Posted on 19 May 2017

UK bookings to China have surged by 40% in 2017. But what attractions are making the Middle Kingdom so popular this year?

The travel habits of Britons have shifted a great deal recently, largely driven by security worries in places like Turkey and Egypt. Spain – a perennial favourite among Britons – has been one of the main beneficiaries. But as research by global travel distribution firm Tourico shows, China is also becoming very popular among UK travellers.

UK bookings to the Middle Kingdom rose by 40 per cent in the first third of 2017. Interest in the world's most populous nation has also increased in places like the US and South Korea.

Tourico's regional director of product development in North Asia, Hillary Wang, said: “Regional political turmoil, such as the nuclear crisis in the Korean peninsula, make the inbound China market more unpredictable this year – as Korea was the number one inbound source country for China last year – but, so far, Chinese travel business remains very strong.

“In fact, Tourico is predicting it will double its overall Chinese business in 2017, as both the larger markets and emerging markets continue to demand product in China.”

What has put China into favour with UK holidaymakers?

While Tourico's research doesn't shed any light on this question, we thought we'd list some of the most popular attractions in China right now.

Terracotta Army - Xi'An

More than 8,000 life-size warriors made of terracotta were discovered in Xi-An in 1974. Much of this vast army remains underground, but thousands have been unearthed for the public's viewing pleasure. The army also includes 130 chariots and 150 cavalry horses.

Beijing

While the national capital has received a bad press over smog in recent years, it nevertheless boasts some amazing attractions. The Forbidden City and The Great Wall are must-sees.

Giant panda hugging

There are a number of panda zoos across China, but one of the best is in Chengdu – especially if you want to hug a panda. Voluntary panda-care programs can also be undertaken here.

Zhangjiajie Forest Park

This fantastical landscape is sure to leave you agape – especially if you attempt the glass sky walk, suspended on the side of a karst rock, thousands of feet high!

Guilin - Quintessential Chinese landscape

A visit to Guilin is a more tranquil way to enjoy some classic Chinese vistas. Enjoy a cruise on the charming Li River and take in the majestic rice terrace fields that surround it.

Spinning the wheel in Macao

If you fancy your chances in one of Macao's casinos, you'll be spoilt for choice. A genuine rival to Las Vegas, this dazzling metropolis of vast casinos and giant hotels is sure to keep you occupied for a long time – or at least until your money runs out. And as UK resident you don't even need a visa!

Skyscrapers of Hong Kong

Ascend Victoria Peak and survey the mighty skyscrapers of this iconic city. The 400-year old walled village of Lai Chi Wo is also a must-see, as are the myriad of temples and street night markets. No pre-arranged visa is required if you're a UK citizen.

Getting a visa for China

Unless you are visiting Hong Kong or Macao (both of which can be visited without a pre-arranged visa), as a UK national you will have to apply for a visa before you arrive in China. Tourists will need to apply for an ‘L' visa. Visit VisaForChina.Org to start the application process.

72 Hour Transit Visas

If you have a connecting flight in a major Chinese city and want to see a little of the country, you are eligible for a 72-hour transit visa. They are available only in Beijing Capital International airport and airports of other cities including Chengdu, Guangzhou, Chongqing, Dalian, Shenyang ,Kunming, Guilin, Xi'an, Xiamen, Harbin, Wuhan and Tianjin. The port cities of Shanghai, Zhejiang Province and Jiangsu Province also offer a 72 hour visa waiver for residents of the UK and other countries.

Visiting China this summer?

The UK Government strongly recommends you take out comprehensive travel insurance before flying to China.

starttravel.co.uk can cover your Chinese adventures this summer for less than you might think.

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