In response to this great article, although with no action plans, my mind just raced and raced with questions about the Chinese (and India & Brazil) tourist sectors. So little is known about these markets, and so little is known about how to woo them, and find the right guests that fit your hotel. The article lacked data, which is what a hotelier loves, and uses to rudder the ship. So my questions, and please…. if anyone knows, answer them!
In relation to Chinese tourism, What market segment are these travelers? Just because they are wealthy doesn’t necessarily mean they are luxury guests. I know there is price sensitivity in general, with Chinese in the United States, and because of current restrictions there are more bus tour groups than anything (this is also true for India, I believe)?
What segment do they fall in? What type of hotel guest are they? What is their average rate, and stay? What are the main feeder markets? What are their main destinations, currently?
I know they are still using brick and mortar travel agents that basically just book via Agoda, Rakuten, and Expedia due to the lack of GDS connectivity… is that right?
Are there travel associations we can reach out into China, and introduce ourselves? Are they very organized yet with CVB and outreach to different cities, etc?
Are they interested in corporate brand hotels and chains, or independent and boutique, singular, experiences?
I would love to hear what your questions are, and if anyone is an expert in these emerging markets, I want to buy you a cup of coffee. =)