Hong Kong boost as show space, hotels join Disney

The centrepiece of Hong Kong Disneyland's official opening ceremony on September 12 was a traditional Lion Dance. The Lions were 'brought to life' when their eyes were dotted with brushes and red ink by Disney executives and political leaders including Michael Eisner, Walt Disney CEO, Zeng Qinghong, Chinese vicepresident, and Hong Kong chief executive Donald Tsang. "The arrival of the world's most widely recognised and bestloved theme park in Hong Kong will allow us to provide visitors from all over the region with a funfilled and diversified experience," said Tsang. Disneyland Hong Kong consists of the theme park and two hotels; Hong Kong isneyland Hotel (400 guestrooms) and Disney's Hollywood Hotel (600 guestrooms). The Hong Kong government estimates the project will generate US$19 billion over the next 40 years. Landmark Mandarin Oriental opened on August 24 in central Hong Kong just one block away from the International Finance Centre (IFC). It has 113 rooms and suites. A highlight is the Oriental Spa, with its 115 treatment rooms and wide range of treatments. "Our team have been trained in the finest traditions of Chinese, European, Balinese and Thai cultures," said general manager Susan Hatje. The largest meeting space will hold 112 banquet style. The keenly anticipated Four Seasons Hong Kong opened on September 8. With 399 guest rooms, including 54 suites, it is one of the city's premier properties. In the same building is Four Seasons Place, which offers 547 serviced apartments and numerous meetings facilities. The Grand Ballroom can hold 800 for receptions. Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) has been given the go-ahead for a major expansion, creating 40 per cent more space The project will add 19,400 sqm to three halls, enabling the HKCEC to accommodate a total of 1,000 extra booths. Hong Kong's newest exhibition facility, Asia-World Expo, is due to open its doors for business on December 21.