European tourists find cool comfort in China

As record-shattering temperatures lead to power crises in European cities, a new vacation trend — "coolcation" — is taking hold. Tourists from Europe are flocking to China not only for its diverse landscapes, history and culture, but also for its reliable air conditioning.

For Europeans, caught between blackouts and high cost of power, air conditioning isn't always a given, and China offers a cool alternative.

According to data from Trip.com Group, international inbound tourism during the summer season has seen explosive growth, with the number of trips from Europe to China increasing 275 percent year-on-year.

In Hainan province, air conditioners hum steadily in malls, museums, cars and even at beachfront snack outlets. This may sound mundane, but it makes a big difference when you're melting like a chocolate bar in the sun. Little wonder then it is a talking point on social media.

"Air conditioning is available almost everywhere here, which is totally different from France," said Kelvin Grosjean, a 22-year-old French tourist who was cooling off at a scenic spot in Haikou, Hainan. "Restaurants, museums, cinemas, malls — it's everywhere. That makes living and traveling much more comfortable."

In France, Grosjean noted that air conditioning is uncommon on public transport, and it can be particularly uncomfortable in stations.

Libraries sometimes have air conditioning, he said, but not often. In general, when people find cool air in France during the summer, it's mainly in supermarkets, hotels and offices.

"I think the French government will take measures to tackle heat waves in the coming years," Grosjean said. "It's easier to head off to China."

In July, China's National Immigration Administration reported 22.91 million foreign arrivals in the first half of the year, a 20.4 percent jump year-on-year. Visa-free entries grew 30.6 percent to 17.8 million. Hainan, which offers visitors from 86 countries visa-free access, is a prime beneficiary.

Now, social media users across the world are swapping tips on Hainan's beaches and forest retreats. "China's summer is so pleasant," one wrote, joining a chorus of would-be travelers organizing group trips.