Networking events galore at inaugural Asia Business Travel Market

Delegates attending the inaugural Asia Business Travel Market from 3-5 September 2003 in Shanghai are in for an array of networking opportunities at various social functions organised by the city’s top hotels in partnership with the show.

“ABTM is more than just the conference and exhibition segments during the day. The networking opportunities extend well into the evening at the exciting social functions,” said ABTM Event Director Andrew Lee. ABTM promises to be unlike other corporate travel shows, with elements of themed social functions at elegant hotel venues showcasing the best Shanghai can offer.

The Grand Hyatt Shanghai, which is the Official Hotel and Venue for ABTM, will be hosting the Opening Luncheon on September 3, after the morning’s Keynote Session and Opening Ceremony. “We feel this partnership is very timely as hotels in China gear up to meet the needs of corporate travellers who have rapidly growing and seemingly unquenchable thirst for travel to China’s key cities,” said Edward Tai, Area Vice president – China, Hyatt International Corporation.

The pre-opening cocktail reception by the Marriott brand of hotels in Shanghai and Business Traveller at the JW Marriott Hotel on September 2 will bring delegates to new heights, literally. Hosted at the 38th floor lobby of Puxi’s tallest hotel, ABTM delegates will be visually treated to the panoramic views of the Puxi and Pudong areas as well as the Huangpu River. ABTM delegates  will also be some of the first to enjoy a sneak preview of JW Marriott, which will open its doors in late September or early October.

The Westin Shanghai, one of the city’s newest hotels in the elegant Bund area, will set the stage for a Chinoiserie-themed night function on the Opening Day, September 3. Entitled “Courtyard Cocktails under the Stars”, delegates will get a taste of the romanticism of the “Paris of the East” at the Westin’s stylish Heavenlies lobby.

The following night on September 4, the St Regis Shanghai is throwing a “Desserts, Cigars and Jazz” cocktail party at the Mezzanine Lounge and Bar. Delectable desserts, exquisite Cuban cigars and live jazz – the perfect way for ABTM delegates to spend the night at Shanghai.

“We are delighted that Shanghai’s top hotels are collaborating with us. It’s a great opportunity for discerning corporate travel professionals to sample the finest that Shanghai can offer,” said Lee.

“We are indeed very thankful for the immense support that the hotels have given us and overwhelmed by their enthusiasm in making ABTM an event to be remembered.”

The Grand Hyatt Shanghai is the Official Hotel for ABTM, housing the VIPs and buyers. Buyers are also being hosted at The Westin Shanghai and St Regis Shanghai, ABTM’s Preferred Hotels as well as at the Ascott Pudong, the Preferred Serviced Residence for the show.

Asia Business Travel Market 2003, the exhibition cum conference targeting the business travel segment in China, will be held from 3-5 September at the Grand Hyatt Shanghai.