Los Angeles Travel Agents Embark on “Nihao! China” Familiarization Tour
LAPost, September 8, 2024 – A special send-off ceremony was held at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) for a group of Los Angeles-based travel agents embarking on a familiarization tour to China. Organized by the North American headquarters of Air China and the China National Tourist Office in Los Angeles, this event marks another step in strengthening U.S.-China tourism relations.
(Photo by: Richard Ren/LAPost)
Following China’s 2023 initiatives to simplify visa procedures, expand the list of visa-exempt countries, and increase international flights, the country’s inbound tourism market has seen a positive recovery. To further promote U.S. tourism to China and solidify the achievements of the 14th U.S.-China Tourism Leadership Summit, the China National Tourist Office in Los Angeles and Air China invited 17 travel agents to visit iconic destinations such as Beijing, Xi’an, the Yangtze River, and Shanghai. During the trip, the group will evaluate lodging, dining, and tourist attractions, and experience Air China’s premium services, including through-check-in, baggage transfer, and seamless transit connections. The agents will also observe improvements in mobile payments and high-speed rail infrastructure, which enhance convenience for international travelers.
(Photo by: Richard Ren/LAPost)
Travel blogger and social media influencer Olivia Blodgett, known for her city guides and travel tips, expressed her excitement in an interview with LAPost at LAX. “I’m thrilled to be part of this tour to China with Elite Voyages. I’m especially looking forward to seeing the Great Wall, the Terracotta Warriors, and the stunning landscapes along the Yangtze River Cruise,” she said. Olivia plans to document her journey on Instagram and YouTube under her handle, @girlwithbluesails.
(Photo by: Richard Ren/LAPost)
This trip is a follow-up to the official launch of China’s “NiHao! China” tourism brand at the U.S. Tour Operators Association (USTOA) annual conference in December 2023. It is also the first local familiarization tour organized by Air China North America following their “Splendid China Tour” in February 2024. Air China provided commemorative gifts and dedicated staff to ensure a smooth journey for the participants.
(Photo by: Richard Ren/LAPost)
Air China currently operates out of five major North American cities: Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Washington, and Vancouver. Leveraging its hub in Beijing, the airline continues to expand its network, offering flexible flights to domestic Chinese destinations like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu, as well as connections to Asia, Australia, and beyond. (By: Richard Ren/LAPost)
