Visa waiver shows Nepal’s concern for Chinese tourists

Professor Wolfgang Georg Arlt of COTRI China Outbound Tourism Research Institute visited Nepal recently to organize a two-day workshop on the outbound tourism of China. He also received an interview about what tourism companies are supposed to do to attract more Chinese tourists.

According to Professor Arlt, entrepreneurs in Nepal are providing services which cater to the needs of Chinese tourists. However, it is still necessary to for them to learn more about the habits and interests of these tourists. For tourists from China, the most fascinating elements in Nepal would be the nature, cultural traditions and its friendly people. Therefore, entrepreneurs in Nepal should turn these elements into travel products which can be bought. In order to serve the tourists who want to have better experiences, tour operators can organize jungle safaris for Chinese tourists or teach them local song and dances. These services give them a closer contact to the Nepal’s culture and landscape.

Furthermore, Nepal should focus on improving the quality of travelling, thus attracting more high-end tourists. This can improve the image of Nepal in China as well as raising the tourism income brought by the Chinese tourists who wish to stay longer and spend more.

In order to show the concern for Chinese tourists, Nepal has waived the visa application fee, which is regarded by Professor Arlt as a helpful move to lure more Chinese tourists. The USD 25 visa application fee was actually not a big deal, but waiving it shows that Nepal pays extra attention to Chinese tourists. This extra care is highly valued by Chinese tourists and will likely attract more Chinese tourists in the next few years.

As Nepal has a very positive image in China, Nepal should diversify their tourism products and services to bring more repeat tourists. China poses a big opportunity for the economy of Nepal, so the country should work harder to strengthen the relationship with China, otherwise so other country would grasp this opportunity.

Currently, COTRI has built a partnership with NATTA (Nepal Association for Tour & Travel Agents) has provided training for its members. Meanwhile, COTRI is trying to develop projects together with NATTA, so that Nepal will be better prepared to welcome more Chinese tourists in the future.

Source: Republica

Photo: flickr