Source: Global Times

Australian news website article on June 22nd, original title: Tourists' biggest misunderstandings and myths about China are resolved. Australians have long preferred travel destinations such as Thailand and Japan, but now a new international tourist destination is rising. The enthusiasm of Australians to travel to China has risen again partly due to the visa-free policy and affordable travel packages offered by China. According to data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the number of Australian travelers to China surged to 580,500 in 2024, an increase of 85.32% compared to 2023. This trend continued in 2025, with February seeing 70,590 visitors to China, a year-on-year growth of 73.6%.

Travel blogger Demi from the Gold Coast shared her experience of traveling to China with a tour group. Her 10-day trip cost only 999 Australian dollars (1 Australian dollar is approximately equivalent to 4.6 Chinese yuan). She said, "This includes international round-trip flights from Melbourne, a domestic flight within China, daily self-service breakfasts, all accommodation fees, and entrance tickets to some tourist attractions. For meals during the 10 days, I spent a total of 170 Australian dollars; eating in China is very cheap." "You can also choose to add paid sightseeing tours, which cost me 100 Australian dollars. My shopping expenses totaled 500 Australian dollars; shopping in China is also very affordable. Of course, this is optional."

Despite China's growing popularity, there are still some major misunderstandings surrounding this country that may hinder some tourists. Simon Bell, general manager of Wendy Wu Travel Agency in Australia, said that some Australians think China is only about big cities and concrete jungles, which is completely wrong. "The cities in China are indeed impressive, and metropolises like Beijing and Shanghai are world-famous. But China also boasts incredible natural wonders, lush green spaces, quaint countryside, and national parks that rival those anywhere else in the world." Many foreign tourists are surprised by the rich natural beauty of China.

Another major misunderstanding is the belief that getting around and communicating in China is difficult. Bell said, "China has one of the most advanced transportation networks in the world, including high-speed rail that rivals air travel." Although not all Chinese people speak English, translation software, English signs in key areas, and guide services provided by reputable travel agencies make traveling in China much easier than many people expect. Moreover, China is a paradise for food lovers, with each region offering its own unique cuisine for tourists to enjoy.

Bell believes that the visa-free policy is part of the reason for the significant growth in tourism to China. This year, bookings at his travel agency increased more than double compared to last year. "In the past six months, China has once again become one of our highest booking destinations, with many tourists choosing to join group tours to visit both landmark buildings and lesser-known attractions. This trend continues to heat up."

Several key factors lie behind this wave of enthusiasm: awareness of China as a tourist destination has improved, attracting (foreign) tourists increasingly drawn to its modern cities, rich culture, and stunning landscapes. Bell said, "Increased air capacity offers more direct flight options. And after public sentiment improved following the resolution of trade disputes, all these factors combined have made China an attractive and accessible destination for Australians in 2025."

His travel agency offers 52 China tour packages, typically including visits to the Great Wall in Beijing, the Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an, Yangtze River cruises, "Panda Pursuit" tours, and so on, perfectly blending the vitality of China's cities, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. (Author: Shireen Khalil, translated by Liu Changhuang)

Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7518912459575525928/

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