Source: CCTV.com

03-28-2007 09:58

Special Report:   President Hu visits Russia

While the "Year of China" just begins in Russia, the "Year of Russia" in China is seeing returns from the tourism industry. More and more Russian tourists are rushing into South China, flourishing the off-season market.

Although the Spring Festival golden week has concluded, in South China's Sanya, luxury holiday hotels are still seeing 90 percent of room occupancy. Hotels say generally March is in the off-season of tourism. But this year, international tourists are making it a different.

Li Shilai, hotel reception said:“ We have received lots of international customers. Most of them come from Russia.”

Hotels say the warmer and more gentle climate in Sanya attracts the Russian tourists the most. Besides, the city made use of the "Year of Russia" in China last year to successfully promote its image overseas. It has become a favorable resort for Russians.

Jiang Zelin, Hainan Province said:“ The stark contrast between mid-season and off-season no longer exists. We have confidence that we can keep the increase, while boost the development of the city.”

Currently, the tour charter flights sets off from Moscow to Sanya once every two days, with full seat occupancy. Figures show that in 2006, South China's Hainan Province saw 85-thousand arrivals of Russian tourists. While in January, the number has topped 30-thousand.

 

Editor:Li Yang