Chinese travelers search for budget-friendly adventures during challenging economic times: Golden Week

China's economy may be struggling, but that hasn't stopped its citizens from embarking on record-breaking travel during the annual "Golden Week" holiday. Despite slow growth, high youth unemployment, and a property market in crisis, more than 21 million people are expected to fly during the 10-day break. This includes 14,000 domestic flights a day as young Chinese on a tight budget explore closer to home. This Golden Week, which coincides with the mid-autumn festival and National Day celebrations, has become the longest break of the year. However, businesses remain cautious as China's economy shows no signs of major recovery. Travelers are also being more frugal, seeking advice on social media to make the most of their holiday. Despite tightened budgets, domestic travel bookings have surged compared to the previous week and last year. Popular destinations include Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, and Hangzhou. The average spend per traveler may not match the increased traffic, but otherwise cautious consumers appear willing to splurge on travel expenses. This is the first long holiday since China lifted its restrictions on travel abroad, though outbound travel is still down compared to 2019. However, momentum is starting to pick up, with countries like Malaysia, Thailand, and South Korea expecting more Chinese tourists compared to the 2019 Golden Week. Some Chinese citizens are opting for international travel to avoid the crowds domestically, while others are prioritizing budget-friendly domestic trips. Despite financial sacrifices, many are eager to make up for lost time and enjoy their vacations.