A Game of the Thrones-themed ice hotel that is carved out of ice and snow has opened in Lapland, Finland. Rooms are kept at a temperature of -5 C and start from $200 a night. |
Chinese travelers are becoming increasingly enamored of making tailor-made trips, instead of embarking on holiday journeys in groups or going on self-help tours, and a large number of them would now like to take personalized trips at a slower and gentler pace.
Ctrip, China's biggest online travel agency, said that on its platform specializing in tailored trips, "slow pace" was the key phrase that was used the most, and more than 80 percent of the orders Ctrip received on it emphasized that quality.
The demand for bespoke trips is wide-ranging, and more unusual examples have included witnessing fireworks while bathing in hot springs, visiting movie locations, and holding a private wedding on the small Greek island of Santorini.
Most travelers said they would like trips with less sightseeing packed into each day and to avoid scenic spots with too many people. In addition, they didn't want to get up early and sleep late, Ctrip said.
A Ctrip report found that last year, personal tailored trips became increasingly and widely popular, and the travel agency said they were no longer just the choice of the rich. The majority of those who booked the tailored trips comprised foodies, travelers with sophisticated tastes in hotels, as well as families, the report found.
"Foodies love to go to Michelin restaurants and those trendy dining places that are popular online. Japan, Thailand and Singapore are the favorite countries among food lovers," said Peng Liang, public relations director of Ctrip's vacation department.
"Sanya, Japan, Bali, the island of Saipan, and the Maldives are among the best destinations for those who have special requirements for hotels," he said.