Roasted turkey with mashed potato and Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage 2016
Emirates has unveiled 18 new Business Class dishes meticulously designed to be paired with exclusive Moët & Chandon Champagnes on most medium- to long-haul flights.
This marks the airline’s first curated champagne and cuisine pairing experience in the air, and was developed over the course of a year by Michelin-star chef Jean Michel Bardet from Moët & Chandon and Emirates’ vice president of culinary design, Doxis Bekris.
Roasted turkey with mashed potato and Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage 2016
New pairings include starters like poached scallops with green melon and Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage 2016, and vegan options such as silken tofu with asparagus and Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial. Main courses feature roasted duck with spiced couscous and Moët & Chandon Rosé Impérial, roasted turkey with mashed potato and Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage 2016, and seared Chilean Seabass with artichoke puree and Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial. A vegan main course of braised lentils with coconut and Moët & Chandon Rosé Impérial is also offered.
Customers can identify these paired dishes on the onboard menu with a crown icon and can check their specific flight menu in advance.
Emirates has a 33-year partnership with Moët Hennessy and is the world’s largest airline purchaser of champagne. Their Business and First Class offerings include exclusive vintages, while champagne is also available in other cabins.
In March 2024 Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA), in partnership with Tourism Australia and Tourism and Events Queensland, successfully secured the Nu Skin China incentive trip, which has previously been held in destinations such as Hawaii, Toronto, and Bali.
The event was supported by Tourism Australia’s Business Events Bid Fund Program, with Brisbane’s successful bid a reflection of the city’s strategic commitment to attracting high-value business events.
From the moment delegates arrived, Brisbane rolled out the red carpet – offering personalised airport activations, exclusive experiences at renowned attractions, and a prestigious Brisbane City Hall reception. The city’s seamless blend of business and leisure made it an ideal choice for Nu Skin China’s top achievers.
Nu Skin China delegates in Brisbane for their five-day incentive trip, an event supported by Tourism Australia’s Business Events Bid Fund Program
Why Brisbane?
As Australia’s fastest-growing major capital city, Brisbane delivers an unbeatable incentive offering. With a thriving cultural scene, stunning outdoor lifestyle, and close proximity to iconic Australian experiences, it’s no surprise the city has been recognised by TIME Magazine, Frommer’s, and The New York Times as one of the world’s must-visit destinations.
Christine Kong, vice president of executive partnership at Nu Skin China, highlighted the significance of selecting Brisbane: “We always aim to create unforgettable experiences for our delegates, inspiring them to achieve even more. Brisbane’s beautiful weather, walkability, and connectivity, along with its vibrant city precincts, made it the perfect choice.”
Delegates enjoyed a blend of luxury urban experiences and breathtaking natural escapes, staying at five premium hotels: Sofitel Brisbane Central, Hilton Brisbane, Hyatt Regency Brisbane, Brisbane Marriott Hotel, and The Westin Brisbane – all conveniently located within walking distance of the city centre.
VIP welcome and First Nations culture
Nu Skin China delegates received a personalised welcome the moment they arrived in Brisbane. Branded signage and a dedicated welcome desk at the airport set the stage for their experience, while a special Australian mascot, a kookaburra, delighted guests upon arrival.
Adding a meaningful cultural touch, indigenous elders led a heartfelt Welcome to Country, offering delegates a unique insight into Brisbane’s rich First Nations heritage.
Delegates got to experience the attractions of Brisbane, including getting up close with the native wildlife inhabitants at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Unparalleled experiences
The delegates enjoyed an exclusive takeover of Tangalooma Island Resort, where the experience was elevated with custom branding, scenic helicopter flights over Moreton Island, and the rare opportunity to hand-feed wild dolphins at sunset.
Throughout their stay, they explored Brisbane’s thriving culinary scene, dining at top restaurants and discovering the city’s world-class shopping precincts.
The itinerary also featured unforgettable adventures, from scaling the Story Bridge for breathtaking views to indulging in premium wine tastings at Sirromet Winery and getting up close with native wildlife at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.
Exclusive gala dinner at Brisbane City Hall
Premium wine tastings at Sirromet Winery was part of the fun-filled itinerary
The programme concluded with an elegant Gala Dinner at the heritage-listed Brisbane City Hall, attended by local government representatives—an unforgettable finale to a remarkable five-day event.
Making an impact
Nu Skin China’s visit contributed an estimated AUD$7.5 million to the local economy, reinforcing Brisbane’s status as a sought-after incentive destination. As China’s travel market continues its strong recovery, Brisbane is primed to attract more high-yield international business events.
With growing aviation access, including increased direct flights from China Eastern and China Southern Airlines, Brisbane’s global connectivity continues to strengthen. Kong also praised the city’s accessibility: “Brisbane is incredibly easy to reach from mainland China, with minimal time difference. Our delegates could immediately start enjoying the sun, beaches, and fantastic lifestyle.”
Partnering for success
The seamless execution of this large-scale event was made possible through BEDA’s hands-on support. Kiro Yin, key account director at Mandarin OZ International Travel Services, commended BEDA’s role: “BEDA supported Nu Skin every step of the way – from site visits and bid development to planning and activations. Their expertise and collaboration ensured this was an exceptional experience for all.”
Auckland will soon be home to the New Zealand International Convention Centre, which is slated to open next February with a capacity of up to 4,000
Tourism New Zealand global manager business events Penelope Ryan said: “When you add this conference infrastructure to New Zealand’s innovation and experiential content possibilities, the opportunities for unique perspectives from its Māori culture, the growing schedule of direct flights, and, of course, the country’s bucket-list destination appeal, it really makes New Zealand an attractive proposition.”
A positive pipeline for Auckland
When it opens in February 2026, the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) will cement a new chapter for New Zealand, putting it firmly in the bracket of premier destinations for conferences of 500 to 4,000 persons.
The largest of the country’s three new convention centres will boast 32,500m² of multi-purpose events space in the heart of central Auckland, with a vast choice of hotel rooms, dining options, shopping, and entertainment within walking distance.
NZICC general manager Prue Daly said the venue is already proving popular with conference decisionmakers, adding: “The NZICC currently has 20 international events confirmed and more than 200 proposals pending in the pipeline until 2033.”
Nine publicly announced conferences to date include the International Coral Reef Symposium (2,500 people), the International Confederation of Principals Convention (1,600 people), and the International Dairy Federation World Dairy Summit (1,500 people) in 2026.
Wellington drives higher than expected attendance
The Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre has a stacked calendar of conferences for the year
Capital city Wellington has 22 international conferences booked for 2025. Business Events Wellington manager Irette Ferreira said: “Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre is nearly two years old and going from strength to strength.”
Earlier this year, the venue hosted the 8th World Conference for the International Council for Traditions of Music and Dance, which attracted more than 500 delegates from 85 countries.
Local Arrangements Chair, Brian Diettrich, associate professor in Ethnomusicology at the New Zealand School of Music at Victoria University of Wellington, said the appeal of Wellington and New Zealand drove higher than expected turnout: “Coming here was much further away for most people. So, it seemingly would be more challenging, but it actually worked very, very easily. Everyone was very excited to be in Wellington; the venue was beautiful, everyone loved being able to walk around the city, and people were raving about the food.
“What we did programme-wise with the indigenous focus, and with all the amazing performing groups that came, it really re-energised the conference in interesting ways.”
Notable upcoming conferences at Tākina Wellington Convention Centre include the International Conference on Urban Health 2025, and the International Conference on Digital Preservation.
Exceeding expectations in Christchurch
The Asian Seed Congress Congress was just one of the many notable events held at Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre
Meanwhile in Ōtautahi, Christchurch, Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre has exceeded expectations since opening in May 2022. It attracted an estimated 80,200 guests attending 217 events over the year to November 2024. Over half of the delegates surveyed had not previously visited New Zealand and 95 per cent planned to return to the region for a holiday in the next five years. Respondents commented on Christchurch’s friendly locals, highly walkable inner city, and attractive natural environment. Te Pae Christchurch general manager Ross Steele said: “It’s pleasing almost all (99 per cent) said they would recommend Christchurch to friends, family and colleagues as a place to visit.”
A strong calendar of events for Te Pae Christchurch includes the 8th international Adaptation Futures Conference this October, the International Society of Arboriculture and the International Cool Climate Wine Symposium.
Minor Hotels has made two senior leadership appointments for its Anantara resorts in Chiang Mai and the Golden Triangle.
Arnaud Béril, general manager of Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, will now also oversee Anantara Chiang Mai Resort as cluster general manager of both resorts. Jean-Marc Pougnet, resort manager at Avani+ Khao Lak Resort, will take on the role of general manager at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort.
From left: Arnaud Béril and Jean-Marc Pougnet
Béril, who returned to Anantara Chiang Mai after holding various operational roles across Minor Hotels’ properties in Thailand, has led various initiatives to enhance the resort experience, including the introduction of Canopy, A Tree Top Dining Experience, and the launch of Samsarn restaurant and the Mekong Explorer Tents.
Pougnet first joined Anantara Golden Triangle in 2018 as F&B manager, before moving to Avani+ Khao Lak Resort in 2021. He brings extensive experience in food and beverage and operational roles across Europe, Africa, and Asia.
1. Malay Heritage Experience Malay heritage through a gamified cultural tour in Jeram, Selangor. Set in a traditional village, this 2.5-hour teambuilding adventure features five interactive challenges involving traditional games, dressing in traditional attire and weaving ketupat (rice cake).
Suitable for corporate retreats, this experience offered by Dusky Leaf Adventures blends history, craftsmanship, and teamwork while contributing to the cultural sustainability and livelihood of the local village community.
2. Canal Cleanup Day, Thailand
The TerraCycle Thai Foundation, a registered non-profit, works with local communities to tackle plastic pollution by capturing river plastic before it flows into the ocean.
Corporates can play a part by joining a purposeful, hands-on day that makes a real impact. The experience begins with a boat-based canal cleanup and waste collection, followed by a Thai lunch buffet and an afternoon waste separation and recycling workshop. All waste is weighed and recorded to track collective progress, and protective gear is provided.
3. Trapeang Sangkae Community Eco-Tourism, Cambodia
A once-struggling fishing community has transformed itself into an eco-tourism initiative in the coastal Cambodian province, Kampot.
Hit with depleting fish supplies that forced residents to illegally migrate to work in Thailand, the Trapeang Sangkae Community took matters into their own hands and created a community-based eco-tourism project. Visitors can replant mangroves that provide an essential fish habitat, enjoy kayaking and boat trips, accompany fishermen for Khmer-style fishing, stay in homestays, and eat with villagers.
4. Elephant Valley Project, Cambodia
This project in the heart of Cambodia’s mountainous province, Mondulkiri, supports seven retired elephants which roam freely throughout a large patch of the jungle.
Planners can craft a day, or multi-day programme to visit these gentle giants in their natural habitat and meet their mahouts – no rides, feeding or swimming with the elephants is allowed – learn about the project, hike through lush jungle, and meet indigenous Bunong communities.
5. Farm Tour: A Return to Roots, Indonesia
Begawan Giri – a programme that promotes regenerative, chemical-free rice farming in Bali – offers a 50-pax tour that takes guests to learn about Balinese agricultural heritage and traditional rice farming.
The half-day tour covers the Mansur Heritage Rice cycle, the Subak irrigation system, and the cultural significance of rice farming, including a visit to Pura Dalem temple. The tour concludes with refreshments and lunch at the Begawan Biji plant-based restaurant.
6. The Farm at San Benito, Philippines
The Farm at San Benito in Lipa, Batangas, is an eco-luxury wellness resort that offers health optimisation, holistic healing, and medi-spa programmes for corporate groups. Activities include cellular health screening, doctor consultations and talks, sound healing, and chair yoga.
There are several function venues, such as an amphitheatre, and the Banaba Building which can accommodate up to 100 pax. Other facilities available on the 52-hectare resort include a spa, gym, three swimming pools, and five restaurants, offering vegan and pescetarian selections.
Skyscanner has appointed Bryan Batista as CEO, effective June 1, 2025. He succeeds John Mangelaars, who is stepping down after four and a half years in the role.
Batista, currently chief operating officer, joined Skyscanner in January 2024 following senior roles at Tesla and Booking.com, where he served as CEO of Rentalcars.com and senior vice president of the Trips business unit. Since then, he has overseen the company’s long-term strategy and operations.
In his new role, he will lead Skyscanner through its next stage of development, focusing on product expansion and market growth.
The report sheds light on current trends and considerations shaping international associations, and the destinations that serve them
BestCities Global Alliance has partnered with Strategic Membership Solutions to launch a new report offering a global view of the opportunities and pressures facing associations navigating a world in flux.
Titled Purpose Under Pressure: Global Association Trends in 2025, the report captures data from 586 respondents across 30 countries. It was authored by Belinda Moore of Strategic Membership Solutions, and supported by BestCities Global Alliance and other international partners.
The report sheds light on current trends and considerations shaping international associations, and the destinations that serve them
“This isn’t just a sector scan – it’s a strategic briefing for anyone working with associations,” said Moore. “We’re seeing profound shifts in what associations value, how they engage, and where they gather. For destinations, this creates both a challenge and a massive opportunity to evolve alongside them.”
The research reveals that while events remain a cornerstone of association life, the way they are designed and delivered is changing rapidly. Rising costs, sponsor fatigue, and digital expectations are forcing associations to rethink event formats, legacy goals, and destination partnerships.
“Associations still want to meet face-to-face, but they want more than venues,” Moore explained. “They’re looking for partners who understand their purpose, can deliver legacy impact, and are willing to co-create long-term value.”
For destinations, the report offers four key takeaways:
Legacy is a strategic expectation. Seventy per cent of association leaders say creating long-term impact through their events – such as sector development, sustainability, or policy influence – is “extremely important”. Destinations that support these goals are far more likely to win and retain business.
Experiences trump infrastructure. Associations increasingly prioritise curated experiences, immersive local engagement, and strategic alignment with their mission. They want more than logistics and venues – they want meaning.
Sponsorship and delegate models are shifting. Sponsors are asking harder questions, and delegate numbers are harder to predict. This is prompting associations to seek more agile, partnership-based approaches that destinations can help lead.
Events are no longer one-offs. Many associations are moving from annual flagship events to year-round engagement ecosystems, such as regional meetups, online labs, and sequenced learning. Destinations that can support multi-touch engagement will gain a competitive edge.
Loren Christie, managing director of BestCities Global Alliance, said the report reinforces what BestCities’ destination partners are seeing on the ground.
“The global meetings landscape is evolving rapidly. What this report makes clear is that purpose-driven partnerships are no longer optional – they’re essential,” said Christie. “Destinations that align with an association’s values and strategic goals will stand out. At BestCities, we’re proud to support this research and the conversations it sparks.”
The report also explores the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), pressures on association revenue models, and the urgent need for greater operational resilience – a trifecta that is accelerating strategic decision-making across the sector.
Moore and Christie will present findings from Purpose Under Pressure at IMEX Frankfurt during a session on May 21. Attendees will also get a behind-the-scenes look at Scout, the AI research partner that helped crunch the data.
Recognising Singapore’s strength as a business events hub, FCM Travel India decided to launch its India Council in Singapore, at Flight Centre Travel Group’s Asia headquarters.
Held at both the headquarters and offsite on May 24-25, the FCM India Council meeting brought together several corporate travel and meetings and events clients for discussions on the evolving travel industry landscape.
FCM India Council in Singapore
“More than just boardroom deliberations, the event featured unique experiential activities designed to showcase FCM Meetings & Events Asia’s capabilities,” said Manpreet Bindra, FCM Meetings & Events leader for Asia. “This provided attendees with an immersive understanding of the exceptional service offerings.”
Discussion topics included travel policy enhancement, business traveller experiences, technology integration, personalisation, and optimisation of air and hotel programmes.
Delegates’ destination experiences included a yacht excursion showcasing the Singapore skyline, Sentosa and Southern Islands, and varied dining spots. They also had time to explore the city-state further or go shopping.
Air India also flew Council members from various parts of India so they could experience the airline’s latest business class offerings.
Sanjay Pai, vice president – facilities, corporate travel, hospitality & director aviation of Larsen & Toubro, called the Council concept “a remarkable initiative and amazing platform for open interaction”.
“It was inspiring to learn more about the company’s efforts and vision, giving us a strong sense of confidence that we are in very safe hands,” he said.
He complimented the hosts’ detailed planning and management, and Air India’s new business class service, pointed out that attendees “could fully focus on the the purpose of the visit and connect meaningfully with corporate counterparts from Mumbai, Delhi and Bengaluru”.
Bindra added: “The Advisory Group’s insights are instrumental in shaping the future of corporate travel, ensuring smarter and more scalable solutions for businesses globally.”
Velo-City 2027 is set to boost Ehime’s profile as a global cycling destination; photo courtesy of Cycling Shimanami Executive Committee
Shikoku’s Ehime Prefecture has been selected as the host of Velo-City 2027, the annual world cycling summit of the European Cyclists’ Federation (ECF), becoming the first destination in Japan to welcome the four-day event.
Some 1,000 cycling advocates, policymakers, researchers and industry leaders are expected to attend the summit, scheduled for May 25-28, 2027, in a bid “to shape the future of cycling and sustainable development” through participation in discussions, exhibitions and cycling according to organisers.
Velo-City 2027 is set to boost Ehime’s profile as a global cycling destination; photo courtesy of Cycling Shimanami Executive Committee
ECF CEO Jill Warren described Ehime as “an exceptional example of a region that leverages the many benefits of cycling as an inclusive, resilient and healthy means of transportation”, adding that “Velo-citizens will be very interested in exploring Ehime through participation in the 2027 event”.
Prefectural governor Tokihiro Nakamura, said hosting the event would not only “contribute to improving the cycling environment in Japan” but also “help people learn more about the cycling policies that are being created in Europe”.
Ehime’s win is the culmination of long-term efforts in the prefecture to promote and encourage cycling for local people and visitors alike through policies and infrastructure, including the creation of routes such as the Shimanami Kaido, which runs from Hiroshima to Ehime with scenic views of the Seto Inland Sea.
A spokesperson of the Ehime International Bicycle Conference Promotion Office said staff will work to “spread the economic benefits of the summit throughout the prefecture” and to build on the recognition of hosting “to attract even more visitors to the area to enjoy cycling”.
MEETINGS returns to Auckland (pictured) after four years
Business events professionals from New Zealand, Australia and key international markets are set to converge on Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland next month to connect with over 200 New Zealand exhibitors at MEETINGS 2025.
The Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA) event returns to Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland after four years. The event includes a two-day exhibition at Auckland Showgrounds on June 11-12, plus an Auckland city experience for hosted buyers on June 10 and two social functions.
MEETINGS returns to Auckland (pictured) after four years
The welcome night will be held at Eden Park on June 10, which will put the stadium’s events prowess on full display, while waterfront venue the Viaduct Events Centre will host the final celebration on June 12, with the official after-party at the Rooftop at QT Auckland.
Ken Pereira, head of Auckland Convention Bureau at Tātaki Auckland Unlimited says the city is undergoing a major revitalisation – from the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC), the country’s largest purpose-built convention centre, to an influx of new accommodation investment.
“There are now 18,000 hotel rooms in the region, with new additions in the city centre including the Horizon by SkyCity with direct links to the NZICC, SOHO Hotel Auckland, JW Marriott, Intercontinental, Hotel Indigo, Abstract and Hotel Grand Chancellor properties, plus Auckland Airport’s new Te Arikinui Pullman. Openings this year will include the Radisson RED – the first RED in the Pacific – and TRIBE Auckland,” he elaborated.
“The City Rail Link project, and the new transport hub that is part of Auckland Airport’s expansion, support our vision for a more connected and accessible Auckland while meeting the highest standards of environmental responsibility. We are looking forward to welcoming everyone to connect, collaborate and to experience all that Auckland has to offer.”
Auckland Convention Bureau will host a city tour for hosted buyers, plus fam activity for international guests. Visitors will get a chance to experience first-hand a range of Auckland’s attractions, including the All Blacks Experience and Wētā Workshop Unleashed, wine tasting on Waiheke Island, and sailing on the Waitematā Harbour.
Day Buyer registrations are still open for MEETINGS 2025.
A polished urban retreat designed for business travellers, Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur at KL Midtown combines thoughtful design, seamless service, and exceptional facilities.
The five-star property excels in backing its expansive facilities with seamless service and personalised attention, setting the benchmark for luxury in Bangkok.
In his new role, he will lead Skyscanner through its next stage of development, focusing on product expansion and market growth.
