Northstar

The MIICE race IN this day and age, branding and positioning remains one of, if not the most pertinent points for hotels to market themselves. And while it may be just a matter of identity, seeing a demand, creating one and then servicing that demand with the necessary tools and amenities, it may not be exactly what MICE planners or business travellers are looking for. So what are the things that MICE hotels require to ensure that they fully understand and are able to provide the right solutions to cater to these needs? The Shangri-la group has further segmented their business travellers’ profile into more precise demographics, to meet their needs. Kerry Hotels under the brand group is targeted at servicing the business travellers who are younger, time-strapped and desire to blend lifestyle and business into one. Design hotels for example, has coined up the term “bleisurable” a mix of business and leisure as they have been increasingly seeing travellers seeking hotels that provide the convenience of mobile offices and reflect the spirit and attitude of their surroundings. Here are some of the highlights of hotels possessing different qualities targeted at different MICE needs. Serious business meets welcoming hospitality Shangri-La Beijing 29 Zizhuyuan Road, Beijing, 100089, China Enchantment reigns in the heart of Beijing. Shangri-La Beijing has been awarded as one of the Top 125 Asia Hotels by Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice from the US, Best Hotel in Asia by the Institutional Investor World Best Hotels 2011, Most Artistic by the Hurun President Award (China) and recently, One of the Best MICE Hotels, CEI Industry Awards 2012 (Asia). Location: Located in the west of Beijing at the heart of the financial and technological district and within close proximity to some of China’s most magnificent historical sites, the Shangri-La Hotel, Beijing is only 30 minutes from the Capital Airport, providing an ideal location for both business and leisure travellers. It may be off but the strong brand presence makes it a well-known landmark building in the west. Attraction: The juxtaposition of old and new, the large, lush garden great for a break-out session. A fantastic view of the hills and the Summer Palace being just a stone’s throw away makes it great for a productive time out from the city. Jewel in the city - InterContinental Kuala Lumpur 165 Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 50450 Formerly known as Nikkoi Hotel, the InterContinental Kuala Lumpur has put in efforts to reposition itself, with the latest being renovations done to complete the look and feel of the hotel. TravelWeekly visited the hotel last month and upon our arrival, we were greeted by the friendly airport concierge named Harris. We arrived late that night but a handwritten note from Michelle, the PR Manager was a lovely touch. The newly upgraded 110 rooms feature state-of-the-art enhancements like the iPod docking station, ergonomic chair ideal for working in comfort. Chic muted warm colours adorn the newer rooms, giving off the contemporary feel while the lobby’s sleek design with ample of white space creates a cutting edge look topped with modern elegance. Art is also blended in pretty well, from the lobby to the rooms where a diamond cut concept runs throughout. Location: Steps away from Malaysia’s iconic Petronas Twin Towers and Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, the InterContinental KL is ideal for business travellers. MICE is possible in-house with eight

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