Asian MICE Cruise Conference returns with greater content

August 6, 2019

The Asian MICE Cruise Conference (AMCC), organised by TTGmice and TTG Events, will return this September 24 for its second edition, featuring an expanded programme that aims to bring greater awareness of cruising opportunities for corporate event planners.

Cruise Lines International Association’s Jiali Wong (left) and Genting Cruise Lines’ Michael Goh will hold keynote spots

Kicking off AMCC 2019 will be two keynote speakers – Jiali Wong, regional manager – Asia, Cruise Lines International Association and Michael Goh, president, Dream Cruises and head, international sales, Genting Cruise Lines.

Wong will shine a spotlight on Asia’s cruise development and explain how the business events industry can benefit from it, while Goh will take the audience through Genting Cruise Line’s growth in Asia and behind the company’s motivation for developing a MICE specialisation.

Joining Wong and Goh is a panel of high-profile industry players: Angie Stephen, managing director, Asia Pacific, Royal Caribbean Cruises; Felix Chan, vice president, Asia, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings; Freddy Muller, vice president, corporate & incentive sales, Silversea Cruises; Steve Bloss, co-founder and president, Worldwide Cruise Associates; and Henry Yu, director, Asia, Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection & U River Cruises.

Throughout the day, five intense panel sessions will tackle topics such as cruises’ ability to support business events; the state of luxury cruise development in the region and its impact on incentive programmes; the role land programmes play in providing a complete reward trip; and cruise companies’ commitment to sustainable efforts.

The complete AMCC programme can be viewed online.

Programme developer and TTG Asia Media’s group editor, Karen Yue, will moderate the sessions along with her colleagues, Xinyi Liang-Pholsena, editor, TTG Asia and Rachel AJ Lee, sub-editor.

The first Asian MICE Cruise Conference, held last year, was well received

Commenting on the expanded programme, Darren Ng, managing director of TTG Asia Media, said: “Our launch edition last year was attended by more than 400 people from across Asia – most of them being business event planners who were keen to know how cruises could be the next ‘destination’ for their upcoming gatherings. We also had a good number of NTO and CVB representatives in our midst. Feedback from attendees post-conference was positive, and many asked for additional sessions and more time to learn from cruise stakeholders. That encouraged us to create a full-day programme this year.”

AMCC 2019 will run from 8.30am to 3.10pm at the World Ballroom, Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld, Thailand. It is part of the larger IT&CM Asia and CTW Asia-Pacific, and welcomes all registered attendees of the doublebill event.

Thailand lays foundation for Asian edition of Farnborough airshow

By Karen Yue

August 6, 2019

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fia-2018 — Thailand is working to bring the Farnborough International Airshow to the country

Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau’s (TCEB) commission of a feasibility study on an Asian spinoff of the popular Farnborough International Airshow is now complete, placing Thailand closer to her goal of launching her own international airshow to emphasise the country’s aviation hub potential.

Farnborough International Airshow is a trade exhibition for the aerospace and defence industries, held in England every even year. Its 2018 edition drew 80,000 visitors and more than 1,500 exhibitors from across the world.

Thailand International Airshow will touch down in the country once U-Tapao Rayong Pattaya International Airport is completed

In an interview with TTGmice, Nichapa Yoswee, TCEB’s senior vice president – business, revealed that the idea of launching an international airshow in Thailand emerged when the bureau was looking for an impressive manner to inaugurate the opening of the new generation U-Tapao Rayong Pattaya International Airport, which forms an important part of the Aerotropolis project in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) development.

The Aerotropolis will speed Thailand towards its goal of making Thailand a hub for aviation MRO (maintenance, repair and overhaul). To facilitate this, U-Tapao Rayong Pattaya International Airport is being upgraded to a commercial airport and an MRO facility, shared Nichapa.

Nichapa said: “Not only will the airshow amplify Thailand as the region’s MRO hub and bring attention to the Aerotropolis, it will also be a very good opportunity for the world to see Thailand’s business events capability.”

She recalled: “When we first approached Farnborough International (organiser of the event), they were sceptical. So I hired them to do some research. They did, and they came back with a different tone. This time, they said, “Yes, Thailand!”

Nichapa: confident in Thailand’s hosting ability of the airshow

During a press conference on July 31, Nichapa explained that the Thailand International Airshow feasibility study covered global overview, regional market potential, industry feedback, competitive landscape, Thailand’s EEC development and the government’s Thailand 4.0 initiative (which aviation and aerospace is part of), while providing recommendations for Thailand to stage the event and economic impacts.

Besides the feasibility study and domestic industry hearing, TCEB visited Farnborough International Airshow in UK in 2018 as well as Bahrain International Airshow and Paris Air Show in 2019 to get an overview of how to attract major airshow events to Thailand.

Nichapa said the action plan to stage Thailand International Airshow enhanced TCEB’s role as co-creator under its Thailand Redefine Your Business Events branding, which aims at generating business opportunities in the 12 industries under Thailand 4.0 economic model.

When asked when the Thailand International Airshow will happen, Nichapa said it would come soon after the completion of U-Tapao Rayong Pattaya International Airport in five years’ time.

“But before that, we will have soft launches and conventions for aerospace parts and manufacturing, and others,” she revealed.

As for how the Thailand International Airshow will set itself apart from other international airshows as well as those in the region, Nichapa said research on this was still being worked on by Farnborough.

“I have asked the team to spell out distinct differentiation for our airshow. We probably would like the airshow to also celebrate certain occasions in Thailand, not just to inaugurate U-Tapao Airport,” she said.

Malaysia to enforce up to RM150 departure tax for outbound flights

By S Puvaneswary

August 6, 2019

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Tourists-Petronas-Towers — Tourists taking a photo in front of the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur

Anyone flying out of Malaysia will have to pay a departure tax ranging from RM8 (US$1.92) to RM150 from September 1, the government has announced.

The amount will vary based on the destination and flight class, according to a ministerial order gazetted by the Federal Government on July 31.

Tourists taking a photo in front of the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur

Economy class passengers travelling from Malaysia to other South-east Asian states will have to pay a departure levy of RM8, while those travelling non-economy will be charged RM50. Those travelling on economy class outside of South-east Asia will have to fork out RM20, while those in non-economy class will have to pay RM150.

The departure levy will not be imposed on children below 24 months old, as well as passengers transiting via Malaysia to another destination abroad not exceeding 12 hours.

Adam Kamal, general manager, Tour East Malaysia, said: “The introduction of this levy coupled with the tourism tax which has been imposed since September 1, 2017, will directly affect the competitiveness of Malaysia. Our competition for groups and MICE movements are with other destinations within South-east Asia.”

He suggested that the departure levy be postponed until after Visit Malaysia 2020 and that the government announce signature events for next year to attract more international tourists to Malaysia in conjunction with the Visit Malaysia campaign.

Arokia Das Anthony, director, Luxury Tours Malaysia, said: “The departure levy will affect arrivals to Malaysia. The destination is becoming more and more expensive, what with the tourism tax imposed two years ago, followed by an increase in the passenger service charge at klia2 from RM50 to RM73 for travel outside South-east Asia imposed from January 1, 2018, and now the departure levy added on.”

He added: “Agents are selling the same old products, but we keep adding additional charges into the total package cost. It is also not the right time to impose the departure levy as it will make it harder to reach the targeted volume of 30 million tourists that the government is targeting for Visit Malaysia 2020.”

However, Musa Yusof, director-general, Tourism Malaysia, was more optimistic. He shared: “I believe that Malaysia has attractive tourism products and offerings that strongly appeal to a wide market. It would be unlikely for tourists to discount Malaysia solely due to the imposing of these extra charges, some of which are considered minimal.”

A game of tech and MICE

By Industry Expert

August 6, 2019

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Artificial intelligence business — Singapore

The well-known English idiom “a game of cat and mouse” means constant pursuit, near captures, and repeated escapes.

For a nation of Singapore’s size, Singapore’s success as a tourism destination is a product of constantly striving to stay ahead of the curve. This success extends to large business and corporate events as well, commonly abbreviated as Meetings, Incentives, Conferencing, Exhibitions (MICE).

Alibaba Cloud is also working closely with Singapore hospitality industries like event organisers, hotels and resorts, restaurants and retail companies

Singapore continues to be a top MICE destination, with the industry playing an important role in driving visitors to the city-state. Tourism receipts from MICE grew by 10 per cent in 2018 and MICE visitors increased by 14 per cent as compared to the same period in 2017.

However, competitors in the region are eager to grow their tourism receipts beyond leisure and sightseeing and into business travel as well, especially when the Asia-Pacific MICE industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.6 per cent to reach US$441.1 billion of revenue by 2025.

Not only do these countries have much more space to offer, but lower costs as compared to Singapore. After all, more visitors mean more flights, more stays, more transport, more shopping, more entertainment and more revenue for the country.

A game of tech and MICE
Just like the game of cat and mouse, Singapore’s focus on using technology for its MICE sector will help the country maintain a lead in the region.

For example, artificial intelligence technologies like Natural Language Processing (NLP) solutions from machine translation, speech-to-text, and text-to-speech can provide faster yet reliable communications regardless of language. This supports a crucial function to any corporate events, especially when delegates are more fluent and comfortable with their native tongue.

Simply visualising data better can be beneficial too. Events traditionally will employ many ushers on the ground to manually assess crowds and capacity. With a few simple sensors around the event site, we can visualise this data much better and in real-time, helping organisers better manage crowding and safety. This is already something in use at airports and large-scale conferences to deliver a better experience overall for visitors.

A rising tide lifts all boats
As another common English saying goes, a rising tide lifts all boats. Providing a better experience for MICE visitors has a knock-on effect for the entire tourism and hospitality industry as a whole.

Organisers will have amassed business data on events. It is not data, but data intelligence that makes a difference in delivering a seamless and convenient, yet still secure and comfortable experience for visitors.

With data intelligence, organisers can partner with the wider hospitality industry to make recommendations beyond just travel and transport advisories and discounts on accommodation. The data can be transformed into actionable insights and create innovations for the industry, such as more personalised services and targeted marketing.

This should not be limited to the hospitality industry only. Restaurants and retail brands can consider partnering with event organisers, hotels and resorts to offer a holistic experience to visitors.

The future is now
This is by no means a futuristic imagination of what technology can do for the industry. The Singapore Tourism Board is already applying cloud technology to consolidate and analyse tourism data, including visitor spending and movement patterns to help the MICE industry evolve and stay ahead of changing consumer demands.

As the global leader in cloud and data intelligence, Alibaba Cloud understands the inherent value technology brings. Using tech, and using it effectively, will be the key for Singapore to stay ahead in the wider hospitality and tourism race beyond just MICE.

After all, technology is the great enabler that has allowed Singapore to stay plugged in and relevant in the global economy. The same successes Singapore has had with technology will be instrumental in keeping Singapore a destination of choice for leisure and business visitors alike.

Derek Wang is the general manager of Alibaba Cloud Singapore, and leads the team across marketing, sales, pre-sales and technique support for the Singapore market. He joined the Alibaba Group in January 2014, and oversaw the global technical team responsible for Alibaba’s cloud solution design and delivery before he took on the current role.

MICE interest presents a “surprise” for revamped Raffles Singapore

By Rachel AJ Lee

August 6, 2019

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Raffles Hotel Singapore has reopened on August 1, after a top-to-toe restoration of its façade and facilities including event spaces that took approximately two years.

And even though the hotel has just reopened, Christian Westbeld, its general manager, told TTGmice that “quite a few MICE events are already on the calendar”.

He added: “It’s interesting that since we launched we actually have quite a bit of interest raised by MICE groups, a segment we did not expect (when plans were being outlined for the restoration) two years ago. We are a leisure-driven hotel overall.”

Having said that, Westbeld noted a growing trend for bleisure, where Raffles Hotel Singapore is currently seeing more high-level corporate visitors bringing their families along on business trips.

Besides having 115 all-new suites to choose from, event planners can also pick from seven indoor and outdoor function spaces, the largest being the Jubilee Ballroom which can hold up to 500 guests cocktail-style.

“We are hearing from lifestyle corporate and MICE that they love the Jubilee Ballroom. I think that has to do with our position as an iconic and legendary hotel of the 19^th century that has just gone through a complete overhaul. In the next couple of weeks, we’ll also complete the installation of an LCD screen in that ballroom,” Westbeld added.

Formerly known as the Jubilee Hall, the venue now features 24 large, glittering chandeliers that hang from six-metre-high ceilings. In addition, the hotel offers three other redesigned function rooms: Casuarina Suite (80-180 guests); East India Room (120-180 guests); and Palm Ballroom (155-320 guests).

Westbeld revealed that the East India room was one of the more preferred spaces as it offered direct access from Beach Road. In this case, it was great for groups that had its VIPs housed at Raffles Hotel Singapore, while other delegates were put up at sister hotel, Swissôtel The Stamford, just across the road.

Meanwhile, all 10 of Raffles Hotel Singapore’s restaurants will also be tied in with event services, as Westbeld revealed that celebrity chefs can be brought into a gala dinner, or a Singapore Sling masterclass could be conducted at the Long Bar. Planners can also choose to cater from any of the restaurants and bars in the hotel.

The 10 F&B concepts range from French restaurant La Dame de Pic by Anne-Sophie Pic of three-Michelin-star Maison Pic in Valence, France; to the Tiffin Room serving up North Indian cuisine in tiffin boxes. Meanwhile, chef Jereme Leung will oversee both his restaurant yì by Jereme Leung, as well as the banquet kitchen handling Chinese cuisine.

Westbeld gave an example of a C-suite event making use of several hotel spaces: “It can be welcome cocktails in the Palm Garden, followed by a meeting in East India Room, and then a board dinner in La Dame de Pic.”

When asked what he thinks of Singapore’s business events sector, Westbeld said: “I think in general, the sector will keep growing as the city has such an amazing infrastructure that will support the market.

“And Raffles is absolutely ready to be part of it.”

Hilton Manila

By Rosa Ocampo

August 6, 2019

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Hua-Yuan---Brasserie-Chinoise — Hua Yuan - Brasserie Chinoise

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Rooms
For 4D/3N, home for me was Hilton Manila’s 40m²executive room. It’s five-star plush: a spacious, dedicated work desk; two Serenity double beds with the softest beddings and pillows; tasteful furniture and fixtures with attention to details – why, even the air vent is artistically camouflaged. This aesthetic is continued in the four-point bathroom that boasts a separate vanity area, toilet, bathtub, and rainshower.

The room is also smart. For instance, the motion sensor automatically switches the light on and off accordingly when leaving and entering the room; and the door automatic closes and locks. Hilton Honors members can also make use of their smartphone or tablet as their room key.

MICE facilities
The elegant ballroom for up to 600 guests, and the hotel’s six meeting and event spaces have up-to-date MICE technology expected of hotels of this calibre.

For me, the humongous resort-style lagoon pool (which Hilton shares with its partially-opened neighbour Sheraton Manila), complete with a freestyle pool bar, promises a number of creative ideas for corporate events and incentive trips.

On Valentine’s Day for instance, I watched from my 11^th floor room how the hotel transformed the pool into an al fresco dinner rendezvous with tables set on the edge of the shallow part of the pool, while myriad lights glimmer under and above the waters. Gorgeous!

Another promising MICE venue that is creatively decorated is the Hua Yuan Brasserie Chinoise Chinese restaurant. It exudes luxury, from the gilded ceilings and chinoiserie to the intricately-designed cutlery. Moreover, the restaurant has three private dining rooms that fit up to 12 persons each, perfect for a business C-suite luncheon.

Other facilities
Hilton Manila has five restaurants including Madison Lounge and Bar whose high tea I just love; as well as an executive lounge for club guests. There is also a 24-hour fitness centre, complimentary Wi-Fi, and free airport shuttle service.

I also had a meal at all-day dining Kusina Sea Kitchens, but found that the flavour on certain Asian offerings – such as laksa – could be improved on.

Service
Warm hospitality distinguishes this hotel, right from the entrance when the staff politely assisted in the security check for my bags, up to the genial greet staff in the check-in area. Some housekeeping staff are shy, perhaps because they are young and new in the industry, but they are helpful.

Verdict
As a woman traveller, Hilton Manila makes me feel safe. As a business traveller, I’m satisfied with thoughtful touches such as free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel and the ergonomic desk chair.

Number of rooms 357
Contact
Email mnlph_hotel@hilton.com

Singapore’s Raffles Hotel reopens following two-year facelift

By TTGmice

August 6, 2019

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After 2.5 years of restoration work, the iconic Raffles Singapore hotel has reopened completely, now offering an all-suite concept.

The restoration of the property, which was designated a national monument in 1987, was led by interior designer Alexandra Champalimaud and was also supported by Aedas, a global architecture and design firm.

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There are 115 keys across nine suite categories, from the lead-in State Room Suites to the Presidential Suites. Recreational facilities on-site include the Raffles Spa, 24-hour gym and a rooftop swimming pool. Hotel guests may also avail the service of Raffles Butlers.

There are 10 F&B concepts, ranging from the well-known Long Bar where its most famous cocktail, the Singapore Sling, can be enjoyed; to French restaurant La Dame de Pic by Anne-Sophie Pic of three-Michelin-star Maison Pic in Valence, France.

Event planners have seven indoor and outdoor function spaces to choose from, the largest being the Jubilee Ballroom which can hold up to 500 guests cocktail-style.

New GM for Zagame’s House in Melbourne

By TTGmice

August 6, 2019

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Boutique hotel Zagame’s House in Melbourne has appointed Adam Taloni as its new general manager.

Taloni brings with him over 20 years of managerial experience within the Australian hotel sector for both boutique, and large sector businesses.

Before joining Zagame’s House, Taloni launched Sydney’s Ovolo Wooloomooloo, and Peppers Broadbeach on the Gold Coast, where he was general manager at both properties.

Prior to Ovolo, Taloni worked as group general manager for Vanity Group, as well as area manager for the Mantra Group.

PCMA appoints first-ever chief growth & innovation officer

By TTGmice

August 5, 2019

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Chicago-based Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) today has announced that Michelle Crowley will be the organisation’s first chief growth & innovation officer, effective immediately.

In this role, she oversees regional brand development, content outreach, acquisitions and operations in PCMA’s Americas, EMEA and Asia-Pacific regions.

Crowley began her business events career at PCMA and has held various positions including senior director of global strategy and manager of global development.

“As we look at PCMA’s global reach, it is critical that we continue to focus on providing leading education that drives the industry forward. Adding education and new product development aligns well with my existing role of innovation and global growth,” Crowley said.

Crowley joins an executive leadership team that includes Mona Cotton as chief business officer responsible for business development; Robert Haas as chief administrative officer; Bruce MacMillan as chief marketing officer; and Meredith Rollins, recently named chief community officer for community engagement, member growth. Rollins remains executive director of the PCMA Foundation.

36 top incentive ideas

By TTGmice

August 2, 2019

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01) Lie under the Negev night sky
After a year of hard work, it is time for top performers to smell the roses – or stare into starry skies in Israel’s Negev Desert.

Glamp it out in an oversized, luxurious tent filled with soft cushions and blankets, while Bedouin entertainment and an exotic gourmet feast served in authentic tradition complete the experience.

Stargazing also gets kicked up a notch with it happening at the Ramon Crater with an accompanying experienced astronomer. The Ramon Crater is the first designated international dark sky park in the Middle East because of its clear skies and undisturbed night environment. Peer into a powerful telescope to see the Milky Way as the astronomer explains the marvels of the universe, and relates how stars and constellations tie into biblical events.
• Good for groups of any size
• amiel.com
• mngt@amiel.israel.net

02) Go glamping in the Cardamom Mountains
Get into the wild and go glamping in the heart of Cambodia’s tropical jungle. Cambodia Tented Camp in the remote Cardamom Mountains can arrange a variety of adventure-based activities for incentive winners, including scavenger hunts through South-east Asia’s largest intact rainforest, overnight camping treks led by rangers who protect the area, wildlife-spotting hikes, barbecues and water-based activities.

The eco-resort’s nine luxurious safari-style tents are the perfect place to recuperate at the end of each adventure, with king-sized beds, hot water showers and western-style bathrooms.
• cardamomtentedcamp.com
• sales@cardamomtentedcamp.com

03) Make something sweet
Mondo Nougat is a family-owned business located in Swan Valley, Perth, Australia. In April 2019, the company officially launched a Nougat Masterclass that will be offered to groups until April 2020. Thereafter the company will gauge its viability and popularity for the future.

Classes can be conducted at the Swan Valley factory, or it can be done off-site in a hotel. Everything is provided, and prices will vary depending on chosen flavours and ingredients.
• Good for groups of 10 to 30 people
• info@mondonougat.com.au
• mondonougat.com.au

04) Step this way into an anime studio
Japan’s anime scene draws many visitors, but gaining access to one of the nation’s anime studios is difficult. High-end travel company Luxurique has teamed up with a studio and the renowned Kyoto University of Art and Design to offer a number of tailor-made anime experiences, including visiting a studio and working with artists to produce short animated sequences.

Planners can work with Luxurique on a programme that includes lectures and anime workshops at the university to explore the painstaking work that goes into each hand-drawn anime “cell” that forms the final work.
• Good for up to 10 for hands-on arrangement; up to 100 for presentations
• luxurique.com
• hello@luxurique.com

05) Live the life of a Crazy Rich Asian
Enjoyed the Crazy Rich Asians movie or book series? Protravel International turns fiction to reality for top achievers with its Crazy Rich Americans Love Singapore experience, priced at an eye-watering US$30,000 per person and features scenes from the movie.

Highlights include a Singapore Airlines first-class suite experience, a private chauffeured car, a private viewing of creations by local fashion designers, and a Mahjong lesson by a master. There is also the option of having a silk gown or suit fitted at one of Singapore’s best-known dressmakers – just in time for the award gala.
• Enquire with Protravel for capacity
• vacation.com/itineraries/singapore-crazy-rich-asians-tour

06) Meet the kings of the jungle
Top achievers can live out The Jungle Book adventure on the boundless plains and rugged outcrops of East Africa’s legendary Masai Mara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater which is a photographer’s dream of picture-perfect light, coloured by the unrivalled hues of African sunrises and sunsets.

Treat participants to game drives where they will meet Simba and his friends, nature walks, night drives and a day in the Ngorongoro Crater, looking for big tuskers and the endangered rhinoceros.
• Good for groups of any size
• andbeyond.com
• contactus@andbeyond.com

07) Relive Kazakhstan’s space quest
The modern world’s space quest is always a spectacular story to tell, and bespoke tour specialist Scott Dunn is able to bring to life Kazakhstan’s space rocket launch through a luxury programme that includes a once-in-a-lifetime chance to witness an actual rocket launch, a visit to Baikonur Spaceport Museum and a look at where spacemen Yuri Gagarin and Sergei Korolev once lived.

Besides the space rocket trail, the programme also offers gems such as a short stay in the ex-Soviet city of Almaty, and optional extensions to legendary Silk Road cities of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva in Uzbekistan.
• Good for groups of any size
• scottdunn.com/signature-departures
• (65) 3165 4050

08) Discover Japan’s hidden gems
Explore some of the hundreds of islands that dot the Seto Inland Sea, between Japan’s main island of Honshu and Shikoku, aboard a spacious catamaran. Cruise company Foucault has yachts that can be reserved for longer periods to explore a part of Japan that is unspoiled and still largely undiscovered by foreign tourists.

Guests can go ashore on the islands – some of which are famous for the Setouchi Triennale art exhibition, held from spring through autumn every three years, including in 2019. They can also hike or cycle across the islands, swim, fish and kayak.
• Good for 16 people
• foucault.co.jp/en/
• info@foucault.co.jp

09) Have a sensational Seasation
Did you know that five of the 104 islands in Malaysia’s Langkawi archipelago are only visible at low tide? Discover these secluded islands and the wider Langkawi
UNESCO Global Geopark onboard the Seasation, a 16.8m-long twin-deck catamaran.
Have your top achievers do more than sail the sea – kayaking around an isolated island, taking a jungle walk and participating in a frisbee tournament can all be part of the memorable experience.

Bring nimble mixologists onboard to ensure a free flow of cocktails and mocktails, as well as local chefs who will turn out a barbeque feast on the deck.
• Good for 65 guests
• sasha@tropicalcharters.com.my

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10) Journey to New Zealand’s scenic south
Incentive winners will get to take in two of New Zealand’s most stunning fiords in Fiordland on South Island – Doubtful Sound and Milford Sound – set amid a breathtaking landscape of majestic mountains, native forests and beautiful waterfalls. They will first climb onboard a spacious and stable catamaran, where a hot buffet lunch can be served in their own private lounge or on the outdoor deck. There is also a licensed bar onboard.
• Good for up to 63 people
• cecil.potatau@southerndiscoveries.co.nz
• www.southerndiscoveries.co.nz

11) Explore a wacky wine factory
Described as a Willy Wonka wine factory, d’Arenberg Cube in McLaren Vale, South Australia offers an intriguing experience that plays with the human senses on multiple levels. From an unfolding front door to video projections, contemporary artworks and a ‘virtual fermenter’ that simulates the experience of being immersed in a tank of grapes, guests can expect the unexpected.

Top achievers can be rewarded with a Day of Decadence which starts in an Alternate Realities Museum and ends with an unconventional degustation. Other packages may include scenic flights, helicopter tours, a tailor-made ‘Dinner with the Winemaker’ experience or a yoga class among the vines.
• Good for six for Day of Decadence
• darenberg.com.au
• wine@darenberg.com.au

12) See Sydney on a superyacht
Experience the iconic Sydney Harbour in luxurious style onboard the new Superyacht Auspro, where guests relax in Italian designed interiors while enjoying views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House in an extra-smooth-sailing journey, thanks to its Seakeeper gyro stabilsers. The yacht boasts expansive entertainment areas, a stylish saloon in gloss mahogany and teak curved timbers, and a full service bar. There are four bedrooms available, including a Master Stateroom that includes a Queen bed, private lounge, two ensuites and a spa bath.

The experience can be followed by dinner at Australia’s famous Quay restaurant, where every seat has views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and/or the Sydney Opera House.
• Good for 45 people during the day; eight overnight
• sydneyharbourexclusive.com/charter-boat-hire/auspro
• info@sydneyharbourexclusive.com

13) Blend your own bottle of wine
Take your group to a vineyard located on the undulating hills of Algarve, Portugal where grape varieties unique to the country – such as Touriga Nacional – flourish. A local winemarker will give a tour of the winery, imparting tips on how to analyse different wine varieties. Top achievers will get an opportunity to blend and bottle their own signature wine under guidance. This unique experience offers a behind-the-scenes peek into the cellar, as well as typically off-limit areas.
• Good for 12 people per session
• condradhotels.com
• guestrelations_algarve@conradhotels.com

14) Take in both nature and city sights
A luxurious stay at The Peninsula Hong Kong can never be wrong for top achievers. While they are there, sign them up for a chance to appreciate both Hong Kong’s lush nature and modern city skyline through the Yacht and Hike programme designed by the hotel’s events team. There are hiking routes of varying durations, from relaxing two-hour trails to more challenging six-hour exercises. Whatever the choice, conclude the activity with a yacht cruise where participants are paid for their hard work with elegant refreshments as they take in spectacular views of Victoria Harbour.
• Good for six to 15 people
• peninsula.com/en/hong-kong/special-offers/events/the-peninsula-yacht
• eventphk@peninsula.com

15) Coast around Auckland on a motorbike
Incentive winners can lean back comfortably into their Harley Davidson Motorbike as they ride pillion around Auckland. From the buzzing downtown area to the sparkling Waitemata Harbour, winners will be able to smell the fresh air, feel the wind in their face, and see the sights of the city up close and personal.

Tours last at least two hours, and the company will provide all other gear such as helmets, jackets and gloves. Riders should wear long trousers and covered shoes for protection.
• Good for up to 20 people
•motorbikesnz.co.nz/tours/chauffeured-passenger-tours

16) Kick it with Buakaw
Buakaw Por, a welterweight Muay Thai kickboxer and one of Thailand’s most celebrated boxers, runs Banchamek Gym in Chiang Mai where private experiences of traditional Thai boxing can be had.

Affectionately known as Buakaw Village, the facility is set among green fields backed by majestic mountains and lush forests – providing a restful getaway from the city. The complex includes a rubber farm, a longan farm, rice fields, a restaurant and 10 villas.
Boxing classes can be customised and packaged with accommodation and meals. With advance notice, Buakaw himself would conduct lessons.
• Good for up to 25 people
• banchamekgym.com
• buakawmail@gmail.com

17) Get suited up in Thai grandeur
If you are celebrating your top performers in Thailand, dress them up extravagantly – as deserving of victorious individuals.

Thai traditional outfits are beautiful and regal, and are best tailored in the Kingdom. Nachart Studio, located in the Old Siam Complex in Bangkok’s old town, can do just that and counts high ranked officials and high society personalities among its clientele.
Each outfit may take a month to five to tailor, depending on its complexity, so plan this in advance. Alternatively, ready sets for gentlemen can be purchased off the shelves by the final quarter of this year. No more than 15 outfits are made each month.
• th-th.facebook.com/nachartstudio
• nachartstudio@gmail.com

18) Live out a tale of onsen and washoku
Walk Japan, pioneers of off-the-beaten track walking tours in Japan, has recently launched two Onsen Gastronomy tours that focus on Gifu and Nagano, and Oita and Kumamoto. These tours can be customised for incentive groups.

The Onsen Gastronomy tours are led by expert tour leaders. Besides taking in beautiful rural landscapes on foot, top achievers can immerse themselves in the traditional Japanese way of bathing at onsens, recharge at charming local inns, and feast on exceptional washoku (traditional Japanese cuisine).

The experiences can be customised across various aspects, including duration, extent of walks and accommodation choice.
• Good for up to 30 people
• walkjapan.com

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19) A cut above the rest
Wada Shoten, a fourth-generation owned knife shop in Sakai City – part of Osaka Prefecture – has been in business for 150 years. The aged artisans in the shop are able to teach incentive winners how to sharpen their own blades, and knock the handle onto the sharpened knife after.

Knife blades can also be personalised with names, where each participant will eventually be able to take home their own work of art. Activity will cost 14,000 yen (US$129) per person with an interpreter, or 6,500 yen without.
• Good for up to 15 people
• sakaiwada.com
• tk-wada@sakaiwada.com

20) Spend a week in the Galápagos
Built for those truly deserving, this seven-night adventure in the Galápagos Islands onboard the all-suite Celebrity Flora features feasts crafted by a Michelin-star chef who uses locally sourced produce, shore excursions led by certified naturalists (such as snorkelling with sea lions, sea turtles and marine iguanas), and some of most spectacular accommodation options available on luxury yachts. As a bonus, this seven-night Galapagos Inner/Outer Vacation was only launched in June this year, giving your C-suite winners real bragging rights.
• Good for 100 people
• general@celebritycruises-hk.com

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

22) Where the land and sea meet
Combine a luxury cruise of UNESCO World Heritage Site Halong Bay with an exclusive bird’s-eye view of the bay’s beauty.

Bhaya Cruises was recently the only operator given access to Trinh Nu Cave, and te company has stylishly renovated the cave and beach to cater to tailor-made corporate groups. Once the cruise is over, cap off the Vietnamese experience and climb board Northern Vietnam Helicopter Company’s helicopter, for an exclusive flight over Halong Bay for unforgettable views and lasting memories.

• Good for up to 346 guests on Bhaya Cruises’ The Au Co; up to three guests per helicopter, with staggered take-offs for larger groups
• vnhn.com.vn/en; bhayacruises.com/
• sales.vnhn@vnh.com.vn; sales@bhayacruises.com

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

24) Dine well tonight
Singaporean company The Inside Access offers a luxurious dining experience with its signature Chef On Board series, featuring a sundowner cruise with hors d’oeuvres prepared by a culinary team or an executive chef from a notable restaurants. Restaurant partners include big names like Sushi Jin, Bistro Du Vin, Salted and Hung, and Pollen. Guests will also enjoy free flowing beverages and cocktails by the resident bartender, who can deliver a customised drink based on any ingredient presented.
• Good for 20 people
• theinsideaccess.asia
• arron@theinsideaccess.asia

25) Make a toast
The 300-year-old Naniwa Masamune sake brewery in Hannan City hails from the Edo era, and is one of the oldest in Osaka Prefecture.
From October to March, incentive winners will be able to see how sake is made, from the fermentation right through to the bottling. Visitors who pop by other months of the year will not get to see the brewery in production, but will still get a peek behind the scenes. Brewery tours include a walkabout the 10th-generation owner’s childhood home, which is a registered cultural asset of the city.
The tour ends – of course – with a tasting, where different types of sake can be sampled. Kanpei!
• Good for up to 50 people
• naniwamasamune.com
• nanimasa@ybb.ne.jp

26) Take an intimate look at the world’s largest water show
The House of Dancing Water show at the City of Dreams Macau has been viewed by many, but few have been allowed under its layers to see the secrets behind the massive production. Grant your top achievers this precious peek behind the scenes, where they will in 60 minutes discover machines that make the show come to live, explore the unique backstage, and marvel at elaborate costumes and props.
• Good for eight to 20 people
• showenquiry@cod-macau.com

27) More wine, anyone?
Discover a lesser-known side to Vietnam with Vietnam Wine Tours, which offers curated tours through Ninh Thuan, Dalat and the Mekong Delta taking visitors to off-the-beaten-track destinations to explore the country’s burgeoning – and widely unknown – wine industry. Tours can be curated for incentive winners and be combined with stops at grassroots businesses, including family-run textile shops, restaurants, medicine farms and herbal gardens.
• Good for groups of any size
• info@vietnamwinetours.com

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28) Get on the Pampanga and Zambales circuit
Deliver an all-rounded reward trip in two Philippine provinces – Pampanga, the country’s culinary capital, and nearby Zambales, a paradise for tropical adventures.

At Pampanga, work in a trip to the crater of Mount Pinatubo on foot or by ATV; culinary stops for rare foods like fried frogs legs and crickets; retail therapy with export-quality furniture; and visits to vintage churches.

Over at Zambales, make time for beach bumming, interactions with the indigenous Aeta communities in the mountains; and teambuilding in the jungle.
• Good for groups of any size
• corporateintl.net
• mice@corporateintl.net

29) Dive into a rare marine adventure
This is an incentive trip that bestows upon participants abundant bragging rights, as the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is only open for three months every year – March till June – and access is a pricey affair.

The rare trip is made onboard a luxury ship, and participants will get to dive in the Sulu Sea, at the centre of the Coral Triangle between Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines – said to be one of the best dive sites in the world. It is home to nearly 600 species of fish, up to 400 species of coral, 11 shark species, 12 dolphin and whales species, green sea turtles and more.
• Good for 100 people
• kirschnertravelmanila.com
• info@kirschnertravel.com

30) Ply a lesser-known part of Halong Bay
Heritage Line’s new 10-suite vessel Ylang offers a 3D2N Senses of Lan Ha package that takes travellers on a trip around the region of Lan Ha Bay, a quiet extension of the famed Halong Bay. Incentive winners will begin their cruise from a pier on Cat Hai island near Hai Phong, and go on land excursions from cycling to leisure hiking on the island of Cat Ba, as well as visits to a remote Lan Ha Bay fishing village. All excursions include a free half-day onboard for participants to swim, kayak, practise yoga, or relax in a spa.
• Good for up to 20 people
• heritage-line.com/
• contact@heritage-line.com

31) Take in vistas atop the Great Wall
Get a rare opportunity to experience two of The Great Wall of China’s prized sections, Badaling and Mutianyu, in one day.

The six-hour journey, arranged by The Peninsula Beijing for guests, begins with a luxury transfer to the Badaling section. There, they are met by a guide who will share stories and historical facts throughout the climb. The reward is a breathtaking vista at the peak. At Mutianyu, a sumptuous brunch in a private pavilion awaits.
• Good for up to 20 people
• guestservicespbj@peninsula.com

32) Eye on the tiger
To raise awareness of the dwindling population of wild tigers, Belmond is partnering Save Wild Tigers to offer a six-night itinerary onboard its Eastern and Oriental Express, taking guests from Bangkok to Singapore through historic tiger territories in Malaysia and Thailand. The package also includes stays at the Siam Bangkok and Raffles Singapore, as well as a guided visit to the River Kwai and a tour of Kuala Kangsar.
• Enquire with Belmond for capacity
• belmond.com/trains/asia/eastern-and-oriental-express/

33) Go off-road in Mauritius
For the adventurous, this two-hour-long quad biking activity with Pont Naturel Quad will hit the spot. Admire a diverse landscape while riding on a 450cc quad through sugarcane fields, vegetable plantations, and small rivers. The tour culminates with a stop at Pont Naturel, a volcanic rock formation with a natural bridge. Helmets are provided and a quick course on handling the quad is conducted before the fun begins.
• Good for 20 to 50 people on double quads
• www.noudeal.com/product/double-quad-ride/
• pnquad@gmail.com

34) Back to basics in Penampang
When the city buzz gets too much, sneak your top achievers away to Penampang Village in Sabah, Malaysia where a half-day cultural experience awaits.

Penampang Village is the hub of the Kadazandusun community, a mere 15-minute drive from capital city Kota Kinabalu.

Guests will visit the local market to pick up food products and handicraft, and get to sample delicacies such as sago worms and rice wine. The group then proceeds to Madam Nurhanidah’s Kitchen for a hands-on experience cooking Borneo dishes such as hivana (pickled fish salad), lihing (chicken with local rice wine), and rice cooked with yam and wrapped in a leaf.
• Good for 20 people
• borneotrails.com.my
• bernadette@borneotrails.com

35) Arrive in style
Give your top achievers a sexy entrance into Kuala Lumpur, with rides on deep growling Harley Davidson motorcycles that will also take in a scenic city tour.

Begin the ride from Batu Caves, the oldest Hindu temple in Selangor with 272 steps, and end at Petronas Twin Towers, the capital city’s icon. Along the way, appreciate Malaysian landmarks such as the King’s Palace, National Monument, Perdana Botanical Gardens and old railway station.
• Good for 40 people
• mice-kul@destination-asia.com

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

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36 top incentive ideas

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Reviews

The Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok

Mama Shelter Zurich

Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur at KL Midtown