CEI Asia talks to David Liu-Yanxiang, president of China Star Professional Programs
Why do you think Beijing is one of Asia’s best cities for international MICE groups?
Beijing has been China’s political, economic, cultural and educational centre for more than 800 years. It has been the heart and soul of politics and society throughout its long history. Consequently, there is an unparalleled wealth of discovery on offer to delight and intrigue travellers as they explore Beijing’s ancient past and enjoy its exciting modern development.
Beijing is now modern, fashionable and full of 21st-century vitality. Upscale restaurants, new bars and creative art galleries make the city an intriguing destination. It is difficult to express in words all of Beijing’s varied charms. It is one of those global cities that can offer business events visitors so many things at the same time. Beijing has comprehensive facilities, infrastructure, professional PCOs and DMCs for MICE groups, plus unparalleled historic and cultural attractions.
What have been the most impressive changes for Beijing over the past year in terms of potential for conferences and incentives?
Beijing has improved itself a great deal in terms of MICE potential. Now it has more than 50 five-star hotels, which proves the city is capable of hosting large-scale conventions and exhibitions. The room price is also very reasonable at present.
Beijing also has its new convention centre, the China National Convention Center (CNCC), which will open in November. It will be able to host 6,000 people and also still have plenty of space for a simultaneous exhibition or business event.
The city improved its infrastructure greatly before and after the 2008 Olympic Games. The new Beijing International Airport Terminal 3 is now one of the biggest in the world and has increased the city’s flight capacity as a major destination. The subway system has expanded from 40km before 2008 to around 200km today. This has helped to ease Beijng’s traffic. It also makes it more convenient for visitors to explore the city on their own.
New venues and restaurants are opening daily. It is amazing to have all kinds of cuisine in one city. There is also the new National Opera House and theatres to enrich the city’s nightlife offerings. No longer is the choice limited to visiting local bars only.
What is the government doing to help?
We notice that Beijing Tourism Administration (BTA) is paying a lot of attention in promoting Beijing as a MICE destination. This year, BTA set up an incentive fund of US$1.5 million to sponsor travel companies that have been heavily promoting inbound tourism to China. That is a very encouraging incentive from the government, which makes us feel more confident to bid for international events for Beijing.
How did the Olympic Games make Beijing more professional for MICE groups?
The Olympic Games is the biggest event worldwide. Beijing hosted one of the most successful Olympics in history, which proves we are capable and ready for big events. The Olympic Games involved a great number of events companies and they were one of the main factors that made the games so successful. For example, China Star, looked after 4,500 visitors during the Olympic Games.
Events companies in Beijing should be grateful to the Olympic Games, which provided us all with a valuable opportunity to learn from global players and to show our professionalism to the MICE market.