Singapore celebrates arrival of millionth tourist

Singapore, Dec 20: Singapore has celebrated the arrival of firstone millionth tourist visitor from China, claiming to be the world'sfirst tourism destination to do so, with the exception of Chineseterritories of Hong Kong and Macau.

Shanghai-based trader Yu Yong Kang was surprised at the ChangiAirport Terminal 2 when he was received by Singapore Tourism Board(STB) reception team and feted with 15,000 Singapore dollars worth ofprizes, for being the first one millionth visitor from China.

The prizes include two business class return air-tickets toSingapore, a cruise to Phuket in Southern Thailand aboard the SuperstarVirgo ship, free stays at a five-star hotel and spa vouchers.

The STB has been preparing to receive the one millionth visitorfrom China, saying it was the second biggest market after Indonesia.

China is one of the fastest growing markets for Singapore,increasing at about 14 per cent a year, STB Assistant Chief ExecutiveOfficer for brand and communications Ken Low said, ''Chinese touristshave also increased their spending in Singapore to 636 Singaporedollars per stay last year from 574 Singapore dollars, excludingairfare.'' A total of 8,60,000 Chinese tourists visited Singapore in2005 compared with 1.81 million Indonesian tourists and 6,20,000Australian tourists, the third biggest group.

In total, Singapore has received nine million tourists this year.

UNI