For many years a predominantly domestic tourism hotspot, China’s ‘Hawaii’ is reaching again out to lure more foreign visitors.
China is launching visa-free entry to Hainan for nationals of 59 counties from May 1.
Group and individual tourists from 59 countries, including Russia, the UK, France, Germany, and the US can visit Hainan visa-free for up to 30 days if their trip is booked through a travel agency.
Hainan has offered a 15-day visa-free stay for tour groups for citizens of mostly Asian countries for several years.
"By extending the policy to individuals and the stay to up to 30 days, the government aims to attract more international tourists, nurture the tourism industry and meet the needs of foreign individuals," said State Immigration Administration vice head Qu Yunhai.
Last year, Hainan received nearly 320,000 tourists from the 26 countries currently offering visa-free access.
"The policy will inject vitality into Hainan and bring us closer to our goal of becoming a world-class destination," said Sun Ying, director of the provincial tourism development commission.
