Save the date and attend the 9th China Hotel Investment Conference (CHIC) 2013 from 17-19 April 2013 at the Grand Hyatt in Shanghai. Organised by HVS, the world's leading hospitality consultancy firm, CHIC 2013 is themed "Vision and Strategy for Success in a Changing World". The focus will be on insights and strategies to generate the highest returns and market value for your hotel development and investment portfolios in a competitive and changing market environment.

CHIC has established its reputation as the most influential hotel investment conference in China by delivering a wealth of timely market insights that facilitate corporate strategies and growth in the world's second largest economy. CHIC has attracted over 4,300 CEOs and decision makers, and the 2012 event saw a record turnout of 860 CEOs and leaders of the hotel and tourism industry from over 20 countries.

The 9th edition of CHIC will include two full days of plenary and breakout sessions and networking opportunities, such as an expanded workshop series which will cover topics such as Revenue Management, Design and Technical Services and a worldwide investment showcase. CHIC 2013 will also feature a new segment that will allow personalised one-on-one project consultations. If you are seeking investment for a development, CHIC 2013 may be able to help you find partners. Click here to send brief details of your project and the CHIC organising committee will forward it to CHIC delegates who have identified themselves as investors.

Hear from distinguished speakers including Mark Hoplamazian - President and CEO of Hyatt Hotels Corporation, Xu Ming - President of Interstate China, William M. Scott - Executive Vice President Corporate Strategy Special Counsel of MGM Resorts International and Tommy Lai - Vice President, Development of Onyx Hospitality Group, and other leaders from the sector sharing their insights.

Click here to register for the Early Bird Rate (available until 22 February 2013). For more information, please visit www.chinahotelconference.com.

Attapeu, the southernmost province of Laos, will get a new regional airport by 2014 and is expected to open up the province to more travellers. The planned airport, which will cost an estimated US$46 million to build, will be able to accommodate short-haul regional aircraft in its first phase. Currently, tourists visiting Attapeu have to fly to Pakse International Airport, 200 kilometres northwest of Attapeu, before continuing their journey by bus or car. The Huaphan province is also in talks to develop a regional airport in the district of Viengxay, which would help to boost tourism in this region. Currently, Viengxay is only accessible by a two day bus trip from Vientiane.