Asia/Singapore Saturday, 27th December 2025
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Relive a bygone era aboard Sirimahannop

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Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park has embarked on a new voyage with the launch of Sirimahannop, a replica of the Royal Thai Navy’s last three-masted sailing ship from the reign of King Rama V (1868-1910).

The floating event venue – which transports guests back to a prosperous bygone era of Thai trade and heritage – is permanently docked at Asiatique The Riverfront.

Sirimahannop can accommodate up to 300 guests across two levels: the Upper Deck and Lower Deck.

The Upper Deck is an al fresco space where up to 200 people can soak up river views. Casual stool seating runs along the starboard side, and live bands, performances, and themed parties can be arranged for private buyouts.

Descending to the Lower Deck, the indoor zone can hold up to 100 guests seated. There are also two private rooms that can cater for up to six people each.

Guests can also expect epicurean adventures, including handcrafted cocktails, signature drinks and light shared plates that reflect the ship’s historical global trade routes, with a fusion of the finest ingredients from Thailand, Europe and other ports of call.

Belmond names Sébastien Samoye as VP of real estate

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Sébastien Samoye has been appointed as vice president of real estate of Belmond, and will play a key role in curating the ultimate travel collection for the company.

He brings with him over twenty years of international experience working in asset management, finance and real estate, most recently in his own practice, CREO Advisory, and has overseen an extensive portfolio of hotels during his career.

Samoye will play a significant role in asset management of Belmond’s owned real estate and working with joint venture partners.

Azerai Can Tho introduces new executive chef

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Azerai Can Tho in Vietnam has appointed a new executive chef, Bernardo Cabrera, who will oversee the entire range of Azerai Can Tho’s culinary programme.

The Mexican will draw on his past experiences working in Michelin-star restaurants like Ryu Gin in Japan, and Geranium in Copenhagen, Denmark.

In 2018, Cabrera moved to Vietnam, where he joined the culinary team at Amanoi. That experience marked his second stint with Aman Resorts after he joined Amanyara in the Turks and Caicos islands starting in 2012.

AIMEbassador Paula Rowntree Shares her Invaluable Insights

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Brought to you by AIME 2023

AIMEbassador Paula Rowntree

It’s AIME’s 30th Birthday – any historical anecdotes to share?

I remember my first AIME. I picked up my name badge and attended the hosted buyer briefing. The energy in the room was palpable and watching the joy as so many people hugged, kissed and laughed as they came together again was like nothing I had experienced.

What’s changed in your time in the industry?

The increase of digital in our sector perhaps goes without saying. When I started it was good old fashioned recording and sending these out on VHS tapes.

What do you think our industry will look like in 30 years?

Immersive and experiential learning is growing and we need to learn how to create these educationally based experiences in our program.

Have you met any partners or made new business contacts through AIME?

Every year I meet new partners and business contacts at AIME. It’s one of the main reasons I continue to go year on year.

What are your top tips for networking?

If you’re on your own, don’t be afraid to approach that group and make conversation. Our industry is warm and welcoming. Let people know you’re flying solo – you’ll be building a network before you know it.

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing the industry?

There are a few things I could mention here but the skills shortage is key. Our industry is no longer seen as attractive to newcomers.. There is no clear pathway – especially for young people – for career growth and progression. We need to undertake career mapping and show how rich and diverse our industry is.

What are the key trends you are seeing in your area of specialty?

Within associations the need to reconnect in-person seems to be a key trend. With digital content, there are mixed feelings with some associations returning to in-person only and some maintaining a digital presence, as it relates to conferences.

What would you most like to learn about at AIME?

How can we unite as one industry to drive recognition through all levels of government, corporate and associations to increase our standing, appreciation and funding to drive more events into the Australian market.

What are some things you would advise someone to do who is attending AIME for the first time?

● Respect the time of the buyers. If you’re attending as a hosted buyer, attend every appointment. If you get behind schedule, go and see any appointments you missed to reschedule.
● Be open to learning!

If you could meet or chat to one person at AIME who would it be?

Julia Knowles! Julia was the person behind Her Majesty’s funeral. It was perfection in motion and such an example of the power of events.

AIME 2019 Hosted Buyer event at the Timberyard and Uncover Melbourne tour experiences

What are some of your go-to places when you’re in Melbourne (food/coffee/experiences)?

Mamasita for some delicious Mexican; Hochi mama and Straight outta Saigon for Asian; walking everywhere and listening to the sights and sounds.

The Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) is the leading trade event for the meetings and event industry in the Asia Pacific region. AIME is where industry decision makers connect, create and do business. Applications for AIME’s highly regarded Hosted Buyer Program close 13 December 2022. Find out more here.

For more details or to register:

aime.com.au
facebook.com/AIMEAsiaPacific
instagram.com/aimeasiapacific
LinkedIn – AIME

For AIME sales, sponsorship or hosted buyer enquiries contact:

● Sales and Sponsorship: aime@talk2.media
● Hosted Buyers: aime.buyers@talk2.media

Swissotel Clark welcomes new DOSM

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Alie V Sison is the new director of sales and marketing at Swissotel Clark, replacing Albert Lafuente who is now resident manager of Sedona Suites Ho Chi Minh City.

Prior to that, Sison was director of sales at Raffles and Fairmont Makati as well as Mandarin Oriental in Manila. She was also director of sales and marketing at Discovery Suites Ortigas.

Indonesia showcases sustainable side to G20 delegates

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Indonesia welcomed G20 delegates this week with upgraded and sustainable infrastructure and attractions in Bali, with a spotlight on local cultural arts and craft and cuisine.

Angle Tanoesoedibjo, vice minister of tourism and creative economy, said at a virtual media briefing from Bali that the offer of various national dishes represented an Indonesian gastronomic diplomacy.

Electric vehicles were operated during the event to bring the G20 delegates around

Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy’s (MoTCE) deputy of tourism products and events, Rizki Handayani, shared that the Story of Gulu and Friends food theatre and the Archipelago on a Tray highlighted culinary delights from different parts of Indonesia.

She said: “The tray, for example, showcased (dishes with ingredients) sourced from Aceh to Papua. The duck, for example, was from Sumatra, coffee from Gayo (Aceh), and tea from West Java. All islands in the country were represented (in the lunch).”

The story of sustainable food sources was also presented through an integrated performance.

As part of the G20 side event, head of delegations visited the Ngurah Rai Mangrove Forest Park. Ahead of the visit, facilities at the mangrove area were upgraded, including the construction of the entrance gate, parking area, G20 monument, plaza area, Beji (the sacred garden in the temple area), Wantilan (pavilion), mangrove tracking track, nursery area, nursery irrigation system, receiving area, viewing deck towards Benoa Bay, and viewing tower.

The Estuary Dam Solar Power Plant (SPP) also had upgrading works done, such as optimising the function of the water reservoir in the Muara Reservoir, which is expected to reduce the impact of climate change. This renewable energy transition is in line with one of the global issues at the G20 Summit.

In addition, Indonesia showcased its green energy concept by implementing the SPP on the Bali-Mandara Toll Road, with electric vehicles – 962 cars, 454 motorcycles, and 28 bus units – operated during the event to move G20 delegates around.

Debut of Bangkok’s new lifestyle destination

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Lokuttara (2022) dazzles as a lotus-flower-petals-like sculpture outside QSNCC
Lokuttara (2022) dazzles as a lotus-flower-petals-like sculpture outside QSNCC

Brought to you by Queen Sirikit National Convention Center

Bangkok’s world-class event platform reimagines itself beyond a convention venue into an exciting lifestyle destination for a new wave of visitors while respecting its legacy and heritage.

Bringing life into the state-of-the-art space, the newly-renovated Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) is a recreational hub, art gallery, culinary and shopping powerhouse, and convention centre all rolled into one.

Distinguished by its convenient location, exceptional facilities and compelling offerings, QSNCC presents a value proposition that caters to the active urban population, both organisers and visitors alike.

Refreshing retail concept for active lifestyles
Divided into various zones including food and beverage, event support and active lifestyle, QSNCC boasts an impressive retail segment with over 11,000m² devoted to a new mall “BALM” (Bangkok’s Active Lifestyle Mall).

Offering a variety of leading retail brands, restaurants and amenities, BALM attracts and serves health and fitness enthusiasts, urban workers, MRT commuters and families.

Eco-friendly visitors to QSNCC can opt for sustainable transportation options by utilising the connecting QSNCC MRT station and the bus station which is in close proximity.

QSNCC is the only convention centre located in the heart of Bangkok, with direct access to the MRT station.

With QSNCC adjacent to Benjakitti Park, exercise lovers can also work out outdoors in the new green lung of Bangkok.

Addressing their various lifestyle needs, visitors can shop, dine and exercise within one convenient meeting place.

Awe-inspiring architecture & artworks
An architectural marvel featuring a unique exterior comprising stunning architecture inhibiting both Thai and international elements, Thai cultural characteristics are also reflected and Thai public art and history are represented in the interior design and decor of QSNCC.

To top it all, the Bangkok landmark showcases an interesting mix of traditional Thai and contemporary artworks within its revamped premises too.

Visitors can admire compelling artworks such as Woven Symphony (2022), a colossal embroidered tapestry crafted with hill tribe cloths, silk threads, sequins, beads and traditional Thai costume ornaments; Wooden Relief Sculpture of the Indrabhisek Ceremony (1991), a magnificent sculpture made of 56 hardwood pieces, capturing the meaning of power in Thai culture, where its source isn’t force but virtue; and Adam’s Bridge (2022), a handwoven tapestry made of waste fabrics and unwanted scraps such as soda cans, used stockings and industrial yarn fragments to illustrate the concept of sustainability.

Outside QSNCC at the entrance hall, Lokuttara (2022), dazzles as a lotus-flower-petals-like sculpture, pressed together in a prayer-like fashion to indicate a meeting or an assembly to do good deeds.

Bangkok Art Biennale 2022 also selected QSNCC as one of the leading arts venues to exhibit nearly 60 artworks from renowned artists from all over the world for five months from October 2022 to February 2023.

Set to be a MICE game-changer in the Land of Smiles, the redeveloped QSNCC is expected to attract over 13 million visitors per year after its recent reopening in September 2022.

Discover the new experience of “The Ultimate Inspiring World-Class Event Platform for All” at QSNCC here.

For event organisers and planners keen to explore QSNCC as a venue, reach out to us here.

Hong Kong puts best foot forward with JCI World Congress

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The Junior Chamber International (JCI) World Congress returned to Hong Kong earlier this month after almost 30 years, and delivered a hybrid event that featured a diverse destination experience.

Drawing more than 500 in-person attendees and more than 3,500 online delegates, the five-day congress packed in training sessions, seminars, workshops and keynote speeches. The programme also gave in-person attendees a chance to participate in the Hong Kong Sevens and Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival – mega events that coincided with Hong Kong’s easing of travel restrictions.

JCI World Congress delegates enjoyed the vibrant Hong Kong Sevens in person

JCI president Argenis Angulo said the congress was a “milestone in the history of JCI in Hong Kong”, due to its metaverse application that blended technologies with local cultures. Delegates were gifted with souvenirs in NFTs.

The congress had the full support of Hong Kong Tourism Board, from the bidding stage to programme delivery, with assistance offered for promotion and funding.

Karen Yeung, JCI Hong Kong national president, said: “Hong Kong’s flexibility, resilience and diversified experiences are key factors in winning this year’s world congress.”

Yeung hopes that the successful delivery of the congress will inform the world that Hong Kong is ready for more conferences.

Lanson Place to expand presence in Asia-Pacific

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Lanson Place Hospitality Management is exploring both investment and management opportunities to further grow the brand in major gateway cities in Asia-Pacific.

Poised to open its eighth property in Manila in 2Q2023 and its ninth in Melbourne in 2024, the management company had an “interesting discussion” to develop a “talent serviced apartment” in Shenzhen’s Greater Bay Area, which is being primed to welcome various industries and attract young talents, shared CEO Michael Hobson.

Hobson: eyes on Asian gateway cities

Lanson Place is also looking to own and manage properties for a more permanent presence in Shanghai and Beijing where its parent company, Hong Kong-listed Wing Tai Properties, has a presence.

The group has two high-end serviced apartments in Shanghai – Lanson Place Aroma Garden and Lanson Place Parkside.

Hobson said Lanson Place was keen on establishing a footprint in Tokyo three years ago, but plans were marred by the onset of Covid-19. Another target is London where Wing Tai already has properties in Mayfair.

Lanson Place has a compendium of seven managed properties – three in Hong Kong, two in China, and one each in Singapore and Kuala Lumpur – with a total of 1,000 rooms and residences.

Lanson Place Parliament Gardens in Melbourne will have 137 serviced units when it opens in 2024.

Lanson Place Mall of Asia in Manila will be its biggest property, with 247 hotel keys and 143 residential suites. It is the first hybrid hotel-branded residence for SMX Hotels and Conventions, which has nine mid-scale to luxury hotels and eight exhibition and convention venues throughout the Philippines.

Laurent Boisdron, vice president and general manager of Lanson Place Mall of Asia, said the property will have a full-service operation when it opens in April next year, including a spa, five F&B outlets, a grand ballroom and seven meeting rooms.

Boisdron added that targeted clientele comprises the strong domestic leisure market; corporates, with the numerous companies around the Manila Bay area; and business events, due to its proximity to SMX Convention Center Manila.

Not only have studies shown greater demand across the world for the hybrid hotel and serviced residences model as travellers now tend to stay longer in a destination, the hybrid model also presents lower risks to investors.

The Hari Hong Kong names new GM

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Harilela Hotels has appointed Edward E. Snoeks as general manager of The Hari Hong Kong.

The seasoned hotelier possesses three decades of experience in luxury hospitality across Europe and Asia including Hong Kong and Thailand.

Prior to joining The Hari Hong Kong, Snoeks was general manager of Meliá Chiang Mai. Other positions he has held include pre-opening general manager of Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok & The Residences, as well as Thailand’s regional general manager and general manager of The Okura Prestige Bangkok.

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