Old Canton opens up for Australians
From August 1 passengers flying from Australia to the rest of the world on China Southern’s Canton Route can spend up to 72 hours visa-free in Guangzhou in southern China.
Australia is one of 45 countries granted visa-free status for up to 72 hours for travellers flying to international destinations via Guangzhou.
The decision brings Guangzhou into line with Beijing and Shanghai and allows visitors to travel to any part of Guangdong Province, including the economic hub of Shenzhen.
China Southern general manager Australia and New Zealand Henry He said Australian travel companies such as Creative Holidays and Wendy Wu Tours were queuing up to provide stay and tour packages for stopovers of up to 72 hours.
"This is a great opportunity to get to know old Canton, one of China’s most exciting provinces, " he said.
The new visa-free stopovers come as China Southern upgrades its Australian services with the introduction of the latest A330 airliners offering flatbed comfort in Business Class and personal TVs throughout and from October 28 an A380 superjumbo service on the Guangzhou-Sydney run.
Ian Jarrett
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