Hong Kong needs to show what makes it unique to boost mainland visitor numbers, says Ctrip chief
Once the top destination for Chinese travellers, the city is now losing out to Southeast Asia and Europe, says Jane Sun
Hong Kong must trumpet what makes it unique, and find new ways of luring in mainland tourists, the boss of China’s largest travel booking website said, warning that they are increasingly choosing overseas countries instead.
As the mainland’s eight-day National Day holiday started on Sunday, Jane Sun of US-listed Ctrip said Hong Kong is no longer the No 1 destination for mainlanders. And to take back that crown, she said, the city needs to tell tourists what it is that only it can offer.
But it is not just Hong Kong that has work to do attracting tourists. The mainland has a similar task on its hands, Sun said.
Visitor numbers to mainland China grew at an average annual rate of only 1 per cent from 2005 to 2015. And Sun said China needs to simplify its visa applications and cultivate an English-friendly environment so foreigners will find it easier to get in and get around.
“When China opened its doors, Hong Kong was the No 1 travel destination because of its food and its culture. It is a shopping destination, so there are many things attracting people from the mainland,” Sun said.
