A group of seniors takes a mountain hike in Lushan, Jiangxi province. [Photo provided to China Daily] |
Statistics from Ctrip show that many routes-such as Taiwan, tropical islands and trips to European countries such as France, Italy and Switzerland-are becoming classic choices for seniors.
Unlike travel agencies that seniors directly, Ctrip started has started to push for growth via their children. "Chinese children are willing to spend money on their parents," Dun said. "After the tragic Eastern Star accident on the Yangtze River, many children are concerned about their parents' safety on trips. And for our senior-tailored tours, safety and comfort are the priorities."
Ctrip said the adoption of the guidelines has resulted in its seniors' trips costing about 10 percent more than those for younger clients, but many older customers are willing to pay extra to ensure peace of mind.
Zhang Guangrui, honorary director of the Tourism Research Center at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said the current situation isn't just a problem for cash-conscious elderly people, but for the industry as a whole.
"Right now, more leading travel service providers should be introducing real, tailored services for seniors," he said.
"We can't just say senior travelers only want bargains or 'cheap and nasty' trips. Currently there are not that many tailor-made services for seniors, so if they have to spend too much and we provide products that are only appropriate for young people, they won't buy them."