West Country tourism on Olympics charm offensive

Tourism agency Visit Britain will be in Beijing for the 2008 Olympic Games to encourage Chinese people to visit the West Country and stay at a Devon and Cornwall B&B.

West Country tourist chiefs hope to position the region as a major destination of choice among the increasing number of holidaymakers from China.

Presently, the UK is the 19th most popular destination for Chinese people; although a recent survey indicated that Britain was the fifth highest place that they aspired to visit.

Quaint villages and breathtaking scenery, as well as regional connections to the Royal family and respected figures such as Agatha Christie, are hoped to prove major attractions.

Visit Britain's Elliot Frisby told the Western Morning News that "for many Chinese visitors more used to living in urban areas, Britain's countryside and coastline have great appeal - and the West Country has a huge amount to offer".

"This month, we have a singular opportunity to sell destinations, attractions and experiences in the regions, not only to sporting bodies as potential training camp locations, but to Chinese consumers and the world as international media attend the Beijing Olympic Games," he added.

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