Creativity and originality were the keys to The Peninsula winning the 1998 Hong Kong Award for Services: Tourism Services.
'It is evident that The Peninsula's service track record is among the best in Hong Kong, if not the world,' said the Hong Kong Tourist Association (HKTA), which judged the category.
'To distinguish itself from other top hotels, its initiative in establishing The Peninsula Academy was most impressive.' It was the creation of a product that presents both Hong Kong and Chinese culture that most impressed the HKTA.
A spokesman said: 'It is interesting to see one of the oldest images of Hong Kong creating a new Hong Kong image without losing its traditional characteristics. As The Peninsula Academy is uniquely Hong Kong, the publicity it generates overseas has a significant impact on our tourism industry. It makes a very positive impression,' he said.
By embarking on the initiative during a slump in the local tourism industry, the judges congratulated The Peninsula for demonstrating 'leadership in its field'.
'It can be considered an inspiration for other organisations in attracting overseas visitors,' the spokesman said.
