As dragon boat races rev up across China, the Dragon Boat Festival is making waves in the tourism sector 🌊. Short trips, cultural hotspots, and a surprise TV show-driven destination are stealing the spotlight this year, according to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
Short Trips, Big Vibes
With a three-day break starting Saturday, travelers are opting for quick getaways—think theme parks, museums, and hidden gems. Domestic bookings for nearby trips surged 20% compared to 2023, per travel giant Ctrip. Who said you need a long vacation to recharge? 🏞️
Altay: From Screen to Travel Dream
Move over, *Emily in Paris*—the TV series *To the Wonder* has turned China’s Altay Prefecture into the latest wanderlust magnet. Nestled in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, this grassland paradise between the Altay Mountains and Junggar Basin saw tourism inquiries skyrocket by 200% after the show’s release. Talk about a real-life Netflix travel guide! 🎬
Why It Matters
Zhou Weihong from Spring Tour travel agency says travelers now pick destinations for ‘a good meal or a viral show’—fueling niche spots like Altay. It’s not just about zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) anymore; it’s about chasing experiences straight out of your feed. 📱
