Surge in cross-border travel for holidays

Treasured moments: A couple poses for a photo with the backdrop of the financial district of Pudong, in Shanghai. There was a 180% growth in inbound ticket orders and over 60% growth in inbound hotel bookings over the holidays. — Reuters

SHANGHAI: Cross-border tourism has emerged as a driving force for the Spring Festival travel market in the Year of the Snake, thanks to expanded visa-free policies, say travel agencies and experts.

A Trip.com report revealed that overall cross-border travel orders increased by 30% compared to last year, with a staggering 180% growth in inbound ticket orders and over 60% growth in inbound hotel bookings.