According to the California Tourism Bureau, about 835,000 Chinese tourists are expected to visit California in 2024, generating $2.5 billion in tourism revenue, bringing the state's tourism industry close to pre-pandemic levels. In 2019, California welcomed 1 million Chinese tourists, generating more than $2.7 billion in tourism revenue, making China its largest international market. By 2025, this figure is expected to grow to $3.7 billion, a 37% increase compared to 2019. The California Tourism Bureau has been active in the Chinese market for over 15 years and plans to invest $7.2 million in brand promotion, public relations, trade, and marketing in 2024-2025.
Scandinavian countries collaborate with Xiaohongshu for “Scandinavian relaxation guide” media event in Beijing
On November 20, the Finnish, Danish, and Swedish National Tourism Boards, in collaboration with Xiaohongshu, hosted the "Scandinavian Relaxation Guide" media event at the Gaoshan Art Center in Beijing. This event marks another step in the Scandinavian tourism boards' innovative initiatives in the Chinese market. Xiaohongshu co-planned the event and used its platform influence to promote Scandinavian tourism resources and the Scandinavian tourism philosophy in China.
Chinese tourists to Spain near pre-pandemic levels
As of September 2024, the number of Chinese tourists visiting Spain had almost fully recovered to 2019 levels, with total spending increasing by 17% and average daily spend per person reaching 380 euros. Direct flights between China and Spain have risen by 38%, boosting connectivity and outbound travel. The Spanish Tourism Board shared these findings at a "Spain Tourism Promotion Conference" in Shanghai. With the global tourism industry's recovery, Spain is experiencing a surge in demand from China, with 517,000 Chinese tourists visiting in the first nine months of 2024, solidifying Spain’s leadership in Europe’s tourism revival.
China announces visa-free entry for nine countries, including Japan
Starting November 30, 2024, China will implement a trial visa-free policy for passport holders from Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Malta, Estonia, Latvia, and Japan, until December 31, 2025. Additionally, China will optimize its entry policies, allowing visa-free stays of up to 30 days for travelers from 38 countries, including these nine. Those who do not meet the visa-free requirements must still obtain a visa.
6renyou expands into Guangzhou
6renyou Customized Travel has opened its first Guangzhou branch, focusing on the Guangdong market, which is seeing a shift toward personalized, non-standardized travel services.
Ctrip Q3 2024 net revenue reaches 15.9 billion RMB
Ctrip Group's Q3 2024 financial report shows a net revenue of 15.9 billion RMB, driven by the tourism industry's recovery. Revenue includes 6.8 billion RMB from hotel bookings, 5.7 billion RMB from transportation, and 1.6 billion RMB from travel services.
Tongcheng Q3 2024 financial results: revenue of 4.99 billion RMB and net profit of 910 million RMB
Tongcheng Travel reported Q3 2024 revenue of 4.99 billion RMB, up 51.3% year-on-year, with a net profit of 910 million RMB. The company also reported 1.88 billion user trips year-to-date, a 19.9% increase, and a 53.2% rise in average revenue per user.
Air China to launch direct flight from Urumqi to Tbilisi
Starting December 13, 2024, Air China will launch a direct flight from Urumqi to Tbilisi, operating three times a week with a Boeing 737.
Hainan Airlines launches Shenzhen-Madrid international route
On November 19, Hainan Airlines launched its first direct flight from Shenzhen to Madrid, marking the airline's eleventh international route from Shenzhen. The route will operate twice a week, on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
Zhejiang launches first direct flight to Uzbekistan
Zhejiang province has introduced its first direct flight to Uzbekistan, with a new route between Hangzhou and Tashkent, expanding Hangzhou Airport’s Central Asia routes.
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