Threefold increase in Thai AirAsia's bookings to China
Following the implementation of the permanent visa-free scheme between Thailand and China, Thai AirAsia has reported that bookings from Thailand to destinations in mainland China have experienced a threefold increase. The company expects Thai passengers to account for a 20% share of all passengers traveling on Chinese routes this year.
China flight suspensions are bad for Singapore ties
At first glance, the suspension of flights to two Chinese cities doesn’t look like a big deal for Singapore Airlines. After all, Chongqing and Chengdu aren’t major routes for the renowned carrier that boasts 130 destinations around the world, but the move could put a dampener on one of the strongest friendships in the region, according to a Bloomberg report.
Foreign minister's recent visits to New Zealand and Australia deepen ties
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi recently wrapped up his highly successful visit to Australia and New Zealand. New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said that New Zealand is willing to deepen cooperation in areas including economy and trade, cultural and people-to-people exchanges, education, tourism and agriculture.
South Korea’s Jeju Island Teeming with Chinese Tourists
A recovery in the influx of Chinese group tours into South Korea is becoming noticeable. The increase in Chinese tourists is also evident in Jeju Island. According to Hanwha Investment & Securities, the number of foreign visitors to Jeju Island nearly reached the 10,000 mark by hitting 9,864 on March 21. This was similar to the level in 2016 when the number of Chinese tourists to South Korea was at its highest.
Cuba turns away Taiwanese tourists
Taiwan's Foreign Ministry has issued an orange travel alert for Cuba, which advises against non-essential travel to the country, after news reports that Taiwanese travelers are being denied entry despite holding valid passports. Last year, a Taiwanese Canadian family traveled to Havana on their Republic of China (ROC) passports. Some family members were denied entry by Cuban immigration officials who said that Cuba does not recognize the ROC passport due to the “one China principle.”
Cathay Pacific budget carrier HK Express plans China mainland expansion
Low-cost carrier HK Express intends to double the number of flights to mainland China over the next two years and increase overall capacity by the end of 2024 as it aims to expand its global presence. CEO Jeanette Mao provided an optimistic assessment of the airline’s outlook, saying she expected capacity to grow 20-30% by the end of 2024, reaching 170% of pre-pandemic levels from the present 140%.
China Southern Airlines adds new Saudi Arabia route
China Southern Airlines will expand its presence in the Middle East during the summer 2024 season by launching a second route to Saudi Arabia. The airline will debut its first nonstop flights to the country on April 16, connecting Beijing Daxing and Riyadh.
Chinese tourists brawl over best selfie spot on 5,000-meter-high snow mountain
The brawl between one couple with another woman happened on the peak of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in China’s Yunnan Province at the height of 5,596 meters above sea level on March 24, according to The Mirror. They were filmed pushing and fighting each other on the observation deck to fight for the best selfie spot, prompting local police to act.
