The National Day holiday was marked by unruly behavior of tourists. For example, at Tian'anmen Square in Beijing alone tourists left behind 5 tons of garbage after watching the flag-raising ceremony on Oct 1. Some tourists even climbed the relics of the Old Summer Palace, or Yuanmingyuan, disregarding the warnings. Such "uncivilized" behaviors of tourists have become a matter of social concern, says an article in Yanzhao Evening News. Excerpts:

Tourists must respect local cultures, follow the tourism industry's rules and not do anything to damage scenic or historical sites. The authorities, on their part, need to take measures to educate people about tourism ethics and the importance of following rules.

[Photo / Xinhua]

Public education and measures to regulate peoples' behavior will not only help protect tourist sites, but also prevent chaos. In the 1960s and 1970s, for example, many nouveau riche Taiwan tourists visiting the US and Europe became notorious for their bad habits such as spitting on and littering the streets, shouting in public places, and jumping queues. The tourists changed their habits only after Taiwan authorities took measures to educate them about civic rules. Perhaps the Chinese mainland authorities should take similar measures to bring order to the domestic tourism industry.

Also, travel agencies and scenic spot managements should publicize the crowd holding capacities of tourist sites and take proper steps to protect tourists' rights and the environment.

(China Daily 10/10/2013 page9)