A clean break for the holidays

A refreshing break for Spring Festival has taken on a new meaning as heavy smog in some areas has contributed to an increasing number of journeys being booked by those seeking cleaner air and water.

Zhang Jinfang, 28, a staff member at a government-funded research institute in Beijing, said she booked a family trip to Sanya, a popular city in the island province of Hainan, for Spring Festival. Apart from the undoubted attractions of sunny Sanya, her reason for going was that she wanted to escape the expected pollution during Spring Festival caused by fireworks.

"I am from Shaanxi province which is one of the most heavily polluted provinces in China. I am always worried about my parents' health," said Zhang. "During Spring Festival, the air pollution will be worse than on normal days because of the tradition of setting off firecrackers and fireworks. I am a frequent traveler. In the past, I would choose holiday destinations for their beautiful natural scenery or if they offered huge shopping discounts.