Paris welcomes Bonjour Chine Soleil Hainan: A vivid display of Chinese culture and tourism

Monday, March 11, 2024

On 8th March, in the afternoon local time, Paris, France, became the stage for the “Bonjour! Chine Soleil Hainan” international image exhibition alongside a promotional event for Hainan’s tourism and culture. This event uniquely combined visual and physical displays, alongside video presentations, to offer a holistic view of Hainan’s cultural and tourism offerings, innovative products, and fresh business concepts to the audience in France.

During the “Bonjour! Chine Soleil Hainan” showcase, attendees explored a variety of themed zones, including those dedicated to Hainan’s sunny beaches, mysterious rainforests, wellness retreats, shopping hotspots, and the rich local culture. The exhibit featured over 200 items, highlighting the region’s intangible cultural heritage, including traditional Li garments, exquisite Li brocade, and artful coconut and shell carvings.

Wang Zhongyun, the Deputy Director of Hainan Province’s Department of Tourism, Culture, Radio, Television, and Sports, drew attention to Hainan’s global significance as the largest free trade port in theGlobally recognized as China’s exclusive international center for tourism spending, its largest special economic zone, and a distinguished international tourism island.He spotlighted Hainan’s strategic importance on the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road and its allure as a romantic and beautiful global tourism and vacation spot.

Hainan’s appeal is magnified by its rich tourism resources, including breathtaking tropical scenery, the vibrant cultures of the Li and Miao ethnic groups, and a deep historical legacy. In 2023, the island attracted more than 90 million visitors from home and abroad, a 49.9% increase from the previous year. The 2024 Spring Festival saw record-breaking numbers, with 9.5145 million tourists generating RMB 15.127 billion in tourism revenue.

There’s an ongoing push to attract more international visitors to Hainan, focusing on unique tourism products designed for global travelers. Hainan has launched 47 international flight routes, established 13 marinas, and offers over 2,300 yacht berths. Plans for 2024 include expanding to 66 international flight routes and applying for Seventh Freedom of the Air passenger routes within the year’s first half. The new Hainan Coastal Scenic Highway, stretching 988 kilometers, links 12 coastal cities and counties, offering easy access to numerous attractions and fulfilling various tourist interests from beach holidays to medical wellness, educational visits, and more.

The announcement of a visa-free entry policy for tourists from 59 countries, including France, effective from 9 February 2024, garnered significant attention. This policy allows for a 30-day visa-free stay for various activities, excluding work and study, aiming to simplify travel for international visitors.

Additionally, Hainan has introduced the “Hainan Assured Payment” platform for a public trial, making payments easier for foreign visitors without the need for additional apps.

French artist Remy Aron, who has considerable experience in China, attended the event. He expressed optimism that in 2024, marking 60 years of Franco-Chinese diplomatic ties, both nations could further contribute to global cultural advancements. Aron sees the Hainan Free Trade Port as a burgeoning global tourist destination and an emerging cultural epicenter, given its unique benefits. This announcement is the responsibility of its issuer.

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