“免签，省钱又方便”（经济新方位·中国游中国购）

Core Insights - The implementation of the 240-hour visa-free policy has significantly increased foreign tourist arrivals in Chongqing, with a 140% year-on-year growth in foreign visitors in the first half of the year [3][5]. - The rise of personalized travel experiences is evident, as more foreign independent travelers seek customized itineraries and services, highlighting the importance of tourism planners in enhancing visitor experiences [2][5]. Group 1: Tourism Growth - Chongqing Border Inspection Station recorded over 1.14 million inbound and outbound passengers, a 35% increase year-on-year, with foreign tourists reaching 330,000 [3]. - The popularity of "China Travel" on overseas social media platforms reflects the growing interest in Chinese tourism, particularly in unique attractions like the "light rail through buildings" [5]. Group 2: Personalized Travel Services - Tourism planners play a crucial role in providing tailored travel experiences, with costs for personalized services ranging from $200 to $300 per person per day [5][6]. - The demand for personalized services is increasing, as evidenced by the growing number of independent foreign travelers who prioritize service quality and itinerary flexibility [2][5]. Group 3: Enhanced Tourist Services - Chongqing has improved its tourism services by allowing passport holders to purchase tickets online, addressing previous pain points for foreign visitors [6]. - The city has introduced various transportation options and established a one-stop service for ticketing and luggage handling, enhancing the overall travel experience [7]. - The introduction of a tax refund policy for foreign tourists is expected to further boost shopping experiences, with a nearly fivefold increase in tax refund sales in the first quarter of the year [7].