Integrated activities

1. IRs have great marketing power as shown by the development of Las Vegas. Watch this video (www.youtube.com/watch?v=QL7kvyrBRhE) and discuss the various aspects of marketing power particularly with regards to the many variations of products and service mix that can be put together.
2. From the article “Integrated Resorts” in Asian Hotel & Catering Times 56 (July/August 2017) pp 10-12 there is the comment that each integrated resort model must be considered in the environment that it will be built – what issues should be considered?
3. Also mentioned in the article, is the issue of destination image (the article shows the iconic Marina Bay Sands property in Singapore). In what ways can IR development be part of tourism strategy and be a key factor in shifting tourism destination image?
4. Destinations may wish to have IR development but a critical factor will be investor interest. Here are two media articles on the issue www.reuters.com/article/us-spain-eurovegas-idUSBRE9BC0AQ20131213 (Las Vegas Sands abandons Madrid mega-casino project) and www.ggrasia.com/busan-casino-resort-idea-debated-at-international-forum/ (Busan casino resort idea debated at international forum). What factors will make the location more appealing for investors and at the same time be acceptable measures for authorities?
5. Reflecting on traditional hospitality training and skills, what key issues will differ (from operations to finance) and also which issues remain core no matter whether an integrated resort or a small hotel property?