Sunday, September 15, 2024 On her first visit to China, Janet Melendez, accompanied by fellow US travel agents, experienced an unforgettable journey in Beijing. They indulged in the city’s famed delicacy, Peking duck, tried their hand at Tai Chi, and toured iconic historical landmarks. Throughout their adventure, they captured countless moments on camera, soaking in the rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty that Beijing offers.
Each stop along the way provided a deeper understanding of the city’s unique blend of tradition and modernity. From September 10 to 12, a group of over 10 travel agents from Los Angeles, many stepping foot in China for the first time, embarked on an exploration of Beijing. The delegation was fully immersed in the city’s dynamic atmosphere, enjoying the warm hospitality, diverse cultural experiences, and the convenience of its modern lifestyle.
This journey allowed them to appreciate not only the historical significance of Beijing but also its openness and inclusiveness in welcoming visitors from around the world. Gregory Cattoni, the manager of Rancho Travel, remarked on the unique duality that defines Beijing. He observed how the city seamlessly blends its ancient historical roots with its modern, fast-paced growth as an international hub.
Walking through its streets, one can witness centuries-old landmarks standing side by side with cutting-edge skyscrapers, embodying the perfect harmony between tradition and progress. According to Cattoni, this juxtaposition is what makes Beijing so captivating for travelers seeking a destination that offers both cultural depth and contemporary excitement. As a thriving international metropolis, Beijing not only preserves its rich historical legacy but also embraces a global outlook, making it a prime destination for business and leisure travelers alike.
Cattoni highlighted the city’s cosmopolitan atmosphere, which welcomes visitors from all corners of the world with its vibrant energy, modern amenities, and endless opportunities for exploration. For those looking to experience the best of both worlds—ancient wonders and modern marvels—Beijing offers a compelling and dynamic experience. It was emphasized that cooperation and communication between the United States and China are essential, with tourism playing a crucial role in fostering deeper mutual understanding between the people of both nations.
Recently, “China Travel” has seen a surge in popularity across global social media platforms, driven by several key developments. China has expanded the list of visa-free countries, making it easier for international travelers to visit. Additionally, the increase in international flights and the introduction of measures aimed at simplifying inbound tourism have contributed to this growing interest.
These efforts have not only attracted attention but also positioned China as a more accessible destination for global tourists, eager to explore its rich culture and modern offerings. In the first half of this year alone, over 5 million inbound travelers utilized mobile payment options, representing a staggering fourfold increase compared to the same period in 2023. This spike in usage led to more than 90 million recorded transactions, amounting to over 14 billion yuan (approximately $2 billion).
Both figures reflect a remarkable sevenfold increase year-on-year, demonstrating the growing reliance on digital payments. Joey Sy, manager of Hyssop Travel, who has visited China three times and arranged numerous trips for clients, highlighted that China remains as safe as ever. He also noted that the country has become even more convenient and comfortable for foreign tourists, enhancing the overall travel experience.
According to the National Immigration Administration, the first seven months of this year saw a remarkable 129.9 percent increase in foreign visitors to China, reaching 17.25 million.
Bo Lin, a representative from CTG Travel, noted that the tour is designed to promote travel from the United States to China while building on the successes of the 14th China-US Tourism Leadership Summit, which took place in Xi’an in May. CTG Travel is playing a key role in organizing this initiative to strengthen tourism ties between the two nations. Following their time in Beijing, the delegation embarked on the next leg of their journey to Xi’an, with plans to continue on to the Three Gorges and Shanghai.
This comprehensive tour is designed to give them a firsthand experience of China’s diverse offerings, ranging from its rich cultural heritage to modern urban landscapes. In Xi’an, a city known for its ancient history and as the starting point of the Silk Road, the group will delve into local attractions and amenities, assessing the quality of accommodations, dining options, and popular scenic spots. As the delegation moves through these destinations, they will also examine China’s infrastructure for tourism, including transportation networks and the various measures in place to facilitate inbound tourism.
Their itinerary aims to provide insight into how China is enhancing the overall experience for international visitors, ensuring seamless travel across its major cities and renowned landmarks. By exploring a variety of services and attractions, the group will gain a deeper understanding of how the country is positioning itself as a top destination for global travelers..
