Foreign tourists praise efficient service at Sanya Dadonghai

Recently, a lifeguard at Sanya's Dadonghai Scenic Area found a smartphone while patrolling the beach. Believing it belonged to a Russian tourist, the staff member used Russian-language announcements and a local hotel safety network to find the owner. About an hour later, they returned the phone safely. The tourist used a translation app to express gratitude and praised the staff members for their efficient service.

The episode happened on Nov 7. Around 11:00 am, a lifeguard spotted the lost phone on the sand at the second swimming area in Dadonghai Scenic Area. By checking the lock screen, the lifeguard guessed it belonged to a Russian visitor. The situation was reported immediately, and the phone was handed to the on-duty staff member for further action.

Given the potential language barrier and the possible disruption to the visitor's plans and communication, the team quickly recorded a Russian announcement. This was played repeatedly in the swimming area, clearly instructing the owner to come to the lifeguard tower to claim the phone. Information about the lost item was also shared with a safety network of nearby hotels, rallying multiple parties to help in the search.

From discovering the phone, reporting it, and recording the announcement to coordinating a comprehensive search, the whole process was efficient and well-organized. After about an hour, around noon, the staff members successfully contacted the Russian tourist.

The staff member at Dadonghai Scenic Area returns the lost phone to the Russian tourist. [Photo/Sanya Daily]

The team verified essential details like the phone model and lock screen information before returning it. The tourist was thrilled to have the phone back and, despite the language barrier, repeatedly expressed thanks with the help of a translation app. She also gave a thumbs-up to commend the team for their responsible service.

The staff members noted that visitors — especially for foreign visitors unfamiliar with the area and facing communication challenges — may encounter difficulties during their travels. Losing a phone can be particularly stressful. Although the lost item was small, it was significant for the tourist. The area aims to respond quickly and through multiple channels to make things easier and less stressful for visitors.