Don't be sleeping when China awakes

I want you all to repeat after me: "Ni hao ma… ni hao ma… ni hao ma." Got that? Good. You are now able to say "Hello, how are you?" in Chinese - and if you can't think why that might be a valuable phrase to master, you'd better think again.
China boasts one of the world's fastest-growing economies, and burgeoning numbers of its estimated population of 1.3 billion are enjoying more spare time and greater disposable income.
Much of this new-found wealth will go on domestic tourism, and the likes of Shangri-La, Cendant, Marriott and Accor are already looking to grow their footprints in the Middle Kingdom as a consequence.
But increased Chinese affluence also offers opportunities for UK operators. The World Trade Organization estimates China will produce 100 million international travellers a year by 2020. Already, the country has overtaken Japan in terms of numbers of international travellers. In February the Chinese government granted the UK "approved destination status", meaning that it is now easier for these travellers to visit the UK. VisitLondon calculates that Chinese visitors to London tripled between 2000 and 2004, and predicts huge expansion in the coming years.
Current travel restrictions mean that, for the moment, Chinese touring parties are shepherded through largely London-centric itineraries. But things are changing fast, and other parts of the country - not least those where well-defined Chinese communities already exist - can expect to receive greater numbers of Chinese guests in future.
Smarter UK operators will now be taking steps to ensure they are well placed to capitalise upon the anticipated boom in incoming Chinese visitors. This could mean posting a Chinese-language version of your website; offering in-room access to Chinese television channels; translating menus; or training staff in basic Chinese language skills.
By investing in these or other initiatives, you stand every chance of stealing a march on your sleepier competitors.
In London, meanwhile, a shift in power has taken place within a hotel dynasty to match the Ming, Han or Tang. After 43 years at the helm of the Goring hotel, George Goring has handed the reins of power to his son, Jeremy. Speaking at his father's recent "dismounting" party, Jeremy revealed he had asked Goring Snr for a little speech-writing advice. What might he say, he asked George, to impress the gathered dignitaries?
"Tell them you won't change a thing," came the
swift reply.
Caterer wishes George a very happy retirement, and Jeremy a rewarding tenure at the family hotel.