From March 24th to the 27th, I and a group of other eleven students including sophomores, juniors, and seniors had the opportunity to be part of The 2009 China Hotel Development and Financing Conference which aims to be the leading industry forum to analyze and discuss the latest trends for the hotel industry in China.

The China Hotel Development and Financing Conference took place at the luxury Shangri-La Hotel in Beijing. Our FIU team was cooperating in the registration process, information, and general assistance of the guests.

Our journey began on Tuesday the 24th. Just thirty minutes away from Beijing, where the Conference took place, we departed at 11am from the school taking the fast train to Beijing. As soon as we got there we checked in into the Sleepy Inn Motel, just north from the center of the city, a small but comfortable accommodation. The same afternoon we headed to the Shangri-La Hotel to arrange everything we needed for our work the next morning and get familiar with the place we were going to be working at. Finally, we finish our day with a sunset walk by the city.

The next couple of days were of intensive work which was really worth it due the case that our team had the opportunity to meet and interact with leaders of our industry. In addition, many of us had the opportunity to help and listen many of the lectures given by our guests.

With no questions, this was an one of a kind opportunity were we could gain work experience, network with leaders in our industry, gain professional knowledge, and have a great and fun time.

By Jhonatan Oscar Cano Aliaga

2009-04-30