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Published on January 18, 2008

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) was also voted one of the best National Tourism Operators for providing support services for conventions and tourism.

HKTB chairman, James Tien, said Hong Kong would continue to develop its MICE facilities in 2008. More resources will be allocated to develop the corporate event industry, particularly in markets with high potential such as China and India.

Tien said HKTB would continue to work closely with the government and travel trade to strengthen Hong Kong's appeal as a hub for conferences and exhibitions.  

 

Castle expands

The Castle Group on Tuesday said its subsidiary, Hawaii-based management company Castle Resorts & Hotels, had expanded into Thailand with two new luxury resorts, Katamanda on Phuket and Baan Taling Ngam Resort & Spa on Koh Samui.

The additions bring Castle Resorts & Hotels' inventory count up to 26 properties throughout Hawaii, Micronesia, New Zealand and Thailand.

"Entering Thailand is an exciting new development of our company's strategic expansion into Southeast Asia," said Alan Mattson, president and chief operating officer of Castle Resorts & Hotels.

"The completion of these two management agreements in Thailand tops an incredibly successful year of growth for us. We plan to continue expanding our global presence in 2008," he said.

In the past year, the company has acquired a number of management contracts including Maile Sky Court, Queen Kapiolani Hotel and Ocean Resort Hotel Waikiki on Oahu, and the Hotel Santa Fe in Guam.

The Nation