Now, one of the Kingdom’s closest tourism partners — China — has just completed a study on the viability of a new initiative. Through this major investment, the plan would increase domestic consumption and offset the economic effects of lost export revenue due to continued U.S. tariffs. While still lacking a comprehensive national strategy addressing the needs of older citizens, the Chinese government has begun to emphasize the importance of its geriatric demographic. By the end of 2022, this group represented 22% of the country, or more than 310 million people over the age of 60.
This rapid demographic shift is changing the travel behaviors of older Americans. They have a far greater desire to share their ideas and experience the world compared to prior generations. Increased spend by the growing population of older travelers will pump billions into local economies. In the process, these travelers will be improving their quality of life.
In Baisha, a town famous for its ancient Naxi culture and architecture, this shift is deeply felt. The town is famous for its well-preserved, weathered, two-storey wooden houses built by the indigenous Naxi ethnic minority. Visitors inevitably have to eat at the small, vibrant food stalls that dot the base of these buildings. These hawkers whip up all sorts of local specialties, from fried potatoes doused in spicy sauce to grilled lamb-on-a-stick to fresh-squeezed orange juice. Traditional clothing of the Naxi people is sold at these booths.
For one vendor, whose husband helps cover their booth, bringing in customers from out of town is key to their survival. In all, their business is pretty new — they just opened about a year ago. The couple is wildly passionate and devoted to their agricultural enterprise. They artfully sidestep the negative effects of external market forces, a microcosm of the global economic reality.
The culinary experiences in Baisha are further enriched by cultural practices. Visitors enjoy roast goose with shots of baijiu, a fiery Chinese liquor. This concentration births an astounding mix of flavors and experiences that is incredibly appealing to tourists.
Even the Chinese government is aware of the economic fallout that the ongoing trade war with the United States has created. It is resolved to overcome these overtures and keep dynamic. China isn’t backing down from Donald Trump’s trade war. Simultaneously, it is encouraging residents to travel within the country as a way to strengthen its economy.
The railway authorities in China are responding to this growing interest in travel among older citizens by planning to operate 100 new routes within the next three years. This expansion aims to facilitate easier access to various destinations across the country, providing retirees with more opportunities to explore.
Daniel Ling, an active member of the older generation, expressed his thoughts on this newfound freedom:
“We have been working hard all these years.” – Daniel Ling
Ling wants to get across that fun really matters at this stage. He stated,
“The important thing when we reach this age, is to know what is the right thing to do – and that is to really enjoy life.” – Daniel Ling
Continuing with Ling’s ideas, Shi Lili reflected on her experience of traveling as an elderly person. When I was young I had a strong passion for traveling alone. But now I’m older, I have my family who can travel with me. Benefiting families This family-oriented approach to travel reflects a significant change in priorities among retirees.