Chinese travelers consider USA an "unsafe" destination
Although 65% of Chinese travel companies surveyed said they believe outbound travel will recover in 2023, recent travel sentiment and intentions polls taken of consumers in the PRC find that only 38% plan to travel in the next 6 months, and top 5 preferred destinations are all in Asia:
- Hong Kong
- Japan
- Macau
- Thailand
- South Korea
As a destination, the USA ranks near the bottom for "safety" concerns related to COVID and perceived anti-Asian hate as portrayed in Chinese media.
Top 3 drivers of destination choice are:
- Local safety and hygiene
- COVID control measures by public health services
- Price
Comment: Western destinations and tourism businesses shouldn't count on Chinese travelers returning in any great numbers in 2023. Plan marketing accordingly.