Beijing's overseas tour market will continue to focus on Europe during the upcoming weeklong National Holiday.

By now, the major travel agencies in Beijing have finished designing their itineraries. And the prices of their new golden holiday tours will be 1,000 to 1,500 yuan higher than usual.

The major difference now, as compared with last year, is that "in-depth" tours are taking the lead in this October's itinerary.

"In-depth" tours offer a deeper understanding of a country's scenery and culture, as opposed to visits to several countries that only leave tourists enough time to take photos. This year, 8- to 11-day tours of one or two countries replace the previous 14-day tour of 10 countries or 8 countries in 5 days.

The change aims to meet customers' demands. Many tourists have expressed dissatisfaction with speedy tours through a number of countries, which leave travelers tired and with nothing to show but a few superficial photos.

Most of the new tour packages have already begin to accept reservations. Reservations will be closed by mid September, in time to put in applications for visas. Keen tourists are advised to sign up for their choice “in-depth” tour before September.

(CRIENGLISH.com August 16, 2006)