Chinese tourists seek a new place in the sun

SHANGHAI - The Pacific Islands and African countries are looking to claim a share of China's lucrative tourism market, after the 2010 Shanghai Expo opened a window of opportunity for them.

By sending executives and marketing officials to attend this week's Eighth World Travel Fair in Shanghai, the countries are hoping to draw visitors away from traditional destinations, such as the United States and Europe.

The four-day fair, which began on Thursday, is expected to attract exhibitors from 45 countries and regions, and pull in more than 8,000 trade visitors and 30,000 members of the public.