Cost topped the list of key factors influencing Chinese outbound tourists' choice of leisure destinations, according to a new Nielsen survey.

Nearly 60 percent of the more than 8,200 respondents in 26 cities included food and safety among their major concerns, said Nielsen's latest "China Outbound Travel Monitor -- Key Cities Report".

"Eco and nature" ranked fourth, highlighting that Chinese tourists were beginning to acknowledge the importance of the environment.

"With limited knowledge about overseas destinations, Chinese travelers are more likely to visit famous landmarks and major tourist attractions than they are to visit little known or niche regions," said Dr Grace Pan, Nielsen Company China head of travel and leisure research.

The annual report, conducted in January and February, surveyed more than 4,100 residents by phone and another 4,100 outbound tourists on-line.

(Xinhua News Agency May 2, 2008)