China has introduced a new rail policy offering substantial discounts to seniors aged 60 and above, enabling them to earn loyalty points at three times the regular rate. The program aims to boost senior tourism and address the needs of the aging population, enhancing rail travel experiences with customized amenities. Positive feedback highlights the initiative’s effectiveness in improving accessibility and convenience for elderly travelers.

China has initiated a transformative rail policy aimed at enhancing mobility for its senior citizens by providing substantial discounts on train fares. Announced by the China State Railway Group, this innovative program comes into effect on April 1, allowing seniors aged 60 and above to significantly benefit from an improved loyalty scheme.

Under this scheme, senior passengers will earn reward points at a rate that is tripled compared to regular members. Specifically, for every 1,000 yuan ($138) spent on tickets, seniors will accumulate 15,000 points that can be redeemed for tickets worth 150 yuan, far exceeding the benefits available to regular members. This scheme is extended to senior residents from various regions including mainland China, Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan, as well as foreign nationals with permanent residency in China, although it excludes international and certain tourist trains.

This initiative is part of China’s broader strategy to harness the potential of its aging population, which numbers over 310 million, representing about 22% of the total population. Last month, the government also introduced a “silver-haired train service” action plan, designed in collaboration with various agencies, to promote elderly tourism and stimulate the silver economy.

Further, the railway operator plans to introduce over 100 high-end railway tourism routes and 160 specialized trains by 2028, with the goal of operating more than 2,500 tourism train services annually. These trains will be designed with the needs of elderly passengers in mind, featuring larger seating, accessible layouts, and enhanced safety measures.

Onboard services will include specially trained staff, medical support, and activities that cater to senior interests, such as chess, reading, and music. Recently, a dedicated tourism train for seniors began its journey from Tianjin, accommodating 452 passengers on a 12-day trip across several provinces.

Meals on board will be tailored to support health-conscious dining, with considerations for salt, sugar, and oil content, providing options rich in fiber and protein. Medical staff will also be present on each train, ready to address health emergencies, alongside well-stocked medical kits and emergency call systems. The program has received positive feedback from seniors, who appreciate the increased accessibility and convenience in travel.

China’s initiative to enhance senior tourism through discounted train fares and customized amenities marks a significant step in addressing the mobility needs of its aging population. The loyalty scheme encourages exploration and fosters participation in the silver economy, while improvements in train design and onboard services signify a commitment to enriching the travel experience for seniors. The positive reception of such initiatives indicates a growing recognition of the importance of catering to the elderly demographic in tourism.

Original Source: www.travelandtourworld.com

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