The Farmhouse Service Quality Standards, drafted by the Laishui Bureau of Quality and Technical Supervision and Yesanpo Scenic Spot Management Committee, has been approved by experts from Hebei province, and is expected to be published by the end of 2009.

Rural tourism has developed fast in recent years. Yet the absence of national standards has led to the uneven service quality causing disputes.

The document has requirements for service quality, lodging facilities and service establishments, for example independent kitchens, toilets, showers and beds. In addition, requirements for environmental protection, sanitation, security, fire control and management have also been included in the document.

This will be first document in Hebei province to regulate the service levels of farmhouse tourism. It is expected to improve the management level and service quality of farmhouse tourism and even the whole tourism industry in Hebei.

(China Hospitality News August 18, 2009)