US Edition When travelling for business over 2016, from old favourite destinations to emerging hot spots, these tips should help you to get the most out of your stay.
Singapore
Named one of the top cities for 2016 business travel by the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA)1, and topping the Grant Thornton Global Dynamism Index for Business Growth in 2015, it is clear that plenty of people will be taking a trip to Singapore for business this year.2
Before you go, familiarise yourself with the city by following @TimeOutSG on Twitter for upcoming events, and Associated Press photojournalist Wong May-E on Instagram to get a feel for the area.
“When doing business in Singapore, punctuality is essential for business appointments. It is considered an insult to leave a Singaporean business executive waiting,” says Gayle Cotton, whose cultural clues blog GayleCotton.com contains tips for doing business abroad.
Vietnam
Paul East, chief operating officer for the UK, Europe & Americas at business travel experts Wings Travel Management, picks Vietnam as his top emerging business destination.
“The economy is growing at seven per cent per annum and there is a host of commercial opportunities opening up,” he says.
He recommends the new service offered by Vietnam Airlines. “It is investing heavily in new aircraft and we have seen the introduction of the B787 on its London routes,” he says. “On the ground the hotel properties in Vietnam are also exceptional.”
Vietnam is also an increasingly popular tourist destination, so visitors are advised not to miss out on the delights of Hanoi and the nearby beautiful Halong Bay.
Colombia
The GBTA names Colombia as a top 2016 destination, citing its “rapidly growing middle class and relatively stable economy” as reasons for increasing interest.3 The most recent Overseas Business Risk report from the UK Government points out that Colombia hopes to receive full OECD membership by 2018.
“Prospects look good since the government is committed to reforming to build a better economic environment,” the report states, adding that the country should have an estimated annual GDP growth within the range of 1 to 2 per cent as a result.”4
“Inland Colombians are probably the most formal and traditional of Latin Americans. Only along the coast is a more relaxed attitude the norm,” says cultural expert Gayle Cotton on her blog.
“Colombians typically ask numerous polite questions and go through other pleasantries. Expect inquiries as to your health, your trip, your family, and any friends or acquaintances you have in common. It is considered callous and disrespectful to rush a greeting.”
Mexico
With the Global Business Travel Association choosing to host its own conference in Mexico City in April, it is no wonder it also names the country as a travel hot spot. And David Chapple, director at the Business Travel Show, names it as one of the popular MINT countries (Mexico, Indonesia, Nigeria and Turkey) for business trips at present.
The security situation in Mexico City has improved greatly, with no security alerts issued by the US government, but business travellers are still warned to ensure they blend in.
The US government says citizens should avoid casinos and other gambling and adult entertainment establishments.
India
Another top pick from the GBTA, India’s business sector has grown considerably in the past 15 years, propelling the country from 24th in the global rankings in 2000 to tenth in 2013. This is expected to continue, and PricewaterhouseCoopers says that the economy will nearly have drawn level with the United States by 2050.
While language isn’t a barrier when doing business in India, business travellers should be aware of different cultural norms. Christa Danisewicz, blogging at medical assistance experts On Call, warns travellers to be aware of Indian formality.
“India is a very hierarchical society,” she says. “Professional titles (such as Doctor, Professor) or formal titles (Mr, Mrs) are appreciated; or, if you don’t know someone’s title, Sir or Madam will suffice. Wait to be invited before using someone’s first name.”
• Travelling abroad on business this year and plan to do some work while away? Vodafone Roaming is just what you need