🌏 Hey explorers! China is calling, and the world is answering! In the first half of 2024, the Chinese mainland welcomed a whopping 14.64 million foreign visitors, a staggering 152.7% increase from last year. 🎉
So, what's fueling this travel frenzy? China's ever-expanding visa-free \"circle of friends\"! 😎 Since November 2023, the Chinese mainland has been rolling out the red carpet by adding more countries to its visa exemption list. By March, six more European nations joined the party, making it easier than ever to hop on a plane and explore the wonders of China. 🏯
But wait, there's more! 🤩 In a landmark move, China and Thailand shook hands on a mutual visa exemption agreement that kicked off on March 1. Plus, citizens from 12 countries got extended visa-free entry until the end of 2025. Time to pack those bags! 🧳
The impact? Massive! Take Geneva, for example. According to Air China, 6,364 passengers flew between Geneva and Beijing in March 2024, up an incredible 374.9% from the previous year! ✈️
Beyond visas, the Chinese mainland is making travel smoother than a Cantonese silk scarf. 🧣 They've relaxed port visa applications and rolled out measures to welcome international students, businesspeople, and tourists alike.
Worried about paying with your foreign card? No stress! 💳 Major payment apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay now accept international credit cards, including Visa and MasterCard. Shopping, dining, and traveling just got a whole lot easier. 🛍️🍜
The goal is simple: let foreigners experience the real China firsthand. 📹 Tourists are sharing epic travel vlogs on TikTok and YouTube, giving us all major FOMO and fresh perspectives on this dynamic country.
So, whether you're a student, entrepreneur, or adventure seeker, China's doors are wide open, ready to offer you an unforgettable journey. Are you in? 😉
Reference(s):
China's inbound tourism booms as more foreigners come to visit
cgtn.com
