Beijing, China (October 21, 2011) /ChinaNewswire.com/ — As a testament to the appeal of China as a premier travel destination, Virtuoso, Imperial Tours, Abercrombie & Kent Asia, and host hotels Raffles Beijing Hotel and The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong will welcome 128 executives from Virtuoso's top 67 travel agency members from the United States, Canada, Mexico, The Caribbean, South America and Australia for the Virtuoso Chairman's Recognition Event. The network represents $9.6 billion in annual travel sales, and the Chairman's Recognition Event honors 2011's top performers within Virtuoso's elite membership of 330-plus travel agencies located in 20 countries. The event will take place October 16-22, 2011.

Virtuoso rewards its top revenue producers, its most engaged members and travel agencies with the most improved sales with a trip befitting of the upscale travel they typically plan. The itinerary provides an exclusive glimpse into China few have had the privilege to see, and allows these professionals to experience the genuine flavor and style of the destination. Virtuoso's Chairman's Recognition Event occurs annually in some of the most exciting, colorful and vibrant locales in the world, most recently Kenya (2010), Scotland (2009), India (2008), Prague (2007) and Peru (2006) – and now China in 2011.

"At Virtuoso, we believe exploring the world and its tremendous diversity creates unequalled opportunities to refocus travelers on what's important – the ability to create shared experiences and memories," commented Matthew D. Upchurch, CTC, CEO of Virtuoso. "Our Chairman's Recognition Event serves to inspire our top-performing travel advisors, and ultimately their clientele, by providing a rare look at the very best ways to experience all that a destination has to offer. Their first-hand accounts of these unique locations help sustain the cycle of travel," he added.

The Virtuoso Chairman's Event program will allow guests to participate first-hand in exclusive and enriching experiences that distinguish China by combining the country's historic culture with more modern influences.

Highlights of the Virtuoso itinerary in Beijing and Shanghai include

Beijing
Welcome lunch at, and hosted by, Park Hyatt Beijing
Welcome reception and dinner at Raffles Beijing Hotel, hosted by Fairmont Raffles Hotels
Lunch and expert briefing on Contemporary Art In China at, and hosted by, the Opposite House
Cocktails and a private dinner at the Garden of Harmonious Interest in the Summer Palace, hosted by Aman Resorts
A lunch banquet at the Great Wall, hosted by St. Regis Beijing
Cocktails and dinner at the Water Cube, hosted by Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts
Exclusive historic, cultural and educational excursions within Beijing, operated by Imperial Tours

Shanghai
Welcome Reception and Dinner at FLAIR in The Ritz Carlton Shanghai, Pudong, hosted by The Ritz Carlton Hotel Company
Private lunch at Swatch Art Peace Hotel
Private dinner and reception at Mme. Eleonora Huang’s stunning 93rd floor Shanghai Loft at the Park Hyatt Shanghai, hosted by Park Hyatt Shanghai
Private reception and lunch at Grand Hyatt Shanghai, hosted by Hyatt Hotels
Gala cocktail reception and dinner at The Peninsula Shanghai overlooking The Bund, honoring the “Roaring Thirties” of Shanghai, hosted by The Peninsula Hotels
Exclusive historic, cultural and educational excursions within Shanghai, operated by Abercrombie & Kent Asia

About Virtuoso
Virtuoso is the industry's leading luxury travel network. This by-invitation-only organization comprises over 330 agencies with more than 7,200 elite travel specialists in 20 countries in North and South America, the Caribbean, Australia and New Zealand, as well as over 1,300 of the world's best travel providers and premier destinations. The network's member agencies generate over 9.6 billion dollars annually in travel sales, making the group the most powerful in the luxury travel segment. Their relationships with the finest travel companies provide the network's affluent clientele with exclusive amenities, rare experiences and privileged access. Virtuoso is the exclusive network of travel services and benefits provided by MasterCard® for participating World Elite MasterCard programs. For more information, please visit www.virtuoso.com.

To view Virtuoso's latest video content, visit http://www.youtube.com/user/VirtuosoTraveler.

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Misty Ewing
  Virtuoso – Director, Public Relations
  Phone: 212-588-8242 or 206-484-8022 (mobile)
  E-mail: mewing@virtuoso.com
  

Shanghai, China (August 22, 2011) /ChinaNewswire.com/ — Accor has revealed the findings of its Accor Asia Pacific Business Traveller Research 2011, which seeks to better understand the travel and behavioural preferences of business travellers based in Asia Pacific. The survey interviewed over 10,000 respondents who made business trips in the first half of this year. Of these, close to 2,000 of the business travellers surveyed were executives based in Mainland China, with 3 in 4 business travellers being male.

Based on data collected, Hong Kong SAR (73%) is the leading destination for Mainland Chinese business travellers, with Singapore and Thailand coming in second and third with 25% and 22% respectively. In terms of outbound travel, executives from Mainland China (8.7 trips), were the most frequent travellers in the first half of 2011,followed by India (7.3 trips) and Singapore (7.1 trips). Moving into the second half of the year, Mainland Chinese business travellers are expected to remain top of the list increasing to 9.2 trips, with Singapore (6.9 trips) and India (6.7 trips) swapping positions as second and third.

Said Mr. Evan Lewis, Vice President Communications – Asia Pacific, "The sheer number of business trips made by Mainland Chinese business travellers can be possibly attributed to the importance of "Guan Xi" or positive interpersonal relationships as a crucial element for business dealings. An observation which supports this hypothesis is that 51% of Mainland Chinese respondents travel for external company business such as sales and client visits. This exceeds that of Singapore business travellers who are second, with less than half (46%) making trips for such a purpose."

Chinese executives from the Mainland are the second most budget conscious (US$99), behind Indonesian business travellers (US$92). Perhaps unsurprisingly, Mainland China has one of the highest incidences of domestic only business travel (25%), behind only Australia (34%) and New Zealand (26%) business travellers. Like other Asia Pacific business travellers, executives from the Mainland choose hotels mainly due to location (43%). Other key factors which influence their choice of accommodation include loyalty points accrual (29%) and having a positive experience on their previous stay (26%).

Mainland Chinese business travellers top the chart in terms of their environmental consciousness with 91% of the business travellers surveyed willing to choose a hotel which is more environmentally conscious ahead of a similar standard hotel in the same location. The same percentage of executives were also willing to pay a premium for a hotel with a superior environmental commitment.

From the perspective of inbound travel, Mainland China is most popular amongst business travellers from the Hong Kong SAR (79%), followed by Singapore (44%) and Malaysia (35%) business travellers in the first half of 2011. Overall, respondents from the research cited China's Special Administrative Region of Hong Kong and Singapore were the most popular business destinations (38% each), with Thailand (29%) third. Mainland China was a close fourth with 28%.

In terms of the most hardworking business travellers, the research suggests that Mainland Chinese (82%) and Singaporean (82%) business travellers are the most diligent, working most often in the hotels whilst travelling for business. The most popular time slot for work is from 21:00 to Midnight (52%). Based on their relatively longer working hours, only 49% of Mainland Chinese business travellers use the fitness centre and 29% of them use the spa. This contrasts with the overall findings from the research, which has found that 53% of Asia Pacific's business travellers use the hotel's fitness centre and 36% them go to the spa facilities at the hotel.

From these observations, it can be deduced that the typical Mainland Chinese business traveller is on the road most often than his Asia Pacific peers. This executive is most typically male who travels an average of between 8.7 to 9.2 trips every half year (which adds up to an average of a whopping more than 17 trips in a year. He also works most dutifully (82%) at the hotel during business travel as compared to other Asia Pacific business travellers, especially from 21:00 to Midnight (63%). So much so, that the typical Mainland Chinese business traveller hardly has time to enjoy any of the recreational facilities at hotels (as compared to his Asia Pacific peers). This extraordinary work ethic of Mainland Chinese business travellers could potentially be attributed to the ingrained culture which places a great emphasis on hard work.

About Accor
Accor, the world's leading hotel operator and market leader in Europe, is present in 90 countries with 4,200 hotels and more than 500,000 rooms.

Accor's broad portfolio of hotel brands – Sofitel, Pullman, MGallery, Novotel, Suite Novotel, Mercure, Adagio, ibis, all seasons, Etap Hotel, Formule 1, hotelF1 and Motel 6, and its related activities, Thalassa sea & spa and Lenôtre – provide an extensive offer from luxury to budget. With 145,000 employees worldwide, the Group offers to its clients and partners nearly 45 years of know-how and expertise.

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Accor Greater China
  Mabel Liu
  Communications Director
  86(0) 21 6119 9833
  Mabel.Liu@accor.com

  Accor Greater China
  Angel Liu
  Communications Manager
  86(0) 21 6119 7676
  Angel.liu@accor.com
  

Shanghai, China (June 14, 2011) /ChinaNewswire.com/ — Accor, Europe’s largest hotel group announces that it has launched a new dedicated online column, which will bridge Accor and consumers through surveys, video presentations, online forums, and so on. The column themed "Sustainable Travel Accommodation" was jointly launched with the travel channel of China’s major portal website Sina, and had just completed its kick-off program with a survey responded to by more than 2,400 frequent travelers in two weeks. It turns out more than half of them are from China’s biggest cities Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou. 80% of the respondents have travel experience in the past six months, and 90% of respondents have stayed in hotels.

"Of course, knowledge about customers is crucial for any hotel operator. Accor however, with its global industry leadership, has a greater responsibility. We need to provide industry insights and this initiative will help us to group frequent travelers thoughts and opinions " said Robert Murray, Senior Vice President of Accor Greater China. "The launch of the Accor-Sina online column will surely lead to a better understanding of our customers' needs and habits here in China. We hope the public will find the results informative and stimulate thinking on how travel and tourism can become more sustainable as well as focusing on health, and charitable activities."

The first survey seeks to learn about how Chinese travelers value their health. Overall, nearly 80 percent of the respondents have concerns about different health issues experienced while traveling. Initial findings show balanced health priorities are given to aspects like sleeping quality, mental status, and dietary fitness.

Whatever the purpose of the journey, travel is expected to offer relaxing experiences for most. But that’s not necessarily true with the findings this time, as more than half of the respondents, 56.3% to be exact, report different levels of fatigue during their travels. Contributors to fatigue include tight schedules, bad weather, aircraft delays, unfamiliar surroundings, concern of accidents and jetlag. More surprisingly, 94.2% of the online voters admit they sleep less than eight hours per day when traveling. While some factors of travel fatigue may also affect their sleeping quality, nearly half of them conclude that they may not sleep well if the hotel mattress or pillows are of inferior quality.

In terms of dietary health, 97.5% of the survey participants, an overwhelming proportion, say they’re quite concerned about having a healthy, balanced diet when traveling, as well as 89.4% of the respondents consider orders of organic food a great option when staying in hotels. The survey has also found nearly 80% of the respondents will choose to have breakfast at hotels.

Other travel health aspects surveyed include fitness centers, smoking and drinking habits. While it is a good sign that 92% of the respondents are interested in the hotel fitness centers, the findings are a little discouraging that more than a third (37.7%) will request a smoking room, and nearly half will choose to drink when traveling.

On the findings, Mr. Murray commented: "This survey is just the first step for our new online column, and more will follow to inspire both Accor and our Chinese customers. By focusing on concrete aspects of travel accommodation and hotel services, we will better understand guest’s expectations in regards to health, the environment and charity. We will value the survey findings and respect opinions and suggestions from our guests."

For nearly 45 years, Accor has constantly reinvented its businesses to keep pace with the world around it, with the goal of providing innovative, high-quality products. It is pleased and proud to provide travelers with the solution best adapted to their needs and a guarantee of the highest quality of service. For example, just recently in Australia, Accor hotels have already enhanced service standards for Chinese travelers, following consultation with leading tour and travel operators from China. The enhanced services include particular foods as part of the breakfast buffet, Chinese speaking reception staff, Chinese TV channels and media, concierge assistance and other services.

For more information of the "Sustainable Accommodation" Column, please log on:http://travel.sina.com.cn/z/Accor/

About Accor
Accor, the world's leading hotel operator and market leader in Europe, is present in 90 countries with 4,200 hotels and more than 500,000 rooms.

Accor's broad portfolio of hotel brands – Sofitel, Pullman, MGallery, Novotel, Suite Novotel, Mercure, Adagio, ibis, all seasons, Etap Hotel, Formule 1, hotelF1 and Motel 6, and its related activities, Thalassa sea & spa and Lenôtre – provide an extensive offer from luxury to budget. With 145,000 employees worldwide, the Group offers to its clients and partners nearly 45 years of know-how and expertise.

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Accor Greater China
  Mabel Liu
  Communications Director
  86(0) 21 6119 9833
  Mabel.Liu@accor.com

  Accor Greater China
  April Ling
  Communications Executive
  86(0) 21 6119 9839
  April.Ling@accor.com
  

Singapore (June 18, 2010) /ChinaNewswire.com/ — Telecoms and IT industry professionals from the likes of Google, Microsoft, Ashnik, ROBI (AXIATA), MTS, Metanoia Partners and Amazon Web Services will be heading down to Singapore this July to make key lectures and workshops on Mobile Cloud Computing ASIA 2010. The three-day event is entirely dedicated to the emerging mobile cloud markets, application service providers, OEMs, ISPs, Mobile Network Operators, Platform as a Service Providers, Mobility as a Service Providers. This event in Singapore, 14-15 July, will bring together CEO's and directors from major operators in the region.

Known as MCCA 2010, the opening-day event will see keynote speakers from the likes of Ashnik, MTS India and Mobilink Pakistan. Today organisers have added two new names to the list – Cloudshield Technologies and vCirrus Australia.

Industry professionals from Orange Scape will come to Singapore on July 13th to lead the Pre-Conference Workshop in collaboration with Google, Microsoft and Amazon Web Services. The workshop's focus is on Cloud Utilisation in Creating Next Generation Mobile Applications. Meanwhile, Google's Radjeep Dua will be in attendance to discuss the Google App Engine.

"MCCA is aimed at a variety of people – telco's view into the Convergence of Mobility and Cloud Computing, infrastructure web services platform provider will present on how to move your Cloud-Based Services Business from Concept to reality, and those interested to know the Global Brands who are already ahead in the Mobile cloud Computing space," said event Director Steven Aung.

To find out more about the comprehensive list of MCCA speakers, visit http://www.mobilecloudcomputingasia.com.

About OrangeScape:
OrangeScape is ideal for building process oriented business applications. With OrangeScape, you will start your application development with OrangeScape Studio. The Studio has 4 perspectives: Model design, Form design, Workflow design, and Action design. For more info: www.orangescape.com.

About Neoedge:
Neoedge is a business media company that aims to serve the corporate world with integrity and excellence by providing cutting edge business intelligences and creating high value networking opportunities.

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Eugene Azucena
  Neoedge
  Tel: +65 6557 9185
  E-mail: eugene@neo-edge.com

The "China Hotel Gold Star Award" ranks high on the list of hotel industry awards in China. Accorded by China National Tourism Administration to 100 hotelsl, the selection process involved an in-depth review of the hotels through Internet voting, third-party customer satisfaction surveys, members' voting and expert assessment. Beijing hotels totalled eight out of the 100 hotels selected across China.

"For China World Hotel, Beijing to be selected as one of the China Golden Star Hotels is indeed a tremendous honour. Our team is always grateful for the opportunity to serve our guests and regard this accolade as a compelling reason to strive even harder to please all our guests." said John Rice, area manager and general manager of China World Hotel, Beijing.

China World Hotel, Beijing, soars over the China World Trade Center complex, including the China World Exhibition Center and shopping mall, in the heart of the city's diplomatic and business district. Hailed as one of the first three hotels in mainland China to be awarded with a Platinum Five Star rating by the China National Tourism Administration (CNTA), China World Hotel, Beijing has been named one of the world's best hotels by both Conde Nast Traveller and Travel + Leisure magazines. China World Hotel, Beijing was also voted "Best Hotel in Beijing" by Euromoney, Frommer's Guide and Finance Asia; "Best Business Hotel in Beijing" by Business Traveller Asia Pacific, TTG Asia, The Asset and Asian Legal Business; ranked one of the "Top Ten Business Hotels in China – Golden Pillow Award" by 21st Century Business Herald; and named one of "The Top 50 Hotels in China" by Forbes and Travel + Leisure China.

Hong Kong-based Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts currently owns and/or manages 66 hotels under the Shangri-La and Traders brands with a rooms inventory of over 30,000. Shangri-La hotels are five-star deluxe properties featuring extensive luxury facilities and services. Shangri-La hotels are located in Australia, Canada, mainland China, Fiji, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Maldives, Philippines, Singapore, Sultanate of Oman, Taiwan, Thailand and the United Arab Emirates. The group has over 40 projects under development in Austria, Canada, mainland China, France, India, Macau, Malaysia, Philippines, Qatar, Russia, Seychelles, Turkey and United Kingdom. For more information or reservations, please contact a travel professional or access the website at www.shangri-la.com.

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Sue Meng Chan
  Director of Communications
  China World Hotel, Beijing
  Tel: (86 10) 6505 2266 ext. 6644
  Fax: (86 10) 6505 3165
  E-mail: suemeng.chan@shangri-la.com

"We hope to become the Telecom Conference of choice for the telecommunications world by offering the newest products and conference formats with the ample opportunity for learning, discussing and networking," said Paz.

Neoedge has chosen Singapore as its corporate headquarters in the Asia-Pacific region, where it plans to further grow operations in countries like South Africa, Japan and Dubai while maintaining its established presence in China and other parts of the region.

"Neoedge aims to fast track its investments in facilities, technologies and people," said Paz during a brief presentation during the launch.

The new location of the corporate office at Commerce Point Building at Raffles Place, Singapore was chosen because of its goal of expanding the company and likewise be at the central business district of the Lion City.

Notably, the third Telecom Event: Mobile Cloud Computing ASIA 2010 unveiled is one of the company's most comprehensive product, having a line up of unequalled speakers and panelists. It also has a very interesting Pre-Conference Workshop to be led by Orange Scape and in collaboration with Microsoft, Google and Amazon Web Services. The conference will happen on the 14th-15th July at Carlton Hotel, Singapore and is sponsored by vCirrus Australia. For more information, please visit http://www.mobilecloudcomputingasia.com/

Paz also disclosed details about other future conventions and workshops on SS7 and SIGTRAN in the MENA Region, but assured that Neoedge has been actively researching for other potential locations, including the United Kingdom, and would likely produce a new one before 2011.

Neoedge, which began operations in Singapore in 2008, currently has half a hundred active employees. Already, several slots in its new office are set to be occupied by incoming sales agents, marketing managers and conference producers. Recruitment, however, is still ongoing.

Paz was keen to point out that Neoedge emphasizes a learning culture built around simplicity aimed at fostering the professional growth of its employees. She pointed out that her current position as Project Manager for Telecom events came in only months after she joined as a senior sales executive, adding that such a case was not unusual in the company.

Neoedge Pte. Ltd, TELECOMS & IT, 2010
Neoedge is a business media company that aims to serve the corporate world with integrity and excellence by providing cutting edge business intelligences and creating high value networking opportunities. Neoedge identifies pressing issues that the corporate world is facing. Neoedge events are developed based on careful and original research including extensive and direct interactions with potential participants in the market. Neoedge events are distinguished by delivering premier value to customers in a sustainable means. Neoedge is your long term corporate business partner. For more information about Neoedge www.neo-edge.com.

Headquartered in Singapore with Rep Office in Beijing, Neoedge has been organising premier events all around the world including in Hamburg, Dubai, Accra, Johannesburg, Cape Town, Mumbai, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Perth, Manila, Hong Kong, Shenzhen and Shanghai etc.

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Eugene Azucena
  Marketing Manager – Telecoms and Strategic Management
  Neoedge Pte. Ltd
  Tel: +65 6557 9185
  Fax: +65 6557 9188
  E-mail: eugene@neo-edge.com
  

For China-based companies and those with China-related business operations, calculating Value Added Tax obligations can prove complex and time-consuming.

Russell Brown, Managing Partner of LehmanBrown commented: "VAT accounted for 26% of the annual tax revenue in 2009, and is the most strictly controlled and closely monitored type of tax in China. The calculation of VAT liabilities, specifically export VAT refund is often complicated and confusing to foreign investors. In relation to VAT laws, the China State Administration of Taxation frequently issues new circulars and guidelines. These can lead to differing VAT, especially export VAT refund calculations depending on the industry and structure of the business entity."

The webinar was hosted by the Ohio-based China Resource Network (CRN), which aims to develop business links between Ohioan businesspersons and the People's Republic of China. For more information about CRN, please go to http://chinaresourcenetwork.com/events.html.

Brown comcludes, "External factors such as, locating a business in an Export Zone offering preferential VAT policies, and the governing tax authority can in many instances impact the level of VAT payable by the company. In light of this, it is essential that those responsible for business operations in China have a solid understanding of influencing factors and are able to maximise upon any available preferential policies."

LehmanBrown International Accountants
LehmanBrown is a China-focused accounting, taxation and business advisory firm, combining international expertise with practical China experience and knowledge for both local and international clients.

The company operates through offices in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Tianjin and Hong Kong, which are staffed by a combination of Chinese and expatriate professionals. Staffing is currently around two hundred professionals throughout China, all of whom are English-Mandarin bi-lingual.

LehmanBrown is registered with the PCAOB in the USA. LehmanBrown is also an Accredited Employer and Training Partner of many top global accountancy institutes including the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (HKICPA) and CPA Australia. LehmanBrown was the first ACCA China-wide Approved Platinum Employer.

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Rachael Layfield
  Marketing Manager
  LehmanBrown
  Email: pr@lehmanbrown.com

The in-depth discussion session on the Accounting, Taxation and Business Challenges of Doing Business in China gave the MBA students an opportunity to hear about the key challenges facing companies with China operations and provided an open question and answer session.

Dickson Leung commented: "LehmanBrown is a keen supporter of professional development in general and each year we welcome many groups of students from a range of MBA, EMBA and business education programs to Beijing."

"Hearing their opinions and impressions on doing business with Chinese partners always brings up interesting points. Issues raised are often diverse and cover a wide range of topics including company set-up and capital requirements, how to recruit qualified and trustworthy employees, business risk, how to ensure the entity is ethical, what to do in a fraud or misconduct situation, due diligence on acquisition targets, business investigation, director requirements and environmental protection," added Leung.

IPADE is part of the PanAmerican University, Mexico and is recognised by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. It is ranked amongst the most prestigious business schools in the world.

LehmanBrown International Accountants
LehmanBrown is a China-focused accounting, taxation and business advisory firm, combining international expertise with practical China experience and knowledge for both local and international clients.

The company operates through offices in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Tianjin and Hong Kong, which are staffed by a combination of Chinese and expatriate professionals. Staffing is currently around two hundred professionals throughout China, all of whom are English-Mandarin bi-lingual.

LehmanBrown is registered with the PCAOB in the USA. LehmanBrown is also an Accredited Employer and Training Partner of many top global accountancy institutes including the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (HKICPA) and CPA Australia. LehmanBrown was the first ACCA China-wide Approved Platinum Employer.

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Rachael Layfield
  Marketing Manager
  LehmanBrown
  Email: pr@lehmanbrown.com

LehmanBrown recruits approximately 30-50 graduates each year, which are deployed to cover its five offices in Mainland China and Hong Kong office. The company continues to demonstrate it commitment to assisting graduates with their professional career development, as LehmanBrown’s Managing Partner and Director, Mr. Russell Brown commented: "We are constantly enthused by the high-level of graduate candidates coming to LehmanBrown each year and we heavily emphasis the importance of professional development within the company. This is demonstrated by the fact that most of our employees have either obtained or are currently studying towards a professional qualification."

LehmanBrown International Accountants is an accredited employer and training partner of the top global accountancy institutes including the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants and CPA Australia. LehmanBrown was the first CPA firm accredited as an ACCA Approved Platinum Employer.

To be successful, candidates first undergo a rigorous interview process and a range of assessments from qualitative to quantitative, and reference investigation. Successful candidates are encouraged to study a professional accountancy qualification which aligns with their work discipline and are trained to be professionals in spirit, mind and all aspects of conduct.

Mr. Brown further commented: "Despite the global economic downturn of 2009, we are pleased to have been able to continue both our graduate recruitment program and wider recruitment strategy in response to business growth. We are optimistic about China’s economic growth in the coming years and are looking forward to welcoming new graduates to the company in 2010."

LehmanBrown International Accountants
LehmanBrown is a China-focused accounting, taxation and business advisory firm, combining international expertise with practical China experience and knowledge. The company operates through offices in Beijing, Shanghai, Tianjin, Shenzhen, Guangzhou and Hong Kong. Offices are staffed by a combination of China and expatriate professionals. Direct staffing is currently around 200 professionals through out China. LehmanBrown is registered with the PCAOB (US) and holds the following employment-related accreditations: ACCA Approved Platinum Employer, ACCA Approved Employer for Professional Development, CIMA Training Quality Partner, ICAEW Authorized Training Organization, CPA Australia Employer’s Club Member, and Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants Authorized Employer.

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Beijing Tel: +86 10 8532 1720
  E-mail: beijing@lehmanbrown.com

Trends.com, the official website of Trends Publication Group, is renowned for its leading role in promoting quality lifestyle. After online voting, editor's pick and comments received from a senior panel of experts, the results were released in March 2010.

"As one of the most comprehensive sports facilities available in Beijing, Kerry Sports has always kept a high standard, from facilities to services. We never compromise our endeavour to deliver 'Sports the Difference' to our members and guests." said Teddy Schrijvers, the manager of Kerry Sports.

Kerry Sports has become known as the mecca of sports and fitness in Beijing. Fully-equipped gymnasium, huge 35-meter indoor swimming pool with a separate children's wading pool; spacious locker and changing rooms, 2 indoor tennis courts, 4 badminton courts, basketball court, and squash court; pool/billiards, snooker, and tables tennis. In addition, there are plenty of activities for everyone, of all ages. Wide variety of daily classes from Step to Latino Dance to Tai Chi, children's fitness, and private coaching and group clinics.

Shangri-La's Kerry Centre Hotel, Beijing has received various accolades, including all the categories of "Hurun Presidential Awards" in 2009, Zagat Survey's "Top 10 Most Popular Hotels" in Beijing in 2008 and Travel + Leisure China magazine's "China's Top Hotels 2007" award. It also received the Hewitt Associates' awards as "Best Employer in Asia 2007" and "Best Employer in China 2007".

Located within the central business district and just 30 minutes from the international airport, the hotel provides easy access to the commercial, shopping and historical sightseeing spots of metropolitan Beijing, including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, the Heavenly Temple, the Lama Temple, Ritan Park, the Pearl Market, the Silk Market and the Friendship Store.

Hong Kong-based Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts currently owns and/or manages 66 hotels under the Shangri-La and Traders brands with a rooms inventory of over 30,000. Shangri-La hotels are five-star deluxe properties featuring extensive luxury facilities and services. Shangri-La hotels are located in Australia, Canada, mainland China, Fiji, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Maldives, Philippines, Singapore, Sultanate of Oman, Taiwan, Thailand and the United Arab Emirates. The group has over 40 projects under development in Austria, Canada, mainland China, France, India, Macau, Malaysia, Philippines, Russia, Qatar, Seychelles and United Kingdom. For more information or reservations, please contact a travel professional or access the website at www.shangri-la.com. For digitised pictures of the group's hotels, please go to http://www.shangri-la.com/imagelibrary.

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Sue Meng Chan
  Director of Communications
  Shangri-La's Kerry Centre Hotel, Beijing
  Tel: (86 10) 6561 8833 ext. 6666
  Fax: (86 10) 8529 6272
  E-mail: suemeng.chan@shangri-la.com

The theme of this summit is to discuss strategies in developing the best business model and new business partnership in delivering mobile financial services to the mass market.

Highly-regarded speakers representing the mobile operators, banks, mobile transfer networks, mWallets and "interoperability hubs", handset manufacturers, technology and equipment providers will share their latest efforts in launching m-commerce services and the key challenges facing them at this summit.

Mr Paolo Baltao, G-Xchange, Inc.'s Product Group and International Remittance & Banking Business Development Head of Globe Telecom, Philippines, Mr Delwar Hossain Azad, Head, Financial Services of Grameenphone, Bangladesh and Anthony Perkins, Head of Technology of WING, Cambodia will be sharing their success stories in launching Mobile Remittance/Mobile Money Transfer & Microfinance Services at this M-Commerce World Summit 2010.

Companies/organisations representing the M-Commerce Ecosystems will be speaking at this conference: Mohamed A Kazi, Channel Head-Mobile Banking, Absa Bank, South Africa; Paradorn Wichayapinyo, Marketing Manager, Advanced mPAY, Thailand; Nitin Chittal, Vice President, Retail Banking-Alternate Channels, Axis Bank, India; Frédéric Schepens, Executive Vice President, Strategic Business Development, Belgacom ICS, Belgium; Mohammad Jakirul Islam, Project Coordinator mCommerce, Citycell, Bangladesh; Thivanka Rangala, Group Chief Commercial Officer, Dialog Telekom PLC, Sri Lanka; Paolo Baltao, G-Xchange, Inc.'s Product; Group and International Remittance & Banking Business Development Head, Globe Telecom, Philippines; Delwar Hossain Azad, Head, Financial Services, Grameenphone, Bangladesh; Michael Becker, VP Mobile Strategies, iLoop Mobile, USA; Silvester Prakasam, Director (Fare Systems), Land Transport Authority, Singapore; Andrew Parker, Business Development Manager, M.Com, New Zealand; Anthony Panal Petalcorin, Senior MIS Manager, Microenterprise Access to Banking Services / Regional Manager, Mindanao, Philippines; Kate Zilla-Bâ, COO, Mondato, USA;Bharat Bhatia, Regional Director, India, SAARC and South East Asia, Motorola,India; Chakaprani GK, Director – Emerging Markets, Nokia Financial Services, Nokia, India; Matthew Talbot, Vice-President, mCommerce, Sybase 365, Singapore; Louie Stojanovski, Director of Regional Operations, Asia Pacific, Messaging LOB, Syniverse Technologies, Inc., Australia; Dan Armstrong, Managing Consultant, Takashi Mobile / Co-Founder, Rabo Mobiel B.V., The Netherlands; Arief Hamdani Gunawan, Senior Officer-Regulatory Management, Telkom Indonesia, Indonesia; Lalit Sinha, Deputy General Manager, DIT, Union Bank of India, India; Thor Hauge, Vice President, Digital Ventures, Western Union; Anthony Perkins, Head of Technology, WING, Cambodia.

There will be a pre-conference workshop on 16 March 2010 on "Mobile Marketing", Advertising and Commerce Workshop: Tools for Navigating the Industry Ecosystem – A Hands-On and In-Depth Study of Mobile Marketing Best Practices, Industry Ecosystem Structure, Players and Business Models' to be led by: Michael Becker, VP Mobile Strategies, iLoop Mobile, USA and a post-conference workshop on "How to Build and Calculate A Successful Business Case for Mobile Banking?" to be led by: Andrew Parker, Business Development Manager, M.Com, New Zealand.

The summit website is : http://www.symphonyglobal.com/index.php/event/page/m-commerce.

About Symphony Global
Symphony Global is a business media and consulting company that aims to provide the best networking platforms for global business connections.

All our events are research-driven with direct contacts with major industry stakeholders to ensure that they meet their needs and keep up to the industry trends and developments. SG Conferences offer you an unrivalled opportunity to network with your peers within your areas of business and ultimately develop the best business partnership for future business expansion. Our workshops and masterclasses provide an informative and interactive forum for developing latest techniques and skills.

Take advantage of SG services and products to keep up-to-date with the latest developments within your industry.

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Contact:
  Phyllis Goh, senior conference manager
  Symphony Global Pte Ltd
  65-6221 8119
  Email: Phyllis.goh@symphonyglobal.com
  http://www.symphonyglobal.com

ISO 22000 refers to the internationally recognised standard for food safety management systems and quality food safety principles for organisations operating within the food supply chain. HACCP employs internationally recognised standard principles for food safety risk analysis as well as the identification, evaluation and control of hazards considered significant for food safety. For hotel kitchens, these principles involve an entire range of activities, from food purchasing to storage and food preparation while also requiring extensive staff training and coordination from other hotel departments such as engineering and food and beverage service operations.

"The issue of food safety has been making headlines around the world with increasing frequency. Therefore, it is becoming imperative for organisations such as China World Hotel to prioritise food safety for our hotel guests and employees. With previous HACCP certification, China World Hotel moved one step closer to achieving internationally recognised principles for food safety. Now, with ISO 22000-certification for the entire kitchen team, China World Hotel fully demonstrates its ongoing commitment in giving priority to the safety of hotel guests and employees", said John Rice, general manager of China World Hotel, Beijing.

As part of the Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts group, China World Hotel, Beijing is compliant with the group's food safety management requirements, with its entire kitchen team having successfully completed training and certification through the Shangri-La Food Safety Management System.

The international founding members of the Codex Alimentarius Commission first pioneered the principles and processes for food safety hazard analysis. The commission eventually developed the principles for HACCP, which currently form the foundation of all global food safety standards. Moody International, a leading global supplier of management system certification, technical and inspection services, product certification and technical training, was one of the first organisations to take these principles and develop a formal globally recognised certification standard.

Hailed as one of the first three hotels in mainland China to be awarded with a Platinum Five Star rating by the China National Tourism Administration (CNTA), China World Hotel, Beijing was also named by both Conde Nast Traveller and Travel + Leisure on its lists as one of the world's best hotels, making it the leading address for discerning travellers visiting China's capital city. The award-winning hotel, with its highly acclaimed restaurants, soars over the China World Trade Centre complex, including the China World Exhibition Centre and shopping mall, in the heart of Beijing's diplomatic and business district.

Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, Asia Pacific's leading luxury hotel group, signed a corporate social responsibility (CSR) policy into effect in 2007 and launched a two year development strategy to enhance its existing CSR activities. A corporate CSR committee, spearheaded by the group's chief operating officer, guides fulfilment of the group's responsibilities in the five key areas of the environment, employees and the community, health and safety, supply chain management and stakeholder relations. For more information, please access the CSR section on the group's website at www.shangri-la.com.

Hong Kong-based Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts currently owns and/or manages 65 hotels under the Shangri-La and Traders brands with a rooms inventory of over 28,000. Shangri-La hotels are five-star deluxe properties featuring extensive luxury facilities and services. Shangri-La hotels are located in Australia, Canada, mainland China, Fiji, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Maldives, Philippines, Singapore, Sultanate of Oman, Taiwan, Thailand and the United Arab Emirates. The group has over 40 projects under development in Austria, Canada, mainland China, France, India, Macau, Philippines, Qatar, Seychelles, United Kingdom and the United States. For more information or reservations, please contact a travel professional or access the website at www.shangri-la.com.

CONTACT INFORMATION

• PRESS CONTACT:
  Diane Fermin (Director of Communications)
  China World Hotel, Beijing
  Tel: (86-10) 6505-2266
  Fax: (86-10) 6505-3165
  Email: diane.fermin@shangri-la.com
  Website: www.shangri-la.com

Beijing, China (November 09, 2009) /ChinaNewswire.com/ — On the 5 November 2009 the Westin Beijing Financial Street once again hosted its annual 'HATS OFF' culinary event to rave reviews. A spectacular evening that left guests in awe of an amazing culinary experience, the 2009 'HATS OFF' event saw four internationally renowned award-winning chefs exhibit their talents in a one time only exquisite eight course menu at The Westin Beijing Financial Street. "I have been to many food and beverage events this year, but 'hats off' by Westin Financial Street has taken the dining experience to another level" says one food connoisseur.

The Treasury Ballroom became a beautiful backdrop to the four international culinary heavy weights: two star Michelin Chef Alvin Leung one of the most creative chefs in Asia, 2010 Australian Chef of The Year Mark Best, Peter Kuruvita – awarded one hat by the prestigious Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide and The Westin Beijing Financial Street's very own award winning Canadian Chef, Stephane Tremblay.  

Renowned for his unique 'X-treme Chinese' cuisine, Alvin Leung takes traditional Chinese recipes and blends modern ingredients and cooking techniques. His restaurant Bo Innovation in Hong Kong is the only independent restaurant to win two Michelin Stars by the coveted Michelin guide.

Currently the most buzzed about chef and restaurant in Sydney Australia Mark Best most recently won Chef of The Year at the 2010 Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide Awards. His restaurant Marque was awarded three hats by the prestigious Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide in 2009 and 2010, Restaurant of the Year 2009 by Timeout Sydney and most recently ranked number two in the Gourmet Traveller's 2010 Top 100 Restaurant Awards.

Peter Kuruvita gained much of his culinary style and passion during his childhood from watching his grandmother prepare ancient family recipes. His impressive restaurant Flying Fish in Sydney Australia was awarded one hat by the 2010 Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide Awards for its culinary creativity and idyllic ambience. Peter has graced prestigious restaurants in London, USA, Fiji, Lord Howe, Hayman Islands, and Bali.

Executive Chef Stephane Tremblay of The Westin Beijing Financial Street gained his extensive culinary experience from prestigious five star hotels in France, Canada, Thailand, Vietnam and China.

Westin Hotels & Resorts, with 122 hotels and resorts in 30 countries and territories, is owned by Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. and was voted the number one upper-upscale hotel brand for three years in Business Travel News' "Annual U.S. Hotel Chain Survey".

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with approximately 950 properties in more than 95 countries and 145,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. Starwood® Hotels is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels and resorts with the following internationally renowned brands: St. Regis®, The Luxury Collection®, Sheraton®, Westin®, Four Points® by Sheraton, W®, Le Méridien® and the recently announced aloftSM and ELEMENTSM Hotels. Starwood Hotels also owns Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., one of the premier developers and operators of high quality vacation interval ownership resorts. For more information, please visit www.starwoodhotels.com.

• Media Contact:
  Alethea Lam
  Director of Marketing Communications
  Vivian Yu
  Marketing Communications Manager
  Tel: (86) 10 6606 8866
  Fax: (86) 10 6606 7525
  Email: alethea.lam@westin.com
  vivian.yu@westin.com

Shanghai, China (November 02, 2009) /ChinaNewswire.com/ — Accor, the most dynamic international hotel group in China, proudly announced today the opening of its first hotel in Taiwan, the new Novotel Taipei Taoyuan International Airport. As economic collaborations between Mainland and Taiwan continue to strengthen, this newest property is well set to cater to Taiwan's fast growing business travel and leisure tourist market. Furthermore, the launch of the new hotel is strategically important for the group's development in the Greater China region where Accor has now established a presence in all major regions including the Mainland, Hong Kong, Macau and now Taiwan.

Located at Taiwan's busiest international airport, Novotel Taipei Taoyuan International Airport is accessible in a few minutes from the terminal building.

Designed for Natural Living, the 360-room Novotel Taipei Taoyuan International Airport is designed to deliver a restful stay and a comfortable work environment. All guests have free access to wifi in public areas, and rooms are equipped with LCD flat screens with an extensive international selection of TV channels. Innovative design elements are featured in all aspects of the room as well as relaxing 'rain' showers and anti-mist mirrors, dedicated flexible workspaces with high-speed an in-room safe large enough for a laptop and 24-hour room service. Guests staying on the Executive Premier Floor can access the exclusive executive lounge which offers a host of additional benefits.

Golf fanatics will be pleased to know that the hotel is close to Meilihua Miramar Golf resort. The hotel provides a complimentary shuttle bus to Taoyuan City, home to many important industrial parks, just 15 minutes away.

Downtown Taipei with its myriad of attractions such as the National Palace Museum, the National Fine Arts Museum and Taipei 101, the world's tallest skyscraper, is just 25 miles away, and the hotel enjoys convenient transportation links from the airport. Taipei, with its fun night markets, quiet temples and busy parks, is one of the region's most dynamic and comfortable cities which, just like Novotel Taipei Taoyuan International Airport, strikes a balance between business and leisure.

All guests can stay connected with the hotel's "Web Corner on a Mac," a comfortable space outfitted with user-friendly Apple iMacs and a full service business centre is available. For conferences or meetings, the hotel offers a 488-sqm pillar-free Grand Ballroom and five additional meeting rooms flooded with natural light with one-touch control panels for lighting, sound and multi-media equipment.

The hotel breaks down the walls that separate business and leisure travel so that guests can find the right balance between work and play. Alongside state-of-the-art meeting facilities and the latest technology, Novotel's innovative leisure services such as the 'In Balance' fitness gym filled with the latest exercise equipment, a steam room, sauna and an indoor swimming pool providing guests spaces to unwind and work out.

The Square is the Novotel brand's flagship food and beverage offering in Asia, with its cutting edge design and versatility moving well beyond the traditional hotel coffee shop. The Square updates the dining experience, making guests active participants, as their food is cooked-to-order as they move through different restaurant stations. Exotic specialties from Asia are served along side great European dishes, together with new world favorites from the Americas and Australia. This alongside Novotel's trademark exceptional service will make for an unforgettable dining experience for our guests.

As well as The Square, the hotel has a Chinese restaurant THE WEI with private dining rooms and two bars Q Bar in the lobby and O2 Bar by the swimming pool.

"The opening of our first hotel in Taiwan illustrates the strategic importance we attach to the Greater China region. Both the Mainland and Taiwan are strengthening cooperation to boost tourism development, thus more and more Chinese tourists will travel to Taiwan. With 25 years of experience in mainland China, we have accumulated enriched experience to benefit Accor hotels development in the Taiwan market." said Mr. Robert Murray, Senior Vice President of Accor Greater China.

Novotel Taipei Taoyuan International Airport is now offering an opening rate of RMB 637+10% for standard room, from now on to 31 December 2009. For bookings, please contact our reservation hotline 400-818-2688 (mainland China) or 800-938-768 (Hong Kong), or go to www.novotel.com or www.accorhotels/asia.com.

Accor, the European leader and a major global group in hotels as well as the global leader in services to corporate clients and public institutions, operates in nearly 100 countries with 150,000 employees. It offers to its clients over 40 years of expertise in its two core businesses: Hotels, with the Sofitel, Pullman, Novotel, Mercure, Suitehotel, Ibis, All Seasons, Etap Hotel, Formule 1 and Motel 6 brands, representing 4,000 hotels and nearly 500,000 rooms in 90 countries, as well as strategically related activities, such as Lenotre; Services, with 30 million people in nearly 40 countries benefiting from Accor Services products in employee and public benefits, rewards and loyalty, and expense management.

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Diane Liu
  Marketing Manager-Novotel Taipei Taoyuan International Airport
  Tel: +886 (3) 398 0888 ext 3301
  Email: H6701-MK@accor.com

  Mabel Liu
  Communications Director-Accor Greater China
  Tel: +86 21 61199833
  Email: Mabel.Liu@accor.com

  Vivian Bai
  Communications Manager-Accor Greater China
  Tel: +86 21 61199839
  Email: Vivian.Bai@accor.com

With its theme of "An Evening of Glam!", the evening will offer full bar from 7pm to 4am; champagne reception; 4-course dinner, entertainment from Australia's top corporate band playing Glam and 1970s hits; late-night disco; Survivors' Breakfast from 2am-4am; raffle prizes including business class air tickets and holiday packages; plus the chance to bid on fantastic silent auction items including a signed Lang Lang Steinway piano.

Tickets are being sold for RMB980. Additionally, a special room rate at the Kerry Centre Hotel is available for guests of the British Charity Ball 2009.

Gold Sponsors include LehmanBrown, The British School of Beijing, BP, Kerry Centre Hotel, and Turkish Airlines. Silver Sponsors include Standard Chartered Bank, The Westin Beijing Chaoyang. Media Sponsors are TimeOut Beijing and BDL Media.

For further information about booking a special room rate, please contact Michelle Wen, Kerry Centre Hotel, 6561 8833, or email britishball@gmail.com for ticket information.