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The Kuwait Minister of Information and Culture and the Chairman of Kuwait Airways discussed ways to enhance cooperation between Kuwait Airways and the Ministry by exchanging services related to the tourism sector.

They also reviewed the most crucial future projects between the two sides.

The Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs, Mr Abdulrahman Badah Al Mutairi, held discussions with Kuwait Airways Chairman, Captain Abdulmohsen Salem Al Fagaan, the Chief Executive Officer, Captain Ahmad M Alkreebani and a delegation from Kuwait Airways. The discussions mainly focused on the prominent efforts extended by the company and the services it provides to assist the tourism sector in Kuwait. During the meeting, the Minister also discussed ways for enhancing cooperation between Kuwait Airways and the Ministry through the exchange of services related to the tourism sector, additionally reviewing the most critical future projects between the two sides.

After the meeting, Al Fagaan highlighted in a press statement that Kuwait Airways continuously enjoys the full support and consideration from the Ministry of Information in all its activities and events, especially within and outside the State of Kuwait, making it an indispensable partner in Kuwait Airways accomplishments and contributing prominently to the achievement of its desired objectives. Al Fagaan stated, "Various aspects of cooperation between Kuwait Airways and the Ministry of Information and Culture were discussed in various areas, most notable among them the participation in the Gulf Cup Football accomplishments and contributing prominently to achieving its desired objectives. Al Fagaan stated, "Various aspects of cooperation between Kuwait Airways and the Ministry of Information and Culture were discussed in several vital areas, most notable among them the participation in the Gulf Cup Football Championship hosted by the State of Kuwait's participation in the Expo 2025 Osaka, Japan and to promote the wording of the 51 digital application uploading them on Kuwait Airways aircraft screens as part of the inflight entertainment programs."

Al-Fagaan appreciated the crucial role extended by the Ministry in supporting and advancing many sectors related to the media content in the country, as well as encouraging young talents to innovate and grow. In Kuwait, it also promoted the enhancement of the tourism sector, invoking the blessings of the divine for continued consistent success in achieving milestones that support the country's interests and contribute to its progress. Al-Fagaan added that both sides agreed on making a joint team, bringing together Kuwait Airways and the Ministry of Information and Culture to develop a mechanism for implementing the essential plans and projects for the benefit of the State of Kuwait.

#kuwaittourism #kuwaitnews #travelupdate #ministry #kuwaitairways #flights 

Dnata Travel reported a 21% increase in the average booking value for in-store services in 2024 compared to the previous year.

Walk-in services at the 13 retail outlets across the United Arab Emirates remain the most popular way for residents to book travel, driven by a rise in demand for more complex itineraries. Multi-location European trips, combining train and self-drive travel, were trendy this summer.

France, Italy, and Switzerland were frequently included in these packages, which featured multiple stops across one or several countries. Tailor-made itineraries in Asia also gained traction throughout the year, with bookings typically including various stops within a single country.

Top destinations across Thailand and Sri Lanka are especially sought after, with a notable spike in demand for Vietnam compared to previous years. Cruise itineraries providing multiple stops across different countries are also seeing steady growth, with dnata Travel anticipating even higher demand as the GCC cruise season approaches this winter. Meerah Ketait, head of Retail and Leisure UAE at dnata Travel, commented:

"Multi-destination itineraries are trending as travellers look to experience the best of a region of the country in one extended trip." "Many of our customers prefer to book these complex journeys in-store, where our travel experts can provide personalized advice on destinations, hotels, and the latest offers. We offer a one-stop solution where travellers can book everything from flights and hotels to car rentals, torus and insurance.

"One of the highest value in-store bookings in 2024 was a summer trip across France, taking in Paris and Cannes, then Monaco. Our travel experts arranged the flights, accommodation, private transport and guided tours, all with a fashion theme, in one sitting. This lavish itinerary featured some of our portfolio's finest destinations, experiences, and resorts." Looking ahead to the winter season, Dnata Travel experts continued to demand dimension trips, particularly for festive market tours. Cities like Budapest, Prague, and Vienna are some of the major German cities accessible by train.

In-store enquiries for Japan have also surged, with travellers looking to combine skiing on the island of Hokkaido with visits to famous cities like Tokyo and Kyoto. In-store bookings for ski holidays, which often require extra logistics, also increase demand each winter. Famous at Dnata Travel, Club Med's all-inclusive packages across some of the world's top winter sports destinations offer ski and lift passes for beginner instructors and mountain guides for experienced skiers.

Additionally, demand for Lapland trips is growing, with customers interested in itineraries that offer Northern Lights tours, stays in igloo hotels and scenic winter experiences for the ultimate holiday adventure. The most popular Dnata Travel retail stores for bookings in 2024 include Emirates Group Technology Centre Deira, Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Deira City Centre and Mirdif City Centre, respectively, sitting just outside the top five in terms of booking volumes Dnata Travel Dubai Hills Mall is the brands biggest grown story thai year fast becoming one of the highest performing stores in terms of booking value. For more travel advice and inspiration, visit a Dnata Travel retail outlet with stores across the UAE. 


#travelreport #travelupdate #dnata #traveltrends #globaltourism #uaetourism 

Valor Hospitality Partners is expanding its presence in Saudi Arabia, marking a significant achievement across the Gulf Cooperation Council region.

Extending its operations in the kingdom aligns with its 2030 Vision of having tourism account for 10 per cent of the GDP. "Expanding into Saudi Arabia marks a significant milestone for Valor Hospitality Partners and presents an unparalleled opportunity for investors in the Kingdom," said Julien Bergue, the co-founder and Managing Partner for Valor Hospitality Partners overseeing the Middle Eats CIS and Central Asia regions. "Our flexible and comprehensive management model is specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of the Middle East. We empower investors to optimize their returns through cost-effective solutions, operational efficiencies, and deep expertise in hospitality management."

With 600,000 hotel rooms in development across the GCC, the hospitality sector is experiencing an unprecedented boom. Valor Hospitality Partners is positioned to support investors, Funds, developers and hotel owners in this unique market. The company's strategic approach elevates hospitality standards and aligns Valor with the 2030 Vision, enabling investors to capitalize on the rapid growth in tourism and hotel development in Saudi Arabia. "Our focus and expertise help properties to distinguish themselves, attracting more guests and enhancing their asset visibility," added Bergue. "By delivering exceptional quality standards and optimizing operational value, we ensure sustained growth and maximized returns for hotel owners. Our tailored solutions provide investors with the tools to navigate and excel in the evolving hospitality landscape of the GCC."

Tapan Piplani, Chief Operating Officer and Head of Business Development Director for the Middle East, will be responsible for the company's operations in Saudi Arabia. Throughout his career, Tapan has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills in managing luxury hotel operations, driving revenue growth, overseeing budgets, and developing talent. Working closely with asset owners, operators, and contractors makes him a key player in Valor's expansion into Saudi Arabia. "Valor Hospitality Partners is uniquely positioned to contribute to the Kingdom's ambitious Vision 2030 plans," said Tapan Piplani. "By offering tailored hotel management services and leveraging our deep understanding of the region, we aim to help hotel owners and developers achieve operational success while maintaining the highest quality standards. Our focus on sustainability, local community engagement, and skill development will ensure our properties thrive in this rapidly evolving market."

Valor Hospitality Partners provides a suitable solution for owners seeking innovative ways to manage their assets amid increasing volatility and complexity, providing them with more control over their properties while benefitting from the value of an international hospitality brand. It grants greater flexibility, improved financial insight, and the ability to adapt to market changes. It provides expertise in site selection, brand selection, project management, technical services, and comprehensive hotel management for its global portfolio. Valour's expertise also covers food and beverage concepts, luxury lifestyle services, and managing golf, spa, and fitness facilities, emphasizing sustainability, reducing environmental impact, and supporting local employment through their hospitality academy. With Saudi Arabia's growing prominence in hotel development, Valor is committed to delivering comprehensive solutions and enhancing hospitality standards across the region.

#saudinews #sauditourism #travelnews #travelupdate #middleeasttourism #gulftourism 

A prominent milestone for the Western Sydney International Airport, Singapore Airlines has announced its commitment to operating at the new facility upon its opening in late 2026.

This marks a significant step forward for WSI, which is poised to become a key transportation hub in the region. The partnership between SIA and WSI was solidified through a memorandum of understanding signed in 2023. While some specific details about the SAI's services at WSI are still being finalized, the airline's commitment to the airport is a testament to its confidence in the project's potential.

WSI is expected to play an essential role in easing congestion at the existing Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport and providing better access to the growing western part of Greater Sydney. Qantas and its subsidiary Jetstar have already announced their plans to operate up to 15 narrow-body aircraft from WSI within the first year of its opening. One of the critical benefits of WSI is its 24-hour operating capability, which sets it apart from SYD, which has a night-time curfew. This flexibility allows for late-night departures, making it particularly attractive for business travellers who can now complete a day's work in Sydney and then take an overnight flight to Singapore, arriving early the following day.

WSI's modern infrastructure, including a combined international and domestic terminal building, advanced baggage processing equipment, and short taxi times, will further enhance the passenger experience and facilitate connections. The development of WSI is progressing rapidly, with construction now over 80% complete. The airport recently finished building the roof of the terminal building, a significant milestone in the project. SIA's decision to serve WSI mirrors its commitment to expanding its network connectivity in Australia, a key market for the Singapore Airlines Group. The airline already operates at seven airports in Australia, including SYD, and accounts for approximately 5% of weekly international seats at SYD.

#singaporeairlines #travelupdate #flights #sydneyairport

The Chinatown Mid Autumn Festival 2024, themed "Celebrating Mid Autumn Access generations," is all set to illuminate the streets of Singapore's Chinatown from August 30 to October 2 2024.

This year's festivals showcase the change of Mid Autumn traditions across three generations, highlighting Singapore's rich multiculturalism, strong family bonds, cultural heritage and communal joy. The event features a grand street lighting up, a magnificent eight-meter high lantern centrepiece and various interactive activities such as the famous Lantern Walk and Lantern Painting Competition, offering a cheerful cultural experience for locals and international visitors. In its ninth year, the Adopt a Lantern campaign will promote sustainability by repurposing selected lanterns at the end of the festival.

Mrs Josphine Teo, Minister for Digital Development and Information, will inaugurate the festival, emphasizing the prominence of celebrating Mid Autumn traditions across generations. Ms Lim Shoo Ling, Director of Arts and Cultural Precincts at the Singapore Tourism Board, highlights the festival's role in enhancing Singapore's cultural appeal and fostering multi-generational ties. The Chinatown Mid Autumn Festival 2024 celebrates timeless traditions beginning together the past, present, and future in a joyous and culturally rich event.

#chinatownfestival #events #news #singaporeevents #culture 

Minor Hotels, a significant global hospital company with a portfolio exceeding 550 properties across 56 countries, has unveiled its plans to introduce the Avani Hotels and Resort lifestyle brand to Singapore, marking the Avani Hotels and Resorts lifestyle Singapore the group debut in the city-state slated to open in the first quarter of 2027 this 13 stories upscale hotel is a strategic move in Minor Hotels ongoing efforts in enhancing its presence in key international spots.

These Minor Hotels are a significant global hospitality company with a portfolio exceeding 550 properties across 56 countries. It has revealed its plans to introduce the Avani Hotels and Resorts lifestyle brand to Singapore, marking its debut in the city-state. Slated to open in the first quarter of 2027, this 13-story upscale hotel is a strategic move in Minor Hotels' ongoing efforts to expand its presence in key international destinations.

In collaboration with Singapore Kajima Development and Abu Dhabi's Alwathba Investment, Minor Hotes will develop the 200-room property at 24 Peck Seah Street. Positioned in the cheerful Tanjong Pagar district, the hotel will provide guests with a prime location just a short walk from the Central Business District and Chinatown. Blending the rich cultural heritage of Sibgapore's iconic shophouses with some modern urban elements, the hotel aims to provide a distinctive experience for both business and leisure travellers.

Tanjong Pagar is famous for its diverse culinary scene featuring everything from traditional hawker stalls at Maxwell and Amoy Street Food centres to Michelin-recognized international cuisine along Kiong Siak Road, Telok Ayer and Duxton Hill. The Tanjong Pagar is renowned for its diverse culinary scene featuring everything from traditional hawker stalls at Maxwell and Amoy Street food centres to Michelin-recognized international cuisine along Kiong Siak Road, Telok Ayer and Duxton Hill.

With the Tanjong Pagar MRT Station less than 200 meters away and Maxwell MRT Station approximately 350 meters away, guests will enjoy convenient access to Singapore's Downtown Core, Marina Bay and other famous districts. "Avani Singapore represents a strategic market entry for Minor Hotels, and we are honoured to have our partners Kajima and Alwathba alongside us as we venture into the Singapore hospitality sector," said Dilip Rajakarier Group CEO of Minor International and CEO of Minor Hotels.

 "Their industry expertise and market knowledge will ensure the delivery of an exceptional hotel experience, creating a vibrant base for business and leisure travellers."

Avani Hotels and Resorts, a distinguished brand under Minor Hotels portfolio, is famous for providing modern accommodations, vibrant social hubs and laid-back dining experiences tailored to the needs of contemporary travellers. Since its inception in 2011, Avani has grown to manage 42 hotels and resorts across 24 countries, aiming to close to 100 properties by the end of 2026. This expansion included upcoming openings in Thailand, China, and the Seychelles, which are set to take place later this year.

#singaporenews #hospitality #hotels #downtown #singaporehotels

The corporate management arm of Trip.com Group revealed its current suite of corporate travel solutions at its annual conference, Trip.Biz Transform 2024, held in Singapore.

The event brought together 200 corporate clients, partners, and industry leaders from across the Asia Pacific region, marking a significant milestone in the company's efforts to reshape the future of business travel.

A main highlight of the conference was introducing the new Trip.Biz product Matrix, a holistic suite of One Digital solutions curated to optimize corporate travel management. Jim Chung, General Manager of Global Key Accounts and Southeast Asia at Trip.biz, stressed the relevance of human-centric technology in business travel. "Technology should empower people, not replace them," Chung said in his keynote speech.

Revealing the Trip.Biz Product Matrix 

The newly launched product matrix includes six critical solutions curated to enhance businesses' travel experience.

• Trip Biz OBT and App- A seamless online booking hotel and app providing consistent global service across over 10,000 cities, consolidating content from suppliers, including New Distribution Capability and Low-Cost Carriers.
• Trip Biz Payment- Flexible payment solutions provide mixed payments, corporate settlement and multi-currency options to accommodate different payment needs.
• Trip Biz Reporting- Real-time analytics and AI-powered reporting, providing businesses with data-driven insights and custom travel reports in minutes.
• Trip Biz Care- Holistic support provides 24/7 assistance, exclusive benefits like priority check-in, and room upgrades curated to enhance the traveller experience.
• Trip Biz ESG- Aligned with Trip.com Group's sustainability goals, this feature helps companies track carbon emissions and manage their environmental impact, working toward carbon neutrality by 2050.
• Trip Biz Desk- A specialized booking tool for local partners that ensures a consistent experience across various regions.

Trip.Biz's Growing Global Presence

Trip.Biz has seen impressive growth, serving over one million small and medium-sized enterprises and 15000 large corporations and facilitating the travel needs of more than 55 million business travellers. With a strong presence across key Asia Pacific markets and partnerships on six continents, Trip Biz continues to grow its global network. Dr Tao Song, Chief Technology Officer at Trip.Biz, emphasized the critical role of AI in driving efficiency in corporate travel. "Through AI and human-centric technology, we are raising the bar in business travel, pushing the boundaries from good to great," he said.

The introduction of the enhanced Trip.Biz Product Matrix shows the company's ongoing commitment to delivering cutting-edge, all-in-one solutions that simplify corporate travel management and provide exceptional value to clients.

#singaporenews #travelupdate #travelagency #tourism #globaltravel

On September 6, 2024, the Press Conference for the 2024 Silk Road Global Tourism Gala and the Zhangye Tourism Promotion Conference took place at the renowned Mandarina Oriental Hotel Conference in Singapore.

This main tourism event aims to strengthen global cooperation and promote the rich cultural heritage of the Silk Road, aligning with the Belt and Road Initiative.

The Silk Road Global Tourism Gala is curated to create Western China's most influential fashion marketing event, combining culture and tourism to drive regional economic development. Through a global lens, this initiative strives to rejuvenate interest in the Silk Road, promoting cross-cultural connections and economic growth in the regions it spans.

Key Highlights of the Press Conference

During the event, organizers showed the main elements of the 2024 Silk Road Global Tourism Gala, taking advantage of Singapore's significance as an international hub. This year's Gala will feature three major themes-

• Contestant Gathering of the World Finals- This will bring together participants for the 2024 Silk Road Miss Tourism of the Globe competition in Xian, China, at the Zhangye Tourism Promotion Conference, Highlighting Zhangye's stunning landscapes and rich cultural history.
• Historic Tourism Destinations Development Summit- Focussing on developing tourism destinations along the Silk Road.

The grand finale will feature over 40 contestants, showing Zhangye's natural wonders and cultural treasures and highlighting the historical significance of the Silk Roads. Attendees will experience a spectacular celebration of fashion, culture, and tourism through these activities.

Zhangye: The Jewel of the Silk Road

Zhangye, often called the pearl city on the Silk Road, was spotlighted in the vent through multimedia presentations, including videos and speeches. The city's vibrant history and beautiful natural beauty make it an appealing spot for domestic and international travellers. One of the key attractions in Zhangye is the breathtaking Danxia landform, renowned for its vivid and varied colours. Often compared to a dopamine burst from nature, this stunning landscape captivates tourists and inspires a sense of wonder and exploration; Zhangye's distinctive cultural heritage, combined with its dramatic scenery, has made it a sought-after destination for global travellers.

Global Exposure and Impact on Tourism

The 2024 Silk Road Global Tourism Gala provides unprecedented choices to enhance Zhangye's international visibility and tourism potential. It serves as a platform to introduce the city's attractions to a broader audience and strengthen its position as a key tourism hub along the Silk Road. The event is expected to boost the local tourism industry, contributing to economic growth in the region. By hosting this Gala, Zhangye's tourism sector will benefit from enhanced exposure, while the entire Silk Road region will likely see renewed interest from global travellers. This international event will help highlight the rich history and culture of the Silk Road, positioning it as a top destination for tourists worldwide.

Singapore- The Global Stage for the Silk Road Miss Tourism Competiton

As part of the Silk Road Global Tourism Gala, the global photography shoot for the 2024 Silk Road Miss Tourism of the Globe competition began in Singapore. Contestants were photographed at some of Singapore's most iconic landmarks, including-

• Sands SkyPark
• Gardens by the Bay
• Merlion Park
• Jewel Changi Waterfall
• Fort Canning Park

These photographs perfectly blend fashion and culture, showing the harmonious fusion of modern and historical elements. The glamorous backdrops of Singapore's attractions provided the perfect setting for this prestigious competition, curating a remarkable visual representation of the synergy between the ancient Silk Road and contemporary urban life.

The Silk Road Miss Tourism Competition- Revitalizing

International Fashion 

The Silk Road Miss Tourism of the Globe competition is a distinctive event with independent intellectual property rights, making it the only international fashion competition in China for its kind. This year's competition marks a significant milestone as it is the first global event since the pandemic, symbolizing a revival of international exchanges in fashion and tourism. As the competition progresses, participants will continue their journey to various destinations along the Silk Road, further emphasizing the cultural and historical richness of the region. The final event set to take place in Xi'an will feature the much-anticipated awards ceremony drawing attention to the beauty and diversity of the Silk Road's heritage.

Boosting Tourism and Economic Growth Along the Silk Road

The 2024 Silk Road Global Tourism Gala promises to be a transformative event for the tourism industry in Zhangye and the broader Silk Road region. It will enhance the global recognition of these destinations and provide new opportunities for economic growth through tourism. By connecting cultures, promoting heritage, and celebrating the allure of the Silk Road, the Gala serves as a bridge between the past and the future, inviting tourists to explore one of the world's most historically significant regions. The event also highlights the integral role of fashion and beauty in promoting tourism using the Silk Road Miss Tourism of the Globe competition to draw attention to the rich history and stunning landscapes of the region with international contestants and audiences captured by the event the Silk Road's reputation as a prime travel destination is set to reach new heights. The 2024 Silk Road Global Tourism Gala demonstrates how culture, tourism, and fashion can be leveraged to create a dynamic event with far-reaching economic and social impacts. As Zhangye and the Silk Road region continue to grow in popularity, they will undoubtedly play a vital role in the future of global tourism.

Final Takeaway

The press conference for the 2024 Silk Road Global Tourism Gala and Zhangye Tourism Promotion Conference in Singapore has successfully set the stage for a remarkable global event. With its focus on culture, fashion and tourism, the Gala will enhance Zhangye's international profile and contribute to the tourism industry's overall growth along the Silk Road. This initiative, supported by Singapore's role as an international exchange hub, will significantly boost the local and regional economies, attract global travellers and celebrate the Silk Road's rich history. As preparations continue, the 2024 Silk Road Global Tourism Gala is poised to be an unforgettable celebration of cultural heritage and beauty on the world stage.

#events #tourism #silkroad #singaporeevents #tourism #travelnews 

Singapore Airlines is all set to prominently increase flight frequencies and enhance passenger capacity across its global network during the 2025 Northern Summer operating season from 30 March 2025 to 25 October 2025 in response to rising air travel demand to popular destinations.

Fundamental changes include a daily service to London Gatwick, which will be increased from five times weekly starting 30 March 2025. Combined with its four-time daily flights to Heathrow, it will provide five daily services to London, providing extensive connectivity to the UK capital. Flights to Rome will increase to five times weekly between 26 June 2025 and 28 August 2025, an increase from the current four weekly flights. Additionally, SIA will delink its three times weekly Singapore Milan Barcelona flights between 24 June 2025 and 7 September 2025, providing more direct services. During this period, Barcelona will increase to five times weekly direct flights, up from two, while Milan-Barcelona flights between 24 June 2025 and 7 September 2025 provide more direct services. During this period, Barcelona will see an increase to five times weekly direct flights up from two, while Milan will have a daily service up from four weekly. In Australia, SIA will boost flights to Adelaide, increasing to 10 weekly services across the Northern Winter 2024 and Northern Summer 2025 seasons, up from seven. Ho Chi Minh City will benefit from increased services, with flights rising thrice daily, up from 19 weekly, while Siem Reap will see an increase of twice daily from the current daily service.

SIA is also enchanting its African connections with a three times weekly service to Johannesburg from 11 December 2024 to 10 January 2025 and again from 2 April 2025 to 24 October 2025. This brings the total number of weekly flights to Johannesburg to 10 during these periods, up from the current daily services. For Tokyo Narita, the iconic Airbus A380 will return between 30 March 2025 and 31 May 2025, replacing the Boeing 787-10 on one of its two daily revolves. However, the A380 will be pulled from services to Mumbai between 28 July 2025 and 31 August 2025 and Delhi between 23 June 2025 and 27 July 2025, replaced by the Boeing 777 300 ER.

In line with these capacity adjustments, SIA will suspend its services to Houston via Manchester on 1 April 2025 but will maintain five times weekly services between Singapore and Manchester through SQ302 and SQ301. These adjustments are part of SIA's ongoing efforts to adapt to market demand and improve passenger connectivity across its key markets.

#singaporeairlines #travel #tourism #aviation

Norway is the first Scandinavian country to get benefit from China's visa-free scheme, which aims to boost tourism in Norway.

It is also the latest country to gain free entry to China. Poland, Australia, and New Zealand were also granted unrestricted entry until 2025 in June. Since the start of 2024, the scheme has been announced in stages, with 11 other European countries and Malaysia also gaining visa-free access. It encourages more people to visit China for business and tourism and promotes exchanges between Chinese citizens and foreign nationals. Citizens of Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Spain and Switzerland are among the European countries allowed to enter China without a visa until the end of next year. Polish citizens joined the list on 1st July. It has yet to be made clear when the policy will be open to Norwegians. The aim is to facilitate the high-quality development of Chinese and foreign personnel exchange and high-level opening up to the outside world, "Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said at a briefing on the initial announcement in November. "

Visa-free entry will be given for up to 15 days in the trial programme. International travel to China is still bouncing back. China's strict pandemic measures, which included required quarantines for all arrivals, discouraged many people from visiting for nearly three years. The restrictions were lifted early last year, but international travel has yet to return to pre-pandemic levels. China previously allowed Brunei, Japan, and Singapore citizens to enter without a visa but suspended that after the COVID-19 outlook.

It resumed visa-free entry for Brunei and Singapore in July but has yet to do so for Japan. In 2023, China recorded 35.5 million entries and exits by foreigners, according to immigration statistics. That comprises 97.7 million for all of 2019, the last year before the pandemic. The government has been making foreign investments to help boost a sluggish economy, and some businessmen have been coming to trade fairs and meetings, including Tesla's Elon Musk and Apple's Tim Cook. Foreign tourists are still rare compared to before the pandemic.

How else is China simplifying travel for Europeans?

Last year, Europeans increased their interest in China as a tourist destination. Data from an online travel agency showed a 663 per cent increase in overall bookings from Europe to China compared to 2022 and an almost 29 per cent increase in 2019. The data shows that the UK and Germany were among the top 10 sources of inbound travellers to China globally.

Shanghai remains the most popular destination among Europeans with its alluring blend of modernity and tradition, followed by Beijing, Guangzhou and Shenzhen. Sanya, a beachside city on the southern end of China's Hainan Island, and Chengdu, the capital of southwestern China's Sichuan province, are emerging destinations. Beyond its new visa-free schemes, the country further encourages inbound tourism by promoting cultural and historical attractions in partnership with the online travel agency. China also enhances its tourism infrastructure by investing in technology travel guides and e-payment systems.

#chinatourism #travelupdate #visa #permit