As the May Day holiday approaches in the Chinese mainland, a noticeable shift in travel trends is emerging. According to the latest data from online travel platforms reported by Beijing Business Today, young tourists are increasingly opting for smaller cities over the traditionally popular metropolises.
Ctrip's \"2024 'May Day' Travel Trend Insight Report\" highlights Tianshui, Xuzhou, and Zibo as the top locales experiencing a significant rise in hotel bookings during the five-day Labor Day holiday period. This trend marks a departure from the usual preference for first and second-tier cities.
Notably, fourth-tier cities and below, especially those at the county level, are attracting more visitors, contributing new momentum to the travel sector. Ctrip reported a staggering 140 percent year-over-year increase in travel bookings for these smaller cities during May Day, outpacing the national average and significantly exceeding the growth seen in larger urban centers.
In county-level markets, the surge is even more pronounced. Hotel bookings have increased by 68 percent year over year, while bookings for scenic area tickets have jumped by an impressive 151 percent. This trend underscores a growing preference among young global citizens for exploring less-traveled destinations, seeking unique cultural experiences and sustainable travel options.
The shift towards smaller cities not only boosts local economies but also promotes a more balanced distribution of tourism across the Chinese mainland. As young travelers continue to seek out fresh perspectives and authentic experiences, smaller cities are poised to become the new hotspots for adventure and exploration during major holidays.
Reference(s):
China's May Day holiday to see surge in travel to smaller cities
cgtn.com
