Pictured (from left) Liu Mopei, Sales Manager of China Southern Airlines London Office, Pan Hang, Director Assistant of the China Tourism Office in London, and Chen Ke, General Manager of China Southern Airlines London Office, presenting the prizes to the winners
On 27 November, China Southern Airlines (referred to as “China Southern”), together with the China National Tourist Office, London and the Guangzhou Culture, Radio, Television and Tourism Bureau (GZCTB), hosted an annual event on a Thames River cruise in London, aiming to promote cultural and tourism exchanges between China and the UK. Facilitated deeper cooperation between Chinese and British airlines as well as the tourism industry, while encouraging more British tourists to visit China and experience its unique charm.
Pictures of guests attending the event
On the day of the event, guests from British Airways, an associate partner of China Southern Airlines, along with representatives from the Chinese and British tourism industry and other related industries, gathered to celebrate the achievements of the cooperation and exchange between China and the UK, in aviation and tourism amidst the beauty of the River Thames. Showcasing a shared vision to foster cultural exchanges between the two countries, the event earned high praise and great expectations from the attendees.
Pan Hang, Director Assistant of the China Tourism Office in London, pointed out in his speech: “China and the UK have close ties in tourism and serve as important source markets for each other. The latest figures indicate that tourism between our nations is not only recovering but thriving. Direct flights between China and the UK have surpassed pre-pandemic levels, rising from 168 flights per week in 2019 to 238 this summer—a 40% increase. This extraordinary growth highlights the strong demand for travel and exchange between our nations.” Pan Hang also highlighted that the Chinese government has introduced a series of policies to facilitate foreign tourists in recent years, including the 144-hour visa-free transit policy, the extension of the length of visa-free policy cover 38 countries to 30 days, the 15-day visa-free policy for tour group and cruise passengers, and improvements to payment services for international visitors etc.
Photo of Pan Hang, Director Assistant of China National Tourist Office, London, making a speech.
Chen Ke, General Manager of China Southern Airlines London Office, highlighted the airline’s latest progress in route development between China and the UK during his speech. As one of China’s leading airlines, China Southern is dedicated to establishing a dual-hub strategic network centred on Beijing and Guangzhou. The airline has fully resumed operations to key European destinations, including London, Paris, Amsterdam, Rome, and Frankfurt, while also introducing new routes to cities such as Luxembourg, Budapest, and Belgrade, creating more convenient air connections for business and cultural exchanges between China and Europe.
Chen Ke also emphasised that through the “Road to Guangzhou” brand strategy, China Southern has seamlessly connected Europe with markets in Australia, New Zealand, and Southeast Asia, offering travellers a more efficient and high-quality travel experience.
Chen Ke, General Manager of China Southern Airlines London Office, delivered a speech.
During the event, guests watched promotional videos about China Southern Airlines and Guangzhou’s culture and tourism, gaining deeper insights into the airline’s services as well as the culinary and cultural charms of Chinese tourism. Additionally, they experienced the allure of London’s iconic landmarks along the River Thames, guided by a professional Blue Badge tour guide.
A special prize draw was held during the event, with prizes such as exquisite China Southern Airlines gifts and business class tickets for flights between cities in China and the UK. The guests participated enthusiastically, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere.
China Southern Airlines stated that it will further strengthen close cooperation with its partners, working together to provide better services for travellers between China and the UK. The airline aims to connect the cultural and tourism resources of both countries, promote the development of cultural tourism between China and the UK, and contribute more to the deepening of bilateral exchanges and cooperation in the fields of culture, tourism, economy, and trade.
