Tuesday, March 12, 2024
On the afternoon of March 8th, Paris, France, hosted the “Bonjour! Chine Soleil Hainan” international image exhibition, combined with a promotional event for Hainan’s tourism and culture. The event showcased Hainan’s cultural and tourism offerings through visual and physical displays, as well as video presentations.
The exhibition featured themed zones dedicated to Hainan’s sunny beaches, mysterious rainforests, wellness retreats, shopping hotspots, and rich local culture. Over 200 items were displayed, highlighting the region’s intangible cultural heritage, including traditional Li garments, exquisite Li brocade, and artful coconut and shell carvings.
Wang Zhongyun, Deputy Director of Hainan Province’s Department of Tourism, Culture, Radio, Television, and Sports, emphasized Hainan’s global significance as the largest free trade port, special economic zone, and international tourism island in China. He highlighted its strategic importance on the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road and its appeal as a global tourism and vacation spot.
Hainan’s attractions include tropical scenery, vibrant Li and Miao ethnic cultures, and a deep historical legacy. In 2023, the island welcomed over 90 million visitors, a 49.9% increase from the previous year. The 2024 Spring Festival saw a record-breaking 9.5145 million tourists, generating RMB 15.127 billion in tourism revenue.
Efforts are underway to attract more international visitors to Hainan, with a focus on unique tourism products. The island has launched 47 international flight routes, established 13 marinas, and offers over 2,300 yacht berths. Plans for 2024 include expanding to 66 international flight routes and applying for Seventh Freedom of the Air passenger routes. The new Hainan Coastal Scenic Highway, stretching 988 kilometers, links 12 coastal cities and counties, providing easy access to attractions for various tourist interests.
The visa-free entry policy announced for tourists from 59 countries, including France, effective from February 9, 2024, aims to simplify travel for international visitors, allowing for a 30-day visa-free stay for various activities.
Hainan has also introduced the “Hainan Assured Payment” platform for a public trial, making payments easier for foreign visitors without the need for additional apps.
French artist Remy Aron, with significant experience in China, attended the event. He expressed optimism that in 2024, marking 60 years of Franco-Chinese diplomatic ties, both nations could further contribute to global cultural advancements. Aron sees the Hainan Free Trade Port as a burgeoning global tourist destination and an emerging cultural epicenter, given its unique benefits.
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