Chinese travelers hope for visa-free journeys

As China's wealth grows, so too does the disposable income of its citizens. The Chinese now want to travel more than ever before, and many countries are keen to capture their business.

They're courted by countries across the globe.

Visitors from China are now the main target for travel and tourism organizations worldwide.

Here in Thailand, more visitors arrive from China than any other country - up to 4 million this year. And that figure could rise even higher if a proposed visa waiver program is implemented.

At present a visa for a Chinese citizen to travel to Thailand costs around 40 US dollars, and more importantly, takes a week to obtain.

During his visit to Thailand in October, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang brought up the possibility of bilateral visa exemptions for tourists from China and Thailand.

The news has been welcomed by the tourism industry in both countries.

In 2012, the Chinese were the world's highest-spending tourists; spending over 102 billion US dollars worldwide.

And this year, it's estimated that the number of outbound Chinese tourists will exceed 90 million, and they will spend around 120 billion U.S. dollars.

Seeing the opportunity for business here, the United Kingdom has already simplified its visa program for Chinese tourists and businessmen.

In their visits to Beijing last month, London Mayor Boris Johnson and UK Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne stressed on the need to bring more Chinese tourists to London - and its shops.

Chinese passport holders can presently visit 19 countries and regions without needing a visa.

This is far less than enough...as the China Outbound Travel Quarterly Report has suggested...through its report on the growing trend of those venturing further afield.

And for most of them, a visa-free experience is something they can't wait to happen.