Outdoor adventurers should be more cautious when traveling because these activities are quite dangerous, said an official from China National Tourism Administration (CNTA).

Some 19 travelers died and 23 were injured in 11 accidents during the Labor Day vacation from May 1 to 7. Ten of these accidents happened during outdoor adventure activities.

A 15-year-old American girl of Chinese descent died in a para-sailing accident in south China's island province of Hainan on May 4.

Rene Blanken, 30, one of nine Dutch and Norwegian tourists, died on an independent excursion in a limestone cave in Xiahe County of Gansu on May 6 when he fell 60 meters.

Experts said outdoor adventure found its way into China in 1998 and became popular in 2004. Accidents have frequently happened due to a lack of experiences among the people.

The CNTA said that adventure activities should be better managed to ensure safety.

(Xinhua News Agency May 11, 2006)