China tells cruise ship tourists not wanted in Spain or Greece ‘come here instead’

China says it would welcome cruise passengers turned away by Europe (Image: Getty )

European cruise ship destinations protesting against tourist numbers might miss the boat when it comes to any future visitors as China emerges as a "strong competitor".

Improved high-speed rail links, visa-free entry for cruise ship passengers, and a host of attractions from beaches to ski resorts mean the Shanghai could become the new Santorini. 

In recent months locations in Spain and Greece have seen authorities and locals protesting against high volumes of visitors, with residents unhappy at soaring property prices and officials worried about crumbling infrastructure. 

According to tourism industry publication Travel And Tour World, the growing backlash in Europe might become a huge opportunity for operators in the Far East. 

It said: "China’s tourism offerings now include beach destinations, rural areas, ice-and-snow resorts, revolutionary sites, and modern theme parks.

There have been demonstrations across Europe against tourists and cruise ships (Image: Getty )

"China is also increasingly focusing on meetings and incentive travel, positioning itself as a key player in the global business tourism sector."

In addition the Chinese have offered citizens in 12 European countries, not including the UK, visa-free access to the country. British visitors can enter without a visa if they a part of a tour group on a cruise vessel. 

Travel and Tour World also explained the Chinese were "embracing smart toursim" with virtual reality and AI helping travellers go "beyond typical sightseeing".

It added: "With these advancements, China is positioning itself as a strong competitor in the global tourism market, particularly as European destinations struggle with sustainability challenges."

China says it would welcome cruise ships not wanted in Spain or Greece (Image: Getty )

Some of China's most famous destinations are on or close to the coast, with Hong Kong, Shanghai and Macau all being port locations and, despite being inland, Beijing is also only a short trip from the coastal city of Tianjin. 

The most well-known 'tourist' to visit China from Europe was the Italian Venetian medieval explorer and merchant Marco Polo. 

His account of journeying to the Far East along the Silk Road trade route in the 13th century was published in his book, The Travels of Marco Polo.

Polo's diary formed much of the basis of Western knowledge of the region for centuries, and today China has plans to re-open the Silk Road route with rail links that would cover over 4,300 miles.