Source: Global Times
Special Correspondent Xin Bin, stationed in Singapore for Global Times "China replaced Japan in June as the preferred travel destination for Singaporeans," reported the Singapore Business Review on the 2nd. According to the latest survey data released by the regional fintech startup YouTrip, due to China's affordable tourism and increasing charm in culture, food, and retail experiences, the number of Singaporean tourists traveling to China increased by 58% compared to the same period last year this June.
The report stated that overall, over 80% of Singaporeans prefer to travel within Asia, with destinations such as China, Japan, South Korea, and Thailand dominating. The popularity of China as a tourist destination reflects Singaporeans' preference for cost-effective travel: big cities like Shanghai, Beijing, and Shenzhen not only offer affordable prices but also rich experiences. Popular Chinese brands such as Pop Mart, Haidilao, and Bawang Cha Ji have become the first choice for travelers eager to explore contemporary Chinese lifestyles.
At the recent Singapore National Travel Agents Association Exhibition in March, Chinese tour packages became the most popular product. At that time, the Singapore Straits Times reported that Chen Bin, CEO of Dacheng Tourism, said at the meeting that Japan, Turkey, and New Zealand are also popular travel destinations, but Chinese tour packages sold the best, accounting for one-third of the total sales for the day. According to his observation, due to the strong Singapore dollar and favorable arrangements such as visa exemptions between Singapore and China, many people choose to travel to China.
The report also noted that with the implementation of the 30-day visa exemption arrangement between Singapore and China, more Singaporeans are also considering extending their travel itineraries or engaging in in-depth tourism.
When the special correspondent of the Global Times arrived in Singapore 10 years ago, locals talking about overseas travel mentioned Europe, the United States, Australia, Japan, and Thailand. Even when going to China, they would only go to major cities like Beijing and Shanghai. In recent years, Chinese tourism has gradually gained popularity in Singapore, partly due to short videos on social media platforms like TikTok introducing popular attractions in China. The reporter clearly feels that Singaporeans' understanding of China is constantly deepening, and places like the Altay region and the Inner Mongolia grasslands have now become desirable destinations for local tourists.
The Singapore Business Review reported that the latest survey data also shows that Northeast Asia has become a shopping paradise for Singaporean tourists. Locally, tourists spend three times more than in Southeast Asia. People prefer to shop at retail stores such as China's MUJI, Japanese fast fashion brand GU, and South Korean beauty chain Olive Young.
Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7522991295011340851/
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