WildChina Newsletter January 2024

Welcome to the first edition of our monthly newsletter, where we bring the latest updates on travel in China.

China's?visa-free entry program, launched in December for citizens of Malaysia and five European countries – the Netherlands, Germany, France, Italy and Spain – will be expanding to include Irish and Swiss nationals. The announcement was made during Chinese Premier Li Qiang's visit to Europe for the?World Economic Forum?in Davos. Exact dates for the program's expansion will be announced soon.

Additionally, on January 25th, the governments of Singapore and China signed an agreement for a 30-day mutual visa-free entry for their citizens. This replaces the previous 15-day visa-free entry for Singapore travelers. The agreement will come into effect on February 9, the eve of Chinese New Year. Furthermore, an agreement for visa exemption has also been signed with Thailand, scheduled to commence on March 1st, 2024.

The annual meeting of the?Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC)?summarized the industry's 2023 performance and outlined tasks for 2024. Among the priorities is the expansion of overseas flights, with the CAAC forecasting a recovery in China's international passenger traffic. The goal is to achieve 6,000 flights per week by year-end, representing 80% of pre-epidemic levels, with a specific emphasis on boosting direct flights between China and the US. In 2023, international flights already rebounded to over 4,600 per week from the initial few hundred per week at the start of the year.

Two new properties have recently opened in China: a new Hilton and a new Marriott hotel.?

• JW Marriott Hotel Xi'an Southwest?is the second Marriott hotel to?open?in Xi'an. Situated conveniently close to UNESCO World Heritage sites and other notable landmarks such as Tang Dynasty Wall Site Park, the Terracotta Warriors, the Great Wild Goose Pagoda, and the City Walls, it offers 292 guestrooms and suites designed to seamlessly blend local cultural influences with contemporary elements. Each guestroom floor serves as a mini exhibition space, showcasing Xi'an's rich culture and ancient history. The hotel features a 24/7 fitness center and an indoor swimming pool.
• Hilton, on the other hand, celebrates the opening of its 600th hotel in China –?the Hilton Nanjing Niushoushan.?This achievement highlights significant growth and an expansive brand presence. The hotel, showcasing 381 guest rooms with private balconies, seamlessly combines natural beauty and sophisticated design. Amenities include a large banquet hall and a diverse range of dining options.