China’s Economic Woes Fail to Dampen Enthusiasm for Golden Week Travel Extravaganza.
China may be facing slowing growth and a property crisis, but none of that appears to be deterring its avid travelers’ wanderlust this Golden Week holiday. The annual mid-autumn festival coinciding with National Day celebrations has created an extra-long 10-day vacation this September. Over 21 million eager Chinese are expected to take to the skies on domestic trips, unfazed by economic headwinds.
For youth especially, revenge travel is the rage after months of stifling COVID lockdowns. Realizing vacations abroad may be out of reach, China’s budget-savvy millennials are taking to social media to plan action-packed itineraries closer to home.
Popular Weibo hashtags include #trekfromsouthtonorth, #budgettravel and #travelingonaWhim, reflecting enthusiasm for exploring far-flung corners of China on a shoestring. Gaoyang epitomizes the adventurous spirit, plotting an intense 8000 km journey hitting nine cities and four mountains in just eight days.
Part grizzled backpacker, part special forces operative, such self-dubbed “tough travelers” aim to wring every last bit of fun from lean holiday budgets. Cost-conscious youth trade tips on packing the most activities, nature, and culture into limited time and funds. Hourly itineraries abound, alongside advice for affordable transport, lodging, and eating.
For struggling businesses, the holiday rush offers a glimmer of hope amidst China’s economic policy uncertainty. Airlines are running at full capacity with 14,000 extra domestic flights daily to handle demand. Other sectors set to benefit include hotels, retailers, and tourist attractions.
But companies know recovery hinges on more than brief booms during holidays like Golden Week. While consumer enthusiasm remains robust for now, weaker discretionary spending may emerge if high youth unemployment persists.
Still, China’s wanderlust-filled youth seem determined to push worries aside and set their spirit free, at least for one extended holiday week. From bustling cities to remote country vistas, China’s vast beauty beckons to be discovered. For now, the open road and possibilities appear endless, no matter the economic troubles that may lie ahead.
