A Chinese tourist group visiting London's St. Pancras station demanded a musician delete his livestream as they appeared in the video, claiming a right to privacy in a public place. The musician, Brendan Kavanagh, refused, citing his right to film in a public space. The situation escalated when a member of the group accused him of touching a woman, leading to police intervention. The incident highlights cultural differences and the lack of privacy rights in China compared to the UK.
Young Chinese tourists, known as "special forces" travelers, are embracing budget-conscious travel during the long holiday period in China. Lingering concerns about the economy have led to a preference for domestic travel and cost-cutting measures. While Chinese tourists are gradually returning, they are more cautious with their spending and opting for experiences like camping and road trips instead of luxury shopping. The desire to have fun while saving has led to the popularity of shoestring travel, with young travelers seeking out cheap and picturesque destinations. The recovery of international tourism is weaker than expected, with domestic tourism taking priority for Chinese consumers.
Chinese tourists arriving in Bangkok were given a VIP welcome as Thailand waived visas for Chinese nationals in an effort to boost its tourism industry. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin personally greeted the first batch of visitors, who were treated to traditional performances and photo opportunities. Tourism is a crucial driver of Thailand's economy, and the visa waiver aims to revive the industry that was severely impacted by the pandemic. The government expects 2.88 million Chinese visitors during the five-month visa waiver period, hoping to offset the decline in Chinese tourists due to their own economic challenges.
Thailand has rolled out the red carpet for Chinese tourists as it implemented a visa-waiver scheme to boost its tourism industry. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin personally greeted the first batch of visitors from China, who arrived in Bangkok. The visa waiver aims to revive the tourism sector, which was severely impacted by the pandemic. Thailand expects to welcome 2.88 million Chinese tourists during the five-month period of the scheme. China was previously Thailand's largest source of tourists, and the visa waiver is expected to make it simpler for Chinese visitors to enter the country.
The decline in Chinese tourists visiting the United States due to long visa wait times, gun violence, and geopolitical tensions is expected to cost the U.S. more than $20 billion this year. Before the pandemic, Chinese travelers contributed over $30 billion annually to the U.S. economy. The U.S. tourism industry is still in recovery mode, with international visitation and spending slower than expected. The U.S. needs to address visa wait times and safety concerns to attract more tourists. Meanwhile, Canada and Mexico have seen an increase in visitors, while the U.S. competitive edge in global tourism is slipping.
Protests in France over the police killing of a teenager have resulted in pockets of violence across the country, including an attack on the family home of a mayor. Chinese tourists were also targeted, with a bus carrying them being attacked. The protests were sparked by the police shooting of a 17-year-old boy of North African descent during a traffic stop. Authorities have condemned the violence, and an attempted murder investigation has been opened.
A bus carrying 41 Chinese tourists was attacked by black-clad rioters in Marseille, France, as violence and protests continued in the country. The rioters attempted to board the bus and pull passengers out, causing damage to the vehicle. Some Chinese tourists on the bus were injured, but the driver managed to drive to a safe zone. The incident prompted the group to change their travel plans and head directly to Switzerland. The French government reported over 1,300 arrests nationwide during the protests, and the Chinese Embassy in France issued a statement advising Chinese citizens to take safety precautions and avoid areas of unrest.
European tourism industry is facing disappointment as Chinese tourists, who typically spend between 1,500 and 3,000 euros per person, are staying closer to home due to visa restrictions, long passport wait lines, and limited airline tickets to Europe. Chinese outbound flight bookings to Europe during March and August are only 32% that of pre-pandemic levels. The industry is now looking to American tourists, who are coming to Europe in droves, to make up the shortfall.
Chinese tourists are returning to travel, but their preferences have shifted towards more nature-oriented and outdoor tourism, as well as family-focused trips. Many are also exploring domestic travel options, which could impact the international travel market. While flight capacity remains limited, countries that can accommodate Chinese travelers' needs, such as Thailand, are emerging as winners. Group tours are still popular, but bespoke services and niche markets could also attract the "new" Chinese tourist.
