Beijing Boosts Inbound Tourism on 72-hour Visa Free Transit

BEIJING, Oct. 1, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- In 2013, Beijing began to conduct a '72-hour visa free transit' policy in order to attract foreign tourists and to offer better chances for them to enjoy a short stay in the city. Almost two years have passed; Beijing has continued to take measures on this, aiming to expand its recognition and influence as an international tourist destination.

Beijing organized various online and offline events both at home and abroad to promote the 72-hour visa free transit policy, in hopes to introduce it to more potential foreign tourists. For example, the city opened accounts on Facebook, Twitter, Youtube and other social media platforms, updating information about 72-hour travels. The city also published creative apps on social media, introducing newly-designed travel routines and products via interactive games with foreign Internet users.

In addition, Beijing started cooperation with travelport.com, a leading travel commerce platform, providing preferential transit flight booking services for tourists from countries including the United States, Britain, Germany, France and Australia. Those who do not have travel plans could also be well taken care of. After they arrive in Beijing Capital International Airport, they can easily find the reception desks of big travel agencies, offering services in arranging travel while catering to different interests, tastes and needs.

In the future, Beijing will explore travel routes that can be achieved in different durations, like 6 hours, 12 hours, 24 hours or 48 hours. The city will open more direct flights connecting other parts of the world, attracting tourists with the most convenient service and the most amazing travel routes.

Particularly, on August 20th this year, Beijing and CRI Online (China Radio International), jointly held an online contest for global audiences titled 'Feeling Beijing.' The event will last till October 20th. During the event, global Internet users can log on to www.cri.cn, and find contest webpages in languages including English, German, French, Japanese and Korean. Those who compete in the online contest will have the chance to win a free trip to Beijing and attend the award ceremony after the event concludes.