When Italian content creator Francesco Mattesi touched down in Wenchang in 2014, the city was on the cusp of change. Now, 11 years later, he's witnessed a transformation that blends high-tech ambition with laid-back coastal charm.
This year, Hainan's strategic push into aerospace has placed Wenchang at the center of national launch capabilities. 'I remember the first launch I saw here – the roar of the engines, the excitement of the crowd,' Mattesi recalls. Today, an ecosystem of support industries has sprung up: aerospace parts manufacturers, research labs, training centers, and even themed cafes celebrating space exploration.
But the sky isn't the only frontier. As rocket launches drew global attention, tourism has soared. Visitors come for launch-day thrills, exploring the nearby coastline, sampling fresh seafood, and diving into local culture. Small businesses, from guesthouses to eco-tour operators, are riding this wave of interest.
On a recent Vlog adventure with CGTN reporter Chen Lanyou, Mattesi swapped studio lights for sunrise walks along Wenchang's beaches. Together, they met local entrepreneurs who say the aerospace boom has sparked new opportunities. 'It's amazing how technology and tradition now coexist here,' says a cafe owner whose space-themed menu attracts tourists and students alike.
For young travelers and digital nomads, Wenchang offers a fresh perspective: a city where rockets launch at dawn and coastal life unfolds by sunset. With its dynamic blend of innovation, culture, and natural beauty, Wenchang is carving a niche on the global stage – and Francesco's lens captures it all.
Reference(s):
Hainan Vlog: Italian influencer witnesses Wenchang's remarkable growth
cgtn.com
