Supported by the China National Tourist Office (CNTO UK) and Hainan Airlines, senior members of the company have spent the last week travelling throughout China to ensure everything is running smoothly ahead of the resumption of travel. 

Wendy Wu is the first UK tour operator to restart itineraries in the country after receiving the green light from Beijing in mid-March, with the first group due to depart for a 16-day trip on 21 May. 

Owner Wendy Wu has hailed the “incredibly optimistic” uptake on bookings, as reservations for trips to China have gone up by 60% over March and April.

“This clearly shows that demand is there, and our agent friends are behind us all the way, with trade contributing to over 65% of the bookings to China so far,” she said. 

Commenting on the status of the country after three years of border closure, Wu said: “China is well and truly open for international tourists.

“Visiting now, with China having had over three years to rejuvenate and refresh, is like visiting China almost 20 years ago. The attractions and sites are very quiet, and the locals are just so eager and happy to welcome back tourists."