Sanya named top summer destination for silver travelers

As the summer of 2026 hits its stride, travel fever across the country keeps climbing — and the resort coastal city of Sanya is a hot tropical favorite.

Latest data from online travel platform Qunar revealed that by July 31, flight bookings for the weekend of Aug 8-9 had surged by 62 percent compared with the previous month, with a real peak in travel anticipated.

Among the top choices in this summer travel wave, Sanya has emerged as a favorite destination for senior travelers.

Qunar Travel data indicates a notable increase in bookings by travelers aged 60 and above.

Cities known for their easy access, excellent healthcare and pleasant weather are particularly appealing. Beijing, Kunming, Chengdu, Shanghai, Urumqi and Sanya have all been highlighted as top summer spots for the senior crowd.

Thanks to its comfortable climate and advanced wellness facilities, tropical Sanya continues to draw older visitors from all over the country, reinforcing its position as a key wellness destination in China.

A Qunar representative noted that summer travel across the nation was now in full swing — with cooling off, enjoying the breezes and evening outings becoming the most popular things to do.

With its unique tropical island appeal and ever-improving tourism services, Hainan is expected to maintain its allure throughout the rest of the summer — offering both domestic and international tourists an enriched vacation experience.