Local benefits of global forum

BO'AO, Hainan: It seems politicians and business leaders like beautiful settings for their talks. The ski resort of Davos, Switzerland, fits the bill and so too does this picturesque fishing town on Hainan Island.

But it is not just the men in suits who are making the most of the Boao Forum for Asia. Since it first hosted the first event in 2001, this once forgotten town and its people have enjoyed a renaissance.

With the emergence of top hotels, conference centers and golf courses, local people were given new opportunities.