The world beckons for Chinese travelers
The South Pacific destination of Tahiti, Montenegro in Southern Europe, the Philippines' Bohol island, Serbia and the Philippines' Cebu are hot spots for Chinese tourists. [Photo provided to China Daily] |
"We're also considering having visa-upon-arrival or visa-free (policies) for Chinese tourists," says Maricon Ebron, Tourism Promotions Board Philippines' deputy chief operating officer of promotion.
"One big question is: Are we ready to welcome the influx of Chinese tourists?" she says.
The board is chartering flights in major Chinese cities to increase airline capacity.
They're also promoting such emerging destinations as the Bicol region and enhancing its accommodation.
Philippine Airlines recently opened direct flights from Sichuan's provincial capital, Chengdu, to Cebu and Kalibo, which is a major hub for the popular destination Boracay Island.
"The key to increase the arrival of Chinese tourists is about the airline connectivity," she says.
"Once we create the demand, all the chartered flights will become regular, and then more tourists will go there."