Category: Travel & Leisure

Of the $4.6 billion spent on Visa cards in China by international travelers in 2008, some 56% was by US visitors.

The Foreign Ministry and National Tourism Administration of China Monday suggested tourists postpone trips to Thailand, which has recently been plagued by rioting. They also alerted Chinese travelers already in Thailand to be cautious and stay away from the rioting.

Kempinski Hotels is doubling the number of hotels under its management in China and also launching a new five-star hotel brand called Nuo exclusively for the Chinese market.

Air Canada plans to add more flights between China and the two busiest Canadian hubs after Canada received "approved destination status," clearing the way for Chinese group tours to the country.

China plans to develop its tourism industry even further. The State Council in an executive meeting chaired by Premier Wen Jiabao said it would be developed into a strategic pillar industry in the national economy.