Cathay Pacific is stepping in to turn the newfound excitement for travel to China into reality as the latest season of BBC One’s Race Across the World ignites a massive surge in interest.
Notably, searches for “flights to China” have soared +1,124% while “things to do in China” have jumped +813% since the show’s return on 23rd April.
The airline has already expanded its robust flight schedule, offering nearly 300 return flights per week during peak season.
With direct services to 20 destinations across the Chinese Mainland and increased frequencies on high-demand routes, Cathay Pacific is well-positioned to help UK travellers explore iconic locations seen on the show. These include the Great Wall of China (via Beijing Capital International Airport), the cosmopolitan city of Shanghai, and Sanya on Hainan Island, known as China’s answer to Hawaii, accessible through its international airport*.
Paul Johannes, European Vice President of Customer Travel and Lifestyle at Cathay Pacific says: “Race Across the World has sparked a surge of interest in China, and we’re excited to help travellers explore its diverse and vibrant destinations. With our extensive flight network across the region, we’re making it easier than ever to turn that inspiration into a reality.”
Inspired by the show’s incredible journey and helping to turn inspiration into action, Cathay Pacific is also providing expert advice on how to navigate China like a pro:
- Cash is NOT king
To ensure a smooth and seamless experience in the Chinese Mainland, travellers should know that it operates largely as a cashless society. AliPay and WeChat Pay are essential for daily transactions. Cathay Pacific recommends downloading and configuring these applications before arrival.
- Getting around like a local
For travellers exploring Chinese cities on foot, Google Maps doesn’t work in the Chinese Mainland. However, iPhone users can rely on Apple Maps, while Android users may find Maps.Me a helpful offline alternative. Local apps like Baidu Maps and Gaode Maps are widely used, though they are primarily in Chinese.
Public transport is fast, efficient, and affordable. Most metro systems accept mobile payments via WeChat Pay or Alipay. Travellers arriving from Hong Kong can also pick up an Octopus China T-Union Card, which allows payment in Hong Kong dollars across public transport networks in over 300 Mainland cities.
For longer journeys or added convenience, ride-hailing app DiDi is a popular choice. It supports international credit cards, as well as WeChat Pay and Alipay — making navigation smooth and stress-free.
- Etiquette essentials
When meeting someone for the first time in China, a polite handshake or nod is generally appropriate. However, social hierarchy plays a significant role in Chinese culture. As such, Cathay Pacific recommends greeting individuals in order of seniority and using honorific titles to convey respect.
- Lost in translation
Language can present a significant hurdle for travellers in the Chinese Mainland, as showcased in Race Across the World when contestant Tom called communication “impossible” without phones. To avoid potential misunderstandings and ensure a smoother journey, Cathay Pacific recommends utilising translation apps such as Baidu Translate for quick solutions.
5. Beyond the big cities
As seen on Race Across the World, China offers an incredible variety of regions, cultures, and landscapes – making a multi-city itinerary a great way to experience it all. For longer distances, domestic flights offer speed, while China’s high-speed trains provide a fast, comfortable, and cost-effective alternative. The country’s extensive bullet train network connects nearly every province, with trains reaching speeds of 200–350 km/h – for example, the journey from Beijing to Shanghai takes just 4.5 hours.
Cathay Pacific operates up to 35 weekly flights from London Heathrow and up to seven flights a week from Manchester to destinations across the Chinese Mainland via Hong Kong, with return fares starting from £584.
For more information or to book, visit www.cathaypacific.com
About Cathay Pacific
Premium full-service airline Cathay Pacific is the home carrier of Hong Kong with over seven decades of history, and is a founding member of the one world global alliance. Cathay also comprises the cargo division Cathay Cargo, low-cost carrier HK Express and its lifestyle business. Cathay is a member of the Swire Group and is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKSE).
- Clarion Communications
