NCTPS preparing New Caledonian tourism industry for initial influx of Chinese visitors

Nouvelle-Calédonie Tourisme Point Sud (NCTPS) reported (12-Oct-2017 ) the reception of Approved Destination Status by China will see it intensify promotional work and coordination with the Chinese tourism industry. A first New Caledonia-China charter flight has been scheduled for Feb-2018, to be operated by Aircalin. China was identified as a potential market for the development of Caledonian tourism in Jun-2016. NCTPS stated the local tourism industry needs to be made aware of Chinese expectations, air connections need to be simplified, local destinations need to be publicised, and certain administrative obstacles need to be managed. NCTPS has organised local 'China Ready' workshops to inform tourism industry professionals of their requirements. A future China Destination Contract is being drawn up, while the New Caledonian Government is putting into place a banking agreement to accept the Union Pay credit card system, and NCTPS is preparing a strategy to "ensure a lasting presence in the market". [more - original PR]