Q: Have you started making plans for the 2008
Olympics?
A: No. We will start making plans at the end of 2005. We have an
idea of what will appeal to U.S. travelers but the infrastructure
for the Olympics is still under development in China. Also, the
Olympic committee hasn’t finalized the event schedule. If a client
wanted to go for a particular event, like a soccer match, we
wouldn’t know when to send them. However, the schedule is expected
to be finalized at the end of 2005 and then we will begin to put
together our packages.
Q: Are there currently a wider variety of different
packages available for travel to China?
A: Yes. China has opened up completely for travelers. Beijing, Xian
and Shanghai are still the most popular places to visit but many
people add a Yangtze cruise and the original Silk Road or a trip to
Tibet to their packages. Tibet is very popular.
Q: What is going to be the next big destination in
China?
A: Yunnan Province will be big. It is completely different. The
culture is different. The food is different. Everything is
different there.
Q: What tips would you give to travel agents trying to sell
China?
A: It is always best to go to a tour operator that has
spent a lot of time researching the programs and packages. Also,
you can consult the China National Tourist Office for
information.
Sita World Travel, Inc.
800-421-5643; www.sitatours.com
