Offering an authentic and immersive blend of sightseeing, local history, and culture, the Aberdeen 1773 tour is ideal for business travellers and corporate groups.
This tour, run by Seayou Explorer, vividly brings to life the rich heritage of Hong Kong’s fishing villages through an audio-guided sightseeing boat tour and a museum visit.
Aberdeen 1773 tour’s sightseeing boat
Aberdeen has been a port and home to fishing communities since the 1940s. The experience begins with boarding a sightseeing boat to explore the Aberdeen Typhoon Shelter. Participants receive a professional audio guide in Cantonese, Mandarin, English, Japanese, and Korean, providing insights into 13 landmarks along the route. Following the boat tour, a visit to the “Floating House Boat” exhibition offers a glimpse into traditional life on the water through photos, exhibits, and oral history videos, culminating in a photo opportunity with a 3D painting.
The 75-minute tour starts and concludes at Aberdeen Fisherman’s Wharf Pier 6, and is priced at HK$175 per person. It can accommodate groups of 10 to 160 per time slot, but can be customised to a planners’ needs.
There are other customisation and add-ons available, such as tasting freshly cooked traditional Ting Tsai Noodles on Aberdeen’s last two vermicelli boats, guided walking tours of Aberdeen and Ap Lei Chau offering local insights, fishermen’s song workshops, and visits to a boat noodle kitchen to learn about traditional preparation methods and sample local dishes like boat noodles, sticky rice, and congee.
The Eastern & Oriental Express, A Belmond Train, Southeast Asia, has named Win Min as general manager, effective immediately.
Win’s journey with Belmond began in 2013 in Myanmar, where he was hotel manager on the Orcaella, a former Belmond river cruise. In 2017, he took on the role of hotel manager, overseeing both The Governor’s Residence hotel and the Road to Mandalay river cruise, also former Belmond properties.
With a demonstrated track record of leadership and adaptability, Win Min joins E&O from Residence Phou Vao, where he was interim general manager.
Alila Villas Uluwatu has appointed Vincent Durier as general manager.
He has over 20 years of experience in international hospitality, covering all areas of operations, including rooms, F&B, and finance.
In 2021, he was general manager at COMO Cocoa Island in the Maldives, followed by a role at Nawa Bajo in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia in January 2024.
He aims to positively impact people, the community, and the environment, and strengthen Alila Villas Uluwatu’s position as a leading resort in Asia.
Nearly one-third of global travel managers anticipate business travel volume will decrease significantly in 2025
As a result of recent US government actions including tariffs, cross-border policies and entry restrictions, global business travel professionals are newly navigating a complex and uncertain landscape regarding the potential impact on business travel volume, spending and revenue for 2025.
According to a new poll conducted by the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA), a significant portion of over 900 global industry respondents are anticipating declines ahead and overall optimism has taken a hit in the last few weeks, reflecting the uncertainty gripping the sector and other industries.
Nearly one-third of global travel managers anticipate business travel volume will decrease significantly in 2025
Recent US government actions were defined in the GBTA poll as tariffs on imported products, US entry restrictions for travelers from specific countries, advisories against travel to the US, cross-border policies resulting in detainment risks, and decreased business travel for US federal employees.
As a result of these initiatives, the poll had several revelations.
Less than half of global buyers (44%) anticipate their organisation’s business travel spending and volume in 2025 will not be impacted, compared to 25% of travel suppliers who say the same for their business travel revenue.
Almost a third (29%) of global travel buyers expect a decline in business travel volume at their companies in 2025, averaging a 21% decrease. Additionally, a fairly large portion of travel buyers (19%) are uncertain about what the impact will be.
Related, 27% of buyers now predict a 20% decrease on average in their business travel spending this year. Notably, with global business travel spending forecast to reach US$1.6 trillion in 2025, that could represent a potential decline in spending of up to US$88 billion.
Moreover, 37% of travel suppliers and travel management company (TMC) professionals anticipate a decline of 18% on average in related revenue.
Because of overall concerns, only 31% of global industry professionals remain optimistic about the overall industry outlook for this year, while 40% are neutral. This marks a significant decline from GBTA’s November 2024 poll where 67% of global industry professionals reported an optimistic outlook for 2025 and 26% were neutral.
“While the outlook for global business travel was incredibly strong coming into 2025, our research now shows increasing concerns and uncertainty within our industry, considering recent actions taken by the US government. Travelling for work plays a vital role in supporting business growth, resilient economies, strong diplomatic ties and valuable connections,” said Suzanne Neufang, CEO, GBTA.
“Productive and essential business travel is threatened in times of economic uncertainty or in an environment of additional barriers and restrictions. This undermines economic prosperity and damages the many sectors that rely on global business travel to survive and thrive.”
Neufang added there are two key factors to watch that would influence longer-term impact for business travel: if there’s sustained economic pressure or uncertainty weighing on company budgets and if cross-border travel and global workforce mobility to and from the US are restricted.
The GBTA poll reflects responses from travel managers (buyers), suppliers, travel management companies and other travel intermediaries from across four regions and 45 countries.
Additional key findings include that seven per cent of buyer organisations have revised their corporate travel policies for travel to or from the US since January 2025, and another one-quarter (25%) say they are planning to or will consider doing so in the future. Another 64% are staying the course.
Additionally, up to 20% have or are considering cancelling, moving or pulling attendance from meetings and events located in the US, while 10% are planning or considering cancelling employee attendance at US events.
When it comes to relocating meetings or events from the US, a total of 14% say their organisation has already done so (8%) or is considering it (6%). Companies located outside of the US are three times more likely to relocate meetings to somewhere other than the US.
Respondents’ top concerns for long-term impact of US government actions are related to economics – namely business travel costs (54%) and potential budget cuts (40%) – along with additional travel processing and administration needs such as visas or documentation (46%). This was followed closely by traveller-focused concerns such as employee willingness to travel to the US and increased safety and duty of care (both at 37%).
Additionally, when asked if they personally know someone whose trip has been affected by US border or travel policy changes, 23% of global industry professionals say they do.
Business events highlight the value of international connections amid complex geopolitical issues; delegates at the Pathology Update 2025 in Melbourne pictured; photo by Arinex
Arinex, a leading events specialist with activities across Australia, New Zealand and Fiji, is seeing a reaffirmation of the value of business events amid growing global tensions.
Event strategist Sarah Weatherby told TTGmice that many organisations are “seizing this moment to reaffirm the value of face-to-face connection, sharing experiences and contributions to their relevant field while navigating complex geopolitical issues”.
Business events highlight the value of international connections amid complex geopolitical issues; delegates at the Pathology Update 2025 in Melbourne pictured; photo by Arinex
An example of such an event is the Women Deliver 2026 Conference, which is regarded as one of the world’s largest and most influential forums on gender equality. It is set to take place in Melbourne from April 27-30 next year.
“This important event is expected to attract thousands of delegates from across sectors and continents, underscoring the enduring appetite for international collaboration – particularly on issues of shared human and social significance,” opined Weatherby.
“Ultimately, while global trade shifts present challenges, they also spotlight the unique opportunities for our region and promote the value of business events in connecting people, advancing ideas, and accelerating progress on the issues that matter most,” she said, adding that “now, more than ever, business events serve as a powerful platform for fostering dialogue, innovation, and partnership”.
“Events like Women Deliver demonstrate how a conference can transcend economic and geopolitical cycles by focusing on purpose-led outcomes and inclusive engagement,” she stated.
Despite ongoing uncertainty surrounding global trade and US tariffs, the company remains optimistic about the business events industry, but acknowledges the need for “strategic event design that is both globally aware and locally embedded”.
Arinex is paying close attention to tariff impacts on key supply-chain elements, particularly F&B costs.
“We are prioritising local sourcing, fostering transparent supplier relationships, and embedding flexibility into our planning frameworks, to safeguard value while continuing to deliver premium, purpose-driven events,” shared Weatherby.
To mitigate any flow-on impacts, the company also works closely with supplier partners to ensure pricing stability, quality continuity, and long-term planning strategies. As a company that has been in the business since 1973, it enjoys close working relationships with major hotel brands and Booking.com, as well as major airline carriers in Australia and New Zealand.
This allows the Arinex team to “proactively support clients with scenario planning and adaptable event programme models, ensuring that our clients’ goals remain achievable despite external headwinds”.
MACEOS' M Gandhi (third from left), with committee members at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre in August 2024
The Malaysian Business Events Awards (MBEA) and EventXpo will be held concurrently this year, marking a shift from their previous separate organisation by the Malaysian Association of Convention and Exhibition Organisers and Suppliers (MACEOS).
The double-bill celebration that will take place from August 7-9 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre will honour excellence, while showcasing the innovation and new trends that continue to drive the business industry forward.
MACEOS’ M Gandhi (third from left), with committee members at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre in August 2024
Following the success of its inaugural edition last year, the second edition of EventXpo will feature more exhibition booths, a diverse mix of domestic and regional trade visitors, and the active participation of Malaysia’s national and state convention bureaus.
MACEOS president, M Gandhi, shared at a recent press conference: “Event sourcing for corporate buyers has traditionally relied on word of mouth and peer recommendations. EventXpo aims to transform that by offering a comprehensive platform where corporate buyers can connect with reliable suppliers and fulfil all their business needs under one roof.
“Our objective is to propel Malaysia’s industry players into the Asia region spotlight, creating a stage where the world sees their businesses and services right here in Malaysia.”
Gandhi emphasised that EventXpo 2025 is meant to open doors to business events industry players to showcase on a regional scale without leaving the country, while at the same time, elevating Malaysia as a hub for excellence in the business events industry.
Meanwhile, the third edition of MBEA, scheduled for August 7, will recognise organisations and events demonstrating excellence, creativity, and leadership within Malaysia’s dynamic business events sector.
Gandhi shared: “The past few years have tested the resilience of our industry, but our industry players have risen to the challenge with determination and innovation. MBEA is to honour their efforts in delivering event excellence and raise the standards for events on par with what other destinations offer.”
This year’s MBEA will introduce new categories such as Business Catalyst Excellence and Best Stage Design Excellence, both of which reflect the evolution of the industry landscape.
Association leadership and Moscow Tourism representatives at the press conference; photo by Rohit Kaul
The Outbound Tour Operators Association of India (OTOAI) announced during a press conference in New Delhi on April 15 that Moscow, Russia, will be the host city for its 6th Convention.
Set to take place from July 10-13, 2025, the convention will be held at The Carlton, Moscow. It is expected to draw over 150 delegates from across India, aside from the association’s executive committee members and media representatives.
Association leadership and Moscow Tourism representatives at the press conference; photo by Rohit Kaul
During the event, Indian travel agents will have opportunities to engage with local hotels, function venues, and DMCs to learn more about Moscow’s business events infrastructure and leisure offerings. There will also be a three-night post-convention tour to St Petersburg.
“The fact that Russia offers a convenient online visa facility for Indian travellers with a quick turnaround time of three days is helping to grow Indian outbound travel numbers to Moscow.
“We are seeing increasing interest from Indian corporates exploring new destinations like Moscow for incentive travel. With more direct air connectivity, MICE tourism from India to Russia could see exponential growth,” said Himanshu Patil, president, OTOAI.
“Many Indian business travellers return to Moscow with friends and family (for another visit), so we are also positioning Moscow as an ideal location for weddings and film shoots in the Indian market,” shared Anastasia Popova, head of the Business Tourism Development Department with Moscow City Tourism Committee. Presently, about 40 per cent of Indian travellers visit Moscow for business purposes.
Russia began offering e-visas to Indian passport holders starting August 1, 2023. Since then, the number of Indian tourists visiting Moscow has seen a significant surge.
In 2024, 85,800 Indian tourists visited the Russian capital – a 40 per cent increase compared to 2023. India now ranks second among non-CIS countries in terms of visitor arrivals to Moscow, trailing only China.
Aeroflot, Russia’s flag carrier, is currently the only airline offering direct flights between India and Moscow, with seven weekly services to New Delhi and three to Goa.
The launch of SMAX and ASFAX represents a strategic expansion of the EMAX series
NRG Exhibitions has announced the expansion of its industry event portfolio with the addition of two new co-located shows, where the 5th Edition of Electronics Manufacturing Expo Asia (EMAX) and the 4th Edition of Penang Manufacturing Expo (PMAX) will now be joined by Semiconductor Expo Asia (SMAX) and Asia Sustainable Factories Expo (ASFAX).
Taking place July 23-25, 2025, at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre in Penang, Malaysia, this quartet of expos will bring together a powerful convergence of industries to showcase technologies shaping the future of manufacturing, electronics, semiconductors, and sustainability in Asia.
The launch of SMAX and ASFAX represents a strategic expansion of the EMAX series
SMAX 2025 will showcase the entire semiconductor value chain, including chip design, fabrication, testing, packaging, and materials. Meanwhile, ASFAX 2025 will be a dedicated platform for sustainable manufacturing, covering renewable energy, smart factory innovations, energy efficiency, green building solutions, and ESG-driven technologies.
Together with EMAX (electronics manufacturing) and PMAX (general manufacturing and industrial solutions), this four-in-one event offers a comprehensive platform for industrial advancement, digital transformation, and environmental responsibility.
EMAX, PMAX, SMAX & ASFAX 2025 are expected to feature over 8,000 trade visitors, more than 200 leading exhibiting brands, and participants from over 40 countries.
Attendees can expect a showcase of solutions and breakthroughs, alongside live demonstrations and tech applications powered by artificial intelligence agents and large language model advancements. Delegates can look forward to expert-led keynote presentations and panel discussions, as well as business networking opportunities and industry matchmaking sessions.
IAAPA Expo Asia 2025, the largest tradeshow for the amusement industry in the Asia-Pacific region, will take place from June 30 to July 3 at the Shanghai New International Expo Center.
Themed Find Possible, the four-day international event will showcase the newest technological advancements and innovative solutions in the attractions industry from more than 300 exhibitors.
A panel in session at IAAPA Expo Asia 2024
Over 10,000 attendees are expected to visit the 10,000m2 tradeshow floor to explore the latest trends, key issues and consumer preferences shaping the future of the sector.
The expo’s education programme of over 20 learning opportunities will cover a wide range of topics, from personnel development and merchandise to F&B trends and revenue diversification.
Among this year’s lineup of keynote speakers is president and managing director of Disney Parks International, Jill Estorino. She will deliver insights on innovation, marketing, and guest service during IAAPA Expo Asia’s signature Leadership Breakfast.
Additionally, EDUTours at Expo Asia will enable attendees to get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at some of Shanghai’s world-class attractions. Included in the lineup are tours to LEGOLAND Shanghai Resort and Shanghai Disney Resort.
Sri Lanka’s strength lies in its diversity – from historical and cultural sites, beautiful beaches and verdant mountains to rich wildlife and eclectic cities.
Accommodation, meeting packages and F&B are attractively priced compared to other business events destinations, although foreigners and locals are charged different fees at some attractions.
Colombo, the commercial centre of Sri Lanka
With the rise of bleisure travel, the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau (SLCB) says the country is an “attractive destination for MICE travellers, where work can be blended with unique experiences”.
Skyscrapers tower above Colombo and shopping malls draw crowds, even as intriguing temples, local markets and alleys continue to thrill visitors on an exhilarating tuk tuk tour.
The ‘new’ Colombo is seen in ITC Ratnadipa, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Colombo, and 687-key Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams. When the mall, casino and Nuwa hotel open in 3Q2025, it will be South Asia’s biggest integrated resort.
“Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams is designed to seamlessly host large-scale events while offering diverse breakout spaces and personalised experiences,” said Alessandro Aldo Cabella, senior vice president & general manager, Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams.
“This integrated approach positions us as a premier destination for MICE in South Asia, capable of balancing scale with exceptional service.”
Besides India, the Middle East and Europe, new markets targeted this year are Singapore, Malaysia, and China.
Meanwhile, ITC Ratnadipa draws meetings and conferences from South and South-east Asia and the Middle East, especially two- and three-day residential events. The 30-storey hotel has 352 rooms and suites, as well as event facilities comprising a ballroom (divisible into three), four meeting rooms and two large outdoor venues.
Colombo being the international gateway, most incentive itineraries feature a ‘city and country’ combination, either heading towards the centre or south.
Central attractions include UNESCO World Heritage Sites Anuradhapura – famed for its Buddhist stupas and statues – and ‘Lion Rock’ Sigiriya – an imposing backdrop for photos, but too time-consuming to climb.
An early-evening, safari-style drive to Minneriya National Park reveals peacocks, painted storks and the highlight – elephants chomping or walking mere metres from the jeeps.
Next, Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth Relic provides both spiritual and scenic experiences. A special treat is being able to visit the Elephant Stables and feed the ‘Royal Tuskers’.
The other main attraction in central Sri Lanka is Nuwara Eliya for its many tea plantations. Some allow small groups to meander among the bushes, watching workers deftly pluck tea leaves, and even try their hand at this. Tea factory tours usually explain the varieties and production process, followed by tea-tasting and purchasing.
Southern itineraries usually take in Galle and Bentota, the former for its heritage buildings like the fort, clock tower, lighthouse and quaint shopping streets, and the latter for its beaches.
While both cities have old-world and new-build hotels, capacities are relatively small. But a unique experience is NH Bentota Ceysands Resort, located on a peninsula and accessed by a short boat ride. It offers beach dinners with tiki torches and décor, and small-group sunset pontoon tours with cocktails and snacks.
Sustainability being an important consideration, big DMCs/PCOs like Aitken Spence Travels have introduced conservation measures under a “Travel Kindly” theme. Community awareness programmes include sourcing gift-packs and woven bags from SMEs and featuring traditional arts and crafts on tours.
On a bleisure trip to Sri Lanka last November, the 20-member Singapore Press Club (SPC) delegation saw the country’s potential through the places visited, officials they met and meals savoured.
“We came back with a better understanding of the country and aspirations of its hardworking and friendly people,” said Bhagman Singh, SPC vice president and chair of the goodwill mission organising committee.
Elephants at Minneriya National Park; photo by Gerardine Donough-Tan
“Official meetings highlighted directions being taken to attract foreign investment, engage with international partners and get more tourists to visit the country and enjoy the varied holiday offerings.”
In February 2025, Sri Lanka also launched its Conference Ambassador Programme (SLCAP), a joint initiative by Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, SLCB, and SriLankan Airlines, to attract international conferences and boost economic growth, sustainability, and knowledge exchange.
Twenty-five ambassadors, representing various business sectors that host international conferences, are already on board.
SLCAP will continue to identify and support other local association leaders and business events professionals well-known in their fields, providing them with the resources and tools needed to attract international conferences to the country.
The newly-opened Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok anchors the One Bangkok development with cosmopolitan elegance. Featuring the city's largest ballroom and a spectacular new penthouse suite, it delivers exceptional hardware and deeply authentic, soulful service for business and leisure travellers alike
Behind the imposing, Brutalist concrete that defines Zurich’s Oerlikon district lies a surprising secret. While its exterior honours the neighbourhood’s industrial roots, stepping inside Mama Shelter reveals a vibrant, neon-soaked world that is a far cry from its rigid shell
A polished urban retreat designed for business travellers, Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur at KL Midtown combines thoughtful design, seamless service, and exceptional facilities.
With a demonstrated track record of leadership and adaptability, Win Min joins E&O from Residence Phou Vao, where he was interim general manager.
In 2021, he was general manager at COMO Cocoa Island in the Maldives, followed by a role at Nawa Bajo in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia in January 2024.
