Hainan's grand plans for tourist paradise

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By Ding Qingfen (China Daily)
Updated: 2008-05-19 14:55

In 2002, the central government also approved Hainan's visa-free tourism policy.

This was followed by news in March 2003 when the Civil Aviation Administration of China agreed to take Hainan on trial for opening a third, fourth and fifth air traffic route which would allow international airline operators to apply to fly there.

In the past eight years, the number of international airlines flying to Hainan has grown from none to 44 from 20-odd nations.

Li Xinjian, a professor from School of Tourism Management at Beijing International Studies University says: "Hainan has the rich tourism resources needed to become an international resort, and the government's preferential policies can also help it achieve the goal more easily - especially for the convenience of foreign tourists."

But it's not enough, says Li, who adds Hainan "needs to develop more attractive tourism products, and more quality services to show its best face to the outside world. Otherwise it risks tarnishing its reputation, something that is equally, if not more important, than any of its other qualities."

Overshadowed

Undoubtedly, Hainan is one of the most popular tourist destinations in China.

But it is overshadowed when compared to other mainland resorts. In 2007, Hainan ranked 22 in terms of the annual revenues generating from the tourism industry, 17.14 billion yuan. It lagged far behind that of the top three - Jiangsu and Guangdong provinces and Beijing, respectively standing at around 282.7 billion, 245.4 billion and 210.3 billion yuan.

Hainan's new plan also includes opening up new scenic destinations by separating the region into six tourism districts including not only the already well-known ones such as Sanya and Haikou, but also Shimeiwan, Wuzhishan, Jianfengling and Xishahaiyang, to tailor for various needs of the travelers.

More professional training for the local guides is another priority. It is estimated there are 7,000 guides in the southern province, but only 600 can speak foreign languages, which is far from enough especially considering the plans for a flood of new foreign visitors.

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