delegate welcome activities and cultural performances for our guests.” Tier-2 cities taking the crown Chuo believes that Sarawak’s busi- ness events industry can benefit from By Pamela Chow Sarawak is another destination that strong 13th World Islamic Economic having more direct international flights South-east Asia’s tier-two cities are has enjoyed a recent spike in demand. Forum. and connections. climbing the popularity charts for Around for seven years, the Borneo Eric Chuo, research & development He explained that the city currently meetings and incentive programmes, as Convention Centre Kuching began to manager of Borneo Convention Centre relies on transit flights from Kuala corporates hunt down destinations with receive more convention crowds in the Kuching, said: “We work closely with Lumpur and Singapore, as well as more unique venue offerings. last three to four years. In November, the Sarawak Convention Bureau and AirAsia’s recently launched connection “Meeting planners want something the centre will host the 2,000 pax- the Tourism Board, to get their support between Penang and Chengdu. different (beyond) the usual hotel venues,” said Crystal Sim, president & CEO of Albatross World Travel & Tours. “Second-tier cities are coming up much faster than we expected.” For example, Penang has picked up as a destination offering unique meet- ing spaces, such as heritage buildings, cafes with private venues, and iconic locations such as Penang Hill and the City Hall. “It has always been an incentives game for Penang,” Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau’s CEO, Ashwin Gu- nasekeran, told TTG Show Daily. “But there has been a good level of growth for us in the conference, meetings and associations segments.” The state’s Setia Spice Convention Centre has been expanded to become the world’s first hybrid solar-powered convention centre, and by 2019, the city will be home to nine new hotels, said Ashwin. The Light Waterfront, a mega devel- opment on the island’s eastern coast- line, will also soon launch Penang’s second convention centre. Penang’s growing popularity among business event planners is giving the destination “a good trigger to renovate the airport and expand it,” said Ashwin.

A little birdie told us... By Yingyong Un- anongrak and Kong Yeean Leng

LagunaPhuket LagunaPhuketResort

SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 • TTG Show Daily IT&CMA and CTW Asia-pacific 3 Destination: Taiwan

Talking numbers

The number of function rooms Taking a new direction 21at Taichung Cultural & Creative Industries Park, one of the country’s Faced with dwindling arrivals from China, Taipei targets South-east Asian heritage venues corporates with rewards, refurbished halls and new venues. By Pamela Chow The number of seats in

wen alan/shutterstock 3,100the Taipei International Chinese visitors in 1H2016 as compared Convention Centre’s Plenary Hall, to the same period in 2015,” said Kitty the largest convention theatre in the Wong, president of K&A International. country “But (arrivals from) other countries have made up for it.” Capitalising on this, K&A is eyeing incentive groups from Muslim markets in NT$1 million Asia, the Middle East and UAE. The maximum subsidy amount, Meanwhile, Sheraton Grand Taipei equivalent to US$33,282, offered by Hotel has been receiving more incentive the Economic Development Bureau of and meeting groups from the Philippines the Taichung City Government to inter- and Thailand, said Betty Tsai, its director national events held in Taichung of sales and marketing. Tsai observed that corporates from these countries often favour local experi- ences such as visiting the Huashan and Viewpoints Songshan Cultural and Creative Parks, Which geographical markets will shine cycling and experiencing the Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival. for your company in 2018 and why? To stay competitive, Sheraton Grand Taipei Hotel has transformed its two Our source markets with basement levels into a dedicated event the most demand are Hong Kong and Singa- space, comprising a Grand Ballroom for pore. They have seen about 1,000 pax, a Chinese restaurant a rise of 20 per cent and eight breakout rooms. in 1H2017 compared W Taipei is also pulling its weight with 1H2016. with bespoke meeting packages for event Shufen Ho, director of planners, said general manager Harvey commercial strategy, Thompson. These include Meeting Cou- Mandarin Oriental Taipei Taiwan tourism authorities are working to make heritage venues open for private business events; Taipei Story House pictured is one such venue now available to planners ture, which gives planners full customisa- tion power within the hotel’s spaces, as With the government’s Southbound Policy well as the Sustainable Meeting Package and focused promotional efforts in South- s Taiwan sees a shrink- suppliers and organisers on how to better which includes eco-friendly perks like east Asia, we expect to see more associa- ing volume of Mainland bid for international conferences, said Di. public transport cards and CSR activities. tions and delegates coming from that region. Chinese travellers, event and Under Taiwan’s tourism bureau, the “Meetings have moved away from the We’ll follow very closely in this direction too. venue operators in Taipei are BEST (Business Events in Surprising meeting room setting. Now the experi- Marie Wu, representative, reinventing their offerings to Taiwan) Rewards Programme has also ence is about being loungey, unique and Taipei International Convention Centre wooA South-east Asian crowds. been introduced to entice organisers and something you don’t see every day,” said MEET Taiwan – the business events conference groups with inspection subsi- Thompson. “W Hotel has a young and Chen said: “Taipei needs more unique promotion agency under the Bureau dies, visa application counselling, MEET more playful approach in our design. We spaces, such as museums or historical of Foreign Trade – is taking the lead Taiwan discount cards and more. want people to enjoy the space, which buildings, for companies to hold offsite by ramping up its promotional efforts This comes after the launch of the can help them relax and be focused.” gala dinners. Areas like Songshan Park aimed at South-east Asia, said Nana Di, Southbound Policy, which provides subsi- The new high-speed rail link from are not big enough, and clients want project manager, convention section II, dies, administrative assistance, souvenirs Taipei Taoyuan International Airport to something more exciting compared to Taiwan World Trade Centre Exhibition and more for incentive groups hailing Taipei Nangang Exhibition Centre (TNEC) exhibition centres.” and Convention Operation Department of from the 10 South-east Asian countries, has also helped draw trade shows and Getting heritage venues to open up is the Taiwan External Trade Development six nations in South Asia, as well as Aus- corporate events to the city, observed a challenge, remarked Di, who explained Council (TAITRA). tralia and New Zealand. The government assistant vice president of GIS Group, that the preservation of these landmarks These include twice-yearly SENSE also plans to extend visa-free privilege to Amber Chen. Coming up, TNEC will alone is difficult, hence venue owners Taiwan fam trips dedicated to South-east Filipinos within this year. have its second hall built by 2018. are often reluctant to host large delegate Asian buyers and increasing its network- Thanks to the policy, arrival numbers The government is also seeking to groups. ing roadshows in the region to twice a have picked up significantly from source open up more conserved heritage sites Still, TAITRA is working on making year. markets such as Malaysia, the Philippines and buildings, with MEET Taiwan in- more of such historical venues available, TAITRA has also been working with and Thailand, said industry players. creasing dialogues with heritage venues, especially for receptions and gala dinners, ICCA to hold workshops that educate “There was a 50 per cent drop in hoteliers and conference organisers. said Di. On the shelves

Spot Taipei in a race against time and enjoy salt- An old mansion where the late US vice flavoured ice cream. president Richard Nixon stayed, this colonial-style building on Zhongshan North Kishu An Forest of Literature Road has been preserved and converted The recently restored Kishu An was a his- into Spot Taipei, an art and film house with torical restaurant under Japanese colonial event spaces such as a multifunctional rule before being converted into personnel hall, a cinema, an outdoor garden and a dormitory for the Chinese Nationalist gov- lounge for more intimate meetings. The ernment. Located in southern Taipei in the largest space, the cinema, offers 83 seats. cradle of literary societies and prestigious publishers, Kishu An has been revamped Anshun Salt Fields to accommodate more visitors within its From left: Kishu An Forest of Literature; Caesar Park Taipei Built in the 1920s at the height of salt pro- reading, performance and coffee spaces. duction in Taiwan, the 350-hectare Anshun national express delivery and business card of Kaohsiung. It is located in Xinxing District, Salt Fields were destroyed by typhoons in Caesar Park Taipei printing. 8.1 km from Kaohsiung International Airport. 2016. Now, corporate groups can help with Located across Taipei Main Station, the The hotel features cheekily designed reconstruction efforts here, or even harvest recently opened Caesar Park Taipei brings guestrooms with signature art work and their own salt. The Eco-cultural Village has 478 rooms to the heart of the city. Free Hotel Indigo Kaohsiung spa-inspired showers. Delegates can unwind educational tours of the salt-making pro- Wi-Fi is provided in each guestroom, and Central Park over tailored cocktails at the top-level bar, or cess, including a preserved workers village. a modern e-Lounge provides business Opened in 2016, Hotel Indigo Kaohsiung Cen- hop onto the subway from the nearby Central At the nearby Sio House (Salt Museum), travellers with essential services such tral Park brings the playful boutique design of Park Station and explore local attractions like delegates can crack salt-encrusted eggs as small conference room rental, inter- Hotel Indigo to the colourfully industrial city Shinkuchan and Liuhe Night Market.

4 SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 • TTG SHOW DAILY IT&CMA AND CTW ASIA-PACIFIC

Destination: Vietnam Vaulting business ambitions Vietnam’s business events industry has come a long way in recent years, but without an increase in manpower and proper long-term planning, it would be difficult to grow further. Marissa Carruthers reports Michal Jastrzebski/shutterstock ietnam is the region’s Viewpoints fastest-growing business events destination, with Which geographical markets will shine giant strides having been for your company in 2018? made in recent years. VFor instance, the entry of a string of four- and five-star international hotels The domestic MICE mar- ket is booming and we targeting the business tourism sector expect that to continue throughout 2016 and 2017, such as the JW as this clientele likes Marriott Hotel Hanoi and InterContinental booking three- and Nha Trang, has played a major role in four-bedroom proper- stimulating growth. Such openings have ties as they like the villa led to an increase in enquiries from both family environment it pro- the domestic market and abroad. vides. More international awareness of our For Luxury Travel Vietnam, the com- island has increased the number of enquiries pany reported that there was a significant from Italy, Australia, Singapore and Taiwan. increase in business events requests es- Georgina Otter, director of business devel- opment, Novotel Phu Quoc Resort pecially from India, the US, Australia and New Zealand, with group sizes ranging from 50 to 300 people. Vietnam is open to investment opportuni- Meanwhile, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hoi An is one of the more popular destinations for corporate groups that head to Vietnam ties as seen from the Hanoi has also seen a steady rise in the deepening of key part- sector in the last few years. Its director restaurants, hotels, nightclubs, and bars, Hoang. “When people are unable to de- nerships with Japan, of sales and marketing, Anthony Slewka, which are being “improved day-by-day to liver good service, they are unable to bring Korea, Taiwan, the US attributes this to the market maturing meet increasing demand”. Likewise, devel- the best value to the end-users. The MICE and South-east Asian and how the destination – with its better opment in other destinations has seen the market needs more people who have a countries. In addition, the services and improved infrastructure – has sector boom across the country. deep understanding of the needs of today’s country is evaluating its participation in free become more mainstream. trade agreements, which will fuel corporate Hanoi and Hoi An are also popular clients to provide them with what they tourism. The overall picture is positive and Slewka elaborated: “The main drivers hubs, with the coastal areas of Danang need, not what we have.” are cost, which is still reasonable in Viet- 2018 looks bright. and Nha Trang – the destinations for APEC Long-term planning between the public Marc Emmanuel, general manager, Pan nam, better infrastructure, and a growing 2017 – picking up in popularity. Other and private sector is also essential to grow Pacific Hanoi economy, which in turn requires a greater destinations on the radar include the coun- the market, added Slewka. demand for activity and events, varied try’s largest island, Phu Quoc, and Central “Working to build a sensible long-term activity options, and an increasing number Vietnam. pricing, creating a brand identity for MICE Talking numbers of services and flight connectivity.” However, while growth has been in Vietnam, assisting Vietnam National However, he noted that while the reported across the board, more efforts Administration of Tourism (VNAT) with The percentage of hotel room business events segment was booming are required for the country to hit its full MICE marketing advancement and promo- 5supply increase across the country regionally, the longhaul market had yet to potential and overtake traditionally strong tion, and increasing the number of event quarterly throughout 2016 catch up. markets in the region as a major player. management companies – all of these For Indochina Travel, the company has “Airports, roads, railways and logistics things will help the MICE sector to grow,” seen an increase in demand in the past need to be improved to serve MICE travel- he shared. The number of hotel three years, with Australia, the US and a lers better, (so that Vietnam) will be able VNAT establishing a dedicated MICE 2,200rooms expected to join handful of European requests making up to compete with Thailand, Malaysia and department to encourage growth in key the market in Danang throughout 2017 the longhaul segment. Singapore,” said Luxury Travel Vietnam’s inbound markets is also necessary, added Hoang Minh Ngoc, Indochina Charm Ha. CEO, Pham Ha. The number of star- Travel’s Saigon office manager, revealed Service standards also need to be He concluded: “We are eager to tap rated hotels in Ho Chi that Ho Chi Minh City remains one of drastically improved to keep up with the into this market, but the country still has a 1,926 Minh City, altogether boasting a total of Vietnam’s business events hubs thanks market. long way to go to become a regional MICE 48,182 guestrooms to its diverse offering of services such as “This is a major challenge,” lamented destination.” On the shelves

Anantara Hoi An’s ballroom event itineraries as well, where delegates the former An Lam Villas. five-course dinner at Salon Saigon, which have the opportunity to ride in vintage The property offers 33 villas, all of which The Anantara Hoi An in Vietnam has com- includes an introduction to the Salon’s Vespa motorcycles or open military jeeps come with private plunge pools, private ve- pleted renovations of its ballroom. private collection and library. An additional and be whisked off on a tour of the UNE- randas and terraces. Facilities on-site include The 231m2 venue now features wrap- piano accompaniment or live dance perfor- SCO-listed city, indulge in spa treatments, a spa, meeting room, restaurant, bar and an around windows which overlook frangipani mance can be booked. learn the local language, and taste some of infinity pool. trees and bougainvillea, and allow in sunlight. Vietnam’s street food. Moreover, the flexible space is divisible by Long Lithe Vietnam package three and is able to host two simultaneous Orchid Cruises La Residence Hue Hotel & Spa has boardroom-style meetings, teambuilding L’Alyana Ninh Van Bay Offering a unique route through Halong Bay, launched a three-day fashion package that activities, gala dinners or award nights. Located on an island near Nha Trang is the the boarding point for Orchid Cruises is 1.5 celebrates the 1,000-year history of the ao The property is able to plan business L’Alyana Ninh Van Bay resort, a revival of hours from Hanoi rather than the usual four- dai, the long, lithe national dress of Vietnam. hour drive. Perfect to round off a business trip, the The boat offers 18 cabins across four con- US$699 package includes a trip to the tailor figurations. The itinerary takes in spots such for a made-to-measure production of the ao as Bai Tu Long and Lan Ha Bay, which is less dai for a female guest, tickets to a fashion crowded than Halong and offers great kayak- show, and accommodation for two with ing opportunities, as well as a mountain breakfast at the hotel. home to endangered macaques. Poulo Condor Boutique Resort Pearls of Saigon tour and Spa The Reverie Saigon hotel has teamed up with Located on the island of Con Son, the Sophie’s Art Tours and Salon Saigon for a largest and only inhabited of the Con Dao tour entitled Pearls of Saigon. archipelago, Poulo Condor Boutique Resort The full-day tour will take travellers to and Spa boasts 16 suites and 20 villas. museums, galleries and artists’ studios in Ho Amenities include a 750m-long private Chi Minh City, and use art to tell the story of beach, reading room, three F&B venues, an Vietnam from the dawn of the 20th century infinity pool, and a spa with four treatment From left: A place of interest on the Pearls of Saigon tour; Anantara Hoi An’s Ballroom to the present day. It will end with a private, rooms.

6 SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 • TTG SHOW DAILY IT&CMA AND CTW ASIA-PACIFIC the residence Bangkok’s only residential-style, multi-functional premium event facility. The perfect venue for meetings and special events.

Personalised service. Sophisticated style. Entertaining redefined.

For all enquiries, please contact Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok on +66 2254 1234 or e-mail [email protected]. Hyatt. You’re More Than Welcome.

GRAND HYATT ERAWAN BANGKOK 494 Rajdamri Road, Bangkok 10330, Thailand TELEPHONE +66 2254 1234 E-MAIL [email protected] bangkok.grand.hyatt.com #grandhyatterawan

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Breed size: 390mm x 270mm Trim size: 380mm x 260mm Text size: 356mm x 236mm Destination: Macau

Viewpoints

Which geographical markets will shine It’s all good in Macau for your company in 2018 and why? We are betting on the Subvention support, rise of new venues and hotels, and a focus on recovery of the western international association meetings are elevating Macau’s overall business economies. There is potential in Spain and events performance this year and beyond. Prudence Lui reports Portugal due to new flight connections to

Benny Marty /shutterstock Hong Kong and China. Regionally, we are betting on multinational companies with Asian headquarters in Singapore and China. Bruno Simões , CEO, smallWORLD Experience

South-east Asia mar- kets like Thailand and Indonesia look positive in 2018 because they will be attracted to more affordable rates in Macau as the increase in new hotel sup- ply depresses rate increases. Todd Cai, president, Powerhouse Convention and Exhibition

South-east Asia, Hong Kong and China in 2018. Sands China, vice president sales, Stephanie Tanpure, also expects 2017’s Macau’s plethora of massive hotel complexes with event venues are luring large-scale gatherings to the destination; Cotai Strip pictured above healthy performance will continue through the year, “driven by a variety of acao Trade and Invest- The number of incentives in 1Q2017 has subvention programme have recently ap- factors, including the ongoing movement ment Promotion Institute also gone up by three. peared out of Africa. of Chinese citizens to urban centres in (IPIM) has painted a IPIM credited Asia-Pacific markets for And IPIM wants more from other China, continued growth of the Chinese positive picture of the des- the improvement in performance, saying longhaul markets. It is looking at increas- outbound tourism market, the increased tination’s business events that the region was “relatively stable ing its promotions in Europe and North utilisation of existing transportation Mlandscape and has predicted continued with modest economic growth”. America, targeting international associa- infrastructure, the introduction of new growth in the near future. An IPIM spokesperson added that tion meetings in particular. transportation infrastructure and the Backing its claims are statistics on busi- Macau’s “continual addition of new “Although Asia-Pacific is our primary continued increase in hotel room inven- ness performance in 1Q2017. Macau wel- venues, hotels and infrastructure is... source, over 60 per cent of associations tory in Macau and neighbouring Hengqin comed 366 business events in that period, creating more capacity and competition are headquartered in Europe, making Island”. comprising 344 meetings and conferences, (which) in turn leads to greater efforts it the primary market for international “We are seeing some great growth 15 incentives and seven exhibitions. Ma- by venues and hotels to diversify their association meetings,” explained the from second-tier cities in China. These cau had more meetings and conferences in business portfolio and increase their spokesperson. cities are the growth engines of the Chi- that period, up by 50 events year-on-year marketing efforts in the region”. Industry players are also reporting rosy nese economy, boosted by an increase in while attendance rose by 111.9 per cent. The spokesperson believes that Ma- performance so far this year. investments, new infrastructure and an cau, as a “relatively new MICE destina- Encouraged, Daniella Tonetto, general influx of new talent. Many of these cities tion”, is “always attractive” to event manager, sales and marketing, for both are quickly developing new industries planners. Sheraton Grand Macao Hotel and St. and corporations are flourishing,” said Talking numbers “Macao will continue to be popular Regis Macao, expects the rest of the year Tanpure. for large-scale business events as it is to do well too. Olinto Oliveira, business development The position Macau takes one of the few destinations with (mas- “IT, consulting and direct-selling and events director, MCI Macau Office, 17 on ICCA’s latest ranking of sive) capacity. There are groups that are companies have done well this year. We said a sign of Macau’s healthy business top meetings cities in Asia-Pacific. It selecting Macau multiple times because continue to see...short-lead (meeting events industry is the growing number of ranked 59th in 2012 and 17th in 2016 of its capacity and continual rollout of bookings) primarily out of Asia. This is agency players. new venues, hotels and attractions,” the more of an opportunity than a challenge, “This year has seen a number of new spokesperson told TTG Show Daily. and we are responding to the needs of players entering the market – interna- The number of mega events It comes as no surprise that China our (clients) faster than ever,” Tonetto. tional agencies attempting to penetrate 54 – defined as meetings and has been a good market for Macau this She said the hotels have established into Macau, or other present companies conferences with more than 200 year. Three large groups have been con- high brand awareness in third-tier Chi- expanding their offerings and scope. I’ve participants – in Macau in 1Q2017, firmed in September, and they are set to nese cities. “And thanks to the growth of always been a fan of competition – it up 16 YOY. Participants at these draw more than 30,000 delegates. the global economy, more (Chinese) com- forces us to innovate and continue to events numbered 41,000, making up What is interesting is the emergence panies are looking to host their events deliver at the high level of quality which 74.9 per cent of Macau’s total MICE of African interest. IPIM revealed that abroad,” she added. our clients and partners have come to arrivals applications for its business events She predicts continued growth out of expect from us.” On the shelves

IPIM’s MICE subsidy Macao Inspired 5,000 people for cocktail-style events. The new space will be among several refreshed IPIM has enhanced its subsidy scheme Sheraton Grand Macao Hotel and The St. features at the massive complex, as The for local PCOs handling ICCA approved Regis Macao have rolled out Macao Inspired Venetian Macao completes its renovations association meetings. The programme coffee breaks that bring the destination’s fa- before Chinese New Year 2018. now offers transportation support worth vourite eats into the meeting venue. Delegates MOP$80,000 (US$9,939) and event plan- can expect a mix of sweet and savoury Maca- ning and management fee support worth nese dishes such as pork chop bun, almond Four Seasons Hotel Macao MOP$200,000. biscuits and serradura, a layered pudding. Four Seasons Hotel Macao has completed re- Soon to come are colour coded menus. furbishments of its guestrooms, giving every MGM Cotai room new interiors and furniture, as well as New Taipa Ferry Terminal The green menu, for instance, feature items pillar-free Grand Ballroom which can accom- like pistachio doughnuts, avocado and turkey enhanced high-speed Internet. The 200,000m2 New Taipa Ferry Terminal modate up to 1,000 guests. Another highlight sandwiches, green tea snacks and kiwi juice. opened in June, greatly improving con- is the MGM Theater, an innovative venue that nectivity between Macau and Hong Kong MGM Cotai can transform into more than 10 different and Shenzhen. There are facilities for both The Venetian Macao The 1,400-room MGM Cotai is expected to set ups with a push of a button. The MGM large ferries and cruise ships as well as a The Venetian Macao will soon unveil a new open in 4Q2017, bringing with it 2,870m2 of Theater can seat up to 2,000 guests and has heliport for five helicopters. Event Lawn which can accommodate up to meeting spaces. The largest of the lot is the 180-degree 4K LED screens.

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12452_CHR_Ads_ITCMA_Sep_2017_Day02_Rev02.indd 1 8/28/2560 BE 09:57 Destination: India World of opportunity out there

While 2017 was a good year for India’s business events, the future of the segment may be less optimistic if infrastructure is not improved on, or if government support is lacking. Rohit Kaul reports SNEHIT/shutterstock s per India’s ministry of tour- Viewpoints ism, India registered a strong growth of over 15 per cent in Which geographical markets will shine foreign tourist arrivals from for your company in 2018? January to July this year. AAnd while the country doesn’t have a I expect traditional mechanism in place to reflect the number source markets like of inbound business arrivals, some trade US, UK and Europe to players agree that 2017 turned out to be a shine for us in 2018 positive one, with traditional markets like simply because these the US and Europe leading the demand. markets have close Karan Anand, Cox & Kings’ head of re- business ties with India. lationships, said: “It has been a good year With the Indian govern- ment working towards attracting investment overall for the inbound MICE industry.” from these regions, and strong Indo-US While Anand pointed out that busi- relations, will help the Indian inbound MICE ness in most segments were decent, he segment benefit. felt more could be done to attract more Chetan Juneja, senior vice president, incentives and conferences to India. Tamarind Global He pointed out: “India may not boast India is limited in the large convention facility department; Charminar in Hyderabad pictured of huge convention facilities like those It is too early to pinpoint in Singapore and Thailand, but we do Moreover, some trade members attached. City infrastructure is also a key the markets that will have our share of mid-range conference indicate that there has been a growth in challenge,” pointed out Anitha Niranjan, do well for us in 2018. facilities.” the number of international congresses managing director of CIM Global. It all depends on our Some major conventions and events holding events in secondary Indian cities She added that the lack of government marketing efforts and that took place in India this year included like Jaipur. support is another challenge. “Cities the economic and the India International Footwear Fair, This is because of the “growth in in- which have international bureaus that fo- political situation at that time. But I think there is a Wellness India Expo, 24th Congress frastructure in secondary Indian markets, cus in marketing the city have benefited need for an incentive programme to attract – International Union of Crystallogra- such as new hotels with the capacity to and proactively driven business to their more association events to the country. nd phy, 2 World Congress of Optometry. hold small- and medium-size conven- destination. It’s important for stakehold- Swadesh Kumar, founder, Shikhar Group Meanwhile, upcoming in October are the tions,” said Raj Rana, CEO, Carlson Rezi- ers in the meeting industry to come 11 th IADR World Congress on Preventive dor Hotel Group, South Asia. As a result, together and market a city,” she added. Dentistry and 78th Skal World Congress Rana stated that “international congress Aside from such challenges, the high Talking numbers Hyderabad. events happening in secondary Indian taxation under the recently-introduced When asked which segments per- cities was on a upswing in 2017.” Goods & Sales Tax (GST) may impact the The worldwide ranking of India formed strongly this year, Gorav Arora, “Even though we have limited large demand for business events in the future. 31with 143 meetings as per ICCA’s director, sales & marketing, Novotel Hy- convention facilities, we are well posi- This will lead to losing business to near- Statistics Report Country & City Rank- derabad Convention Centre & Hyderabad tioned to host small- and medium-size by destinations. According to hoteliers, ings. In 2015, the country held the International Convention Centre, pointed conferences. The majority of the global the 28 per cent GST rate for rooms with same rank, but with 132 meetings to the IT, medical, agriculture and engi- MICE business falls in this bracket, and tariff of Rs. 7500 (US$117) and above is neering segments. we have the infrastructure facilities avail- one of the highest in the world. Arora added: “The demand has also able to support these type of events,” “Neighbouring countries like Thai- The rank of Indian capital, New come from Far Eastern markets, apart agreed Mansharamani. land, Singapore and Macao offer a tax 69Delhi, as per the city rankings from traditional North American and But a section of the industry shared structure which is way lower compared with 39 meetings. This is a drop of five West European markets.” that the lack of large convention venues to India. This gives them a competitive places when compared to its ranking in Chander Mansharamani, manag- is doing more damage than good to the edge. Domestic Indian companies might 2015 with 41 meetings ing director, Alpcord Network Travel & business events segment. prefer to host their MICE events in these Conferences, concurred: “Medical, IT and “We bid for international conferences countries now,” cautioned Dilip Datwani, scientific conferences have taken a front and lose six out of 10 mainly because president, Hotel and Restaurant Associa- The size in square seat as India is known to be knowledge of (the lack of) infrastructure. In a high tion of Western India. 6,480metres of the hall in centre for all these fields. The conference potential and vast country like India, “MICE tourism is too important a the Hyderabad International Conven- and exhibitions segments are ruling the we hardly have any large international- segment for the nation to overlook,” tion Centre, the largest meeting facility demand.” standard convention centres with hotels Datwani concluded. in the city of Hyderabad On the shelves Radisson Blu Faridabad ness meetings and conferences, Andaz Delhi rooms and two grand ballrooms – each with offers 3,484m2 of event area across a ball- seating for up to 600. Located in India’s New Capital Region, Radis- room and several studio spaces. son Blu Faridabad offers 124 rooms and six suites. Facilities include three restaurants, Oman Air four bars and lounges, an outdoor swimming Novotel Lucknow Gomti Nagar Oman Air introduced its third daily flight pool, gym and business centre. India’s northern state of Uttar Pradesh has from Mumbai to Muscat from August 1, For meetings and events, the 1,828m2 opened its first Novotel in the capital city of expanding its weekly capacity from 154 to Grand Ballroom is pillarless and has a ceiling Lucknow. Situated in the commercial and IT 161 flights, following an update of bilateral air height of more than six metres. It can accom- hub of Gomti Nagar, the property features services agreement between the govern- modate up to 650 guests and be divided into 106 rooms. Facilities include three F&B ven- ments of India and Oman. three. There is also a 335m2 Conference Hall ues, a spa, rooftop infinity pool and fitness Three more destinations in India will be that can accommodate 50 to 150 pax, as well centre. added onto the airline’s network. These will as five meeting rooms. For meetings and events, the property has be the regional airports that the government four spaces, the largest of which is the 160m2 is converting from military to civilian use. Andaz Delhi Grand Ballroom which can accommodate The first Andaz in India has opened in Aeroc- 120 people theatre-style or 60 banquet-style. AirAsia ity, next to Indira Gandhi International Airport Beginning November 28, AirAsia will fly and close to close to the business hubs of Radisson Blu Hotel Noida five-times weekly – on Mondays, Tuesdays, Delhi and Gurgaon. Standing in India’s superhub, south of Delhi, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays – from The hotel currently offers 401 rooms is the 131-room Radisson Blu Hotel Noida. Johor Bahru to Kolkata. including 45 suites, with 129 more serviced Amenities on-site include three restaurants, Flights will depart Johor Bahru at 21.30 apartments opening in the near future. a bar, business centre, swimming pool, spa and arrive in Kolkata at 23.10, while the Recreational facilities include a spa, 24-hour and fitness centre. return flight will depart Kolkata at 23.40 and fitness centre, and two outdoor swimming Meeting and event planners can avail the arrive in Johor Bahru at 06.25. This is the From top: Andaz Delhi, Novotel Lucknow pools, as well as four F&B options. For busi- 405m2 of space spread across five meeting first route to India from Johor Bahru. Gomti Nagar

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TTG Asia TTG Asia TTGassociations Mobile APP TTG Asia Luxury • TTGmice trade media of the year 2015 Journalism excellence of the year 2015 (Merit) MPAS Awards TRAvel Journalism Print & online MPAS Awards Business Article 2016 2016 • 2014, 2013, 2011 & 2009 Anak Sarawak Award PATA Gold Awards September 2016 Macau turns fantasy MCI (P) 108/06/2014

Read by 48,500 events into reality industry professionals TTG across the region and beyond Penang in strong standing - services, as he opined the car- Indonesia eyes US meetscarrier as with good ban air con-con rieris had inlifted the past abruptly and marketing efforts as well A rose garden for Philippine SUBSCRIBE NOW nections worldwide would plugged services on routes that

Garuda Indonesia. (022844) PPS1140/09/2012 KDN www.ttgasia.com/subscribe.php as support to dedicated loyal definitely “help in promoting did not return quick yields. MICE stakeholders By Mimi Hudoyo Benny said the current plan suppliers such as ourselves, I a country” on the global MICE “Marketing and preparing The lifting of the ban on Indo- was to operate a wide-body 5/4/16 12:15 AM believe that (Garuda’s planned stage, and comes especially vi- for MICE (groups) takes time, nesia carriers by the US Federal Boeing 777-300ER aircraft via US flight) will do well and gain tal at a time when security and and we want to make sure that Asia-Pacific’s intelligent business events resource Aviation Administration (FAA) Tokyo Narita for the US service, a solid share of the business, accessibility are “top considera- by the time the group travels has Garuda Indonesia eager to leveraging the fifth freedom especially on the Los - tions” in securing bids. the service is still there,” Iqbal 12 restart services to the US, and rights enjoyed by In-In Angeles-Denpasar Mumbai Garuda’s prospective service said, urging the national carrier the MICE trade expects this to donesian carriers with route. Bali would be GUIDE TO April-September 2016 to the US next year is also op- to do a thorough assessment of 10 rekindle interest in Indonesia Japan. the primary destina- PAGE portune, added Susilowani, as the market before initiating the Meeting hotels Untitled-1 1 as an incentive destination. Based on its tion. Indonesia will host the World service. Following FAA’s upgrade of “We are using other

Malaysia projection of 400,000 Bank Conference in Bali in Meanwhile, Scozia expects

the country’s aviation status to passengers a year for airlines now with con- 20 Building connections 2018 with 15,000 participants Indonesia to start building DESTINATIONS associations 7 Category One on August 16, a the US sector, Garuda associations PAGE Macau, Malaysia and move that opens the way for plans to fly to either PPS 619/02/2013(022926) PPS Indonesia airlines to initiate Los Angeles or New Susilowani: good timing the Philippines each has also not gone well with flights to the US, Garuda Indo- York. The airline used the industry. nesian has stated its intentions to operate the Jakarta- carrier),” remarked Scozia, Jayant Nadkarni, president, to fly to the US next year. Honolulu-Los Angeles route in adding that Garuda’s flights Sharat Dhall, president, Yatra. Business Aircraft Operators As- “The plan to fly to the US is the early 1990s but the service from the US to Indonesia and com, said: “The increase of tax sociation, said: “We already have part of Garuda’s business ex- was terminated during the many airports without much Bali in the early 1990s helped Asia-Pacific’s top MICE on ATF would result in higher pansion to strengthen its posi- Asian financial crisis in 1997. airfares and dampen air pas- connectivity. For operations to the industry to grow its Indone four per cent on higher-engine tion as a global (airline) player. Awaiting the potential new capacity vehicles and SUVs – will senger growth which could have commence, we need clarity on Tourism’s sia business. cities are always evolving, with Trade in dismayfurther mountover pressure on tour Budget 2016funding, taxation, duties, and in- With the FAA rating upgrade, connection is Mario Scozia, Susilowani Daud, president operators who provide tourist No. 1738/Septembercentives. 2016 we are trying to materialise our for the tourism sector...However, “These are yet to come togeth- executive director A&A Incen-Incen director of PACTO Convex, new and refreshed infrastructure Accompanying tax hikesthere for isnew nothing Union in the budgetBudget likelyvehicles.” to offset hefty government spending planned for tourism plan even sooner,” said Benny tives, Meetings & Conferences, agreed that having a national that can help the inbound tour- “India continues to be an expen- er for the small aircraft sector in business aviation and in sched- Butarbutar, vice president US. He said: “With proper time Masakata By Rohit Kaul The Union Budg- ism. Growth momentum which th to give events a new flavour and for uled commuter flights to remote corporate communications for NEW DELHI was visible in terms of interna- sive destination when compared areas,” he added. celebrates ASEAN’s 50 et of India 2016-17 earmarked tional tourist arrivals in January with our neighbouring countries IATO’s Goyal concluded: “In- Go-getters TTGmice delegates, a more fascinating experience OVERVIEW Rs1,590 crore (US$239.6 mil- 2016 will lose the momentum.” Subhash Goyal Luxury travel in less ebullient times Calls for a GST to replace dia continues to be an expensive Ogawa lion) for tourism infrastructure, in the wake of heavy taxes.” destination when compared with anniversary with special publication promotion and publicity – a 70 multiple layers of taxes like VAT, our neighbouring countries in per cent hike from the previous Service Tax and Luxury Tax were President, Indian Association of Tour Operators ASEAN member nations’ singular and collective pursuit of the the wake of heavy taxes, so even if Agile travel and hospitality players are capitalising on the global Disappointed by the lack year – but this has not found fa- ignored, and instead the gov- business events market may have started later than their quest DESTINATIONS the government increases its out- vour with industry players, who ernment proposed to increase for holidaymakers, but it is catching up fast. Seeds of luxury on Bintan island lay for infrastructure and public- of interest in science across the board anticipate that service tax from 14.5 per cent to been a catalyst for economic Pokémon Go craze in their marketing. Have they reaped tangible In this region today are several integrated resorts with MICE ity it won’t serve the purpose of price competitiveness would suf- 15 per cent. Hotels in India levy growth.” that he encountered in Even the announcement by increasing tourist arrivals.” capabilities as well as a good mix of business hotels under fer even more with the tax hikes. taxes in the range of 20 per cent, benefits from the game and will this hit app transform travel? international and homegrown brands. Notable tourism and civil As well, tour operators’ expec- The Union Budget also pro-pro the Indian Finance Minister to a Japanese high school, compared with two to five per takes a closer look infrastructure investments are being made in every member GASP! cent across the globe. posed to increase excise duty on develop 160 non-functional air- TTG Asia The US$125,848 package tations for tax relief based on their country. Masakata Ogawa has foreign exchange earnings and Rajeev Kohli, joint managing jet fuel from the current eight per ports at a cost of Rs50-100 crore cent to 14 per cent. Aviation Tur- Young individuals are also stepping up to lead and revolu- spent most of his career the introduction of multiple director of Creative Travel and takes a entry on e-Tourist Visas in this vice president of IATO, com- bine Fuel (ATF) is considered to tionise the way business is done. seeking a change to that year’s budget have also gone un- mented: “Infrastructure cess be the biggest cost of airlines. Sri Lanka’s first Shangri-La operations at Worldwide Cruise TTGmice ASEAN’s 50th Anniversary Special Issue met. – one per cent on small petrol, Associates, a specialist in look at these achievements and more, and hears from trade and the creation of the Subhash Goyal, president of LPG, CNG cars, 2.5 per cent on debuts in Hambantota organising cruise products for East-Asian Association Indian Association of Tour Op- diesel cars of certain capacity and incentive buyers and erators (IATO), said: “We had for Science Education is looked forward to this year’s meeting planners, said budget with lot of expectations youth, observed Neelu Singh, di- the segment is “very rector and CEO of Ezeego1.com. However, not all travel con- definitely” taking up his solution a larger portion of the bound travel will take a hit this sultants are predicting a fall in season, with European destina- outbound travel. MICE pie. Rupee slide hitstions feelingIndian the heat most. holiday Singh budget added: “We have not She has seen South-east Asia Said Rajan Sehgal, director, seen any decline since packages By Rohit Kaul healthy year-on- Treacy: calm seas Arrival Air Services: “The prices for the summer holiday season NEW DELHI year sales growth of ahead for MICE is likely to rule the demand for of outbound packages have gone are usually booked in advance. diner Bojun Hala, hawker-style “A weak global economic cli- eateries Sera and oceanfront “approximately five outbound travel this season be- up by 20 per cent from last year. Come June 1, European holidays will suffer mate offers a lot of opportunities Beach Grill restaurant. per cent, keeping in mind it ginning April, as Indian travel- Shangri-La’s signature CHI develop Thailand into a value- most (with perhaps) a eight-10 to budget travellers. Hotel stays, HONG KONG is a contested election year in Xcelerate, across our entire lers seek better value amid the per cent drop in de- • Meet the Sustainable Way, based economy. rupee depreciation and domestic mand.” sightseeing, shopping and food Shangri-La’s Hambantota Resort Spa, a gym, dive centre, 30m lap the US, which always has an fleet,” remarked Vogt. View from the top pool, freeform pool, tennis court focusing on CSR and green Additionally, its Convene in economy under stress. Indian travellers are will become cheaper, thereby & Spa will be the first interna- effect”. Another major draw for The rupee, which stood at bringing the total travel cost tionally-branded luxury resort in and retail offerings are facilities meetings; and campaign, introduced also opting for pack- Thatcher Brown, president of Affirming Bloss’ observation, - Paradise down by 15 to 20 per cent de- Hambantota, along the southern available. MICE groups is the all-inclusive • Meet Around Great Fla Rs61 to one US dol- ages to cheaper Euro- Hambantota Resort & Spa is for the 2016/17 fiscal year, pro- lar in January 2015 has pendingGenting on the destination,” Hong she Kong’scoastline Dreamof Sri Lanka. Celebrity Cruises associate vice nature and flexibility of cruise pean destinations and Spanning 18 howhectares, the 300- vours, taking delegates on a vides subsidies for conventions now depreciated to Rs68 compromising on level explained. Raini Hamdi the first of two Shangri-La hotels president, corporate incen- products, explained Vogt, who AnilCruises, Kalsi, managing tells partner, key beachfront resort, inclusive under development in Sri Lanka culinary journey – for who can with at least 1,000 international at press time, making of accommodation to tives & charter sales, Lisa Vogt, sees uptake from across various- outbound travel more Ambe World Travels, agreed: of 26 suites, features lush tropical – the Colombo property is slated resist or forget Thai food. delegates, conventions in the 085/05/2014 (P) MCI

suit their budget. “In- he’s making Asia’s first luxury said: “MICE has been picking sectors including pharmaceuti-pharmaceuti 2016 JULY expensive than last year. “Interestingly airfares to Europe gardens, an 18-hole golf course, to open in 2017 – and the group’s TCEB also has a 2017 strate- five focus industries with at dian leisure tourists are up momentum in recent years cal, insurance, franchises and “This year the Indian Sahni: interest looking to travel to des- and Americacruise are line at an all-timea dream an come artisan villagetrue and a multi- third resort in the Indian Ocean. gic plan to promote the conven- least 500 international del- low and great deals spur de- purpose events2. space spanning and is continually gaining more direct selling companies. “It is economy is not looking turns to SE Asia tions sector. It will emphasise egates, and offshore meetings buoyant and real es- tinations like Spain and Greece mand. This, coupled with value over 2,525m share of our overall business growing as a popular choice for F&B outlets include all-day more on major conferences of international professional tate and stock markets this year,” said Sahni. -for-money cruise options in Eu- year-over-year.” incentive travel and corporate As well, European desina- rope, helps (keep) the European and conventions in five focus associations with at least 200 are reeling under pres- MICE business is also a meetings and events,” she said. sure, so I expect some longhaul tions like Vienna, Prague, Ice- holiday within budget, offsetting industries, namely, Health international delegates, where + growth area for Royal Carib- Bloss concurred: “Our sales travellers will shift to shorthaul land, Romania, the Netherlands the rupee slide.” & Wellness; Energy; Food & 80 per cent of the delegates are bean Cruises, taking up roughly are pretty equal between whole destinations like Malaysia and and Scandinavia are new holi- Venues, focusing on Thailand’s Agribusiness; Infrastructure from the same country. Singapore,” commented Guldeep day destinations that are gaining 30 to 40 per cent of total sales ship charters and groups..It unique and exotic locations; traction especially among Indian Airport experience & Logistics; and Automotive Singh Sahni, president, Out- in markets like Thailand and depends on (cruises ships’) • Meet with Energy, aimed bound Tour Operators Associa- Indonesia, according to Sean availability and location.” tion of India (OTOAI). Some agents believe out- of the future Treacy, managing director Sin- Tourism at World Heritage Sites A new Bintan takes shape

©2016 Niantic, Inc. ©2016 Pokémon. ©1995–2016 Nintendo / Creatures Inc. / Core Print & OnlineGAME Titles FREAK inc. Pokémon and Pokémon character names are trademarks of Nintendo. TTG Show Daily Special 2017 Editions TTG Asia ASEAN Tourism Forum ASEAN 50th Anniversary: Leisure Edition, TTG China ITB Berlin Hotel Edition and Cruise Edition TTG India IT&CM China and CTW China TTGmice Planner 2017/2018 TTGmice ITB China TTG-BTmice China PATA Travel Mart TTG Travel Awards 2017 TTGassociations IT&CMA and CTW Asia-Pacific TTG Asia Luxury ITB Asia

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SINGAPORE +65 6395 7575 | HONG KONG +852 2237 7272 A Business Group of TTG Asia Media Destination: Thailand A tale of business and pleasure The Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau has been promoting multi-city itineraries for business event groups, lauding such programme’s ability to offer more business and pleasure for attendees. By Karen Yue

believe that there is a stronger potential of twinning the two resort destinations Talking numbers for corporate incentive groups. For clients who are concerned about lengthy overland journeys between cities, 1.1 million Max suggested breaking up the monoto- The number of business event visi- ny of travel with activity stops. tors to Thailand projected for 2017, “We had a petroleum client from Brus- with them contributing an estimated sels who did two nights in Bangkok and US$2.9 billion in tourism revenue three nights in Hua Hin. As the journey from Bangkok to Hua Hin (three to four hours, depending on traffic conditions) was quite long, we planned a stop at the 0.8% floating market and Sampran Riverside The contribution of business events to (in Nakornpathom, an hour from Bang- Thailand’s national economy, with con- kok) for lunch.” ventions providing the biggest share at “It is up to the DMC to devise solu- 0.3 per cent tions for logistical and security issues arising from multi-city itineraries. In 2015, I had a group of 750 people from an The position Thailand holds in MLM company in the US doing Phuket 24ICCA’s latest top country rank- and Bangkok. We chartered an airplane ing for association meetings, up from The pristine beaches and serene resorts in Hua Hin beckon event attendees who desire a work-life balance to move the group between the two 27th spot in 2015. It hosted 174 meet- destinations. That turned out to be very ings in 2016 iding on its sterling reputation Thani Hua Hin; unique leisure experi- successful,” said Max. as a holiday destination in ences such as a group spa session at the To encourage corporate groups to stay Asia among world travellers, new 128-room Health Land Pattaya and on longer in Thailand through such mul- Viewpoints the Thailand Convention & a dinner cruise on a luxury yacht around ti-city itineraries, TCEB launched last year Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) is Pattaya Bay; and even a CSR opportunity the Meet Double Cities package under its Which geographical markets will shine promotingR Thailand as a prime destina- at the Somdet Phra Srinagarindra Park Thailand Connect campaign, which also for your company in 2018? tion for both serious business meetings Sam Phraya in Cha-am District to learn incentivises planners who incorporate a and fun experiences. how the Chaipattana Foundation helps to CSR activity into their programme. Supawan Teerarat, TCEB vice president improve the livelihood of the local farm- The Meet Double Cities package dishes I would say the longhaul of strategic and business development, ing community. out 100,000 baht (US$3,014) for each markets like the US, as noted that this is time as the art of mix- However, Thailand destination special- qualified group with 200 attendees and well as India and the ing business and leisure – resulting in the ists told TTG Show Daily that multi-city more staying in Thailand for at least four high-end segments of current industry buzzword, bleisure – is itineraries tended to be restricted to two nights in more than one destination. China. My expecta- taking firm hold. destinations as attendees are strapped for However, the package had a rocky tions are due to their “People today want a balance in life, time, planners have limited budgets, and start. According to Supawan, longhaul strong economic perfor- and when they travel for work they seek with more stops come additional logisti- markets are more likely than Asian mance. As a company, we both business and leisure opportunities,” cal and security concerns. also want to develop new markets, especially ones to take up a multi-city itinerary, as those untapped by others. said Supawan. Wanchai Thavornthaveekul, deputy delegates had travelled a long distance Max Jantasuwan, In 2016, as part of TCEB’s move to managing director of Destination Asia to Thailand and would want to make the group managing director - Asia highlight Thai destinations that are ready (Thailand), said: “Our inbound corporate most of their trip. Events Travel Asia to satisfy the growing need for bleisure groups often stick to only one or two “But the European economy has among event attendees and business popular Thai destinations due to time been bad the past three years. European travellers, it unveiled seven themes that limitation. Requests for a third destina- groups that came to Asia for business We expect very good business potential from use the country’s key tourism draws to tion are rare, the challenge being the events were very careful with their the US and Latin American markets due to complement a business event itinerary. travel distance and cost.” expenses, and tended not to feature too economy recovery on their end. The themes include fascinating his- He added that small groups of 50 to many cities in one destination,” she said. Wanchai Thavornthaveekul, tory and culture; outdoor adventures; 60 people are best suited for multi-city But things are looking up this year. deputy managing director treasured teambuilding; CSR and green itineraries. “We saw more requests (for the pack- Destination Asia (Thailand) meetings; beach bliss; lavish luxuty and Having said that, Destination Asia age) since early this year, just as the culinary journeys. (Thailand) has had corporate groups European market rebounded.” TCEB’s annual International Media that signed up for triple-city itineraries. Encouraged, TCEB has decided to Familiarization Trip in August captured One example is a 50-pax incentive trip extend the Meet Double Cities package, – both of which were already plugged – the essence of bleisure and delivered a for an automobile company from North which otherwise would have closed its as well as private business jets. multi-city programme that called at Pat- America. They spent three nights Bang- application on September 30 this year. At press time, AirAsia is looking at taya, Hua Hin and Bangkok. kok, three nights in Chiang Mai and three Industry players in both Pattaya and launching five-times weekly flights be- Why these cities? According to Su- nights in Phuket. Hua Hin expressed confidence in wel- tween Kuala Lumpur and Hua Hin within pawan, they are easily accessible from “We had very good feedback from the coming more business events, especially this year. one another, especially from gateway delegates, but it was such a long trip!” with TCEB’s multi-city push. David Barett, CEO of Hype Global and Bangkok, are experienced in hosting remarked Wanchai. Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa’s MICE consultant to the Ananda Resort international events, and boast both busi- Events Travel Asia Co’s group manag- general manager Saurabh Kukreja said Hua Hin, said: “If AirAsia can pull it ness and leisure offerings. ing director - Asia, Max Jantasuwan, Pattaya’s new theme parks – Cartoon off, this will be a turning point for Hua She detailed: “Pattaya, two hours from agrees, saying that “the additional budget Network Amazone and Ramayana Water Hin hotels’ fortunes. While international Bangkok by car, is a city of entertain- needed for a multi-city programme might Park – “have not only built Pattaya up meeting planners are desperately seeking ment and welcomes numerous corporate place management approval out of reach as a more attractive and family friendly something new, the current three hours’ incentives and conventions, particularly for the client”. destination, they have also provided drive time to the resort is a deterrent.” from the medical and light industries. Max noted that common multi-city re- new activities that are great for corporate Sebastian Solasachinda, cluster direc- Hua Hin, now connected to Pattaya by a quests are for the “classic combinations” teambuilding and incentives”. tor of marketing and communications two-hour ferry ride, does many conven- of Bangkok-Hua Hin, Bangkok-Chiang In Hua Hin, hopes are fuelled by talks for three hotels including SO Sofitel Hua tions and meetings too, besides offering a Mai or Bangkok-Phuket. of its airport becoming an international Hin, with Sofitel Hotels & Resorts, is also serene seaside location loved by the royal “Some would also do a day first in gateway. Negotiations for international holding his breath. “There are talks about family.” Bangkok and then a day in Pattaya or scheduled flights are also underway. a scheduled connection from Hong Kong The fam trip highlighted new and ex- vice versa,” he added. Commercial air services to the resort too. If that happens, Hua Hin will get two isting hotels and resorts with world-class With the new Pattaya-Hua Hin ferry town had been sporadic in the past, lim- new markets,” he remarked. meeting facilities, such as Hua Hin Marri- service cutting travel time down from ited to Kan Air’s domestic services and – Additional reporting by Xinyi Liang- ott Resort & Spa, Hilton Pattaya and Dusit five hours overland, Wanchai and Max Thai Lion Air’s Hat Yai-Hua Hin services Pholsena

12 SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 • TTG SHOW DAILY IT&CMA AND CTW ASIA-PACIFIC On the shelves

IMPACT Speed Park spa with eight treatment rooms, and 12 event include a 150-seat all-day dining restaurant pool with an inflatable obstacle course – spaces which include a pillarless ballroom. that overlooks the swimming pool and sea, known as a Wibit sports park, which could Opened in December 2016, the IMPACT and a kids water play area. enhance the hotel’s appeal for corporate Speed Park karting facility sits within the The property is also directly connected to event buyouts. The new wing could also be massive IMPACT Muang Thong Thani conven- the Central Embassy shopping mall and the bought out for private groups, and there are tion and exhibition centre in Bangkok. It offers Phloen Chit BTS skytrain station. Novotel Phuket Phokeethra plans to put in more Hollywood twins which a professional karting race track, changing The first international hotel brand in Phuket are easier for sharing, something event rooms, shower facilities, a briefing room, Renaissance Pattaya Old Town has opened with 180 rooms and planners will appreciate. function rooms, and a winners’ podium. Since Resort & Spa suites. Hotel amenities include a spa, gym opening, the facility has hosted corporate The 257-key resort has launched in a quieter and indoor pool, as well as two lounges and teambuilding programmes. side of Pattaya with around 150 rooms and an all-day dining restaurant. Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa all guest and meeting facilities on Septem- For events, the property has four meeting The luxury beachfront hotel comes with lush Park Hyatt Bangkok ber 1. The rest of the rooms – mostly villas rooms and a Grand Ballroom which can ac- open spaces that are perfect for creative, – will open this month. commodate up to 850 guests. casual gatherings as well as a collection of The first Park Hyatt hotel in Thailand has indoor functions venues. opened in the capital, offering 222 gues- The resort’s meeting facilities are concen- trated in a section of the hotel’s main build- SO Sofitel Hua Hin The largest of them is Paksa Sawan – a trooms (including 32 suites). Amenities on- 300m2 space with natural daylight and a site comprise four F&B options, a 40m-long ing, and across levels two and three, provid- SO Sofitel Hua Hin is building a new wing ing privacy for event groups. Other facilities 4.9m-high ceiling – and can accommodate infinity saltwater pool, 24-hour fitness centre, with 31 keys and a 16m-by-16m swimming up to 280 guests.

From left: IMPACT Speed Park; Novotel Phuket Phokeethra; SO Sofitel Hua Hin

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SEPTEMBER 27, 2016 • TTG SHOW DAILY IT&CMA AND CTW ASIA-PACIFIC 1 3 Features The rise of design hotels An increasingly younger, well-travelled, demanding event audience is forcing planners to be more creative, and allowing exciting design-driven hotels to wiggle into their shopping list. Karen Yue reports

head of MICE & business development with Towa Tours Hong Kong. The location of such hotels is a draw too. “Design hotels tend to be in upcom- ing new districts which could be under- going (an exciting) revival programme, such as in areas like New York’s Meat- packing District,” de Meyer said. Chiay agrees. “They are often in a less commercialised neighbourhood which is rich in local culture and history. This adds flavour to events,” he said. He added: “Design hotels tend to offer facilities that set them apart from traditional hotels. For instance, in space- starved cities, new-age hotels have to find unique ways to present their facilities and thus you are more likely to find chic rooftop bars in a design hotel. They make great venues for corporate gatherings. Hong Kong, perhaps for this reason, is at the forefront in design hotel offerings.” China, according to Chiay, said is now seeing a design hotel revolution, especially in the city fringes. “Shanghai’s quieter, less developed Northern Bund is becoming rather hot for designer properties, like The Water House,” said Chiay, adding that at- tractive design hotels opening in cities unusual for business events will lead he millenial generation has US-based First Incentive Travel, agrees. property at The Upper House in Hong to a rise in corporate demand for such been credited – or blamed, “The clientele is getting younger Kong because the design hotel has a locations. depending on which side you and this group does not want the big, luxury, British vibe that resonated with There is also cost savings to be had. take – for many new business corporate hotels. They prefer the smaller, the product. The event was conducted Jezz Goh, head of meeting and events travel and event trends today, trendy hotels that allow them to feel at in the hotel lounge which had indoor with Pacific World Singapore, said: Tincluding the growing acceptance and home. This is why you will find that and outdoor spaces, something Chiay “Instead of going for luxury hotels, demand for venues in design-driven ho- lobbies (of such hotels) resemble living said few other traditional hotels in Hong clients are now more inclined to (use) tels, properties that were often not built rooms where guests can meet fellow Kong offered. less expensive boutique-style properties with events in mind. guests,” said de Meyer. Further driving home his point that that can enhance delegate experience Cvent, Inc. has reported a “marked in- A well-travelled society is also influ- “serious events can be delivered in a not through their unique (interiors and crease in the number of planners looking encing the acceptance of design hotels too serious manner to encourage interac- furnishings). The small size of design to use design or boutique hotels – up 15 as event venues. Gerhad Aicher, general tion” and to emphasise key messages, hotels also often bring about a more per cent in 2016 compared to 2015”, said manager of The Mira Hong Kong – a Chiay shared that a recent financial tech- exclusive experience.” Kevin Fliess, vice president of marketing member of Design Hotels, a global net- nology conference held at the Singapore Chiay added that “design hotels are for Cvent’s Hospitality Cloud. work of properties with thought-provok- Expo’s Max Atria turned a traditional almost always luxurious but are priced “Gone are the days when traditional ing design and architecture, among other conference room into “a very cool and competitively against similar high- mass hotels won all the corporate busi- features – said: “As travellers get more laid-back space with beanbags and other end traditional hotels of international ness,” remarked Fliess, adding that cli- experienced they become attracted to lively setups”. brands”. ents use design hotels for various types design-driven hotels, each with a unique “Now, I understand that the venue of events such as meetings, conferences, identity reflecting their location which is not a design hotel, but this shows When it is not a good fit conventions and educational seminars is often widely recognised as a hip and that how a serious event is presented Of course, design hotels are not for and workshops. happening destination.” depends on the attendee profile. In this everyone. Companies that take a more “Our data also reveals that 33 per cent Caitlin Flynn, director of sales and case, the attendees were young entrepre- traditional view on meetings and events of these bookings are for a duration of marketing with The Warehouse Hotel, neurs who needed to be engaged differ- are unlikely to venture out with a quirky three days, and 26 per cent for one day,” Singapore – also a member of Design ently,” Chiay explained. property, while space limitations in he added. Hotels – said she is seeing “big demand” terms of guestroom inventory and meet- Although Carlson Wagonlit Travel in non-traditional, creative industries The allure of small, beautiful hotels ing room capacity can cause planners (CWT) does not track the use of design such as media, fashion and technology, The flexibility and exclusivity of design with a more complex programme or hotels by its clients – at least for now, and clients are hosting product launch- hotels, made possible by their often larger group to turn away. due to the lack of sufficient critical mass es, industry networking parties and smaller-than-usual size and independent “Events with more intricate require- to warrant such an effort, senior director, influencer marketing events at the hotel management, have come up repeatedly ments and need careful setup are un- meeting and events for Asia-Pacific, Mi- which was once a spice warehouse. as winning factors. likely to go for a design hotel. A designer chael Chiay, told TTGmice that the trend Another contributing factor, accord- Fliess opined: “Design hotels have the space can be restrictive, as opposed to is worth watching. ing to Chiay, is the growing popularity advantage of being able to offer a very blank canvases that are the typical hotel “There is definitely a rise in the use of lifestyle events. “Lifestyle and luxury personal and dedicated service. At the ballrooms,” said Goh. of design hotels for business events, and events conducted by businesses that same time, they can offer the wow factor Hotel policies play a part too, opined I believe this is a result of the growing emphasise on experience and service when it comes to setting, aesthetics and Fliess. “Some companies will stipulate presence of millenials in the workplace. are more likely to use design hotels, as ambience.” use of hotels that satisfy a certain budget They have a different motivation when their event objectives are in line with the It is easier to do a property buy-out or grade, or are a certain distance from attending meetings and events. And as a promise and forte of such hotels.” with a smaller hotel, according to de the city centre. Design hotels need to generation that will dominate the work- Meyer who has also found that small- recognise that in these circumstances, force demographic in the next few years A serious matter sized, high-end incentive groups take they cannot compete with traditional and take on leadership roles in buying Can quirky hotels work for serious well to design hotels. business hotels,” he said. positions, you can expect to see them corporate events? Definitely, according “It is typically small, luxury incen- The misperception that design hotels drive even greater use of quirky venues to Chiay. tive groups that (go for design hotels) to are pricey and “troublesome to manage for business events,” said Chiay. Citing an example, he said a client reward their staff, not so much business in a normal contract” is also a hurdle, Joost de Meyer, chairman and CEO of had chosen to launch his new London (meetings),” observed Rosanna Leung, added Chiay.

14 SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 • TTG SHOW DAILY IT&CMA AND CTW ASIA-PACIFIC Beauties on the block Beauties with character? Oh yes, they exist. TTG Show Daily reporters profile some design hotels in Asia-Pacific that will work well for business events

Hoshino Resort Risonare Yatsugatake, Yamanashi, Japan Event venues Two convention rooms, four boardrooms and a ball- room Design story A winner of a dozen international architecture and design awards, Hoshino Resort Risonare Yatsugatake appears as a contemporary complex of various facilities set high in the spectacular mountains of Yatsugatake. The complex – which incorporates striking design concepts by a Alila Fort Bishangarh, Rajasthan, India number of prominent architects – also has a 300-seat auditorium, Event venues Various indoor and outdoor reception venues and restaurants, including the newly created YYgrill. venues Other facilities include a cafe with a wide selection of books, a spa Design story Once a warrior fort and now with top-of-the-range therapies, an indoor pool and the Yatsugatake a luxurious resort under a brand known for Winehouse. its breathtaking properties, the Alila Fort There are a number of meeting facilities, including venues that Bishangarh perches atop a granite hill with permit work to continue on a shady deck with mountains forming the its conserved 2m-thick walls and battlement backdrop. Meeting rooms can accommodate 12 to 120 people. turrets and arches looking very much like a The surrounding environment also lends itself to teambuilding natural extension of the surrounding terrain. events, including treasure hunts and cooking classes. – Julian Ryall The heritage resort is said to be a unique example of Jaipur Gharana architecture, influ- enced by both the Mughals and the British, Blossom Villa Resort & Spa, Sichuan, China Hotel Mecure Danang French Village Bana, Vietnam and much of that has been carefully restored. Event venues A multimedia room for 150 guests plus an attached Event venues A grand ballroom and six meeting rooms The resort boasts 59 stately suites, each outdoor terrace Design story With Danang becoming an attractive destination for individually created to capture the stunning Design story Opened in December 2015, the latest China member of business events, AccorHotels pledged to offer something slightly views of the surroundings. Small Luxury Hotels of the World is located 140km from Chengdu in different when it opened Mercure Bana Hills French Village in April The regal atmosphere is carried through Jiangyou, the hometown of famed Chinese poet Li Bai. 2016. Sitting at 1,480m above sea level in an area that was once pop- the hotel’s suites, four speciality theme res- The Jiangyou authorities commissioned the developer to build a ular with French colonialists seeking respite from the heat, it is only taurants – particularly Amarsar all-day dining poetry-themed European-style wellness retreat where the design of accessible via a 5,800m long cable car. Boasting unparallelled views restaurant which features restored Rajasthani 2 2 each of the 24 rooms, measuring between 65m and 70m , is differ- of the surrounding mountainous region of central Vietnam, the village thikri work and hand-painted wall art, and The ent and based on a selected poet and poem. is modelled on 19th Century France and is home to 494 European- Nazaara terrace lounge with its elegant Indian The hotel has an art gallery, a café, a swimming pool and Thalgo style rooms, seven F&B outlets, a fitness centre, spa, indoor pool, golf arches, and Spa Alilla. Spa, known for its thalassotherapy treatments using sea water and centre, shopping area and attraction park. For private events, the resort has plenty 2 sea products, and the 90m One Room Chinese restaurant where The village is also home to a range of event facilities, catering for to offer too, including a royal banquet hall, a dishes are made using seasonal, non-genetically modified, organic up to 1,000 guests. Private events can also be arranged in the sprawl- banquet dining room, conference and meeting ingredients. ing gardens, the fantasy park or other open areas. A dedicated events rooms, an open-air terrace and large banquet One Room restaurant is divided into different sections comprising team is on standby. – Marissa Carruthers lawns. – Karen Yue a living room corner with sofas and armchairs, a long table with a screen and equipment for a business meeting, and a 20-seat round table in front of a fireplace. Hôtel Vagabond, Singapore The hotel offers modern lifestyle concepts in a village-setting and Event venues One, for up to 350 guests meeting planners can consider booking the entire hotel for a high-end Design story The luxury boutique hotel lives, retreat or incentive trip. – Caroline Boey breathes and plays art. Housed in a 1950s Art Deco building and designed by renowned French designer Jacques Garcia, Hôtel Vaga- bond embodies his design philosophy of “all things in excess” from the bronze rhinoceros that doubles as a reception desk to the life-sized golden elephants that ‘hold up’ the elevator. Come evening, the Vagabond Salon, which comes with a touch of Parisian glamour, takes centrestage, providing guests with a space to experience art through interaction with the artist-in-residence. The 400m2 venue encom- passes a bar and a restaurant kitchen, and can adapt to different event requirements. Its floor-to-ceiling velvet curtains are soundproof, Macalister Mansion, Penang, Malaysia The Anam, Nha Trang, Vietnam allowing the space to cater to intimate soirees Event venues Two private rooms within The Dining Room, one for Event venues A conference room, a ballroom and three meeting or be opened up, catering up to 100 pax up to 10 people boardroom-style, the other for up to 20; The Lawn rooms seated or 350 standing. – Barathi Narayan accommodating up to 200 people Design story The five-star resort celebrated its grand opening in April Design story Located along the historic Macalister Road, the eight- 2017. Inspired by Vietnam’s bygone Indochine era, the resort’s ro- The Warehouse Hotel, Singapore room Macalister Mansion is a restored colonial mansion built in the mantic design evokes nostalgia with its imperial-style roofs, lanterns, Event venues One, for up to 28 guests early 1900s and named in honour of Penang’s British governor Nor- decorative pools, customised mosaic floor tiles and stone pathways. Design story Fancy staying in a meticulously man Macalister who ruled from 1808 to 1810. Numerous references It features 117 villas, 96 rooms and suites and various facilities includ- restored spice warehouse dating back to 1895, to the historic figure are captured in the host of specially commis- ing a restaurant, a pool bar and beach club, three swimming pools, a which also housed an illegal alcohol distill- sioned installation art pieces displayed throughout the premises. Balinese spa, a 3D cinema, a water sports centre, and yoga facilities. ery when the area was a hotbed of secret Guests can expect a dramatic sense of arrival through the gener- Understanding that the modern business is seeking a destina- societies and underground activity, and later ous ground fronting the historic mansion. When viewed along the tion that combines top event facilities with culture and breath-taking a vibrant disco? The Warehouse Hotel in Rob- main road, the Macalister Mansion logo floats above the green hedge beauty, The Anam is a paradise tucked away in the northern Cam ertson Quay might be right up your alley. and original wrought iron gate, with the elegant mansion in the dis- Ranh peninsula. The Colonial Room can host up to 170 people, while The 37-room hotel stays true to the build- tance. Entering the hedge-lined driveway, guests are welcomed by an the ballroom caters for up to 250. A dedicated team is tasked with ing’s heritage and local culture with features oversized 2.5m-high fractal bust of Norman Macalister. Arrival at the creating one-of-a-kind events, with the stunning ocean-side location including original industrial beams, high reception area is under a turquoise scalloped canopy and through a making the resort already popular with event planners. – Marissa ceilings and historical detailing, that is further pair of restored ornate wooden double-leaf doorway. Carruthers enhanced with a contemporary minimalistic The reception is central to the rest of the Macalister Mansion design and locally sourced room furnishings. experience and is linked to three F&B outlets and to the eight rooms The theme is also carried over to the multi- above. The Living Room has its own distinct entry on the southwest purpose event space, The Den – an extension side of the building with a pathway connecting it to The Lawn’s pool to the hotel’s lobby – for intimate business and pool bar. events for 28 guests. For non-exclusive events, At the pool, a white cannon and series of cannonballs on display The Den and the lobby bar can accommo- are a tongue-in-cheek reference to a legend surrounding Norman date a larger gathering of up to 80 guests. Macalister’s days of governing – apparently he incentivised local Meetings can also be catered in the hotel islanders to aid in the clearing of a piece of forested coastal land by restaurant, Po, which pays tribute to a local shooting gold coins into the forest. favourite snack, popiah, and celebrates the The entire mansion can be booked for RM80,000 (US$18,161) nett richness of Singaporean dishes and flavours per day. with a modern twist. – Barathi Narayan – S Puvaneswary

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Ad Target Hong Kong’s Hamson Wai Discover Holidays (Asia)’s Rodney Yew, Negin Parvaz Pars Iran’s Ghasem Honarvar and ISPIM UK’s Iain Bitran

Lac Hong Voyages Vietnam’s Jonathan Tran Vinh Loc, Fun Holiday Tours & Travel Malaysia’s Connie Chong and JTR Events & Marketing Vietnam’s Tan Robert

SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 • TTG Show Daily IT&CMA and CTW Asia-pacific 1 7 Talk of the trade Collaborate for might: CVB chiefs By Mimi Hudoyo shared that her organisation has to com- Business events industry leaders are un- pete with 70 sister CVBs in Japan as well derlining the importance of collaboration as Japan National Tourism Organization between a country’s NTO and CVB in the when bidding for an event. creation of a successful MICE destination. However, that competition comes Led by Gaining Edge’s Mike Williams, alongside careful collaboration that sup- the NTO and CVBs – Collaborator or ports the national agenda. Mike Wil- Competitor? panel session at yesterday’s liams, senior consultant of Gaining Edge, ASEAN MICE Forum featured representa- pointed out that Japanese cities each bear tives from Osaka Convention & Tourism a distinct city brand that works to sup- Bureau (OCTB), Hyderabad Convention port the overall national brand. Visitors Bureau, Chiang Mai University, From left: Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau’s Asako Shiomi, Hyderabad Convention Visitors Bureau’s In Thailand, TCEB encourages Thai Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau Jalik Khan, Chiang Mai University’s Pairach Piboonrungroj, Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau’s Ashwin cities to play up their local industry (PCEB) and Thailand Convention & Exhi- Gunasekeran, Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau’s Chuta Tharachai and GainingEdge’s Mike Williams strengths when competing for business bition Bureau (TCEB). events. While the panelists acknowledged likely to make first contact with the NTO marketed in a different way,” she added. “The Thai government looks at the that both organisations play vastly dif- than with TCEB. At PCEB, CEO Ashwin Gunasekeran Thailand 4.0 policy (an economic model ferent roles, they have also noted some “This can be confusing because mes- said destination branding activities are launched in 2016 to develop Thailand overlapping ones between their country’s sages to business event clients are mixed each undertaken by his organisation into a valued-based, smart economy) and NTO and CVB. The key to a successful with leisure in TAT’s communications,” and the state NTO, and both parties are assigns different industry sectors to dif- collaboration between the two is clear said Chuta. clear about the role they play “to avoid ferent destinations. For example, Chiang communications. “So what we are doing is to educate competition”. Mai specialises in creative economy and Chuta Tharachai, senior manager TAT to make it our true partner. TAT can The panelists also explored the level of food supply while Pattaya specialises domestic MICE department with TCEB, complement TCEB in promoting Thailand collaboration between cities in the same in aviation and automobile,” Chuta shared her observation that because the as a destination, but messages are topped country that are vying for inbound busi- explained, adding that TCEB will then Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) with business event content. We have ness events. encourage related business events to be represents the destination worldwide, informed them that for Thailand to win a Asako Shiomi, deputy manager MICE hosted in specific cities with supporting overseas business event clients are more business event, the destination must be promotion department with OCTB, industries.

Grand Goes Beyond meeting package is { Talking numbers } { Hot deals } priced from 1,800++ baht per person for a full day, 08.00 to 17.00, and 850++ baht per per- The number of exhibiting 40 per cent from Europe. The remain- son for half a day, 08.00 to 12.00, with coffee companies and organisa- ing buyers are from the Americas, break only. A half-day package inclusive of a 299 ++ tions registered for IT&CMA and CTW Australasia and other regions. morning break and lunch costs 1,600 baht per person. Asia-Pacific 2017. Among the new ex- Terms and conditions apply. The proportion of new hibiting destination pavilions and CVBs Email [email protected]. are Macau, Lanna, Osaka, Perth and 65% buyers at the show, while Suwon City. New exhibiting corporates the percentage of new corporate travel The Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection include Dream Cruises & Star Cruises procurement executives is estimated to Hotel, Bangkok and PIGS DMC. be 51 per cent. The newly refurbished and rebranded The Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection Ho- The number of buyers ex- The media count at this year’s tel, Bangkok, has rolled out introductory pected at IT&CMA 2017, 56 show, with 24 countries/territo- Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok Transformative Journey packages, priced 438 94 from 9,000++ baht (US$271.40) per room per cent of whom hail from Asia and ries represented. Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok has launched its Grand Goes Beyond meeting package per night. which offers two event benefits. The offer includes round-trip airport-hotel Events and groups that book and hold transfer in a BMW Series 5, Royal Club their full-day or half-day meeting package Lounge access, 2,000 baht net hotel credit between now and December 31, 2017 will for use at restaurants and the spa, special Qatar Airways to lift Chiang receive two perks: one, tailor-made morning welcome gift, The Athenee Hotel’s rebrand- and afternoon breaks with arrival refresh- ing souvenir, and A Luxury Collection curated ments; two, lunch at a either Erawan Tea experience at the hotel. Mai’s MICE business Room (Thai set lunch) or Spasso (Italian set Bookings must be made between October lunch with appetizer buffet). 6 and November 15, 2017. Four new weekly flights operated by conferences in the northern region.” Planners can also opt for an international Other terms apply. Qatar Airways to Chiang Mai from its Pairach pointed out that Chiang Mai buffet at The Dining Room with a top up of Email reservations.theathenee@luxurycol- 200++ baht (US$6). lection.com. hub in Doha, commencing December 7, can “comfortably hold conferences of 2017, will open Chiang Mai and Thai- up to 2,000 people”. land’s northern region to world confer- He added: “The challenge for Chiang ences, opined Pairach Piboonrungroj, Mai and its surroundings is to develop director, MICE Excellence Centre, Chiang new products for pre- and post-show Mai University. tours, looking beyond elephants, tem- In an interview with TTG Show Daily ples and forests. on the sidelines of the ASEAN “For this we are working towards MICE Forum yesterday morn- identifying new products and provid- ing, where he was a speak- ing the data to Tourism Authority of er, Pairach said: “Europeans Thailand and Thailand Convention & have a misconception that Exhibition Bureau who may then work Chiang Mai is a secondary with the product stakeholders to further destination and accessibility develop them.” is a concern. In reality, there According to Pairach, Chiang Mai’s are many flights a day from economic strength lies in areas such as Bangkok to Chiang Mai, so food and health, renewable energy and connections out of Bang- the environment and creative economy kok is not really an issue. which relates to digital knowledge and “However, Qatar design. Inspiring the next generation Airways’ direct flights The destination is supported by the Organised in strategic partnership with IMEX, Meeting Professionals International and MCI will (correct perceptions Chiang Mai International Exhibition Group, and supported by Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau and Thailand Incentive and) make Chiang Mai and Convention Centre, which was and Convention Association, the annual IMEX-MPI-MCI-IT&CMA Future Leaders Forum 2 puts hand-picked students from universities in Thailand in the same room as industry the leading city for opened in 2013. It boasts 60,000m of veterans where the young ones are inspired towards a fulfilling career in the business usable space, and is surrounded by ho- events industry. This year sees the participation of 69 students and student alumni. Photo Pairach: new tels, shopping malls and restaurants. by Yingyong Un-anongrak products needed - S Puvaneswary

18 SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 • TTG Show Daily IT&CMA and CTW Asia-pacific Talk of the trade/Gallery

FCM rolls out connective Global conferences take travel management platform FCM Travel Japan closer to record arrivals Solutions has launched FCM By Rachel AJ Lee Korea, Taiwan and China, but JNTO noted that Connect, an Japan has surpassed its 20 million visitor mark as numbers from the South-east Asian markets of Thai- integrated global at September 15, and is currently well on its way to land, Malaysia and Indonesia, are increasing each technology breaking its record of 24 million arrivals received last year. platform which year. Singapore, according to Kawasaki, is a very “impor- gives clients ac- Etsuko Kawasaki, executive director of tant stable and mature market” whose travel- cess to multiple the Japan Convention Bureau, revealed that lers “expect once-in-lifetime experiences”. tools that deliver international conferences have played a huge She elaborated: “So we encourage local on their travel role in contributing to the country’s visitor convention bureaus to create more unique programme. numbers. and cultural venues (for Singaporean busi- At the core of Based on data from Japan National Tour- ness event groups).” the solution is the FCM Connect HUB, a single-sign-on ism Organization’s (JNTO) overseas offices, Seeing the potential of such international platform that gives customers one simple connection the number of meetings and incentives to conferences, JNTO is working with Japan point to all of FCM’s leading technology tools includ- Japan in 2016 totalled 1,948, bringing with Kawasak: Singapore’s Conference Ambassadors around the globe. ing Analytics, Approve, Booking, Secure, Expense and them 131,656 participants. an important market Currently, JNTO has 47 of such ambassadors, Mobile. HUB is easily customisable in both configura- As well, consumption by foreign event participants who have brought in more than 20 international tion of tools used and interface design. amounted to 15.6 billion yen (US$139.3 million) in conferences. “Through extensive customer consultation and 2016, according to the Japan Tourism Agency. Two notable conference wins are the 11th Language product development, we’ve refined a world-class, end- In the Tokyo Metropolitan, Kansai and Central Resources and Evaluation Conference in Miyazaki to-end solution that ensures all of our customer’s travel Japan areas, medical conference attendees were found next year and the 25th General Conference of the Inter- needs are organised – from pre-trip approval to book- to be bigger spenders than participants of other types national Council of Museums in September 2019. Both ing, to traveller tracking and reporting that provides of conferences. Medical conference attendees spent an are rotating to Asia for the first time. complete visibility of spend,” said Marcus Eklund, average of 356,815 yen per person, while other partici- Another worthy conference for Japan is the 5,000 global brand leader with FCM Travel Solutions. pants spent an average of 300,328 yen. pax 17th World Congress of the International Society FCM Connect can support organisations across a Both expenditures were more than the leisure travel- for Prosthetics and Orthotics from October 5 to 8. The full range of travel programme deliverables including ler average of 155,896 yen. latter’s timing is impeccable, as the conference will global, regional or national fulfillment; cost reduction The lion’s share of corporate visitors (75 per cent) increase the understanding of para-sports globally just strategies; data compliance; and duty of care responsi- was attributed to the East Asian markets of South before the 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Games. bilities.

An open trove of local gems By Caleb Richard Lai

Sol D’or Spain’s Teresa Sans Valmiki Travel & Tourism Solutions India’s Hari Kishan Tutt Bryant Group Australia’s Sarita Verma and Eventsme Valmiki Spain’s Isabel Pelletier

Inito India’s Tanva Patowari ICP Group Poland’s Valeria Koshel

Show D’vision Germany’s Udo Landow, Culturebrand Live Communication Germany’s Hubert Georg Feil, BB-Business- Travel Germany’s Bernd Bowing Albatross World Travel & Tours Singapore’s Crystal Sim, 8th Wave Events & Destinations Singapore’s University of South Africa’s Johan Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau China’s Eric Zhu with Kristel Jade, Tavant Technologies India’s Usman Strydom, Annemarie Bates and Susan Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau’s Onrumpa Kidmai, Gani, 247 Facility Services India’s Sandeep Khosla, Strydom Thanyaluck Chantaratim and Natkamol Punchanhom and Diageo India’s Jani Jermans

SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 • TTG Show Daily IT&CMA and CTW Asia-pacific 1 9