ENG-2008 — Page 359

Travel and Tourism | 291

In 2008, Hong Kong played host to more than 300 MICE events, which brought about one million visitors to the city. Major MICE events held in 2008 included the World Ophthalmology Congress 2008, the InfoComm Asia 2008, 2008 World Credit Union Conference, Clinton Global Initiative Asia Meeting, the Orient and South East Asia Lions Forum 2008. Several of these were held in Asia for the first time.

In his 2008-09 Budget, the Financial Secretary earmarked $150 million to provide one-stop services for organisers of MICE events and to step up overseas promotion of Hong Kong as a preferred MICE destination. In November, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) set up a 'Meetings and Exhibitions Hong Kong' office. to promote MICE.

Cruise Tourism

The Government is also pressing ahead with developing Hong Kong as a major regional cruise hub. It will finance the building of a cruise terminal at the former Kai Tak airport, which will be leased to an operator on completion. The first berth is expected to commence operation in mid-2013. The Government also set up an 'Advisory Committee on Cruise Industry' in January for major stakeholders to formulate strategies for developing cruise tourism in Hong Kong and the region.

Cultural Tourism

A pilot scheme, established last year to enhance the promotion of cultural tourism in Hong Kong, is working well. Response from arts groups and the tourism industry is encouraging.

The scheme was drawn up by the Tourism Commission in collaboration with the HKTB, local performing arts groups, travel agents and hoteliers.

In addition, the HKTB's website was revamped to strengthen the industry's promotional efforts at home and abroad and to render greater assistance to those wishing to attend arts and cultural events in Hong Kong.

Wine and Dine

Hong Kong abolished duties on wine imports during the year, the first major economy to do so. Hong Kong's reputation as a preferred place for gourmets and food lovers was given a big lift in December by the publishers of the Michelin Guide, commonly called 'the international food bible', which featured the city's culinary skills and attractions. Equally significant, it was published in Chinese and English Michelin's first bilingual guide.

-

Tourism Infrastructure, Facilities and Products

Hong Kong offers a wide range of attractions to its visitors. There is something for everyone

the sightseer, the food lover, the shopper, the family, the businessman, the leisurely traveller, the young and the old.

One of the more popular spots for sightseers is The Peak, which provides a panoramic view of Hong Kong Island, the Kowloon peninsula and the magnificent.