Mega-events such as the 2008 Beijing Olympics and Shanghai Expo 2011 showed meeting and incentive planners that China could play the host with the most. And the choices to stage various activities for networking or coporate entertaining keep expanding without pause. The list below only provides a glimpse of a business sector about to explode.
1933, SHANGHAI
Wow factor: The property, approximately 9km away from the Shanghai World Expo, was originally built in the 1930s to serve as an abattoir. It was then converted into a factory and cold storage facility. In its most current reincarnation, which maintains the original cattle path and air bridges, 1933 has added exhibition spaces, meeting rooms and offices for short rentals. A slew of cafes and restaurants are also ideal for smaller affairs.
Contact: Liyang Road, Hongkou District. Tel +86 21 6888 1933, www.1933shanghai.com
GALLEON RESTAURANT AND BAR, SHENZHEN
Wow factor: The nautical themed restaurant and bar on the grounds of InterContinental Shenzhen is a replica of Colombus' Santa Monica but double in size, measuring up to 800sqm. The entire venue can seat 600 guests with private dining options on the upper decks. To complete the laid-back and lively atmosphere, a live band dishes out popular hits on most nights.
Contact: Overseas Chinese Town, Nan Shan District. Tel +86 755 3399 3399. For more information, click here.
JIN SHA, HANGZHOU:
Wow factor: Hangzhou is known for its abundant natural attractions, and Jin Sha by the Four Seasons, which is located on the banks of the West Lake, provides a private dining experience amidst the scenic ponds and gardens. There are 11 stand-alone pavilions surrounding a lagoon, one main hall and bar. The pavilions seat up to 16 people each and the al fresco area, seating 38 people, can also be used.
Contact: Lingyin Road, Tel: +86 571 8829 8888 www.fourseasons.com/hangzhou
REDTORY ART AND LIVING, GUANGZHOU:
Wow factor: This complex of Soviet-style structures first served as the canning centre of the Eagle Coin Food Manufacturing Enterprise Group before being transformed into an arty hub for meetings, exhibitions and stylish dining. All the structural details have been maintained, such as the towering brick chimney, to create a cultural and stylish atmosphere.
Contact: Yuancun Si Heng Lu, Tianhe Distrcit. Tel +86 20 8557 4346 www.redtory.com.cn/english
REIGNWOOD THEATRE, BEIJING
Wow factor: Built by the owners of Fairmont Beijing, this facility is connected to the hotel but operates as a separate entity. The theatre provides a fresh new platform in the city for artistic expression with performances ranging from ballet to opera. Not only does the 1,200sqm facility echo the grandeur of theatres in London’s West End, it also boasts a multi-scene conversion system. The feature electronically controls the floor, enabling it to be changed from a theatre to a ballroom or an empty space for exhibitions. There are also six VIP boxes on the second floor, each seating up to 30 guests.
Contact: Reignwood Centre, East Chang An Avenue. Tel 86 10 8528 8657 www.reignwood.com
Alisha Haridasani
