Last weekend I took the opportunity to escape the cold in Beijing and spent a weekend in the balmy environs of Sanya, on China’s Hainan island. Having been to Hainan several times over the past years, I am fascinated by the island’s development and its role in China’s opening to the world.  Many in Ireland may have heard of Hainan Airlines, the carrier that was operating a direct flight between Ireland and Beijing (which has been suspended during the winter season). Hainan Airlines’ parent HNA Group has become a global powerhouse, and even acquired the Irish aircraft leasing company Avolon…