china Tourism Surges as Visa-Free Travel Boosts Chilean Interest
SANTIAGO, CHILE – Searches for travel to China from Chile have increased by 50% following the implementation of a visa-free policy for stays up to 30 days, according to Travel Falabella. The policy, effective June 1, applies to tourism, business, family visits, exchange programs, and transit travelers.
“Even Chongqing, there are a variety of destinations that combine a different experience outside the routine, first level gastronomy and a vibrant Culture,” says Hugo avilés, marketing Manager of Travel Falabella.
The change has already spurred interest among Chilean travelers, with Daniela Urrizola, a trip expert and host of Mega and Travel FalabellaS “Traveling Ando” program, among the first to experience the eased travel restrictions.Urrizola has documented her experiences in cities like Beijing and Shanghai, and lesser-known regions, on her Instagram account (@daniurrizola).
“Of all the destinations that we have visited for the program that have been super varied, I think China is the one that has impacted me the most,” Urrizola stated. “I was impressed because I feel that everything one expects from a great trip gathers. On the one hand, there is all the modernity and technology…but, unlike Dubai, China also has that historical and cultural side that comes from an ancient tradition.”
Urrizola also dispelled common misconceptions about traveling to china, noting, “I ended up demolishing many prejudices.I realized that it is not a challenging place, things work and are simpler than one imagines.”
Currently, travelers require a valid Chilean passport (with at least six months of validity) and a confirmed round-trip flight reservation. A hotel reservation or invitation letter may also be requested upon arrival. Those planning stays exceeding 30 days, or travel for work, study, or press purposes, still require a visa obtained through the Embassy/Visas Center in santiago.
