No doubt about it, the destination is hot. Businesses that aren’t there already are clambering over themselves to set up shop. And the business tourism market is following close behind.
At the end of 2006 business travel in China was expected to yield more than $35 million. That figure, according to some experts, will skyrocket over the next decade, making China a true behemoth in the global business travel industry.
Hotel construction right now is phenomenal, with companies including Accor responsible for a sizeable number of properties the length and breadth of the vast country, either just opened, opening soon, or on the drawing board. Other hotel groups are following suit, with many sales and marketing executives struggling to keep up with their ever-increasing portfolios. Similarly, HR departments are said to be having a torrid time trying to simply staff new properties with employees who possess some level of experience (see story page 8). But still convention and incentive groups come – from south east Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Europe and even the United States. As a destination for business in Asia it is fast becoming what Singapore and Hong Kong were perhaps 20 years or more ago. Multi-nationals are setting up shop, and the related business meetings, annual conferences, incentives with a business focus, are all following suit.
 China’s capital Beijing and its business capital Shanghai have been the first to reap the rewards of this influx. But expect other lesser-known cities to be pounced upon by convention and incentive planners wanting to get off the beaten track in the near future.
Culturally, China offers so much for the world-weary traveller. It has places, spaces and elements that are virtually unheard of and unseen by outsiders.
As well as Shanghai and Beijing, some of China’s cities and regions growing in popularity for MICE events and tours (that some of the leading experts on China include, including Pacific World, in their itinerary suggestions) are Guangzhou, Chengdu, Hangzhou, Guilin, Kunming, Suzhou, Xian, and the city of Sanya on Hainan Island.
Each destination or city offers something completely different to each other, but something unique to China. Xian, for example, has as its biggest drawcard the 8000 terracotta warriors, unearthed in the early 1970s.
But be warned: having a team that is aware of the pleasures (and pitfalls) of doing business in China is imperative to ensuring any event runs smoothly.
Events China is one destination management company that possesses a vast amount of local knowledge and can assist any planners with creating spectacular programmes in China.
The company is dedicated to showcasing China as a unique and exciting venue for meeting, conference and incentive travel. Professional consultants have an intimate knowledge of China that has been developed with more than 25 years of experience and planning so that they can deliver endless possibilities and rewarding experiences that are sure to leave a lasting impression on participants.
As well as providing on-the-ground support, Events China has a good understanding of venues and facilities available in key destinations, and can therefore provide clients with impartial advice and practical assistance at every stage of the event planning process. This should ensure ease of management from the start to end of the programme.
From selecting venues and organising logistical support, through to travel, accommodation, secretarial services and preparing presentation material, Events China has the expertise to ensure any event in China is a complete success.
“If you have not already considered China as your next meeting, conference or incentive destination then we invite you to come and speak to us and see the amazing experience we can offer you and your clients,” says an Events China spokesperson.
“If you have experienced China’s magical charm then we are certain you long to return to this fascinating land and Events China can offer you a unique experience in a destination full of surprises.”
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