Lions' Hong Kong roar

More than 20,000 Lions Clubs members, their families and friends from over 100 countries and regions gathered in Hong Kong between June 27 and July 1 to attend the 88th Lions Clubs International Convention, one of the biggest events of its kind held in Hong Kong this year. This was the second time this global philanthropic organisation staged its annual convention in Hong Kong; the first was in 1992. The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), who hosted this mega event, welcomed the Lions Clubs and stressed that the return of this international convention to an Asian city after an unusually short time span of just 13 years, was a reaffirmation of Hong Kong's position as a leading convention and exhibition destination. Joseph Wroblewski, chairman of the convention committee of the Lions Clubs, hailed Hong Kong for its high-quality offering. "Feedback from many of the delegates was very good regarding the services of the hotels and convention centre," he said. "I'm very impressed by Hong Kong's excellent facilities. Staff are well trained and of high quality." Aliana Ho, general manager, tourism marketing of HKTB, said: "We feel very honoured being the host of this year's Lions Clubs International Convention. There's a lot of effort for us in running this event given its huge scale. We had to fully utilise all the venues and maximise our capacities." Ever since Hong Kong won the bid six years ago, HKTB has been working closely with government officials, travel industry partners and the host committee to ensure the success of this year's convention. Cathay Pacific Airways offered special fares for delegates attending the convention and 26 hotels offered discounted accommodation packages. Sightseeing tours to major attractions in Hong Kong had also been arranged. Transportation between all official hotels and the key venues were linked by a convention shuttle service. The highlight of this year's convention was the international parade starting from Wan Chai to Tamar Site in Admiralty during the evening rush hour. The police blocked some roads and set up special traffic arrangements to make way for the parade. Delegates from all over the world dressed in their national costumes and paraded through some of Hong Kong's busiest streets in the sweltering summer heat. The major convention events and award ceremonies were held in the Hong Kong Coliseum and Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC).