Europe's current heat wave doesn't seem to have affected its popularity in China, with around 6,000 Beijing residents expected to depart for holidays on the continent in July, August and September.

While Europe usually has a cool summer, this year many areas have been hit by unusually high temperatures that are likely to persist until August. The abnormal temperatures have dealt a blow to the continent's tourist industry during its busiest season, but Chinese holidaymakers remain undeterred.

Beijing's big travel agents report that Europe still tops the list of places their clients want to visit.

"We send 300 to 400 tourists to Europe each month," said a manager from the CAISSA International Travel Service.

"Some tourists shifted their travel destination from southeast Asia to Europe after the typhoons struck," a China Travel Service manager in Hong Kong said.

Industry insiders estimated that around 2,000 Beijing residents tour Europe every month over summer.

To reduce any discomfort that could be caused by the heat, travel agents have changed their itineraries, minimizing outdoor activities and ensuring they book air-conditioned rooms. 

(CRIENGLISH.com August 7, 2006)