Roundup

RURAL TOURISM ROUTES

Hainan province, a popular tourist destination in South China, has unveiled 10 rural leisure tourism routes and 35 rural tourist spots. Their themes range from science, technology and revolutionary history to the distinct countryside culture. Tourism resources will play a positive role in promoting the high-quality development of rural industries. Hainan authorities plan to promote more tourism products and models, including leisure fishing.

NEW APPOINTMENTS

Benjamin Ye has been appointed general manager of the Swissotel Grand Shanghai. With 35 years of hotel experience, Ye has worked across a few brands such as Portman Shangri-La, Ritz-Carlton, The St. Regis and Sheraton. He possesses in-depth knowledge of hotel management and has garnered immense knowledge in hotel guest experience and an appreciative understanding of local culture.

Michael Chia has been appointed general manager of the InterContinental Qingdao. With more than 20 years of management experience in internationally reputable hotel groups, Chia, who is cross-culturally sensitive and able to provide strong hands-on leadership, has a wealth of expertise and experience in the areas of hotel preparation, operations, finance and human resources.

SCHEDULED OPENINGS

Diaoyutai MGM Hospitality recently announced that the group will open three new hotels in China in 2023, with one planned to be in Shanghai and the other two in Qingdao, Shandong province. MGM Shanghai West Bund, the first MGM-branded city hotel on the Chinese mainland, will house 161 guest rooms and 58 suites. It will introduce signature MGM entertainment experiences to the West Bund, an international cultural landmark area in Shanghai, where the hotel is to be located. Diaoyutai Hotel Qingdao and MGM Qingdao will offer diverse brand values and experiences to both business and leisure travelers when they open.

WORLD CUP CAMPAIGN

As the sole official partner of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 in the hotel industry, Wanda Hotels & Resorts launched a FIFA-themed marketing campaign nationwide in October. The event, held online and on-site, includes launches of themed culinary and guest room offerings, and the use of loyalty program scores in exchange for the soccer gala's derivative products. It aims to bring its guests more exciting soccer game experiences with more fun, the group said.

BRAND UPGRADE

In celebration of its 10th anniversary and in response to changing consumer needs, hospitality brand Hualuxe has launched a brand upgrade campaign covering visuals, design and guest experiences. Chen Jiu, a contemporary Chinese ink painter, and couture designer Grace Chen have been engaged to upgrade the brand visuals and staff uniforms. Through the brand renewal, Hualuxe will provide guests with an immersive Chinese culture experience and bring Chinese aesthetics and cultural heritage into daily life.

China Daily - Xinhua