Opinion

Nation's globetrotters

(China Daily)
Updated: 2010-05-03 15:03

This year's outlook is bright and sunny and no, we're not talking about the weather. The country's tourism industry is hitting its stride and the recent spending spree could be a blessing for the world economy.

Domestically, the Chinese people are swarming to many parts of the nation. This year's Labor Day holiday coincides with the opening of the Shanghai World Expo 2010, making the expo an attractive spot for domestic tourists.

Chinese people are also heading for overseas trips in increasing numbers. The Annual Report of China Outbound Tourism Development 2009-2010, predicts that 54 million mainlanders will go overseas this year, up from 47 million in 2009.

The latest bulletin released by the United Nations last week said Chinese tourists were fourth last year among the world's top spenders on trips. Chinese tourists, according to the bulletin, spent $43.7 billion on their travels abroad.

The nation's recent spending habits cater to the national call on expanding domestic consumption. Given that the standards of living for Chinese people has been steadily rising in recent years, it seems natural that more Chinese will be using their hefty wallets on trips both at home and abroad. The growing list of countries and regions that accept Chinese tourists also makes it possible for Chinese to travel throughout the world.

If all our countrymen tour the world in a more civilized and environmentally friendly way, the greater presence of Chinese tourists overseas will be a welcoming sight.