It’s not easy for old school DC Comics fans to set aside memories of ‘Batman to the Rescue’ when considering the digital flight-simulation experience available to delegates when Studio City opens in Macau. Hence the caped crusader on our cover as a nod to the way Macau is nudging its own Gotham City towards the status of a family friendly resort destination with wider leisure choices beyond the gaming tables.
The US convention capital of Las Vegas, where non-gaming entertainment makes up two-thirds of casino revenue, is seen as a model that Macau can emulate. Though non-gaming entertainment accounts for less than 10 per cent of Macau’s total casino revenue, there is strong potential to diversify. Before he retired as Marriott’s Asia-Pacific president, Simon Cooper told BBC World that he reckoned it would take 10 to 15 years for the share in Macau to be closer to 50-50. As JW Marriott and Ritz-Carlton opened at Galaxy Macau Phase II earlier this year, he said the brands were already seeing wealthy gaming clientele gradually being replaced by well-heeled Chinese consumers who don’t gamble. Even those with a deep interest in the spin of a roulette wheel or turn of a card see potential. Geoff Freeman, president of the American Gaming Association, sees it happening, but only if Macau follows its own path and not that of Singapore or Vegas.
For adventure far removed from resorts, we give two round ups and meet the man who assures nervous delegates as they dive from great heights. Jakarta is another city facing the challenges of change, while Bali endures with village life adding to group choices. In Beijing, Mark Graham reveals novel ways organisers can introduce groups to venues in the hutongs and unconventional transport they can use. But don’t count on it being a Batmobile.
Martin Donovan is editor of MIX
