Shanghai, renowned for its cosmopolitan flair and advanced urban infrastructure, has solidified its position as a leading global destination for inbound tourism. The city's strategic advantages, including its extensive international and domestic flight connections, have made it the preferred first stop for a growing number of overseas tourists who are entering China.

Since the start of the year, Shanghai has witnessed a surge in overseas visitors arriving through its airports and cruise ports. These visitors usually enjoy short stays in the city, varying from a few hours to several days. The city's cleanliness, safety, delectable cuisine, and warm hospitality have left them with glowing impressions of Shanghai's allure.

To further enhance the travel experience for inbound tourists, Shanghai has introduced a range of refined convenience measures. Collaborating with financial institutions, the Shanghai Culture and Tourism Department has facilitated mobile payment guidance for large cruise groups at the Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal. Initiatives like the "Free Half-Day Tour for Inbound Visitors" program at the Shanghai Pudong International Airport, launched by Ctrip, provide complimentary transportation, English-guided tours, currency exchange, and eSIM card services.

Moreover, Shanghai Telecom is gearing up to establish service centers at Pudong International Airport's Terminal 1, offering short-term SIM cards and WiFi rentals to foreign visitors. Accommodation options in Shanghai, from star-rated hotels to boutique homestays, have opened their doors to inbound tourists, ensuring a diverse range of lodging choices.

In a bid to cater to the evolving preferences of young travelers, Shanghai is expanding its array of travel products and experiences. Beyond iconic landmarks like the Bund and Lujiazui, visitors can now partake in activities such as shows, exhibitions, Chinese calligraphy workshops, and immersive food-making sessions.

Shanghai's appeal extends beyond leisure activities, with the city hosting a vibrant calendar of large-scale festivals and events. The recent F1 event attracted a significant international audience, while the Olympic qualification series brought in thousands of spectators. International exhibitions like the Shanghai Tourism Industry Expo have further bolstered Shanghai's reputation as a hub for cultural exchange and tourism.

Looking ahead, Shanghai aims to heighten its appeal to foreign visitors through the "Visit Shanghai" initiative, a comprehensive program aimed at positioning the city as a global destination for travel, business, studying, shopping, and living. By fostering collaborations with foreign institutions, cultural centers, and tourism groups, Shanghai is poised to unveil a series of promotional activities to showcase its diverse offerings to the world.

Source: Jiefang Daily