The cruise docks at the Xiamen International Cruise Terminal. [Photo/Xiamen International Cruise Terminal]
The visiting cruise ship Regatta made its maiden call at Xiamen International Cruise Terminal on June 1, marking its first visit to the city. Carrying the largest tourist group to Xiamen this year — primarily composed of travelers from the United States and Canada — the cruise's arrival further boosted the local tourism sector.
Its arrival during the Dragon Boat Festival holiday added a cultural touch, as international passengers received traditional festival gifts at the immigration inspection hall.
"Zongzi (sticky rice dumplings with bamboo leaves)!" exclaimed American traveler Bob as he and his wife Kay studied the cartoon image of the zongzi on a display board, carefully practicing its Chinese pronunciation.
"I adore Chinese culture and architecture," shared fellow American visitor Rachel while accepting a fragrant sachet gift.
The Regatta became the first visiting cruise ship to dock at the Xiamen International Cruise Terminal's newly operational terminal. Carrying over 600 passengers, the vessel brought a truly international flair to the port city on June 1 alone, travelers from 23 different countries disembarked, accounting for more than 95 percent of all passengers.
Accordingly, the Xiamen International Cruise Terminal will operate 27 homeport cruise voyages this year, with itineraries covering popular destinations such as Japan, the Republic of Korea, the Philippines, and Vietnam.
China will adopt a visa-free entry policy for Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait and Bahrain.
China unveiled a slew of measures to further optimize its departure tax fefund policy, allowing overseas travelers to apply for a refund if they spend at least 200 yuan at the same store on the same day and meet other relevant requirements.
