Yunnan, a major tourist destination in southern China, plans to issue a Yunnan Travel Passport from 2009 to offer more benefits and better service for tourists.

According to the Yunnan Provincial Tourism Association, the Yunnan Travel Passport consists of two editions which are printed in red and blue respectively. The red edition, which has a validity period of two years, is issued for major events. The first edition was launched before the Beijing Olympic Games. The blue edition was launched on January 1, 2009, with a five-year validity period, and it is currently available to consumers who apply for Qicai Yunan themed credit cards from China Merchants Bank.

The blue edition of the travel passport, integrates approximately 100 scenic spots in Yunnan province. With the travel passport, tourists can enjoy enhanced service as well as 15%-60% off gate prices for these scenic spots.

(China Hospitality News February 3, 2009)