It’s easy to point and laugh at the portrayal of (mainland) Chinese tourists in this article in The Economist, because we of the Western world (even of Chinese heritage) haven’t grown up in the same restrictive culture as they have; but the conclusions and the rationalization behind their actions end up resonating with me (unfortunately).
This is because excitement and acquisition are prized over pleasant, relaxing experiences. The Chinese are keen on European luxury, says Andy Xie, a Shanghai-based economist—they just aren’t so interested in luxurious hotels and lavish meals. Coming from a newly affluent, increasingly unequal society, they have a strong preference for the accumulation of material goods. After all, a Swiss watch lasts a lifetime, whereas “if you want a good bed, you can have that at home.”
The Chinese travel patterns aren’t that odd, they are just interested in different things.
Hi! and welcome to the eclectic personal blog of Kevin Quan. Come in, stay awhile, peek into the nooks & crannies, and learn a bit about me and my interests.