China's charm offensive pays off as foreign tourism rebounds

It's one of the seven wonders of the world, the Great Wall, a must-see for these French tourists on vacation. It's truly magnificent once you're there and see it with your own eyes, it's incredible. A dream come true, because it's true that you see it in news reports and in photos. It's the wow factor for me. These travelers are among a new wave of tourists visiting China, partly driven by a visa exemption for stays less than one month, granted to French citizens since 2023. A few kilometers on, Caroline and Elliot are exploring the area known as the stone dragon. We manage to realize ourselves. You can really tell it's not a straight line. It follows the contours of the mountain. Imagine it's not a straight line, it really follows the shape of the mountain. Mountain. This marks the end of a three-week trip to China for the couple. As a final stop on their journey, they're going to spend the night in one of these century-old towers. We imagine a... When you think of a wonder of the world, you imagine a place that attracts everyone, really. Here we are at a wonder of the world, but it feels like it's all ours. But we have the impression that it is only for us. They head to bed for a few hours. Good night. And wake for sunrise. Good morning. I think this is one of the best ways I've ever woken up. In fact, the sun's entire path is guided by the wall. China's visa-free program now covers 50 countries and accounts for almost 80% of foreign arrivals.