"Better to see something once than to hear about it a thousand times. Only by experiencing the natural and cultural environment in Hainan can you understand the cultural differences, and furthermore enhance mutual understanding and respect in exchanges", Sam, a young man from Syria, said when talking with his companions.

Sam is a participant of a recent tourism event in Hainan province. Themed "Be Together In A Better Hainan", the event invited foreigners from across the world on a tour around the island.

The first group of 25 international attendees from 16 countries set off from Haikou, capital of Hainan province, last Saturday. Participants include online influencers, officials from foreign embassies, representative of foreign tourism authorities, cultural scholars and executives from foreign enterprises.

The group enjoyed themselves in various natural and historic scenic spots - the Qikou Old Street in Haikou, the Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone and the beaches in Sanya, all of which embody the unique local culture.