A group of nearly 100 travelers from Malaysia arrived in Sanya on January 6, marking a vibrant start to the Chinese island province’s inbound travel season. The visitors arrived on a direct flight from Cambodia and are now embarking on a six-day tour of Hainan.

(Photo provided by a traveler)

“Checking out Hainan's tropical coastline and the unique local culture for myself has long been a dream,” said one traveler from Malaysia. “I'm excited to share stories of this journey back home.”

The group's arrival was facilitated by a pivotal air route. The "Phnom Penh-Sanya-Singapore" flight, launched in December 2023, holds special status as Hainan's first passenger service operating under the Fifth Freedom of the air. This arrangement allows the flight to carry passengers on a journey across multiple countries. Operated by Cambodia Airways for charter company Hainan Wenhua Air Tourism, the weekly Airbus A320 service has become a key travel link boosting tourist traffic from Southeast Asia. The number of Singaporean travelers staying overnight in Sanya has surged by over 440% since the route opened.

This specialized tour is a direct outcome of the landmark China International Travel Mart, which was held in Hainan this past December. Organized by Hainan Youtuan International Travel, the tour group’s itinerary moves beyond standard sightseeing. After visiting Sanya's famous beaches, the group will travel to the Betel Nut Valley Li & Miao Cultural Tourism Zone in Baoting to learn more about Hainan’s local cultures. The agenda involves watching artisans demonstrate ancient techniques including how to make tree bark cloth, getting an expert hands-on lesson in traditional Li brocade weaving, sampling local specialties, and participating in lively bamboo pole dances along with community members.