World Routes underway today

Delegates at World Routes 2009 have received a warm welcome to Beijing, with the main programme scheduled to begin from midday today (Sunday September 13) at the New China International Exhibition Centre.

So far delegates have enjoyed tours of the Great Wall - a must-see for any visitor to Beijing - after which attendees quenched their thirsts at the Saturday Reception hosted by Scotland at the Westin Hotel.

This morning, energetic delegates have made their way to a morning of Dragon Boat Racing at the Shunyi Olympic Rowing Park, while exhibitors are making final touches to their stands. The Hosted Networking Stands in particular will be a hive of activity later today, with exhibitors really pulling out all the stops, offering delegates a wide range of activities and chances to win great prizes.

While World Routes always features a range of great entertainment and social networking opportunities, its significance as an important business event continues to grow. This year, there will also be extended 50 minute meetings for airports and airlines that require more comprehensive discussions, while for the first time a number of airlines have their own meeting chalets so that they can conduct more thorough and confidential meetings.

Plus, the Tourism and Air Services Summit (TAS) takes place this afternoon, which highlights the interdependence of air services and tourism development. The Routes News team will be there and will bring you all the highlights from the discussions.

Lucy Siebert, Routes News