Branding Singapore
Singapore has been named the top city brand in the Asia-Pacific region in a new survey, beating 15 other cities such as Seoul, Tokyo and Beijing.
The survey is based on the first-ever survey by public policy and corporate affairs network Public Affairs Asia and the Ogilvy public relations agency.
Singapore comes first among cities in the region for its low taxes, cleanliness, safety and political stability. As for tourism, they felt the arts, culture, food and heritage were important. The report said the “legendary Southeast Asian state is popular among business and tourists attracted by its combination of Asian flair fused with Western-style services and values”. – The Strait Times/ANN
Being yourself at the Conrad
Shanghai Tang or Tara Smith Vegan Hair Care? Conrad Bali, one of the 20 Conrad Hotels & Resorts, now gives the guests a choice of bath amenities to experience “The Luxury of Being Yourself”. Shanghai Tang is a fashion icon known as the ambassador of contemporary Chinese chic luxury products, while Tara Smith Vegan Hair Care is one of well-respected products in the industry. Before arriving at Conrad Bali, guests will receive a list of bath amenity options to help customise their experience, or they can make their selection upon arrival. Visit www.ConradBali.com.
Macao salutes its biggest hotel
Sheraton Macao Hotel, Cotai Central, opened its doors to guests last week, making it the largest hotel both for Macao and Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide. The hotel is part of Sands Cotai Central's second phase, which includes new restaurants and retailers, as well as a new Polynesian-themed gaming area. Among the celebrities who attended the opening were film star Zhang Ziyi and Chief Executive of Macao Special Administrative Region, Fernando Chui Sai On.
Fusion in the air
Four famous chefs – Ramzi Choueiri, Vineet Bhatia, Tom Aikens and Nobu Matsuhisa – helped to create the new “Qatar Airways Culinary World Menu”. The collaboration brings a fusion of Middle East cuisine, Indian food, Japanese dishes and European food to passengers travelling on the Australian airline. Having been selected to create a unique and diverse menu for all international flights, the “fab four” spent several months adapting and testing their specialities for Qatar Airways’ passengers.
Inking the deal
India's Jet Airways is studying the Vietnamese market in preparation for starting an air route connecting Ho Chi Minh City with Mumbai in the near future. Vietnam and India have been working together on facilitating direct flights between the two countries. Vietnam Airlines and Jet Airways last October signed a memorandum of understanding for either a Ho Chi Minh City-Mumbai service or a Ho Chi Minh City-Bangkok-Mumbai route.
