Luxury and a rustic ambience; tradition and innovation; green philosophy and pure indulgence – the five-star Stanglwirt resort and bio-hotel brings together apparent opposites to create a unique and incomparable holiday experience.
Traditional Tyrolean hospitality is synonymous with the Stanglwirt name, which was first registered as an inn more than 400 years ago. According to Condé Nast Traveller, Stanglwirt is one of the 142 best hotels in the world, being the only Austrian hotel to be awarded a place on the publication’s coveted 2016 Gold List.
Powered by nature
Since 1722, guests’ wellbeing and happiness during a stay at Stanglwirt has been placed in the hands of the Hauser family. The resort has developed considerably from its early roots as a farmstead lodging: luxurious hotel facilities of the highest international standard are now spread across 12 hectares of land. Rich in charming Tyrolean style and furnished with premium organic materials such as native Swiss stonepine wood and fabrics made from pure sheep’s wool, the hotel’s 171 rooms and suites offer an unforgettable well-being experience.
The resort has developed considerably from its early roots as a farmstead lodging: luxurious hotel facilities are now spread across 12 hectares of land
Owner and ‘green visionary’ Balthasar Hauser and his family have shown that, as hoteliers, it is possible to implement pioneering visions without renouncing traditional roots. Bio or organic innovation in Stanglwirt has nothing to do with frugality: wholesome food is produced on the resort’s 100 hectare farm, including legendary Stanglwirt mountain cheese, which is matured within the site’s alpine dairy.
The resort is also currently undergoing an extensive refurbishment and expansion project. In 2012, the biggest brine pool in any hotel in Europe, at 210sq m indoors and at an outdoor temperature of 36 degrees Celsius, opened at Stanglwirt, along with a 25m international sports swimming pool with OMEGA time measurement and two relaxation areas with open fireplaces and cosy, luxurious loungers. Guests can also enjoy a spacious event sauna with panoramic views of the ‘Wilder Kaiser’ mountain ridge. The Wilder Kaiser region in Tyrol is more than an impressive setting and excursion destination: Kaiser stone is a distinctive characteristic of the resort, helping to create an oasis of wellbeing, complete with grottos, caves and waterfalls.
The hotel’s outdoor area boasts a spectacular 517sq m natural swimming lake, and in 2015 the adventurous 1,000sq m Children’s Waterworld was opened. With an exclusive spa yet to be completed, Stanglwirt’s wellbeing extension will be finalised by the end of 2016. To provide energy to the new wellbeing worlds, the five-star bio-hotel is supported by natural mountain water from its own spring, which comes from the Wilder Kaiser and is heated using geothermal energy and the sun.
Active holidays
The broad range of leisure activities available at the exclusive resort includes eight outdoor and six indoor tennis courts run by the renowned Peter Burwash International Tennis School. The presence of these world-class courts makes Stanglwirt one of the most famous tennis resorts in Europe. The 500sq m indoor fitness garden allows guests to take part in free courses and group activities, such as pilates and yoga, with guidance from professional medical fitness coaches.
Keen horse riders will be inspired by the stunning Lipizzaner horses from the hotel’s own private stud farm, while in winter the Stanglwirt ski school organises daily ski safaris to beautiful skiing locations, including SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental and the Kitzbühel/Kirchberg ski area.
Berlin is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities. In Monocle’s Quality of Life 2015 listing, the German capital earned third place, so it is unsurprising that every year millions of people visit this historically charged, multifaceted city by the river Spree. The number of permanent inhabitants and visitors to Berlin both continue to rise year upon year. With over 12 million travellers making their way to the city in the last year alone, Berlin has become the third most popular tourist destination in Europe, exceeded only by Paris and London.
Numerous international businesses have chosen Berlin as their home base, benefitting from the city’s dynamism, internationality, superb infrastructure, and transfer of knowledge through its many universities and academic institutions. This unique combination of attributes has helped the German capital to become known as the number one European city for start-ups. Furthermore, due to the city’s creative vibe and reputation for investing in new ideas, many of these start-up companies choose to stay in Berlin in the long term.
The immense and growing number of visitors arriving in Berlin has created an enormous demand for overnight accommodation
Berlin is particularly popular with media, innovation and service providers, although it is also a top location for medical practices. And stagnation is out of the question: various conventions and trade fairs, which attract millions of international visitors annually, provide an insight into the current state of the market and what developments are yet to come.
Growing numbers
The immense and growing number of visitors arriving in Berlin has created an enormous demand for overnight accommodation. The city is home to numerous hotels, from small B&Bs and exciting boutique and art hotels to extravagant international brands, meaning it is possible to find the right accommodation, service and price range for just about any need.
Many of these hotels make it wonderfully easy for guests to combine work and fun by offering more than just comfortable rooms and excellent culinary options: a great number of Berlin’s hotels also provide state-of-the-art technical equipment, conference rooms and other business facilities.
Ellington Hotel is a great example of how easy and enjoyable it can be to combine business with pleasure: with almost 1,500sq m of conference and meeting space and 10 flexible event rooms, the hotel provides the perfect setting for congresses, lectures, presentations or just about any gathering for groups of between two and 800 people.
Round-the-clock entertainment
Visitors should also remember Berlin is Europe’s number one address for parties. From long nights (and days) at the famous techno temple Berghain to extravagant underground parties, extraordinary concerts and grand outdoor spectacles, in Berlin it’s almost impossible to get bored. There are no closing hours in this city: here, night blends seamlessly into day, with round-the-clock enjoyment constantly on offer.
Once the sun comes out, Berlin is especially beautiful. The popular Tiergarten offers a splash of nature amid the hustle and bustle of the big city. Another stunning city oasis is the Ellington Hotel summer terrace, where you can catch a few sunrays in between meetings. For those who are looking for a more cultural activity during their stay, many visitors find their inspiration among Berlin’s numerous museums.
And, of course, not to be forgotten: if you want to shop, the city offers just about anything money can buy. The legendary Kurfürstendamm and Tauentzien, home of the world-famous Mall of the West, are just two of the many top-notch shopping addresses in Berlin. As an added bonus, guests of Ellington Hotel don’t even have to carry their bags all too far, as the hotel is located just a few short metres away from the shopping boulevard.
After an exhausting shopping trip or a productive meeting, you may want to spoil yourself with a nice dinner at Ellington Hotel’s DUKE restaurant, or a few drinks at the bar. If you end your day that well, you’ll be sure to wake up full of motivation and ready to continue your exploration of this wonderful city.
The captivating city of Doha in the Persian Gulf, where traditional blends with modernity and east meets west, is home to the impressive Meliá Doha Hotel. As Meliá Hotels and Resorts’ first hotel in Qatar’s capital city, the contemporary resort has been designed to combine luxury and leisure for travellers who choose to stay for either business or pleasure.
Located in one of the city’s most stunning skyscrapers, Meliá Doha offers more than 62,000sq m of luxurious space over 39 floors. With a total of 317 rooms, including 37 suites, the hotel boasts one of the five largest suites in the West Bay area of Doha on its top floor: the Royal Suite, which covers a total area of 436sq m. Meliá Doha is also home to the exclusive ‘the Level’ on its eighth floor; an area that provides exceptional and personalised services to its guests.
Meliá Doha boasts one of the five largest suites in the West Bay area of Doha on its top floor
As the hotel is located just 15 minutes from Hamad International Airport, guests have easy access to the Corniche – the city’s waterfront promenade, which stretches for several kilometres along Doha Bay – and the city’s financial district, as well as being granted stunning views of the Doha skyline.
A key part of the Meliá Doha experience is the cuisine: the hotel’s award-winning restaurant Signature, run by international chef Sanjeev Kapoor, serves an exquisite selection of traditional Indian dishes with a modern touch. The restaurant Aceite, meanwhile, faithfully reflects the hotel’s Spanish roots with a menu that features well-known tapas dishes, while Nidaaya offers a buffet of international dishes. Alternatively, café RiQQa, cocktail bar Noir and Le Pool Club are ideal options for guests looking to enjoy a drink or a snack in a more relaxed environment. Guests can also visit the pool on the third floor of the hotel, or the spa and fitness area, which is equipped with the latest fitness technology.
A blend of cultures
The first Spanish hotel in the Middle East, Meliá Dubai combines a modernist aesthetic with touches of cultural tradition, creating an urban oasis in the centre of the city. Situated in the heart of the historic Bur Dubai district, Meliá Dubai was designed by renowned architect Marco Mangili, who infused every corner of the building with his characteristic avant-garde style.
The hotel’s 164 rooms and suites are each equipped with a full range of premium facilities that combine luxurious refinement with utmost comfort. The use of warm colours, plush fabrics and carefully selected furnishings create a truly relaxing environment for business and leisure guests alike. Meliá Dubai also offers the Level experience, bringing a new dimension of warmth and Spanish hospitality to Dubai.
The hotel offers a wide range of cuisine: Meliá Dubai boasts its own Signature Indian restaurant, also headed by Sanjeev Kapoor, while Azalya restaurant offers an international buffet and enables diners to watch their food being cooked. The latest addition to the hotel is the bar Alfonso X, where guests can enjoy sushi and sashimi paired with a selection of modern cocktails. There is also a smoking lounge for those wishing to enjoy the finest cigars from Cuba, Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic.
For travelling sport fans, the Quantum bar screens live sporting events in a lively atmosphere, providing the perfect venue for meeting up with friends or colleagues. On the hotel terrace, guests can relax by the pool and try a drink from Estrella while admiring the breathtaking views of the city. Lastly, the YHI Spa offers a vast array of treatments and first-rate facilities, giving guests a place to switch off and restore balance to their mind and body.
Rich in natural beauty and virtually untouched by humankind, Guyana, located on the northern coast of South America, is home to an array of nature’s treasures: exceptional birds, unusual wildlife, conserved rainforest and welcoming indigenous and multicultural people with a fascinating story to tell are just some of the riches that await in this vibrant yet serene corner of the world.
Spanning more than 16 million hectares, Guyana’s pristine rainforest is one of the last tropical frontier forests in the world. Scenic landscapes span the length and breadth of the country, from Kaieteur (one of the world’s longest and most powerful single drop waterfalls) to the towering Mount Roraima in the North Pakaraima mountain range. An estimated 300 waterfalls can be found dotted throughout the rainforest, some of which have their own natural hot tubs for visitors to relax in.
Guyana’s rich and diverse ecosystem makes it one of the world’s top wildlife spotting destinations
Nature’s riches
For the conservationist, endangered turtle species including the leatherback can be found along miles of seashell-covered beaches on the country’s northern coast. These amazing creatures can be viewed during the months of February to July, laying hundreds of eggs before continuing their journey into the Atlantic Ocean.
Furthermore, with more than 878 bird species from 79 families, Guyana has emerged as one of the top neotropical birding destinations. Avid birdwatchers and curious visitors can spot the rare blood-coloured woodpecker in the capital’s bird sanctuary, the prehistoric hoatzin (the national bird of Guyana), the magnificent harpy eagle, the sun parakeet, the colourful Guianan cock-of-the-rock, and dozens of species of tanagers, parrots, toucans and other star birds.
Guyana’s rich and diverse ecosystem makes it one of the world’s top wildlife spotting destinations. Known as the ‘land of the giants’, visitors are sure to spot several giant species in the animal kingdom during their trip, including South America’s largest cat, the jaguar; the world’s largest scaled freshwater fish, the arapaima; the world’s largest anteater, the endangered black caiman; and the giant river otter.
Guyana’s geographic landscape makes it an adventure-seeker’s paradise. Soft to hard adventure activities range from trekking, rafting and canoeing to adrenaline-fuelled 4×4 safaris, waterfall abseiling and mountain range exploration. This adventure haven is bound to excite.
Far-reaching roots
Several of Guyana’s indigenous communities offer enriching community-based tourism (CBT) experiences, which allow visitors to immerse themselves in the authentic, traditional native lifestyle. Guests are given the opportunity to catch their own meal by fishing or hunting with a bow and arrow, and spend the night sleeping in hammocks under the forest canopy or in thatched-roof benabs. During these experiences, the friendly people from the nine distinct tribes share their traditions, culinary delights and rich cultural practices.
Often referred to as the ‘land of six peoples’, Guyana’s rich history has created a melting pot of cultural diversity, housing people of Asian (Indian and Chinese), African, European and Amerindian descent. Guyanese culture, music, cuisine, architecture and religion reflect this wonderful blend of diverse roots. Favourite dishes in Guyana are ‘pepper pot’ (a dish made from cassareep, a by product of the cassava root), Metemgee (a blend of ground provisions in coconut milk) and madras and bunjal curries.
The purpose of taking work away from the everyday workplace is to get away from the repetition of daily life and discover something new – a needed boost or an innovative new thought. Many already choose to meet, work, think and grow in Luleå, one of northern Sweden’s most dynamic cities. There are endless reasons this unique town could be the perfect place for your next incentive, convention or exhibition.
What really distinguishes Luleå as a meeting destination is its small but conveniently placed airport, which sees flights arriving and departing throughout the day. The flight from Stockholm is around an hour long – just enough time for a coffee – and when you see the frozen archipelago from the window, you know you are only minutes away from your destination. While the north of Sweden may sound remote, attractive transport links and close proximity to the country’s capital mean the town of Luleå is closer than you might think.
The vast archipelago starts at the mouth of the harbour and offers activities ranging from skiing and the traditional Swedish kicksled, to simply enjoying a coffee and food prepared over an open fire
Just around the corner
While sometimes size does matter, a big city is not always beneficial when you have to be efficient with your time. In Luleå, you will find space for ideas to grow and open wilderness for arctic adventure, but you will also find that the town is compact and convenient. In Luleå, seven seems to be the magic number – most attractions are only seven minutes away, saving time for thought, work and play.
Not long after your flight lands, you will find yourself on your way into town, where it is not uncommon to see herds of reindeer on your journey. If you choose to stay in one of Luleå’s centrally located hotels, the transfer again takes around seven minutes door-to-door. Whichever restaurant you choose for dinner, it is unlikely to be more than a seven minute walk from the hotel lobby, and the same goes for the vast, icy archipelago floating on the edge of the city, where arctic experiences of your choosing await.
Within the city itself, you will find a wide variety of great hotels fit for meetings and work, or just play and stay, ranging from small and individual hotels to bigger, well-known brands. Guests can be sure to find accommodation to suit their needs and tastes, either close to the culture, food and drink of the city centre or further away from the action in the discrete and calm wilderness of outer Luleå.
A taste of Luleå
At present, 11 of Luleå’s restaurants can be found listed in the White Guide, the exclusive guide to Scandinavia’s finest food and drink. Among these 11 eateries, visitors will find several hotel restaurants. Luleå’s culinary repertoire is unique, based on local flavours and creative cooking, and also proudly supports a rich culture of wines, beers and cocktails.
The true gem of Luleå, however, is its offering of arctic adventures. The vast archipelago that makes up the city starts at the mouth of the harbour and offers activities ranging from cycling, skating, skiing and the traditional Swedish kicksled, to simply enjoying a coffee and food prepared over an open fire. Snowmobile rides and hovercraft ice safaris can also be enjoyed on several of the islands. Driving a car over the frozen sea and experiencing the tranquillity of the glistening ice and snow-covered islands is an experience that shouldn’t be missed.
However, what most visiting companies remember most vividly is the people of Luleå. When visiting the city, you will find that the locals work hard to collaborate, communicate and do whatever they can to make you feel welcome, happy and at home – not as a tourist, but as a guest.
Located on the central coast of Peru and set against the mesmerising backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, Lima is the political, cultural and commercial centre of the Republic of Peru, as well as its capital city. Founded in 1535, Lima is to this day known as ‘the city of kings’ as a result of its influence as a Spanish colony within the Americas.
Rich with history and culture, and providing a unique combination of tradition and modernity, the city has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991. Over the centuries, Lima has developed an impressive tourism industry, offering archaeological sites, renowned museums and a variety of entertainment options.
Lima is experiencing extraordinary growth in its MICE sector and can now be described as a consolidated destination, climbing to first place in the Americas
Boasting consistent and continuous growth in the MICE industry, the city of Lima has been able to take advantage of changes in the international tourism market by developing efficient practices for exclusive experiences. As a result, the capital of Peru has become a window of opportunity for social responsibility and sustainability programmes, adapting to global events and changing client needs to produce first-rate infrastructure, venues and services.
The capital claims to be the most visited of Latin America’s cities, welcoming more than 4.22 million tourists in 2015, according to MasterCard’s Global Destination Cities Index. Lima has superb global connections, enjoying direct flights to more than 40 international destinations, and boasts an impressive catalogue of international hotel brands. This list is now set to grow, with Ritz Carlton, Four Seasons and Hyatt all planning to open sites within the city in the coming years, generating significant growth in the number of hotel rooms in the city. Lima is also widely considered to be the gastronomic capital of the Americas for its offering of high quality and varied foods, with three of the world’s 50 best restaurants located in the city.
Climbing the global rankings
A series of recent development projects promoting first class infrastructure and services have seen the number of events hosted in the city increase by roughly 30 percent every year. Lima is experiencing extraordinary growth in its MICE sector and can now be described as a consolidated destination, climbing to first place in the Americas and 26th globally in the International Congress and Convention Association’s (ICCA) rankings; something that recognises and confirms the city’s value.
In order to maintain its position as a first-choice destination for meetings and congresses, Lima has combined its main attractions with its key meeting infrastructure, allowing it to receive events of any size. In October last year, construction was finalised on a new 10,684sq m convention centre, complete with hi-tech infrastructure across eight floors. The centre’s 18 rooms of varying sizes can be used independently or adjoined, offering an overall capacity of more than 10,000 people.
Lima has hosted a series of key global events in the last few years, such as the United Nations Climate Change Conference in 2014 and APEC Peru 2016. It is also due to receive the World Combat Games, the 130th International Olympic Committee and the OIC First International Congress in 2017, as well as the Pan American Games in 2019.
The Lima Convention and Visitors Bureau has been a key figure behind the city’s progress in this area. As the leading private institution tasked with promoting the city as a world-class meeting destination, the bureau works alongside a range of associated members, including some of the most recognised service providers and representatives from the global meetings industry. Considering the wide array of attractions on offer within the city, teamed with the positive economic and political climate being enjoyed in the country at large, it is clear that Lima is an outstanding destination for tourism, business travel and investment.
Asia’s most cosmopolitan city is no stranger to tourism, but the past decade has seen travel numbers boosted by a buzzing restaurant scene, an emerging contemporary art community, the development of hip neighbourhoods, and an increase in both boutique and big-brand shopping facilities. Visa-free visit agreements for over 170 nationalities have also made travel into the city easier than ever.
With its seductive combination of urbanite pleasures and unexpected green areas (60 percent of Hong Kong is covered by pristine parkland, hiking trails and UNESCO World Heritage Geoparks), Hong Kong offers a whole host of surprises to travellers who wish to delve a little deeper.
Alongside the traditional tourist checklists, like getting a suit tailor-made, taking in the spectacular views from the Peak, or browsing crafts and antiques on Cat Street, visitors in the know can go to Hong Kong for a slice of the high life, China-style.
The Peninsula Hong Kong seamlessly blends together the best of Eastern and Western hospitality in an atmosphere of classical grandeur
Overseeing the many changes in the city is The Peninsula Hong Kong. Long considered to be Hong Kong’s most luxurious hotel and part of the very fabric and society of the city, the hotel has catered to an array of discerning travellers since opening its doors in 1928.
Growing through the years
Known as the legendary ‘grande dame of the Far East’, The Peninsula Hong Kong seamlessly blends together the best of Eastern and Western hospitality in an atmosphere of classical grandeur. A stay at the hotel allows you to relive the glamour of travel in a bygone era and explore the many antiques and historical artefacts on display around the hotel, as well as relish all modern comforts and the latest in intuitive, in-room tablet technology, which provides a personalised service in 11 languages.
The hotel is located at the southern tip of the Kowloon Peninsula, which gives its name to the 10 Peninsula hotels around the world – a prime position that allows the hotel to overlook the scenic harbour in Tsim Sha Tsui. Stylish shopping and engaging entertainments are within walking distance, while the nearby Star Ferry and Mass Transit Railway provide speedy access to the business and shopping districts of Central, Soho, Admiralty and Wan Chai.
Though Hong Kong arguably boasts some of the best public transport systems in the world, The Peninsula Hong Kong has its own fleet of luxury vehicles proudly on display in the hotel’s bustling forecourt. This awe-inspiring, Peninsula-liveried automotive collection boasts a classic 1934 Rolls-Royce Phantom II, 14 Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended Wheelbase vehicles, two MINI Cooper S Clubmans, and the MD902 helicopter, which takes off from its own helipad on the hotel rooftop.
Luxury and style
Elegant guest rooms showcase a tailored aesthetic utilising the distinctive design touches and hi-tech extras that can be found in today’s glossy yachts, motorcars and private jets. Alongside this, The Peninsula Hong Kong also offers a variety of business function rooms, with seating capacities ranging from 10 people right up to 140.
Eight award-winning restaurants and bars celebrate sophisticated gastronomy from around the world, including the legendary Peninsula Afternoon Tea in the Lobby and expertly made dim sum in Spring Moon. Additional facilities include the tranquil Peninsula Spa, a Roman-style swimming pool and state-of-the-art fitness centre with harbour views, plus sauna and steam room facilities for the ultimate in relaxation.
Thoroughly mixing the heritage and innovation of its home city, The Peninsula Hong Kong is the perfect place to stay whether you are visiting the city for business or leisure.
Jeju Convention and Visitors Bureau (Jeju CVB) was founded in March 2005 with the aim to attract key MICE events to the island while simultaneously promoting and strengthening the local economy through tourism. It is a non-profit organisation comprising 141 MICE Alliance members, including accommodation providers, a conference facility, tourist attractions, destination management companies, professional congress organisers, and multiple others. Last year, Jeju CVB was awarded the Best MICE Alliance award from the Korea Tourism Organisation as a result of its joint marketing with local MICE businesses. Furthermore, this year it has been named Best Destination for MICE, Asia in the Business Destinations Travel Awards.
Jeju CVB has been working to boost Jeju’s reputation as a top-class MICE destination for the last decade. During this time, the organisation has attained impressive know-how within the industry, offering excellent support programmes, one-stop information services and marketing activities. As a result of its passionate efforts, Jeju CVB now hosts over 200 domestic and international events every year, including a series of world-class ones.
The island occupies a strategic location at the heart of East Asia, between the hubs of South Korea, Japan
and China
Prepared for any event
The island boasts a selection of key attractions that make it a truly unique MICE destination in the Korean peninsula: since 2002, Jeju has been a free international city, allowing visitors from over 187 global destinations, including China, to enter the province without a visa and with the benefit of attractive tax privileges. The island also occupies a strategic location at the heart of East Asia, between the hubs of South Korea, Japan and China. There are now direct flights to Jeju International Airport from 29 international and 12 national cities.
As the largest island off the coast of South Korea, Jeju offers world-class meeting venues – as would be expected of such an international tourist destination. Hotels and conference centres to suit a variety of budgets and requirements can be found all across the island, offering services to suit both large and small events. State-of-the-art facilities amid unbeatable natural surroundings are also on offer, competing with those in high-profile cities the world over.
Events in Jeju can be of any size, from small, one-day conferences for local businesses, to week-long international conventions that attract world-renowned academics and professionals. Whatever the occasion, events are sure to incorporate Jeju’s greatest attractions, including its top hotels, beauty spots and museums. As the island’s hotels often come equipped with world-class conference facilities, you don’t have to leave the hotel grounds to get all you need from your business trip. But when you do decide to leave, guided tours are available to escort you to key sites and back again.
It is this unique combination of business and leisure that really makes Jeju stand out: with a range of UNESCO World Heritage sites on offer, including Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak) and Geomun Oreum (the island’s volcanic mountains), and a selection of stunning beaches and marine sports available along the amazing coastline, Jeju has a great deal to offer the international business traveller.
The island is not merely a recreational spot, but also a legacy to be observed and cared for by mankind: possessing rare geological features such as lava caves, dynamic volcanic topography and natural ecology, Jeju exudes a sense of mystery that contributes to it being known as one of the New7Wonders of Nature, as well as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and Global Geopark.
Hub of attractions
Jeju CVB measures the success of its efforts through the satisfaction of its customers. Annually, the Korea Tourism Organisation publishes its Korean Convention Competitiveness Report, which includes a satisfaction survey of MICE participants and hosts. In the most recent survey, Jeju achieved a score of 4.63 out of five in overall satisfaction, with this year’s results set to look just as bright. The recent opening of several new hotels has contributed enormously to customer satisfaction: last year, Jeju Booyoung Hotel and Resort opened, offering 449 rooms, its own 1,000-seat conference hall and several break rooms just metres away from International Convention Centre Jeju (ICC). The Ramada hotel brand has also opened several new sites on the island.
Jeju CVB also offers several unique services that cater to business travellers, including MICE event booths, where guests can receive general information about Jeju and its tourist attractions, and more hands-on experiences, such as trying traditional Jeju cuisine and costume. Furthermore, the Jeju MICE card was launched last year: this card is designated for MICE visitors during their stay on the island, allowing them to use public transport at a discounted price whenever they visit associated stores, restaurants or tourism sites.
Jeju Island offers a wide variety of natural excursions throughout its selection of UNESCO World Heritage Sites
One of the island’s main strengths is its incentive tours: these are usually held in famous tourist attractions, such as the ‘A Day Away Awesome Jeju’ tour along the Olle walking trail. This trail – with ‘olle’ meaning ‘narrow path from home to broaden road’ in the Jeju language – goes around the entire island, allowing travellers to experience hidden locations and share regional dishes with locals and trail experts.
With regards to these incentives, there has been a keen focus on the Chinese market in recent years, although Jeju CVB is now refocusing its efforts on the south-east Asian and Japanese markets. In the future, the bureau is expecting to see growth in the conventions industry by holding more national and international conferences. The biggest area for growth, however, will be the exhibitions sector: the island is currently underperforming in this area, but there is overwhelming potential for future growth. The International Electric Vehicle Expo took place in Jeju in March, while the island recently secured KRW 3.6bn to invest in local contact exhibition ecosystem support, showing the demand is indeed there for exhibitions space on the island.
Rising to the challenge
By distributing booklets with key information about the island’s public tourist attractions, bus services, business partner discounts and KRW 5,000 MICE transportation card, visitors are encouraged to see and feel more of Jeju than they might by simply attending a MICE event and moving between their hotel and conference centre.
As Jeju’s status as a MICE destination continues to rise, so do the challenges it faces: while Jeju’s key attraction is that it is an island, this does mean MICE delegates need to fly in order to visit, and Jeju CVB is eager to encourage major infrastructure development. With tourism on the rise, Jeju International Airport urgently needs expanding in order to allow for more flights for MICE participants.
Second on the list of recent challenges faced by Jeju CVB is the need for an expansion of convention facilities. Recently, the bureau has been unable to host some large-scale events due to the limited size of ICC, which does not allow two events to be held simultaneously. As a result, Jeju can lose out to other MICE destinations that offer more extensive exhibition facilities.
Lastly, the island sometimes encounters unexpected challenges, such as the MERS virus. However, Jeju CVB continues to cope very well: having gained experience from over 10 years of promoting and hosting MICE events, plus benefitting from MICE Alliance members-related business from both Jeju and Seoul, Jeju CVB is able to use mutual cooperation with its alliances to overcome these challenges.
As one of Asia’s most exceptional MICE locations, the island was able to launch Jeju MICE Expo last year, the first MICE expo in Korea to be organised and implemented by a local bureau. The event was tremendously successful, with local MICE companies and Jeju CVB partners enjoying face-to-face meetings and networking with national and international buyers. In the future, Jeju MICE Expo is expected to take place at the end of every year.
Recently, J Walter Thompson Intelligence’s report of upcoming trends, The Future 100, named the Faroe Islands as one of the top travel trends to look out for in 2016. The Future 100 said of the destination: “Travellers are seeking evermore offbeat destinations, but preferably with luxury amenities, and places such as the Faroe Islands balance these desires perfectly.” The only other destinations to be included in the research were Cuba and Chicago, making the Faroe Islands the only destination east of the Atlantic Ocean to be recognised as an on-trend travel location.
Other publications, such as The New York Times, National Geographic, CNN, The Guardian and El País, have been equally complimentary in their respective views of the islands, encouraging readers to experience what the destination has to offer. The striking nature of the Faroe Islands is a key feature, with its steep green hillsides, tranquil lakes, deep grottos and dark blue ocean. Faroe Islanders live closely alongside the country’s nature and, in more ways than one, it defines who they are: nature in the Faroe Islands is a unique playground for meetings and incentivises delegates, providing an abundance of possibilities for activities that could help to create new and strategic business goals.
The striking nature of the Faroe Islands is a key feature, with its steep green hillsides, tranquil lakes, deep grottos and dark blue ocean
Local culture
Although geographically isolated, the Faroe Islands are easily accessible by air from Copenhagen, Reykjavik, Edinburgh and Barcelona. Modern infrastructure ensures comfortable transfers and access to all parts of the country, while high-spec technology and meeting facilities define the islands’ up to five-star conference venues and up to four-star hotels.
Visitors may experience the finest seafood in the world when visiting one of the many cosy restaurants on the scattering of islands, offering local produce served in traditional surroundings. The Faroese restaurant KOKS was named the Best Nordic Restaurant 2015 by the Nordic Prize Gala Award, making it a must-try for any visiting group of delegates.
Embracing ecology
To de-stress with the islands’ locals can be a very rewarding experience, allowing visitors to loosen up and devote some time to the extraordinary feeling of being. Ride from Tórshavn to the charming village of Velbastaður, where you can dine at the home of local couple, Anna and Óli. The food, beer and entertainment at this destination are all locally produced, ensuring the lowest possible carbon footprint for the meal. Furthermore, during your visit your hosts will kindly ask you to leave your mobile phone in the hallway and ignore the passing of time on your watch – a true treat in this modern age.
The islands’ national electricity company did in fact win the Nature and Environment Prize from the Nordic Council in 2015; an impressive achievement that gives further reason for international travellers to choose the Faroe Islands for a technical visit.
Become a Viking
Amid the unbelievable scenery on the islet of Tindhólmur, you will be welcomed by an authentic Viking chief. Although his moods are changeable, should he take a liking to you, you will receive your new Viking name and traditional Viking clothes. Tindhólmur’s breathtaking views and castle-like peaks will enchant you, while the ethereal beauty of the islet will most certainly have a huge impact on your stay.
With a fast boat frequently travelling out to the island of Hestur, you will surely experience the incentive of your life: swimming through the small caves off the island is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, while learning how to use the powers of nature to climb up the incredible cliffs to the column of Álvustakkur will be an unforgettable moment.
Enjoy a picnic lunch on the cliff, or jump into the sea from various heights. The amazing grotto will be the pinnacle of your excursion, wherein a boat will take you to a truly unique grotto concert.
For about 50 years, the Costa Smeralda has been one of the world’s most famous tourist destinations. Today, Eccelsa Aviation’s cutting-edge air terminal lies at the very heart of the region.
Located just two kilometres away from the brand new Marina di Olbia, which provides berthing and exclusive services for yachts of all dimensions, the destination is truly unique in the Mediterranean. There is a private transfer service on offer between the Eccelsa Aviation terminal and the marina, allowing five-star vacationers to start their holiday within a few minutes of touching down, without the need for any long drives or helicopter hops. This is a unique amenity that is very much appreciated by the terminal’s private aircraft clients, who often live very busy lives and need to make the most of their precious downtime.
Opened in summer 2009, the air terminal is an architectural masterpiece: when viewed from above it looks like a massive aircraft door, while from ground level its clean, sleek edges seem to swoop skyward like giant wings. As passengers relax in the cocoon-like comfort of the terminal, its elegant lines and beautifully incorporated natural and artificial lighting create a sense of absolute tranquility.
There is a private transfer service on offer between the Eccelsa Aviation terminal and the marina, allowing five-star vacationers to start their holiday within a few minutes of touching down
Unique clientele
It is truly an astonishing feat for such an airport to cater to over 30,000 passengers a year, all bound for the world’s most beautiful stretch of sea. Eccelsa Aviation, a company controlled 100 percent by the airport management company Geasar, has embraced its role within the airport, combining utter professionalism with a special charm that comes from dealing with a constant flow of discerning, often celebrity clients.
As a result, Eccelsa has become proficient at dealing with all manner of unusal requests. “Any chance you could help us transport 300kg of fabulous Italian ice cream before it melts? We would like to take it back home and enjoy it in our own country for a while” – according to General Manager of Eccelsa Aviation, Francesco Cossu, this doesn’t even come close to the oddest request the company’s highly efficient team has accommodated over the years. “Our passenger numbers and plane movements have doubled since the company launched in 2003”, Cossu told Business Destinations. “And with that, the sheer variety of requests we find ourselves having to satisfy has grown in equal measure.”
The number of high-profile visitors descending on the Costa Smeralda continues to skyrocket. These are people who arrive from many different corners of the planet with the intention of chilling out on superyachts, in luxurious villas along the shore, or in the most exclusive hotels in the region. The result of this influx has been the construction of the new Eccelsa Aviation terminal, which now comprises no less than 4,000sq m of retail heaven, including a plethora of luxury brands selling their unique, world-renowned products: De Grisogono, Maori Yacht, Gold Elements Cosmetics, high-end men’s and women’s shoes, and select food products and fine wines.
There’s also a high-quality restaurant and a conference hall within the terminal, which itself is a glittering symphony of glass, steel and beautiful local yellowish granite. It has one feature, however, that makes it absolutely unique in Europe: a formidable outer wing that allows guests to enter and exit the terminal directly from their aircraft – or, in the worst case scenario, passengers will be escorted to the terminal by a sleek Audi, while the airport’s professional and well-trained team take care of their precious luggage. This giant wing provides shelter even to the executive B737, A319 and A320 aircraft – the nearest thing there is to an airborne villa, offering hundreds of square metres of cabin space that can include three bedrooms, four or five bathrooms, a lounge, office and enough aircraft fuel to fly across the Atlantic. Tellingly, these giant executive jets now make up around four percent of aircraft movements at the terminal.
The Eccelsa Aviation terminal comprises 4,000sq m of retail heaven, hosting a plethora of luxury brands
An array of services
Naturally enough, July and August are the busiest months in the skies over Costa Smeralda, with between 3,000 and 4,000 arrivals and departures clocking up monthly. Privacy and security are two of the qualities that private aircraft passengers most appreciate about Eccelsa Aviation, winner of Best Fixed Based Operator, Europe in the 2016 Business Destinations Travel Awards. The company’s close connection to the Marina di Olbia is very much a part of this unobtrusive service, with particular thanks to a discreet limousine fleet that whisks incoming passengers directly to their yachts once they touch down, ensuring they can enjoy their holiday to the very last minute. Furthermore, it is just a short hop by helicopter to any superyacht with a helipad or to any of the local hotels and villas.
Thanks to the undisputed skills and efficiency of Eccelsa’s highly motivated, 40-strong team, the whole process works as smoothly as clockwork. The terminal’s own concierge service will organise everything visitors require in order to make their stay a perfect one: horse trekking; private aircraft or helicopters; Ferrari, Bentley or Aston Martin rentals; and yacht charters, both bare-boat or with a skipper and crew included, ready to do the work.
Eccelsa, through its sister company Cortesa, also provides first class inflight catering, offering a menu of 100 dishes ranging from simple sandwiches to mouth-watering lobster, local Sardinian and Italian specialities, and fine wines. The terminal also offers a combined coffee shop and bar, which serves food all day long and allows passengers transitioning through the terminal to enjoy a local dish while waiting for their aircraft. Furthermore, the Meridiana Maintenance Team delivers first-class ground assistance and integrated services for flight crews. Air taxi companies and their crews are also well catered for, as they now account for up to 50 percent of incoming traffic at the terminal.
Eccelsa Aviation is one of the reasons people who demand a truly special holiday return to Sardinia again and again. This stunning island, where friendliness, quality and first-class service are intrinsic to the experience, boasts an incredible number of different cultures that perfectly meet and combine in total harmony for the entire summer season. It is this unique blend of people from all corners of the world who regularly use Eccelsa Aviation and its outstanding terminal for all of their trips.
Kim Fisher is a luxury brand and lifestyle expert for Eccelsa Aviation
After launching its daily direct Muscat to London Service in 2007, Oman Air experienced huge demand for seats. Passenger numbers grew further when the service switched from Gatwick to Heathrow in 2009, and by 2015 it was commonplace for flights to be sold out.
So it is great news for anyone wishing to fly to Muscat – or any one of Oman Air’s numerous onward destinations across the Middle East and Asia – that the airline has unveiled a second daily route this year. The move comes as part of Oman Air’s ambitious, ongoing fleet and network expansion programme. This will see the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman operate a fleet of 70 aircraft – 25 wide-body and 45 narrow-body – by 2020, flying to as many as 75 global destinations.
But as well as the increased number of destinations, Oman Air is intent upon increasing the number of routes it operates to established destinations. All 11 of the airline’s destinations in India benefit from daily or double-daily services, while the majority of other destinations throughout Asia, the Middle East and Europe also offer one or more return flights to Muscat every day of the week.
Flagship innovation
One of Oman Air’s flagship routes – and one of its longest-established international services – is the service from Muscat to London, which has always proved both popular and high in profile. When the airline launched its first three-class Airbus A330 fleet, the inaugural flight was to London. When it became the first airline in the world to offer both Wi-Fi and mobile phone connectivity inflight, it was on the London route that the service was unveiled. And when Saveur magazine presented Oman Air with the Readers’ Choice Award in their Culinary Travel Awards, it was the menu on the Muscat to London route that was singled out for special praise.
Codeshares enable an airline’s customers to book seats on services that are operated in tandem with other airlines
However, the London route is by no means the only one within Oman Air’s network on which quality is the watchword. In fact, all of Oman Air’s first class, business class and economy class services have consistently been lauded. The airline’s commitment to quality, comfort and a seamless passenger experience has resulted in acclaim at the Skytrax World Airline Awards, including Best Business Class Seat in the World (2011, 2012), Service Excellence, Middle East (2011) and Best Staff Service, Middle East (2014).
The World Travel Awards have also honoured Oman Air with: World’s Leading Airline, Economy Class 2014; Best Business Class Airline, Middle East 2014; and Best Economy Class Airline, Middle East 2013 and 2014. And, of course, the Business Destinations Travel Awards have acknowledged Oman Air as Best Business Class Airline, Middle East in 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2015.
One challenge that Oman Air’s service to London has faced since its inception is that of connectivity with flights to North America. The original service left Muscat at around 2pm (local time) and arrived at approximately 7pm. This meant any connecting flight to the US or Canada would be likely to arrive in the early hours of the morning – far from ideal for either business or leisure travellers. Similarly, travellers from North America wishing to fly on to Muscat would be likely to arrive at Heathrow either early in the morning or late at night – neither time being convenient for Oman Air’s 9.30pm departure.
To the delight of travellers in both North America and Oman, Oman Air’s new service addresses this issue very effectively. It flies through the night, departing Muscat at 1.25am and arriving in London Heathrow Terminal 4 at 6.30am. Return flights depart Heathrow Terminal 4 at 8.25am and arrive in Muscat at 6.55pm. The service therefore enables highly attractive, short connections of less than three hours with other airlines’ services to major North American cities, such as New York, Boston, Chicago, Miami, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Toronto. In the short term, that means operating out of both Terminals 3 and 4 at Heathrow, but the appropriate departure point is clearly indicated on customers’ booking information, with work underway to accommodate all of Oman Air’s operations at the same terminal from the earliest possible date.
Not only does Oman Air’s second itinerary consolidate the airline’s presence within the UK market, but it also opens a door to a new market in North America – an important element of the ongoing expansion programme. Already, such prestigious destinations as Manila, Jakarta, Goa, Singapore and Mashhad have been introduced to Oman Air’s network, and further services – including to China – will be announced soon. But increasing the range of choice for customers is also achieved through the strategic use of codeshare agreements.
Mix and match air travel
Codeshares enable an airline’s customers to book seats on services that are operated in tandem with other airlines. For example, a customer flying out of Heathrow could fly to Muscat with Oman Air and then switch to Ethiopian Airlines to travel on to Addis Ababa, or to any one of six Chinese destinations with Thai Airways, all on one ticket. While Oman Air currently lists 50 destinations within its own network, its customers can also book to travel to around 40 more destinations, in partnership with carriers such as the above-mentioned Ethiopian Airlines and Thai Airways, as well as Garuda Indonesian, Turkish Airlines, Sri Lankan Airlines and KLM.
Oman Air caters to its business and first class customers through the provision of luxury lounges and amenities
One of the keys to a successful codeshare partnership is a shared commitment to quality and the highest possible standard of passenger experience. The airline sets the bar very high indeed. With so many new aircraft joining the airline, Oman Air took the opportunity to reconfigure its business and economy class interiors to offer greater comfort and amenities. Those interiors are also now being installed on the airline’s existing fleet.
On the long haul Airbus A330 and Boeing 787 Dreamliners, the business class cabins feature wide, extremely comfortable seats that convert electronically to become fully lie-flat beds. Each offers direct aisle access and a folding armrest to make entry and exit even easier.
A retracting one-piece meal table, cocktail table, literature pocket and headset compartment keep the suite tidy, while mood and reading lights can be controlled by the passenger to suit their preferences.
An integrated buddy-seat enables customers to dine with, or meet with, other passengers – or to just put their feet up. State-of-the-art inflight entertainment technology is accessed via an ergonomically designed handset and a huge 17-inch screen. In addition, two USB points, an ethernet socket, an RCA plug and a universal power point ensure personal technology can be charged up and personal media content can be accessed via the onboard system.
In long haul economy class, similarly high standards are available. Seats can be adjusted for comfort, feature a four-way adjustable headrest and have a neat, dual-fold sliding tray table. Seats are located within a spacious 32-inch pitch, ensuring plenty of legroom. And, just like its business class counterparts, economy class offers access to the superb range of music, movies, games and information featured on the inflight entertainment system. The 10.6-inch seatback-mounted personal monitor is accompanied by USB and RCA inputs, and each pair of seats has access to a PC power port and ethernet plug.
The aircraft and its interiors are very special. But what really sets Oman Air apart is the high standard of its onboard service. Each crew member takes pride in representing the Sultanate of Oman and expressing the highest levels of traditional Omani hospitality. That means taking care of the customer’s every need, being attentive but respecting privacy, serving delicious inflight cuisine and ensuring that air travel – whether long or short haul – is a genuine pleasure.
And now, with its second daily, non-stop and direct service between London and Muscat, Oman Air has doubled the opportunities to experience a truly exceptional airline. Great news indeed for business and leisure travellers alike.
Kayaking races on three of the world’s five bioluminescent bays; experiencing the highest and longest zip line in the world, certified by the Guinness Book of Records; hiking in a tropical rainforest – these are just some of the incredible ‘only in Puerto Rico’ experiences that meeting planners can include in a Puerto Rican meeting or convention itinerary. In addition to being the home of the Caribbean’s largest and most technically advanced conference centre, Puerto Rico’s variety of offerings successfully meets the needs of event planners and attendees alike.
A trend that continues to evolve within the island’s MICE sector is the need to experience the stunning destination beyond the meeting room: the experiences groups can take away from Puerto Rico are central to the success of any event. Puerto Rico offers many first-time activities or once-in-a-lifetime experiences that allow delegates to go outside and explore the island’s natural beauty, including hiking in El Yunque (the only tropical rainforest in the United States Forest System), kayaking at La Parguera in Lajas (one of the world’s five remaining luminescent bays), exploring the Camuy River Cave Park (home to one of the longest underground river systems in the world) or visiting the Arecibo Observatory (home to the world’s largest radio/radar telescope).
The experiences groups can take away from Puerto Rico are central to the success of
any event
Meeting among history
Boasting over 500 years of history and culture, Old San Juan – a registered UNESCO World Heritage site and the historic colonial settlement within the capital, San Juan – is the oldest city in Puerto Rico. There is no other Caribbean island with a greater number of art galleries, museums or festivals dedicated to local artists and their crafts: art and music play a major role in everyday life on the island, and today Puerto Rico is internationally known for its cultural influence, including its artists and their footprint in various genres.
Puerto Rico’s yearly calendar is teeming with mesmerising cultural events, such as the Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián in January, which marks the end of the holiday season, and the Puerto Rico Heineken Jazz Fest, which brings together Latin jazz stars from all over the world. Furthermore, Puerto Rico’s top-quality gastronomy is deeply intertwined with the island’s culture: the unique flavours that have been passed from generation to generation – beginning with the Taíno Indians and later influenced by the Spanish, while adding the tastes imported by African slaves – have melded together to create a full gourmet experience that has delighted visitors for decades. Puerto Rico is also the birthplace of the world-famous piña colada cocktail.
Exemplary venue
Redefining Puerto Rico’s tourism landscape and MICE sector is the Puerto Rico Convention Centre Pedro Rosselló (PRCC). With a design that is suggestive of a wave in motion and colours that reflect the vibrant natural palette of the Caribbean, the 55,742sq m centre is the largest facility of its kind in Puerto Rico. Offering the latest technology in the region and accommodating groups of 10 to 10,000 people in true world-class style, PRCC’s expansive indoor and outdoor function spaces can be customised for any event.
PRCC features a 14,186sq m exhibition hall that is divisible into three individual exposition spaces, as well as a 3,670sq m Grand Ballroom; the largest in the Caribbean. PRCC also offers an additional 3,382sq m of private meeting space, including 15 separate function rooms spread across two levels, which can be divided into 28 breakout rooms.
In terms of green initiatives, the facility is powered by an array of solar energy initiatives that collectively create one of the largest eco-friendly projects on the island. PRCC has been fitted with 5mW of photovoltaics, comprising 17,764 panels over car parking areas and 2,139 panels on the building’s main roof. These panels generate around 8,000mWh of electricity annually: as a result, this solar initiative was named the Best Electrical and Environmental Project of the Year by the Puerto Rico Engineers and Surveyors Association in May 2014, making it a truly one-of-a-kind convention centre.
Conceived as a way to expand the island’s successful tourism industry by encouraging more planners to organise meetings or citywide congresses at the centre, the focus has now moved towards development within the wider Puerto Rico Convention Centre District: composed of beautiful promenades and walkways and complete with fountains and views of the San Juan Harbour and the Atlantic Ocean, the Puerto Rico Convention Centre District already boasts three hotels from the Sheraton and Hyatt brands. Approximately 8,000 guestrooms are located within eight miles of the PRCC, including those located within the vibrant Condado and Isla Verde tourist zones.
At 55,742sq m, the Puerto Rico Convention Centre is the largest facility of its kind on the island
Accessing the conference centre couldn’t be easier: Puerto Rico’s airport, the Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport, which has recently undergone a $750m renovation and will be embarking on an additional $200m enhancement programme over the coming years, is located only 11 minutes away from the PRCC. Puerto Rico continues to serve as the Caribbean region’s leader in air travel, with over 2,000 weekly non-stop and direct flights from the US, Canada, Latin America, Europe and connecting flights to and from the rest of the Caribbean.
Raising the bar Meet Puerto Rico, the island’s official convention bureau, is committed to ensuring your meeting experience escapes the conventional. The professional and proactive team guides planners in creating top-notch meetings, arranging every detail from beginning to end and delivering an event that makes a lasting impression.
With more than 54 years of experience as the official convention bureau of Puerto Rico, Meet Puerto Rico can also assist you with contacting more than 300 member-suppliers – from hotels and transportation providers to audio-visual and translation services. Moreover, the destination support services team can assist with coordinating site inspections. From the moment you arrive to the moment you leave, the Meet Puerto Rico team will ensure you have a productive visit by providing input on how to create increased attendance campaigns – including social media options where applicable – and providing contacts for coordinating special events, such as themed parties and cultural activities at unique venues within the city.
In addition, the Meet Puerto Rico sales team will help collect hotel proposals and assist with site selection, matching each group to the ideal accommodation and meeting facilities, within the appropriate budget. It will also assist with every step of the bidding process during the host selection. The benefits of working with the bureau are endless, but planners should rest assured that, from start to finish, there will be a one-stop-shop team working with you and for you. Best of all, Meet Puerto Rico’s services are always free of charge, which doesn’t hurt your bottom line.
Within the MICE sector, Puerto Rico continues to garner a number of industry and consumer awards, including Successful Meetings’ Pinnacle Award, Smart Meetings’ 2014 Platinum Choice Award, and being named as one of Sports Events magazine’s places to watch in 2015. Furthermore, Priceline.com named Puerto Rico as a top international destination for 2015.
“Puerto Rico continues to add top-quality products to accommodate large citywide conventions, as well as new luxury properties to address that growing market”, Milton Segarra, President and CEO of Meet Puerto Rico, told Business Destinations. “Adding new properties, services and amenities that are of great benefit to meeting and convention groups, in addition to our new and more frequent airlift and expansion of the convention centre district, demonstrates our strength and vitality within the tourism and convention sector.”
