Sino-Chilean tourism will expand when a landmark agreement is
sealed later this year, the Chilean ambassador to China Pablo
Cabrera told the opening ceremony of the on-going Chilean tourism
trade show.
The two countries will sign an agreement to list the South
American country as a tourist destination for Chinese travelers
during a state visit by President Hu Jintao
in November.
"After gaining approval destination status, the number of
Chinese tourists to Chile is expected to rise up to five times,"
said the ambassador.
A Chilean delegation, including 13 tourist agencies and
officials from Chilean Tourism Board, arrived in Beijing last
Tuesday on a week-long tourism and trade promotional drive.
Trade shows in Shanghai and Xi'an are also planned.
Chile, occupying a thin landmass on South America's Pacific
coast, offers splendid scenery.
Airoutes and carriers are being thrashed out by governments and
business leaders from China and other South American nations. Chile
hopes to become an arrival destinations for Chinese travelers
embarking on a continental tour.
Revenues from Chile's Asia tourism market has increased markedly
during the first six months of this year, figures show -- 18.5
percent higher than that of the same period a year ago.
"We are now discussing the possibility to shorten flying time
between the two countries, with some Chinese counterparts, such as
Air China, China Eastern Airlines and China Southern Airlines,"
said Su Zongchang, the Beijing-based general manager of the Chilean
airline LAN. LAN is one of Latin America's biggest passenger and
cargo carriers.
The stunning beauty and diverse scenery of Chile is among the
best in South America. This very long, narrow country includes the
mighty Andes mountain range, complete with volcanoes and glacial
capped peaks, incredible scenic and remote fjords, coastal beaches,
dense ancient forests and powerful rivers.
Adventure travelers will find world-class white water rafting,
sea kayaking, mountain biking, horseback riding, trekking, hiking
and mountain climbing all within easy reach.
(China Daily September 11, 2004)
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