As the Lunar New Year approaches, a recent survey reveals that the Maldives is the most popular overseas destination for Chinese travelers. Following closely are Thailand and Singapore, according to a poll conducted by Global Times, which included responses from 25,000 participants.
The survey ranked Russia as the fourth choice, with Japan and New Zealand rounding out the top six. Other popular destinations in the top ten include Iceland, Switzerland, France, and Italy.
Interestingly, Vietnam, which used to attract a significant number of Chinese tourists before the pandemic, did not make the list this year. Travel experts note that the countries favored by Chinese tourists often have welcoming visa policies.
People pose for a photo in front of lantern decorations on Lunar New Year’s Eve at Chinatown in Bangkok, Thailand
Both Thailand and Singapore have recently implemented visa exemptions for visitors from China, while the Maldives offers visa-on-arrival services, making travel more accessible.
The Lunar New Year, which falls on Saturday, February 10, is celebrated widely across Asia, including in Vietnam. Recent data from Ctrip, a leading Chinese online travel agency, shows that bookings for tours to Southeast Asia have surged by 1,026% compared to last year, with air travel increasing by 864%, as reported by China Daily.
This year’s travel trends suggest a strong rebound in tourism as more Chinese travelers look forward to celebrating the Lunar New Year abroad.
