During the last few weeks, the world has been watching intently to see what steps China is taking to bring its tourism industry back up to speed. With the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, the country was the first to be affected, leading to a subsequent international economic downturn. What does this mean for international tourists? Can anyone travel to China?
The Chinese government has now reopened the country’s borders to international travelers. Those who meet the given restrictions are now allowed to travel without facing any further restrictions. There are certain countries, however, that are still facing further restrictions, which include the United States and Canada. This is due to the fact that these countries still have rising coronavirus infection rates.
In order to enter China, international tourists must first submit a COVID-19 test that has been taken no longer than 72 hours before their flight departure. In addition to the test, they must also obtain a valid visa before entering the country. For those who wish to extend their stay, they will need to arrange a hotel or accommodation that is approved by the local government.
The Chinese government has also taken extra precautions with safety measures to ensure that the nation remains free of coronavirus. These safety measures include mandatory temperature checks, sanitation stations, and strict social distancing. In addition to this, the government has also implemented a mandatory QR code system. Tourists must activate their code on arrival at the airport which will provide them with access to certain services such as public transportation.
The government is also encouraging tourists to follow a strict set of guidelines once they have entered the country. These include wearing a face mask at all times and avoiding large crowds where possible. It is also important to maintain social distancing to prevent further spread of the virus. Furthermore, tourists should minimise physical contact and refrain from dining out unless it is absolutely necessary.
Covid 19 Implications for China Tourism
It is very obvious to see the impact that the coronavirus pandemic has had on China’s tourism industry. Due to the measures that have been put in place, the country has seen a shocking 75% reduction in overseas visitors. This has extensively affected countries such as Hong Kong and Macau, which heavily rely on tourism for their businesses. To combat this, the government has thankfully implemented comprehensive safety protocols to bring the tourism industry back up to speed.
The Chinese government has also encouraged the development of “Medical Corridors”. This allows international travelers to obtain medical services more easily, providing additional assurance for those concerned about their health and safety while traveling. These Medical Corridors also offer additional peace of mind to the government, who can have better control over the health of international visitors.
Apart from medical considerations, the Chinese government is also encouraging more international travelers to explore beyond major cities. This is an effort to spread out tourists more evenly and stimulate a stronger economic footing for regional areas that have been hit the hardest by the pandemic. This has encouraged many tourists to venture beyond the hustle and bustle of Beijing and Shanghai and explore the country’s lesser-known gems and destinations.
Culture Shock
As a tourist in a foreign country, there will always be some elements of culture shock. This is because traditions and customs in each country are usually different. China, in particular, has its own set of traditions and customs that can be difficult for international travelers to understand. The country also has its own language and spoken dialects. Tourists should definitely be open to learning some of the language to help with some basic communication and avoid any awkward misunderstandings.
Of course, this doesn’t mean travelers should completely immerse themselves in all the culture of the country. Rather, they should use this as a way to experience a little of what China has to offer. It is also important to note that foreign travelers will still be able to find familiar comforts of Western culture when needed. For example, there are now numerous international cafes, hotels and restaurant chains within the major cities, making it easier for them to find food and entertainment.
The Economy in 2021
The Chinese economy is currently showing signs of recovery, however, the pandemic also had its toll on the country’s GDP. Nevertheless, international tourists are expected to start making their way back to the country in 2021, which will be beneficial to the nation overall. This will be great news to the businesses and individuals affected by the economic downturn.
It is also important to note that Chinese citizens have also had to postpone their trips due to the pandemic. The nation’s travel industry is still expected to make a strong recovery in the new year, particularly as the demand for domestic travel increases. This poses great opportunity for the industry to rebound more quickly than expected.
International tourists visiting China should therefore be aware of the support they can provide to the nation by maintaining an open mind and whilst following safety protocols. By doing so, tourists can not only benefit from the beauty and history that the country has to offer, but also contribute to the economic recovery of the nation.
Conclusion of the Chinese Tourism Industry
China is a truly unique country, and for those looking to explore its many wonders without the worry of contracting the virus, this is an ideal opportunity to start planning a trip. With the safety measures put in place, tourists will be better protected while being able to enjoy all that the nation has to offer.
The Chinese government has made great strides in responding to the pandemic to ensure the safety of its people and international visitors. By adhering to the safety protocols put in place, individuals can look forward to a safe and rewarding trip to the nation of China.
Low Cost Tourism Arrangements
China does have a wide variety of low cost tourism arrangements. Some of these include military tourism packages, which are offered by the Chinese People’s Liberation Army and are designed to offer an affordable way for visitors to experience China’s history, culture, and military sites.
Private tour operators also offer a variety of budget-friendly packages that may include discounts for international visitors. These could include a combination of accommodation, transport, meals, and local activities such as visiting museums or parks. Furthermore, there are many websites that provide useful information on discounted air tickets, which could be beneficial for the travelers who are looking for a budget option.
Visitors can also take advantage of public transport options, such as the high speed trains that link major cities in China. This is an excellent way to save money which can then easily be used for activities and sight-seeing. Customers can also purchase a special ‘China International Student Identity Card’ which provides discounts on various services such as train tickets.
In conclusion, regardless of the cost, tourists should pay special attention to maintaining their safety as a priority. As long as they adhere to safety protocols, then rest assured that they can experience some of the true wonders of China.
Exploring the Local Cuisine
Exploring the local cuisine is one of the best aspects of visiting China, and while there are certainly some dishes that may feel unfamiliar to international travelers, the nation has a wide variety of dishes to offer.
When dining out, it is a good idea to check for proper safety and hygiene protocols before ordering. Most restaurants in China may offer dishes that are unfamiliar to travelers, but this can actually be a great way to try something new.
The nation is so vast that it is easy to find particular dishes in almost any part of the country. Whether it be regional dishes or delicacies from the northern or southern regions, travelers should be able to find something of local interest. Furthermore, there are also foreigners who operate particular restaurants, such as Indian and Korean specialty restaurants, offering their own unique styles.
When trying a new dish, tourists should also try to complement it by ordering some traditional side dishes like Chinese buns, rice porridge or scrambled eggs. This allows one to experience the full flavors of Chinese cuisine without missing out on the variety of spices or the unusual tastes.
Essentials: What to Bring
When traveling to China, it is important to remember that there is certain clothing and personal items that one may not be used to. As the country is quite large, travelers should be aware that the climate and scenery can vary from region to region.
Generally, visitors should bring enough warm clothing and rain gear, as it can get quite cold during the winter months in the northern regions. Lightweight clothing should be brought for the south, as well as a hat, sunblock, and sunglasses. In addition, travelers should also bring a sturdy pair of shoes as many areas are hilly.
Lastly, it is important to bring along all the necessary travel documents, including a passport with a valid Chinese visa, a Chinese driver’s license, and a certified health certificate. This is to ensure that travelers can carefully and fully experience the wonders of China without any major complications.
