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Chinese people are witnessing a significant shift in how they travel. Instead of flocking to familiar destinations during the Lunar New Year, causing overcrowding and high costs, more and more people are choosing to travel during the off-season (after the Lunar New Year). This shift not only offers more comfortable and economical travel experiences but also breathes new life into the tourism market, making this segment more vibrant and attractive than ever before.
On The Paper, Tang, a Chinese tourist, shared: "Travel costs during holidays are too high, it's crowded, and the experience isn't good." Therefore, her family, mostly consisting of retired elderly people and young children who haven't started school yet, chose a different solution: waiting until after the Lunar New Year for a more comfortable and suitable trip.
Instead of the crowds and high costs of peak travel during the Lunar New Year holiday, an increasing number of Chinese people are opting for off-season travel.
After the vibrant and bustling Lunar New Year celebrations, the Chinese tourism market is experiencing a significant "cooling down," creating a golden opportunity for savvy travelers who know how to seize the moment.
Data from Ctrip, China's leading online travel platform, shows that airfares have dropped to rock bottom, with some airlines offering tickets as low as 200 yuan. This is great news for those planning budget-friendly trips.
In particular, international destinations such as Chongqing, Kunming, Harbin, Sanya, and Haikou are seeing significant price reductions, ranging from 30% to 40% compared to the period before the Lunar New Year. This is a great opportunity to experience the beauty of these cities without worrying about finances.
This is a great time to travel to China.
Not only are airfares and hotel prices lower, but other travel services such as tours, entrance tickets, and entertainment activities also tend to be discounted after Tet. This allows travelers to save money and fully enjoy their trip.
Data shows that in the first week after the Lunar New Year holiday, airline bookings for people over 60 increased by 34% compared to the period before and during the Lunar New Year. "Escaping the cold," "natural scenery," and "traditional culture" are keywords for senior citizens traveling during the off-season.
According to statistics from China International Travel Service, a subsidiary of Lingnan Group, the peak travel season for senior citizens typically falls into two main periods: from March to June, when the weather is warm and the natural scenery is fresh, and from September to November, when the climate is cool and pleasant and the autumn landscape is vibrant.
This change not only brings more comfortable and affordable travel experiences but also creates a "breath of fresh air" for the tourism market.
What's special is that these periods coincide with China's off-peak tourist season. This is a great opportunity for senior citizens to enjoy trips with "fewer crowds, more beautiful scenery, and better prices." Instead of crowding into noisy crowds and facing the high prices of summer, senior travelers can leisurely admire the scenery, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, and experience travel in the most comfortable way.
Moreover, travel service prices are often significantly lower during the off-season. It's estimated that travelers can save between 20% and 35% compared to the peak summer season. This is a considerable advantage, allowing senior citizens to comfortably choose quality tours, comfortable hotels, and thoughtful support services without worrying too much about finances.
Furthermore, traveling during the off-season offers other unique and enjoyable experiences. Tourists can easily explore popular destinations without crowds or long queues. They can also enjoy the fresh, quiet, and relaxing atmosphere of nature, which is especially beneficial for the health and well-being of the elderly.
