European tourists find cool comfort in China

China's coolcation appeal goes beyond infrastructure. From subarctic permafrost to tropical coastlines, the country offers a remarkably diverse array of summer getaways.

Hainan's east coast offers 28 C days tempered by ocean winds — far milder than the 40 C-plus heat currently baking southern Europe. Inland mountain villages provide additional respite, moderating what can be oppressive heat at lower altitudes.

"You've got the sea, and also mountains, which make the weather much milder," Grosjean said. "So Hainan avoids extreme heat, and will be far more pleasant for overseas visitors."

For 24-year-old German tourist Maximilian Strobel, a trip to China in July was the fulfillment of a long-held dream. Together with his brother, he planned the journey to experience the diverse landscapes and cultures of China. Their travels took them from the south to the north, with each destination offering its own unique climate and cultural experiences.

Their first stop was Kunming, Yunnan province, a city known for its mild climate.

"We hardly needed any special cooling measures," Strobel said. "The weather was quite comfortable. An occasional ice cream or cold drink was more than enough. The hotel's pool also offered a refreshing retreat."

However, Chengdu in Sichuan province was a different story. With daytime temperatures hovering between 35 C and 40 C, the brothers were forced to move their midday activities indoors. They visited museums and shopping malls — which Strobel noticed were unusually lively.

In Beijing, the brothers rose at 5 am to visit the Great Wall, because at that time of day the weather is relatively cool and the crowds thin.

What struck the German travelers most was a cultural contrast: In the summer heat, many Chinese people opt for long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats and face coverings — a sight rarely seen on European streets. "My Chinese friends had all warned me about the heat before I came. But honestly, I think locals here handle it better than I expected," Strobel said.

Contact the writers at chenbowen@chinadaily.com.cn