Chongqing Welcomes Nearly 100 International Travel Agencies to Boost Inbound Tourism

2024-06-11

Hualong News (Reporter Wu Lishuang) — In an effort to accelerate the European inbound tourism market to China, Chongqing recently hosted the "European Travel Agencies’ FAM Trip to China" from May 26 to 31.

Organized by the International Exchange and Cooperation Bureau of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Chongqing Municipal Culture and Tourism Commission, the event attracted travel agencies from Spain, Italy, France, and other countries, fostering discussions on cooperation and development.

Throughout the week-long event, participants explored some of Chongqing's most renowned attractions, including the World Cultural Heritage of Dazu Rock Carvings, the World Natural Heritage of Wulong Karst, the national 5A-level scenic spot Youyang Taohuayuan, and the historic town of Gongtan. The travel agency representatives experienced the city's stunning landscapes and sampled local delicacies such as Chongqing hotpot, Chongqing noodles, and the diverse "Yu Flavor 360 Bowls" of Tujia cuisine, enjoying the spicy and flavorful delights of Bayu cuisine.

The itinerary also included visits to popular spots such as the Chongqing Grand Theatre and Chongqing Zoo. On the afternoon of May 30, 40 representatives of travel agencies from Spain and France visited the zoo, where the adorable giant pandas captivated them, leading to numerous photo opportunities. "The giant panda is a symbol of China, and seeing them up close is fantastic," said a French travel agency representative. He added that the trip to Chongqing was very enjoyable, with delicious food and friendly people, and he plans to organize more French tourists to visit Chongqing upon his return home.

A key highlight of the event was the "European Travel Agencies’ FAM Trip to China Chongqing Business Meeting" held on May 30 at the Chongqing International Cultural and Tourism Window. More than 50 international travel agency representatives from France, Spain, and Italy engaged in discussions with nearly 50 representatives from Chongqing's scenic spots, travel agencies, cruise companies, and airlines.

With China and European countries like France, Spain, and Italy being major sources and destinations for tourism, and supported by favorable inbound tourism policies and direct flights between Chongqing and European cities such as Paris, Madrid, and Rome, participants expressed great optimism about the prospects for strengthening tourist exchanges and promoting win-win cooperation between Chongqing and European nations.