Nestled on China’s Hainan Island, Sanya has blossomed into a world-class international tourism hub following the implementation of the Hainan Free Trade Port’s customs closure, blending unique policy incentives with diverse tropical charms enchanting global travelers.
To uncover this new Sanya, four bloggers embarked on the “Warm Winter, Glowing Sanya” Global Traveler Initiative, a six-hour multimedia live broadcast that revealed the city’s lesser-known charms through the lenses of international travelers.
From heart-pounding water sports to soul-soothing wellness, from street food stalls to intangible cultural heritage workshops, their various experiences show that Sanya is no longer just a place for sightseeing—it’s a place to experience.
Thrill-Seeker’s Paradise: An Adventure Across Sea, Land, and Air
American blogger Gavin Gu sought more than just beach days—he chased the pulse of Sanya’s upgraded adventure scene, framed as a “Sea, Land, Air” challenge.
Starting at Sanya International Yacht Club, Gavin sailed along the sweeping Sanya Bay coastline, marveling at crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. At Tianyahaijiao, he traded calm for adrenaline, trying jet skiing and gravity-defying water flyboarding.
His adventure climbed to new heights at a floating sky restaurant, fifty meters above the ground. Suspended over Haitang Bay, he savored chef-curated dishes while soaking in 360-degree sunset views. “This isn’t just dining,” he noted, “but a unique perspective to see Sanya’s beauty.”
Back on land, guided by a golf coach from abroad who now calls Sanya home, Gavin learned the basics of golf and gained insight into Sanya’s growing international community. “People from all over choose to live and work here,” the coach shared.
The day concluded at Dadonghai Beach, where Gavin joined an impromptu beach volleyball game with locals and tourists. All these moments encapsulate Sanya’s vibrant and inclusive spirit. “This is the Sanya I didn’t expect,” Gavin said.
A Taste of Sanya: Where Local Bites Meet Global Flair
For Russian food blogger Valerie, Sanya’s true magic lies on the plate. Her culinary exploration of the city took her from bustling markets to five-star restaurants, revealing a food scene where street food charm meets global innovation.
Valerie’s journey began at Xinhonggang Seafood Market, where she sought out to hunt for fresh local fruits and ingredients: rambutan, jackfruit, mango, and Hele crabs. Her tour also spanned decades-old local eateries like “A San’s Soup” and the innovative fusion cuisine at fine dining restaurants.
While Sanya’s time-honored traditional flavors vividly embody the authentic warmth of local daily life, the fusion cuisine prepared with cross-cultural cooking methods opens up new possibilities for Sanya’s international culinary and cultural travel experiences.
“I’m amazed,” Valerie said. “The local specialties and fusion cuisine gave me a profound sense of the tropical island vibe and its rich and diverse flavors.”
Heritage & Innovation: A Feast of Cultures
Beyond the postcard-perfect beaches, Italian blogger Jacob set out to uncover Sanya’s hidden cultural side. On Xidao Island, a fishing village that has preserved its Danjia culture for centuries, Jacob wandered through coral-stone houses, and learned about the Danjia maritime boat-dwelling traditions and sustainable fishing practices.
Dressed in a brocade costume of the Li ethnic group, Jacob joined Li ethnic group intangible cultural heritage workshops, learning to weave Li brocade and craft Li ethnic pottery.
The journey concluded at “Ben Nei Re” studio, a local band whose name means “Let’s Come Together” in the Hainan dialect. Blending Li folk music, Leigongma (Thunder God Horse) legends, and modern rock, the band is redefining Sanya’s cultural identity.
Immersed in the music, Jacob reflected: “Sanya isn’t just about sun and sea. It’s a place where ancient traditions, ethnic diversity, and youth creativity converge, continuously igniting new sparks.”
Healthy Sanya: Wellness Reimagined with Ecology
Czech blogger Zina explored Sanya’s wellness offerings rooted in the philosophy of “Connecting with Nature, Reflecting on Self, Embracing the World”, revealing how the city’s tropical landscapes and cultural wisdom create a holistic therapy experience—perfect for seeking wellness in modern life.
At Haitang River Ecological Park, Zina tried an “emotional release” by practicing Tai Chi, listening to ocean waves and smelling tropical flowers. “Nature here isn’t just beautiful—it’s therapeutic,” she said.
The journey culminated in a group wellness marathon at Luhuitou Park, where locals, tourists, and expats joined in a celebratory run, embodying Sanya’s commitment to being inclusive and open. As a marathon runner said, “Sanya is a city of Hainan, a city of China, and a city of the world.”
As the Spring Festival celebrations unfold, Sanya continues to welcome visitors from around the world, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, water sports, diverse flavors, and cultural richness.
Beyond visa-free entry for citizens of 86 countries and newly launched international direct flights, Sanya streamlines cross-border travel with seamless multilingual services, upgraded duty-free shopping and contactless payment options across the city.
Warm, inclusive and convenient, post-customs-closure Sanya invites travelers worldwide to explore its multifaceted charms and feel the magic of a tropical paradise.
Welcome to Sanya where warmth meets wonder, and tradition thrives on innovation!
