Expo boosts tourism to Shanghai

Domestic travel bookings are booming, ahead of the World Expo. Travel agents are being flooded with requests to join tour groups, heading to the highly anticipated Shanghai event.

Travel agents in Tianjin are already accepting bookings for World Expo tour packages.

Normally, domestic travel is only booked a fortnight in advance. But agents say it's best to book now... to avoid price hikes after the Expo opens in May.

Hong Yu, Manager, Travel Agency, said, "We think the price will undoubtedly rise after May the first, including accommodation, and tickets. Scenic spots around Shanghai will also see price hikes."

Agents are also expanding tour packages, to cover a broader range of destinations. Most now include scenic spots around Shanghai, as well as Expo Park.

Travel from Dalian is also on the rise. Packages to Shanghai on the first weekend in May, are booking fast. The first group of 120 will leave on May 7th.

Dalian local said, "I will travel with my parents. I think it's a rare opportunity for us. We can take a glance of all the countries... in China."

Tourist numbers to Shanghai during the Expo are expected to reach 70 million, putting pressure on airlines and hotels.

Liu Yingbin, GM, Dalian Travel Agency, said, "Travellers who want to go by themselves should plan earlier. They had better contact travel agents to get hotels and air tickets. It's hard for them to get accommodation by themselves. The scale of tourism might even exceed that seen during the Beijing Olympics."

Those travelling alone are recommended to visit in the quieter months of May, June or October.

Tourists should also be fully aware of the Expo opening hours, and make plans in advance.