The US city of Sarasota established the sister-city relationship with Xiamen's Siming district on October 9, 2007.
Sarasota is located in the southern state of Florida, next to the Gulf of Mexico. It covers an area of 67.2 square kilometers and a population of more than 52,000. The per capita income for residents of the city is $23,197.
Sarasota is abundant in animal and plant resources and features a pleasant, humid subtropical climate. It has hot summers and mild winters, and is humid all year round. The picturesque port city boasts stunning beaches, ideal for bathing.
Honored as Florida's cultural center along the coast, Sarasota is home to many cultural venues, such as Ringling Museum, Ringling College of Art and Design, institute of marine biology, Sarasota ballet school and botanical gardens.
China's latest departure tax refund measures will allow overseas visitors to obtain instant refunds across more regions and give them up to 28 days to leave the country, making multi-city trips easier and encouraging longer stays and greater spending.
Uruguay will grant visa-free entry to Chinese citizens.
