Search Results forWinter Olympics
South Korea could open road to North for Winter Olympics
The DMZ has divided the Korean Peninsula since 1953 The chief organiser of the 2018 Winter Olympics in South Korea has offered to open a land route for North Korean athletes if they decide to compete south of the border. The Yonhap news agency reported Lee Hee-beom, head of the Winter Olympics' organising committee, as saying that North Koreans would be welcome at the Games, and that they could even be offered passage through the 4km-wide demilitarized zone, which has separated the two halves of the Korean peninsula since 1953. "South Korea will welcome North Korea and when they decide to come, the South Korean government will allow them to come by road," Lee was quoted saying by Reuters. "And when they have supporting teams, the (South) Korean government will allow them to come by ship. All nations are very welcome, including North Korea." North Korean athletes competing in the South usually fly to the country via Beijing.
Winter sports to head east following two Asian Olympics
Skiing is rising in popularity among Chinese tourists The focus of the global winter sports industry will shift to the Far East in future, following the hosting of two Winter Olympic Games in the region. This is the view of Chinese sports industry expert, Yi Jiandong, who told Xinhua that Asia's huge population, rising affluence and tourism boom would help South Korea and China capitalise on the hosting of the Winter Games in 2018 and 2022. Pyeongchang is gearing up to host next year's Olympics, while Beijing has been selected as the subsequent host city. "China expects the 2022 Olympics to usher in a new era for its winter sports efforts. It is an unprecedented opportunity for its winter sports industry," Yi was quoted saying. "With Pyeongchang 2018 and Beijing 2022, the centre of winter sports will move from Europe and North America to Asia." Late last year, the Chinese government unveiled plans for the widespread development of new winter sports infrastructure, with 450 new skating rinks and 300 ski resorts to rise across the country, most of them in time for the 2022 Winter Olympics. And domestic winter sports tourism is reportedly growing in popularity in China. "Previously, China didn't have competitive winter tourism destinations compared with countries such as Switzerland. Now the situation is totally different," Xu Xiaolei of China Youth Travel Service told the China Daily. "Tourists from southern provinces like to experience a chilly winter." China's is already home to the world's highest ski resort, located near Lijiang in Yunnan province, and it is planning to develop an even higher resort in Tibet in future.
Where to find the best Japanese snow this winter
Japan is world-renowned for its powder snow, with ski and snowboard enthusiasts flocking to the destination every winter for that adrenaline-filled holiday on the slopes. From the snow-covered mountains of the Japan Alps, to the vast snowy landscapes of Hokkaido, there is a wide variety of options for winter travellers to choose from. Be it for skiing, snowboarding, or other snow activities, here is a roundup of the best places for Japanese snow this winter. World-class powder and extensive offerings When Japan Snow is mentioned, Hokkaido is most definitely the first destination to come to mind. Home to the largest number of ski resorts in Japan, Hokkaido, the northernmost prefecture in Japan, is famous for its vast landscapes, heavy snowfall and world-class powder. Experience a true winter wonderland, Sapporo Known to be one of the snowiest metropolitan cities in the world, Sapporo sees about 120 days of snow a year, beginning in late October to early November and an average annual snowfall of about five metres. Host to Asia’s first Winter Olympics in 1972, the city, located in Southwest Hokkaido, is home to six ski regions which are suitable for all, from beginner skiers to advanced adrenaline junkies. Being a metropolitan city, Sapporo is unique in that all its ski areas are easily accessible within 30 minutes to an hour’s drive from the city centre. The powder capital of Hokkaido, Niseko World-renowned for its powder snow and welcoming community, Niseko, southwest of Sapporo is Japan’s most famous ski area among overseas visitors. The Niseko area offers a large variety of terrain and facilities to accommodate every winter traveller. Rental equipment is available from local stores for those travelling without gear. For those seeking a quieter, less crowded experience, head to smaller resorts such as Mt. Moiwa. Beat the crowds and enjoy ‘Champagne Powder’, Rusutsu Resort Known for its light and dry “Champagne Powder” and magnificent views of Mt. Yotei and Lake Toya, Rusutsu Resort is a top ski destination for winter travellers. Spanning three mountains, Rusutsu is one of the largest single ski resorts in Hokkaido. Featuring 18 chair lifts, 4 gondolas and 37 courses that extend over the West, East, and Isola Mountains, the resort offers the ultimate ski experience for all, regardless of proficiency. Lesser known but just as spectacular Known as the roof of Japan, the Japan Alps is a series of snow covered mountains which make for a spectacular winter getaway, easily accessible from major cities on the main island of Honshu. While slightly less popular compared to the esteemed Hokkaido ski regions, the Japan Alps offer a more convenient and less crowded experience for visitors. Home to Japan’s largest ski resort, Hakuba Valley, Nagano prefecture The Hakuba Valley area stretches nearly 30 kilometres along the Northern Alps and is home to Japan’s biggest ski resort. Its large area offers skiers and snowboarders a variety of options, perfect for all levels. Receiving around 11 metres of annual snowfall with 146 lifts and over 200 runs spread across 11 resorts, Hakuba Valley offers a good variety of terrain and excellent powder. Hakuba also offers more affordable accommodation options for those seeking a more wallet friendly destination. Experience true Snow Country at Echigo-Yuzawa, Niigata prefecture Echigo-Yuzawa is the setting for "Snow Country" by Yasunari Kawabata, the first Japanese author to win the Nobel Prize for Literature. Home to 11 ski fields, the region is internationally-known for its abundance of fluffy, powder snow. Easily accessible from Tokyo in under two hours, the area comes alive with activity in the winter months. With various ski resorts scattered throughout the region, there is something for every skier. The popular resort Gala Yuzawa Ski Resort, alongside Naeba Ski Resort, are great for intermediate skiers and snowboarders, while Kandatsu resort has some of the steepest terrain in Niigata, with gradients of up to 45 degrees on some runs. Skiing through Togakushi, Nagano prefecture Sitting on the western slopes of Mt Iizuna in Nagano City, Togakushi ski area showcases various ski runs blanketed with perfect powder. Nagano holds the second highest number of ski and snowboard resorts in the country and is easily accessible for those travelling along the Three-star Road. Famous for its snowfall and exceptional powder, Togakushi offers runs open to both skiers and snowboarders and panoramic views of Mt. Togakushi, the Japanese Alps and Mount Fuji from its highest point. Have fun in the snow From activities like snowshoeing, to magical snow festivals, there is an abundance of activity to enjoy in the snow even without skis. Snowshoeing in Norikura Highlands Norikura Highlands offer the perfect conditions for winter snowshoeing for every level of contender. In Nagano prefecture in the Japanese Alps, Norikura Highlands runs alongside the Three-star Road making it an easily accessible location for those looking for a picturesque but adventurous exploration. As one of the quieter ski areas, Norikura Kogen is remote but very popular amongst locals for its incredible snowfall and powder quality. Making way through the guided trail, visitors can enjoy the spectacular view of Zengorou waterfall, which is frozen in a halted image in the winter. Jigokudani Yean-Koen One of the iconic images of Japan is Jigokudani, otherwise known as the ‘Paradise of Monkeys’. Amid the steam of geothermal hot springs, surrounded by snow, is the home to a community of snow monkeys. Sat in the upper levels of a river valley, the tribe of monkeys are famous for socialising in the hot waters within the Joshinetsu-Kogen National Park. Sapporo Snow Festival Drawing multitudes of visitors from all over the world, the annual Sapporo Snow Festival is a spectacular showcase that is not to be missed. Making use of Sapporo’s most abundant natural resource - snow, the city comes to life with sculptures made from ice and snow, as well as illuminations and festive decorations. Primarily located in Odori Park, the festival also sees international snow-sculpting teams from about 20 nations around the world taking part in the snow-sculpting contest. Visitors can join in the fun with snow slides, snow rafts located around the area as well as epic snowball fights at Tsudome.
5 reasons why Japan and IOC insist on holding the Tokyo Olympics
Japan is suffering another spike of COVID-19 infections that even the island paradise of Okinawa is under a state of emergency. The fourth wave, once again, raised concerns on the upcoming Tokyo Olympics. According to Channel News Asia, the latest polls revealed that 60% and 80% want the games either cancelled or postponed, respectively. We’ve been here before and I recognised that tree, a year after its postponement, officials keep going back and forth on whether the Olympics will be held. With less than two months on the clock, the latest statement from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) said that the Olympics will push through even though Tokyo is under a state of emergency which caught the ire of some Japanese. However, cancelling the Tokyo Olympics is more than about safety concerns; it involves politics and TONS of money! It’s in IOC’s hands Legally, it is not up to Japan and the Tokyo government to cancel the Olympics. IOC owns the games and Japan is the host. IOC can only end the contract. But IOC president Thomas Bach said that the games will go ahead regardless of the fourth wave. While Japan could break the contract and cancel the games, it is hesitant to do so because of the cost since everything has been prepared for the games and athletes, organisers, and suppliers are just waiting for the go signal. Too much money has been invested In 2019, all preparations have been set and Japan has been actively promoting the Olympics. Everyone is excited and is hoping for a return on their investment. Unfortunately, the COVID pandemic happened in 2020, months before the games. According to an estimate conducted by professor emeritus Katsuhiro Miyamoto of Kansai University and reported by the NHK, the cost of delaying the 2020 Olympics by one year will be JPY640.8 billion (USD5.8 billion), taking maintenance expenditures for the unused facilities into account. A complete cancellation would cost Japan JPY4.52 trillion (USD41.5 billion), based on operating expenses and loss of tourism activity. Further delaying the Olympics will incur millions of loss. Japanese corporate sponsors have fuelled another USD200 million on top of the record USD3.3 billion already committed, while there is a plan for sharing the nearly USD300 million in additional costs incurred due to postponement between Tokyo, the central government and local Olympic organisers. Officially the tab for the Games comes to about USD13 billion, but a government audit published last year pegs the real tally at USD28 billion. The IOC also has things at stake. It is keen to press ahead with the sporting event because most of its revenue (about 90%) comes from selling broadcasting rights and sponsorships. Prestige and politics This is an election year for Japan and is crucial for current Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, and the ruling party ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), who has been receiving low approval ratings recently. The LDP has been in power for 61 of the last 65 years. However, this may change if they do not handle the current health crisis right. Sporting events like the Olympics are known as money pits, but from the leaders’ perspective, hosting these global events is more about international prestige than profit. The 1964 Olympics in Japan marked the end of the country’s post-war image and received international recognition and status once again. The most recent 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics in South Korea showed as a glimpse of the reunification of the North and South marching under one flag after it was not used since 2009. The 2008 Beijing Olympics saw China’s great power status. Its upcoming hosting of the 2022 Winter Olympics could further elevate its status being the only city to have hosted both winter and summer games. For leaders, the Olympics seem to be a harbinger of good fortune and a legacy they could not miss. One for the books After being restricted and locked down for more than a year, don’t you want to enjoy yourself in a post-covid-19 coming-out party? Shaking off the lockdown blues and celebrating the Olympic values is the best way to herald a new era, if possible. There is no doubt that this Olympics is one for the books right after the global pandemic. It would be a great PR for Japan and the current leadership if it will be able to hold the games safely without a major outbreak of infection. The competitors will be vaccinated and there will be changes in the operating procedures. It is also an opportunity to restart the severely affected tourism industry. It is still unclear whether spectators will be allowed in the games and the organisers will most likely decide at the last minute. Latest reports claimed that they are leaning towards allowing fans to watch the event. Pride and honour Lastly, we have to consider the Japanese culture of keeping one’s word. Fulfilling one’s obligation is a big deal in Japanese culture and people often go at great lengths just to see it through. In Japanese culture, public failure and the disapproval of others are seen as particular sources of shame and reduced social standing. Therefore, the Japanese government wants to avoid losing face even though the public is overwhelmingly unenthusiastic towards the Olympics. In this case, it seems that the organisers are exhausting all possible options before they throw in the towel.
What travellers need to know about the PyeongChang 2018 Olympic Winter Games
Held at the Pyeongchang Olympic Stadium, PyeongChang 2018 is an ongoing international multi-sport event that features the best winter sports athletes from around the world. It happens every four years and it will run from 9-25 of February 2018. This year, the event takes place at Pyeongchang, a county in the province of Gangwon-do in South Korea. It's the country's first time to host the Winter Games, and its second time to host an Olympic event. Pre-game tensions The Korean Unification Flag The winter games this year were affected by tensions between South Korea and North Korea. There was a missile crisis early on, where the latter showed aggression through the testing of its nuclear capabilities. These tests led to security concerns, causing several countries to skip the games. Although in January, after the first high-level talks between the two countries, North Korea surprisingly agreed to participate. The two countries came together and even agreed to form a unified women’s hockey team. It was a historical event, not only to the sports community but in the political landscape as well. During the opening ceremony, the teams representing both countries marched waving a Korean Unification Flag. Good to know before making the trip If you’re planning to go the event, it’s best to check with the country's official website first. It will give you all the information you need, from local laws to the best destinations and travel tips. Make sure to pack warm clothing and comfortable shoes to wear because you're most likely going to do a lot of walking. The average temperature in Pyeongchang right now is 3 degrees Celsius with gusts of winds whipping up to 45 miles per hour. The Winter Olympics is supposed to be cold so better come prepared for it. To enter South Korea, you’ll be needing a valid passport of course, and if you’re staying for less than 90 days, you won’t have to worry about needing a tourist visa. How much does it cost to watch? Tickets for the winter games range from around USD $20 to $800. It varies depending on what event you’re going for and the demand for its tickets. For example, tickets for the figure skating finals are expected to be the most expensive ones at the event, along with the men's hockey finals. Maia Shibutani and Alex Shibutani of the United States compete in the Figure Skating Team Event The best events Each day is filled with exciting sporting events, but it’s best to attend the opening and closing ceremonies because they’re always a spectacular show. Finals are also happening towards the end so better save your time for those big games. The biggest stars to look for in the events are Shaun White in the men's halfpipe finals, Chloe Kim in the women's halfpipe finals, Mikaela Shiffrin in the slalom finals, and Lindsey Vonn in the downhill ski finals. There are 102 events in seven different sports, which are divided into 15 different disciplines. Places to stay If you do a search on Google, it will show you hundreds of hotels in Pyeongchang but the best ones are obviously closer to the games. Their prices have probably skyrocketed by now, so I’m hoping that you’ve already booked, or, you’re reading this just because you're curious about the Winter Olympics. The hotels closest to the games based on my search on Google Maps are Pinkhouse Pension, Jangpyeong Motel, Spring Summer Fall Winter Pension, Kismet Cottage, Fairy & Woodcutter Pension, Phoenix Pyeongchang, The White View Pension, and more. You may also check out for other places to rent close to the games. Transportation Getting around Pyeongchang can be a hassle, but only when you’ve come unprepared. There are a few ways you could get around the area and the ones worthy to check out are the city bus lines. These may not be accessible to all of the areas but don’t worry because there are taxis roaming around. Just try to avoid the black ones if you're pinching pennies. They're deluxe taxis which charge higher for premium services. Also, when you arrive there, try to pick up a T-Money card. You'll be using it on public buses and subways, and it will also save you the hassle of paying with cash for every single ride. Historical landmarks and other places to visit Aside from the winter games, you can also visit a number of historical landmarks in Pyeongchang. To mention some, there’s the Hyoseok Cultural Town, Baengnyong Cave, Potatoflower Studio, Eoreumchi Village, Woljeongsa Temple, Herbnara Tourist Farm, Jeonggangwon, and the Korea Botanic Garden. You may also choose to visit Seoul for more historical areas that can be found in the capital city during your stay. Oh, and don't forget to say Annyeong!
Marriott commits to Chinese Winter Olympic venue
Element Chongli Marriott International has agreed to manage a hotel located in the Chinese ski resort that will host the 2022 Winter Olympics. The Games was awarded to Beijing, but most of the mountain events will actually take place in Zhangjiakou, which lies in Hebei province, almost 220km northwest of China's capital city. And Marriott has now confirmed plans to bring its healthy-living Element brand to Zhangjiakou, with the signing of a management agreement for a new-build hotel. Element is also designed as an extended-stay concept, and Marriott has identified China as a key market for the expansion of the brand. “Our active guests want to explore new destinations while maintaining their daily routines, whether they’re planning longer stays, travelling with a large group or going on a family vacation, Element Hotels gives them the flexibility and the space to live their lives,” said Mike Fulkerson, Marriott's vice president of brand & marketing for Asia Pacific. The interior of the new hotel “We’re noticing a strong interest for this fresh-thinking, longer-stay brand in China, where there is a fast-growing need, inspiring us to continue to grow.” Located in the Taiwoo Ski and Mountainous Resort, Element Chongli will provide access to the area’s rapidly-developing winter sports facilities, while the city centre and Zhangjiakou Airport are both less than one hour away. A high-speed rail line is being built between Chongli and Beijing, which is due to open in 2018, reducing the travelling time from the capital to just 40 minutes. Element Chongli is only 1km away from the new high-speed train station. Once completed, the new upscale hotel will feature 164 rooms, all with telescopes for star-gazing and kitchenettes. There is also a 24-7 self-service F&B area, restaurant, 24-hour fitness centre, indoor saltwater swimming pool, free Wi-Fi and a 90m² conference room. Further Element Hotels are also being planned in Tianjin, Sanya, Yinchuan and Mile.
Vialattea announces Audi FIS Ski World Cup programme, featuring additional Giant Slalom race
Vialattea, one of Europe’s largest and most prestigious ski areas, announces that it has been selected to host an additional Giant Slalom race during the Audi FIS Ski World Cup in Sestriere, scheduled to take place on Friday 21 February. The new race joins an exciting schedule of events and races, with a packed programme for winter sports lovers to look forward to from 21 to 23 February. This unmissable three-day event will see some of the world's top winter sports athletes take to the slopes, with the programme featuring the rescheduled Giant Slalom on 21 February, followed by the originally planned Giant Slalom on 22 February, and culminating with the Slalom on 23 February. Spectators can look forward to thrilling competitions on one of the most celebrated slopes in Alpine skiing, with a grandstand of over 750 seats providing fans with a front-row view of the action. Beyond the races, guests can enjoy a vibrant programme of entertainment and events as they celebrate this prestigious international competition. The 'PiemonTaste’ food and wine area will showcase local flavours, while attendees can head to the Snow Village for live music, games, and activities. Highlights include a spectacular flyover by the 'Frecce Tricolori' on Saturday morning and a dazzling medal ceremony in Piazza Fraiteve featuring internationally acclaimed electric violinist Andrea Casta. The weekend will culminate with an exclusive aprés ski event which brings together all the excitement of the weekend in one final celebration. This thrilling race weekend offers an unmatched opportunity to experience world-class skiing at Sestriere, a renowned part of the Vialattea ski area. With a rich history of hosting prestigious events - including 67 World Cup races, the 1997 World Ski Championships, and the 2006 Winter Olympics - Sestriere's challenging slopes have shaped many skiing legends, making it an essential experience for all alpine enthusiasts. For the 2024/2025 season, Vialattea has expanded its operating days to 129, with the season concluding on Sunday 13 April. In addition, the new combined Vialattea and Bardonecchia season pass provides access to all slopes across both ski areas, offering the perfect option for an exciting getaway to the mountains.
The Pavilions bring Olympic sports to four Asian destinations
In celebration of the 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris, boutique hotel brand The Pavilions Hotels & Resorts launched its ‘Going for Gold’ sporting promotion. Going for Gold gives guests the opportunity to experience several Olympic sports in eight of its global properties. The Pavilions in Asia feature four sports, including rowing across Phewa Lake beneath the Himalayas or taking aim in an archery masterclass in Mongolia’s Orkhon Valley. Rowing: The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm Marking 100 years since Nepali national Tejbir Bura won an Olympic gold medal in Alpinism at the 1924 Winter Olympics, The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm invites guests to celebrate during the Summer 2024 Olympics with a ‘Going for Gold’ experience that includes the opportunity to row on the iconic Phewa Lake, nestled in the shadows of the majestic Himalayas. Located in a lush, forested valley, guests can immerse themselves in nature at the eco-luxury hotel and working organic farm. The Pavilions Himalayas’ ‘Going for Gold’ offer starts from USD169++ (approx.. GBP134++) per room per night, based on two sharing and including traditional Himalayan canapés and cocktails on arrival and round-trip airport transfers. The Phewa Lake rowing experience is available from an additional NPR2,500 (approx.. GBP14) per person. Archery: The Pavilions Mongolia Nestled in the pristine wilderness of the UNESCO protected Orkhon Valley National Park, The Pavilions Mongolia is a seasonal summer glamping experience that invites guests to reconnect with their inner adventurer, with a plethora of traditional outdoor pursuits ranging from horseback riding, kayaking, and rock climbing to archery with the famous compact Mongol bow. Targets are set up 75 metres away, providing a rewarding challenge for archers of all skill levels. Children can also participate and train at shorter ranges tailored to their abilities. The Pavilions Mongolia’s all-inclusive ‘Experience Life’ package starts from USD600++ (approx.. GBP461++) per person per night based on two sharing. Surfing: The Pavilions Bali Boutique resort The Pavilions Bali invites guests to try one of the newest Olympic sports with expert-led surfing lessons in ‘The Island of the Gods.’ ‘Going for Gold’ packages at The Pavilions Bali start from IDR 2,975,000++ (approx. GBP 140++) per room per night, including up to 15 per cent off accommodation; daily breakfast; welcome foot ritual; a traditional Balinese feast for two; a 60-minute couples massage for two; evening aromatherapy amenities; one-way airport transfer; and a private surfing masterclass (subject to availability and an additional fee). Must be booked by 31 July, for stays from 1 September – 20 December. Muay Thai: The Pavilions Phuket Thai martial art Muay Thai is making its debut as a demonstration sport in this summer’s Olympic programme, paving the way for the sport’s inclusion in future Games – and guests ‘Going for Gold’ at The Pavilions Phuket until 31 July will have the opportunity to try it for themselves. The Pavilions Phuket’s ‘Going for Gold’ offer starts from THB5,005 (approx. GBP108++) per room per night, including 35 per cent off accommodation; daily breakfast; a three-course dinner for two at the resort’s ALTO Italian Restaurant and Cocktail Bar, plus 15 per cent off additional food and beverages; a 60-minute couples massage for two at The Pavilions Spa; and the chance to experience Muay Thai (subject to availability and an additional fee of THB1,200 / approx.. GBP26 per person).
Top 30 events Brits would love to travel abroad for
The Olympics, Mardi Gras festival and a Taylor Swift gig are among the top live events Brits want to head to next year. A poll of 2,000 adults found one in five (21 per cent) would love to one day attend a match at the World Cup, while 16 per cent want to dance the night away at the Rio Carnival. Experiencing the Cherry Blossom Festivals in Japan and having a pint of stout at St Patrick’s Day celebrations also ranked highly in the top 30. It emerged 27 per cent have specifically travelled abroad to attend a live event in the past, and 21 per cent are hoping to travel for an event in the next year. Thanim Islam, Head of FX Analysis, at Equals Money which commissioned the research, said: “These events so many are travelling to are not just individual holidays - they are engines of economic transformation. Hosting major events with worldwide appeal inspires travellers to plan their next adventure and invigorates local economies - whether it's a one-off concert or an annual occurrence. These events can stimulate growth by creating jobs, boosting tourism, and nurturing local businesses. The economic impact can even cause local currencies to increase in value. This is a boost for locals but can make exchange rates for travellers unpredictable.” The research also revealed 32 per cent admit they don't consider local exchange rates when they travel, and as a result, another 32 per cent believe they’ve lost money because of poor rates. On average, these predict they have been left out of pocket to the tune of £90. Some believe they have lost up to £500. All while almost 28 per cent say they struggle to stick to a budget while on holiday. On top of losing out on money due to poor exchange rates, people also struggle with understanding how to travel to the event when they’re in a different country, and where the best places to stay for it are. But despite many experiencing difficulties organising an event, only one in ten have booked theirs via a travel agent, even though a third of those polled would be happy to pay more for a holiday if they were getting expert and local insight on the destination from a travel agent. And 63 per cent expect a travel agent to be able to offer advice on currency exchange rates when booking through them. Thanim Islam from Equals Money, which specialises in international payments, added: “Checking for good exchange rates is an essential step in ensuring your hard-earned money goes further. Exchange rates fluctuate, and even the slightest variation can have a significant impact on your budget. This is also an issue for travel agencies themselves, which have to handle many transactions across different currencies each day. Equals Money helps create a consolidated end-to-end payments journey for travel agencies so they spend less time thinking about receiving and sending payments and have more time to focus on delivering quality consultations.” TOP 30 EVENTS BRITS WOULD LOVE TO TRAVEL ABROAD FOR FIFA World Cup game The Summer Olympics Oktoberfest UEFA Champions League game Rio Carnival F1 Grand Prix UEFA European Championships game Cherry Blossom Festivals Sydney New Year's Eve Chinese New Year Carnival of Venice Mardi Gras Festival St Patrick’s Day in Dublin The Winter Olympics The Ashes Eurovision Day of the Dead ICC Cricket World Cup Super Bowl T20 World Cup Cannes Film Festival Tour de France Coldplay 2024 tour The Ryder Cup Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival Andrea Bocelli concert in Brazil The Masters Rock in Rio The Eras Tour (Taylor Swift) Burning Man
CNCC II Beijing adds to its International Credentials
Hotels and North Star Beijing agreement ceremony As the world-renowned capital of China since ancient times, Beijing has now developed into a modern international city. It is home to seven world heritage sites and the first capital city in the world to have a UNESCO Global Geopark. China National Convention Center phase II (“CNCC II”), the key construction project of Beijing, is located in the Olympic Green Area at the northernmost end of Beijing’s central axis and had served as the Main Media Center (MMC) for the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics and Paralympics. CNCC Its core mission is “implementing Beijing’s overall urban planning and strengthening its role as an international exchange center”. The Ritz-Carlton Beijing, North artist impression Since its construction in 2019, CNCC II has adhered to the concept of “international vision, global resources, technological advancement and sustainability” and operated in line with the national goal of achieving a low-carbon, eco-friendly and green transformation in the China MICE industry. To meet this goal, CNCC II is designed and constructed in accordance with LEED V3 platinum standard and Green Building 3-Star System standard. What’s more, many beneficial concepts have been implemented, such as the green venue transportation system, electromechanical system energy conservation, renewable resource utilization and intelligent energy management. At present, CNCC II, which is scheduled to open its doors in 2025, is in the process of interior design. CNCC II complex artist impression In September 2023, with the strong support from Beijing government and Beijing North Star, the global community for international association meetings industry - ICCA (International Congress and Convention Association) decided to set up its China representative office in CNCC II, Beijing, China to bridge global networking exchange for the business events industry of Beijing and China. At the recently-concluded 62nd ICCA Congress, it was announced that ICCA will collaborate with CNCC II on the first ICCASkills hub project in China, which is a major initiative launched after the establishment of the ICCA China Representative Office. ICCA and the government of Beijing together with Beijing North Star is committed in upskilling and developing the workforce of the business events industry in China, and globally, to shape the future of meetings industry. Unveiling ceremony of ICCA China Rep Office In addition, in that same month, Beijing North Star Group, the developer of the China National Convention Center Phase II (CNCCII) signed an agreement for The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Beijing, North and the Beijing Marriott Marquis Hotel as part of the CNCCII convention complex. Mr Li Weidong, Chairman of Beijing North Star Group said, “North Star Group attaches great importance to this cooperation with two brands, and I believe that both parties will be able to further strengthen our brands’ interaction, build market visibility and open doors to new business opportunities while enhancing the CNCCII complex project.” Mao Yibing, President, Greater China, Marriott International Group, who signed on behalf of the Group, believes that this journey with the North Star Group will lead to joint brand promotion, resource integration and management innovation. The Ritz-Carlton Beijing, North at the CNCCII complex will be the third hotel of the century-old luxury hotel brand Ritz Carlton in Beijing, while the Beijing Marriott Marquis Hotel will be the first in Beijing. The two hotels will open for business in 2026 providing an additional 953 rooms to the precinct and offering world class standards for international and national delegations attending MICE events, as well as high-end leisure and business travellers, both from China and abroad. The Ritz-Carlton Beijing, North will feature 282 guest rooms and suites, 6 dining venues, lobby bar, all-day dining, a Ritz Carlton Executive Lounge, one banquet room and four independent meeting rooms. The health and recreation center will include an indoor pool, gym and spa. Beijing Marriott Marquis Hotel The Beijing Marriott Marquis Hotel will feature 671 guest rooms and suites, 6 dining options and a total of 3,270sqm of banquet and convention facilities. Once completed and put into operation, the main building of CNCC II will be integrated with the supporting facilities, featuring the convention center, the two high-end luxury hotels, a shopping mall and a commercial office building, resulting in a world-class convention precinct with multiple function spaces and supported by the latest technology. In the future, CNCC II will become the preferred destination for high-energy meetings, exhibitions and events. In addition, CNCC II will contribute to China’s MICE industry as it strives to achieve high-quality development while strengthening Beijing’s role as an international exchange center.
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