European tourists find cool comfort in China

As record-shattering temperatures lead to power crises in European cities from London to Athens, 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 many Europeans caught between the risk of blackouts and the high cost of power, air conditioning isn't always a guaranteed luxury, 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 shopping 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 candy bar left in the sun. As a result, it has even become 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. "Restaurants, museums, cinemas, shopping malls — it's literally everywhere. That makes living and traveling here much more comfortable."

In France, Grosjean noted that air conditioning is uncommon on public transport, such as metro trains and buses, and it can be particularly uncomfortable in stations and after boarding in hot weather.

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

"Nevertheless, I think the French government is about to take measures to face the heat waves in the coming years. ... They tried this year as well, but it was too late," Grosjean said. "It's easier to head off to China."

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

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

China's coolcation appeal goes beyond infrastructure. Spanning some 50 degrees of latitude and encompassing everything from subarctic permafrost to tropical coastlines, the country offers a remarkably diverse array of summer getaways.

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 meticulously planned the journey to experience the diverse landscapes and cultures of China.

The journey took them to Kunming in Yunnan province, Chengdu in Sichuan province and Beijing, with each destination offering its unique climate and cultural experiences.