By most measures, the self-styled “Chinese Riviera” on Hainan Island has a long way to go before catching up to Cannes, St. Tropez or Nice.

But the organizers of Hainan Rendez-Vous at the island’s Sanya resort did their part to boost the area’s image this past weekend, hosting an extravaganza of private jets, vintage and top-end autos, luxury properties and giant yachts.

The first edition of the Hainan Rendez-Vous attracted last week end over 5,600 visitors during the three-day event which featured more than 150 exhibitors.

Over 180 VVIPs were flown in on some of the world’s top jet brands from Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Xiamen, Chengdu, Hong Kong and Taipei on the first day of the exhibition.

Visitors were wined and dined at a gala supper hosted by watch maker Chopard.

They also browsed exhibits from private jet makers including Gulfstream and Bombardier, yacht builders such as Sunseeker and Ferretti, and a host of other luxury brands including Ferrari, Lamborghini and Christofle.

With 5,600 wealthy guests in attendance, the organizers said that visitor numbers were 25% higher than pre-event estimates.

The event proved to be the right answer to the needs of the fast-growing China market and the new lifestyle aspirations of the country’s high net worth individuals.

Delphine Lignieres, Managing Director of China Rendez-Vous, said: “I am pleased to see the fantastic feedback from visitors and exhibitors alike, especially the strong sales performance of the yacht and aircraft manufacturers.

The Hainan Rendez-Vous is playing a significant role in further strengthening Hainan Island’s claims to be a global international luxury destination in the region.

The show clearly has a bright future ahead and we are looking forward to lots of amazing developments next year.”

http://hainanrendezvous.com/