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CHINA SEES 50% DROP IN TOURISM DUE TO SARS

BEIJING – The number of overseas visitors to Beijing fell by more than 50% in the first half of this year because of the SARS outbreak, according to the official Xinhua News Agency.

The Chinese capital, the worst hit city in the world, reported an overall 50.8% drop in overseas tourists between January and July, Xinhua said, citing Beijing's Municipal Tourism Bureau.

The number of tourists from other parts of China totaled 3.4 million, a decrease of 25.3%, Xinhua said.

SARS – Severe Acute Respiratory syndrome – emerged in southern China last November. More than half of the mainland's 5,327 infections and 349 deaths were in Beijing, which in June was the last city to be removed from a World Health Organization list of places where nonessential visits were discouraged.

Xinhua said the number of tourists visiting the country is expected to rise dramatically in the next few months, when several exhibitions and trade fairs are scheduled to begin.

AIR NEW ZEALAND OFFERS HAWAII STOP WITH LA-NZ TRAVEL

LOS ANGELES – Air New Zealand is offering the opportunity to extend a vacation to New Zealand with a free stop in Hawaii. This new fare, starting at $1,129 roundtrip, includes a stopover in Honolulu on the northbound journey from Auckland to Los Angeles.

Fares for travel from Los Angeles to Auckland start at $1,129 roundtrip. Travel must commence between October 1 and November 30 and must be completed by December 12.

Tickets must be booked prior to September 19. Minimum stay is seven days and maximum stay is one month.

Fares do not include taxes. Tickets may be booked through travel agents or directly with the airline by calling 1-800-369-6867.

Book online at www.airnewzealand.com/usa for $999 and save $130. Special restrictions, terms and conditions apply.

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