Travel | Posted on Aug 30, 2009 at 03:39pm IST

Welcome to tropical destination, China?

Sonal JoshiSonal Joshi, CNN-IBN

Sanya, China: When one thinks China, they think the Great Wall or the Tiaanan-men square but never a tropical island. The Chinese want to change that now. They are attracting tourists from world over to their beaches. Sanya, in the south China sea, wants to give Goa a run for its money.

Sanya is China's answer to Goa, Phuket, Bali and several other beach destinations in Asia. With over 180 hotels, this tropical island in the south China sea is being aggressively marketed and Indian holidayers are their target.

''It's a great destination,'' said Eternity Travel and Tour Pvt Ltd, Sanjeev Aery.

''This destination will be good for a mature traveller,'' said Travair Connections Ltd, said Bindu Bowry.

It's an hour away from Hong Kong by flight but Sanya's sands do not come cheap. Budget hotels cost over Rs 7,000 for a night's stay going up to Rs 19,000 for a luxury room.

''We are similar to Thailand and Malaysia in climate but we have unique cultures and customs which Indians will like,'' said Director, Sanya Tourism, Du Liyin.

One of the many indulgences the Indian traveler can look forward to is Sanya's fashionable shopping district. From shells and pearls to top notch brands. From night clubs to cafes, one will never run short of spending money.

However, Indians are not heading to Sanya just yet. Most tourists are from mainland China. The island's tourism board wants to change that.

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