Paramita Sarkar
Tuesday, July 23, 2024
Reading Time: 2 minutes
As China’s Golden Week holiday approaches on October 1st, a massive wave of outbound Chinese travelers is set to hit international destinations.
To capitalize on this lucrative market, Western hotels must prepare now.
According to DidaTravel, China’s leading outbound travel wholesaler, many hoteliers remain unaware of this crucial travel period.
Unlike last year’s combined Mid-Autumn Festival and Golden Week, this year’s holidays are separate.
While the Mid-Autumn Festival in September will likely drive domestic tourism, Golden Week promises to be a peak season for international travel.
Chinese travelers typically book domestic trips within a week and international journeys two to four weeks in advance.
To attract Chinese tourists, Western hotels should prioritize the following:
High-quality room photos and detailed descriptions in square meters.
Essential amenities like kettles and tea in every room.
Acceptance of Chinese payment methods such as WeChat Pay and Alipay.
Active presence on Chinese social media platforms like WeChat.
Facilitating visa acquisition for Chinese travelers.
Focusing on B2B retail sales to reach a wider audience.
Preparing for last-minute bookings as Chinese travelers often plan spontaneously.
Targeting the growing segment of affluent Chinese Millennials and Gen Z.
“Many Western hoteliers are oblivious to the Golden Week phenomenon,” says Nicky Ussamarn, DidaTravel’s Chief Commercial Officer.
“This is a golden opportunity to tap into a booming market. Understanding Chinese traveler preferences is key.
By tailoring offerings and experiences accordingly, hotels can significantly increase their occupancy rates and revenue during this peak period.”
DidaTravel emphasizes the urgency for hotels to act swiftly, as Chinese travelers typically book international trips within two to four weeks of departure.
By implementing these strategies, Western hotels can position themselves to capture a substantial share of the lucrative Chinese outbound travel market during Golden Week and beyond.
