Haikou, the capital of Hainan Province and a key city in China's "Belt and Road" initiative, recently hosted a ten-day root-seeking journey for nearly 300 overseas Chinese teenagers from 13 countries. The event highlighted Haikou's unique blend of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Participants explored Qilou Old Street, Hainan Museum, and enjoyed activities at the West Coast Tourism Resort and Mission Hills Resort Haikou. This initiative aims to promote Haikou's rich heritage and vibrant tourism to a global audience.
Cultural Immersion and Global Promotion
During their stay, the teenagers engaged in various cultural and recreational activities, such as exploring the Haikou Volcanic Park, interacting with wildlife at the Hainan Tropical Wildlife Park, and discovering the marine forest at Dongzhai Harbor Mangrove. These experiences left a lasting impression, with many participants expressing a newfound appreciation for Haikou's diverse offerings.
Visa-Free Entry Policies Boost Tourism
Hainan province has implemented visa-free entry policies to attract international tourists, allowing visitors from 59 countries to enter without a visa. Recent expansions to these policies now include business, family reunions, medical treatment, and sports competitions, offering more flexibility for foreign visitors. Additionally, foreign tour groups can enjoy a 144-hour visa-free stay when entering via Hong Kong and Macau.
Enhancing International Connectivity
Haikou is well-connected internationally, with 34 international and regional passenger routes. This facilitates travel from countries such as the UK, UAE, Japan, Malaysia, and more, promoting cultural exchanges and boosting tourism. The city’s infrastructure supports foreign tourists with improved payment systems, including POS machines, foreign currency exchange points, and ATMs.
Technological Advancements for Tourist Convenience
Haikou has also embraced technological solutions to enhance the tourist experience. The Alipay International Edition app allows foreign tourists to make payments using international bank cards, offering convenient services for transportation, accommodation, shopping, and more. This initiative is part of Haikou's efforts to create a welcoming environment for international visitors.
Future Prospects for Haikou
As part of the Hainan Free Trade Port, Haikou continues to develop its tourism and cultural sectors, aiming to attract more international visitors and strengthen its global connections. The city's commitment to providing a seamless travel experience positions it as a prominent destination in China's tourism landscape.