Asia-based organisations Toyota, Suzuki, Michelin Tire and Rotary International are among an “impressive list of global power brands” that have recently chosen Guam and Dusit Thani Guam Resort for their incentive travel events and conference, noted a statement issued by both Guam Visitor Bureau and the luxury property which is part of Bangkok-based Dusit Thani Group.
For instance, US Toyota brought 500 people from Japan for an incentive reward programme, while an incentive group of 2,200 came with Suzuki Japan. There was also a 100-strong group from Michelin Tire Taiwan.
Dusit Thani Guam Resort
These groups stayed at the 421-key Dusit Thani Guam Resort, which features Grand Ballrooms that can host up to 2,000 people for a ceremony and up to 1,500 for a banquet dinner.
Following on their heels is the Rotary International Japan Conference which will bring 1,400 delegates to the destination in February 2019.
Pilar Laguana, director of global marketing for the Guam Visitors Bureau, commented: “The growing interest in Guam from the MICE sector and holiday travellers over the past 12 months has been encouraging.
“The rise of ‘bleisure’ as an increasing influence on destination choices for meetings and incentives is also in our favour. The beaches, jungle and unique Chamorro culture are powerful attractions and considerations when event organisers are looking for a fresh destination that offers new and interesting leisure experiences before or after a business event.”
Tourism Australia has announced that its incentive event, Dreamtime, will be held in Perth, Western Australia, next year.
Dreamtime 2019 will be held from December 2-3, with international buyers and media then continuing on educational visits to other Australian destinations.
Perth city view from Kings Park
The programme includes media event and networking opportunities between Australian industry and international business events buyers from markets including Greater China, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, India, New Zealand, the US and the UK.
“Dreamtime is Australia’s largest business events showcase and taking the event to Perth is an exciting development for the city. With new hotel infrastructure developments, new international non-stop flights from London and a growing incentive offering, Perth is continuing to raise its profile internationally,” said Tourism Australia’s managing director John O’Sullivan.
Luxury car rentals now made available in Singapore
Avis Car Rental has launched its premium Avis Prestige service in Singapore through its partnership with Wearnes Leasing, a division of South-east Asian luxury car retailer Wearnes Automotive.
The partnership will enable customers travelling to Singapore to have a wider selection of luxury rental car choices, including premium marques such as Jaguar, Infiniti, Land Rover and Volvo.
Luxury car rentals now made available in Singapore
Customers travelling to Singapore can collect their Avis Prestige vehicle either at Changi Airport, Havelock Road or arrange for a delivery to their doorstep.
Helen Lau, general manager, Singapore, Avis Budget Group, said: “We’re committed to developing and extending an unrivalled customer experience – and that includes offering exquisite cars and meet-and-greet services that meets the exacting requirements of our high caliber customers.”
A rendering of the upcoming Mandarin Oriental, Moscow
Mandarin Oriental goes to Moscow
Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has signed a management contract for a new hotel and branded residences in Moscow, which are expected to open in 2021.
Mandarin Oriental, Moscow will stand in a prime riverfront location in the heart of the city, directly facing the Kremlin. The boutique property will feature 65 guestrooms and suites, two restaurants, a lounge bar, and spa and wellness facilities including a 25m-long indoor swimming pool.
The project will also house 137 Residences at Mandarin Oriental, which will be the first branded luxury residential development in Moscow. Pierre-Yves Rochon Studio has been appointed as the interior designer, alongside Sergey Skuratov Architects.
Maastricht wins hosting rights to two international conferences
Maastricht in the Netherlands is proving its credentials as a major bio-hub, thanks to two major international conferences due to be held at MECC Maastricht.
The two events are the European Congress on Biotechnology in 2020, and the Congress of the European Society of Biomechanics (ESB) in 2021. Just last month from September 9-13, the annual European Conference on Biomaterials was also held, where more than 900 experts attended.
Las Vegas CVA appoints Steve Hill as its new CEO
The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) has selected Steve Hill as its next CEO.
Hill is the ninth CEO of LVCVA following the retirement of Rossi Ralenkotter. A Las Vegas resident for more than 30 years, he founded Silver Slate Materials in 1987, before he will appointed the first director of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) in 2011.
Hill takes over the LVCVA just when the organisation is about to get started on the largest infrastructure project in its history – the expansion and renovation of the Las Vegas Convention Centre. The project will add more than 130,000m2 of new space, with at least 55,700m2 of usable exhibit space.
Hyatt Hotels has just launched its newest meeting package, Value Worth Meeting For, and it is available at participating properties throughout Australia and South-east Asia.
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The Campus Bar
The Residence
To enjoy exclusive benefits such as five per cent off the master bill; one free upgrade for every 25 paid rooms; double World of Hyatt points; and standard Wi-Fi on event floors; planners or organisers have to book at least 10 rooms per night by January 31, 2019, with event materialisation by December 31, 2019.
JW Marriott Seoul has reopened following an eight-month-long renovation.
The property offers 379 guestrooms, including two multi-level penthouses and 32 suites. South Korean interior design firm Kesson revamped each guestroom to now feature a warm grey and taupe palette accompanied by a photo wall that displays the art of local artist Seungsang Park.
Revamped guestroom
For events, the property offers a total of 1,460m2 of meeting space comprising a 766m2 Grand Ballroom and six salons. Other facilities include seven F&B outlets, and a Fitness Club – made up of a gym, 85m-long jogging track, indoor golf zone, squash court, basketball court, swimming pool, scuba diving pool, jacuzzi, and sauna – that spans over three floors.
The property first made its debut back in 2000, and was Marriott International’s first luxury property in South Korea. It is centrally located in the Gangnam district and directly linked to the Shinsegae Department store and three Seoul Metro lines.
Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort has appointed Samit Ganguly as general manager, who brings over 18 years of hospitality experience and a comprehensive background in sales and marketing.
Ganguly first commenced his career with Hyatt in 2002, progressing through various sales roles before holding positions as director of convention sales at Hyatt Regency Dubai, and director of sales at Hyatt Regency Kolkata.
A tenure with Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group followed as director of marketing at The Radisson Blu Plaza in New Delhi. Prior to joining Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort, Ganguly spent six years with The Ritz- Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place, initially as director of sales and marketing, and most recently as hotel manager.
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
“Ho Chi Minh City is a pulsing city that retains an old-world charm despite its rapid growth. Beautiful pagodas sit next to vibrant markets, while food vendors serve steaming bowls of pho in the shade of historical colonial buildings. The best way to soak it all in, is to ride a local pedicab through the bustling streets. For guests who would prefer to escape the bustling city, I will recommend a Mekong River cruise.”
Felix Chan
Vice president, sales Asia
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings
North Bali, Indonesia and Macleod Island, Myanmar
“My top picks include North Bali and Macleod Island in Myanmar, both of which are accessible right to their door step with Dream Cruises.
In North Bali, be sure to check out the wonders of Singaraja City, the enchanting Pura Ulun Danu Bratan which is a major Shaivite water temple located on the shores of Lake Bratan, and the traditional Candi Kuning market.
Macleod Island, Myanmar
MacLeod Island, which is exclusive to us, provides a uniquely diverse island adventure. It is a hidden and private island with untouched natural beauty and pristine beaches. Guests will get a sense of exclusivity and freedom to go scuba diving or jungle trekking. There is also a wide range of water sports to choose from. Guests can also simply relax on the beach.”
Michael Goh
Senior vice president, international sales
Genting Cruise Lines
Vietnam
“Arriving into Vietnam is an experience on its own. With the intimate size of Silversea’s ships, we can navigate freely through Ha Long bay during misty, foggy conditions. Once we arrive, you will tender ashore and take a transfer to the Giac Tam Buddhist Zen Monastery.
As you drive through the scenic country side of Ha Long Bay, you begin to absorb the culture. Upon reaching the spectacular monastery, your cultural experience peaks. Here you can experience a fascinating lesson on Zen meditation from one of the monks – an experience that stays with you for life.”
Phuket, Thailand and Penang, Malaysia
“I have two favourites. In Phuket, you will reach Patong Beach where our ship tenders. This is within walking distance to nearby attractions where there is plenty of shopping, food and beverage and relaxation options. I suggest that teambuilding groups go island hopping and snorkelling at Phi Phi island or sea cave canoeing at Phang Nga Bay National Park.
Over in Penang, the pier is situated at close proximity to George Town. There is a wide array of cultural sites, gastronomic and shopping attractions in Penang, which are easily accessible via our shore excursions. I recommend that groups join the Heritage Cycling Tour to Clan Jetty to view traditional settlements created by Chinese fisherman or the Habitat Nature Discovery at Penang Hill where they can enjoy sweeping views of Penang from a tree-top walk.”
Angie Stephen
Managing director, Singapore and South-east Asia
Royal Caribbean Cruises
Yokohama, Japan
“Yokohama is my pick, as the pier has a pleasant waterfront promenade which is a great spot for a stroll and for spectacular views of the Minato Mirai skyline. The port is also situated in the heart of Yokohama, so shopping and tourist attractions are easily accessible. In Yokohama, Sankeien Garden is a beautiful Japanese-style garden where you can view cherry blossoms and autumn foliage, depending on when you visit.”
Farriek Tawfik
Director, South-east Asia
Princess Cruises
This article is part of – Events of the high seas, first published in TTGmice October 2018
Greg Findlay has joined Makati Shangri-La, Manila as general manager.
Findlay brings with him over 18 years of extensive experience in hotel general management, having led five-star luxury properties and worked in countries throughout Asia Pacific.
Prior to joining the Shangri-La group, Findlay was the general manager of The Westin Bund Center in Shanghai.
Host an impressive gathering at Two70, a venue unique to Royal Caribbean’s Quantum class ships
Royal Caribbean International Studio B ice skating rink
Voyager of the Seas features an iconic ice skating rink where performances by professional skaters from around the world are held. On top of that, the rink can support teambuilding activities and be used as a unique venue for casual meetings for up to 800 pax.
Skypad Spectrum of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas offer some of the world’s most innovative activities at sea, which are perfect for teambuilding. The Skypad, in particular, is a gem. It promises an out-of-this-world bungee trampoline experience but with a virtual reality spin. Participants strap on a headset and are at once transported to another time, place or planet. This virtual adventure launches them high into the stratosphere and let their imagination soar.
Host an impressive gathering at Two70, a venue unique to Royal Caribbean’s Quantum class ships
Two70
Unique to the Quantum class of ships, Two70 is an entertainment hub which offers guests multiple experiences throughout the day. Ordinarily, Two70’s giant windows offer sweeping views of the ocean, but become massive screens that show any scene, real or imagined, with Vistarama. Naturally, it is the perfect venue for meetings and seminars, especially events that require impressive visuals to complement messages.
Dream Cruises Rope course and zipline
The rope course and zipline onboard Dream Cruises ships is perfect for team bonding. Participants first tackle a tricky rope course before gliding down the 35m zipline, set 18 decks above the ocean. What a rush!
Dream Night
Unique to Dream Cruises, Dream Night is the grand finale to any cruise experience. As a spectacular fireworks display takes off against the night sky, guests are invited onto the main pool deck where they get to indulge in champagne and cocktails.
Rest and relax in a Dream Cruises Executive Suite
Dream Palace
While Dream Cruises ships are a luxurious experience, Dream Palace takes things up several notches. It is in a class of its own, a regal “ship-within-a-ship” enclave with 142 suites and private VIP facilities including its own swimming pool, spa, gym and dining venues. Guests are pampered by meticulous Dream Butlers who promise personalised attention.
Star Cruises Galaxy of the Stars
Offering panoramic views of the ocean from a glass-fronted observatory area, this lounge in Star Pisces and SuperStar Virgo is ideal for presentations and product launches. With a seating capacity of up to 292 guests, it also serves as a popular dance spot where delegates can unwind to popular music after a day of conferences.
Zodiac Theatre
The Zodiac Theatre in SuperStar Virgo is a performing arts space for musicals, dance performances and magic shows. With its 830-seat capacity, the theatre is equipped with state-of-the-art lighting, rigging and sound systems. The audience is assured of a comfortable and enjoyable experience, thanks to plush seats and good acoustics.
Princess Cruises
Catch a movie under the stars onboard Princess Cruises ships
Movies Under The Stars
This open-air poolside amphitheatre brings back the romance of movies under the stars. Blockbusters are screened every evening at this top deck attraction, and complimentary fresh-popped popcorn and hotdogs are dished out. Movies Under The Stars makes a delightful addition to any corporate programme onboard the cruise ship.
Luxury beds
Touted as the first bed onboard a cruise line that is designed by a board certified sleep expert, Princess Cruises’ luxury beds provide delegates the ultimate sleep experience out at sea. Ultra-premium features including a plush nine-inch single-sided medium firm mattress with two-inch thick pillow top for enhanced support as well as luxurious Jacquard-woven cotton linens. Delegates are refreshed and ready for the day’s programme, and will return home from their event all rejuvenated.
24-hour room service
Complimentary 24-hour room service ensures delegates are never hungry throughout their programme at sea, no matter the time of the day. The all-day room service menu includes hand-tossed pizzas to dazzling multi-course gourmet dinners.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Bliss feature the largest race track at sea
Race track
Both Norwegian Joy or Norwegian Bliss feature the largest race track at sea – the first ships to lay claim to offering this entertainment option. The race track is large enough to support up to 10 go-karts racing at the same time at up to 60kmh. Perfect as a teambuilding activity, the competitive track features many twists and turns while the go-karts come with four speed settings to accommodate novice, intermediate and advanced drivers. Thrillseekers should watch out for the special ‘turbo boost’ on each lap.
The Haven
Hidden away at the top of the ship is The Haven by Norwegian, home to the most luxurious, well-appointed and spacious accommodation. Not only will VIP delegates have access to all the ship has to offer, they will also enjoy the personal attention of a concierge and 24-hour butler.
Oceania Cruises The Culinary Center Oceania Riviera and Oceania Marina offer the first custom-designed and hands-on cooking school at sea, where guests learn how to prepare a variety of exquisite dishes in a fully-equipped teaching kitchen. Classes are led by master chefs from around the world.
Stay connected
Oceania Cruises is rolling out its new Wavenet high-speed Internet service fleet wide, available to all guests at no extra charge. For businessmen out on a programme at sea, this invaluable service ensures they remain connected.
Silversea Cruises
Top-class butler service
Signature butler service
A Silversea cruise experience is never without a top-class butler service which begins the moment guests come onboard. Upon arrival, the butler welcomes guests personally, orientating them to their suites and even offering to unpack their bags. The butlers remain attentive throughout the voyage.
Professional event planning services
Silversea’s team of corporate and incentive planning professionals provides creative solutions to ensure that corporate events take off successfully. The extensive host of event planning resources available onboard will ensure that all special activities and services are well customised and arranged, promising delegates an unforgettable experience.
This article is part of – Events of the high seas, first published in TTGmice October 2018
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