Category: NEWS

Traveling through Chile, Argentina, and Peru with a focus on Indigenous tourism was a transformative experience for Mirjam Peternek-McCartney and her family. We recently sat down with her to discuss the insights from their year-long sabbatical.

Mirjam, who operates a PR company in the Cotswolds, explained that the idea for their adventure took shape during a vacation in Italy in 2022. “Maybe we had a bit too much wine,” she chuckled, “but that’s when we decided to take a year off with our two sons, Lukas and David.” The excitement in their household was undeniable when they shared the news with their boys. “It was an announcement over breakfast, and once we said it, there was no turning back,” she recalled.

The COVID-19 pandemic prompted them to reflect deeply on family and travel, which motivated them to embrace this opportunity before life became even busier with David nearing his GCSEs and Mark approaching 50. “It felt a bit like a midlife crisis, with various factors in play,” Mirjam noted. Although she had concerns about her children’s education and her business during her absence, the support from her colleagues and the school helped alleviate some of that stress.

Initially, they contemplated a trip to Asia, but they ultimately chose South America, a continent all of them had yet to explore. “We planned to kick off in Colombia, make our way south to Patagonia in Chile, and then travel up the Atlantic coast to Buenos Aires. It was supposed to be a year-long journey, but we had to shorten it to eight months at the school’s request,” Mirjam detailed. They officially set off on their adventure in September 2023.

The planning phase itself was part of the fun. “We immersed ourselves in films, documentaries, and books about our intended destinations,” she shared. Prioritizing sustainability was crucial to them, so they avoided tourist traps and sought out local guides and businesses. “We wanted to uncover lesser-known spots,” she emphasized.

Mirjam explained how they organized their travel schedule, designating Monday through Wednesday as “school days” and Thursday through Sunday for exploration. They divided teaching responsibilities between the parents and supplemented their subjects with online classes for math and science. “This gave us some rhythm and structure, allowing us to continue learning while on the move,” she elaborated.

One of the highlights of their trip was their stay at the Tambopata Research Center in the Peruvian Amazon. “It was extremely educational for the boys, especially for David, who enjoyed working on moth traps,” Mirjam recalled. They participated in citizen science projects, ventured into the jungle for night walks, and learned about Indigenous medicine.

Traveling along the stunning Carretera Austral in southern Chile felt like a true adventure. “I’d recommend setting aside at least two weeks for that drive,” Mirjam advised. The family made significant stops at various national parks, including Pumalín Douglas Tompkins Park, which stood out due to its ancient alerce trees and breathtaking scenery.

They consciously avoided overly touristy destinations like the Galápagos Islands and instead found joy in smaller, sustainable lodges such as Bahía Bustamante in Argentina. “It felt like we were living in a David Attenborough documentary,” Mirjam remarked.

A significant part of their journey revolved around community and Indigenous tourism. They spent three weeks in Peru’s Sacred Valley, engaging with local families and learning about climate change’s impact on agriculture through community-led initiatives. A female-led tour in Lima allowed them to connect with the Shipibo community, enhancing their cultural insights.

Mirjam also discussed the financial planning required for their trip. They rented out their home and budgeted carefully, discovering that their expenses matched what they would have spent in the UK, despite higher costs in Chile. “Choosing affordable self-catering accommodations helped balance the occasional splurge,” she noted.

While the eight months flew by, Mirjam reflected on the personal growth and family bonding that took place. “It was an enriching experience that our children will carry with them forever. They uncovered new passions, like photography and conservation,” she shared, stressing the importance of overcoming initial fears.

When asked if they would consider another adventure, Mirjam responded with enthusiasm, “Absolutely! We’re looking at Japan for Mark’s 60th birthday. Who knows, maybe the kids will want to join us… if we pay for it!”

To wrap up our conversation, Mirjam offered her top tips for families contemplating a sabbatical:
1. Set specific days for work and school, and designate others for travel.
2. Combine homeschooling with world schooling, focusing on the kids’ interests.
3. Choose houses or apartments over hotels for the convenience of cooking.
4. Travel during shoulder seasons for fewer tourists and better pricing.
5. Allow plenty of time for exploration and for kids to recharge.
6. Seek out community-based and Indigenous-owned businesses instead of multinational corporations.
7. Pack lightly with quality gear.
8. Use playlists and audiobooks for longer journeys.
9. Prioritize experiences and quality guides over luxury accommodations.
10. Make mealtime a time for connection and conversation, free from technology.

Mirjam’s journey serves as an inspiring reminder of the incredible opportunities that arise when we step outside our comfort zones and immerse ourselves in the rich tapestry of cultures around the globe.

California Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed Senate Bill 1174, a new law that forbids local governments from mandating voter identification before ballots are cast. This legislation seems to specifically target conservative areas, such as Huntington Beach in Orange County. In reaction, entrepreneur Elon Musk used his platform, X, to ridicule Newsom, calling him “The Joker.”

Musk expressed his discontent, stating, “Wow, now it’s illegal to ask for voter ID in California! They are the ones facilitating election fraud,” and added, “The Joker is in charge.” The comparison to “The Joker” evokes a character often associated with mental illness and social ostracism who turns to violence, a nuance that doesn’t entirely match the Chinese connotation for “clown.”

Fox News reports that this isn’t Musk’s first encounter with Newsom. Alongside his plans to move SpaceX and X headquarters to Texas, Musk recently shared a deepfake video featuring Vice President Kamala Harris with his almost 200 million followers, just after Newsom instituted a ban on deepfake political propaganda.

Previously, Musk had voiced his concerns on X regarding the necessity of voter ID, claiming it would lead to election fraud. He contended that such concerns are precisely why extreme leftists oppose ID verification.

During the March 2024 primary elections, the Huntington Beach City Council presented Measure A, which asked locals whether they supported the requirement of showing ID when voting. The measure received 53.4% approval, allowing the council to proceed with implementing ID checks.

City attorney Michael Gates has asserted since March that Measure A aligns with state constitutional requirements and must be enacted by 2026. However, California Attorney General Rob Bonta and Secretary of State Shirley Weber disagree and have filed a lawsuit contending that Measure A violates state law.

According to Fox News, California is among 14 states that do not necessitate voter ID. Before the legal battles surrounding Measure A reach a conclusion, Senator David Min introduced SB 1174, which successfully passed both legislative chambers and was sent to the governor for approval.

**Interviewer:** The recent Third Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee approved the “Decision on Further Comprehensive Deepening Reform and Advancing Chinese-style Modernization.” Can you break down the key areas of focus highlighted in this decision?

**Zhu Yueyue:** Certainly. The decision underscores several vital areas: the establishment of a high-level socialist market economy, the promotion of whole-process people’s democracy, the development of a strong socialist culture, the enhancement of citizens’ quality of life, the advancement of ecological civilization for a beautiful China, the improvement of public safety, and the strengthening of the Party’s leadership and governance capacity. All these focus areas are intended to drive reform forward effectively.

**Interviewer:** This series of discussions aims to unpack the essence of the 20th Plenary Session. In this final episode, we’re concentrating on the enhancement of the Party’s leadership and governance. What are the primary challenges in these areas, especially considering the tough reform tasks ahead?

**Zhu Yueyue:** The Party’s leadership and governance encounter several hurdles: First, there are issues of inaction and poor implementation, coupled with a reluctance to take risks and a lack of proactive measures. Second, there seems to be a general underestimation of the complexity and challenges associated with reform. Finally, we are at a juncture where strategic opportunities and risks coexist, with unpredictable events—often referred to as “black swan” and “gray rhino” incidents—presenting new challenges that could emerge unexpectedly.

**Interviewer:** What strategies can be employed to enhance governance capabilities at the grassroots level?

**Zhu Yueyue:** Improving grassroots governance involves several approaches: Firstly, we should concentrate on routine operations and fulfill our responsibilities while also enhancing our emergency management skills. Secondly, we must strive for results that can withstand scrutiny from practice, public opinion, and history—reforms should be judged based on tangible outcomes and public satisfaction. Lastly, it’s important to prioritize the sentiments of the public by fostering a strong sense of responsibility and resilience, ensuring successful implementation of welfare projects that benefit people.

**Interviewer:** In terms of reforming personnel systems, what actions can grassroots organizations take to better motivate and engage their staff?

**Zhu Yueyue:** There are several crucial areas to concentrate on:
1. Selecting the right individuals is key. We need to establish clear criteria for personnel selection and deepen reforms in the personnel system to elevate those who demonstrate political integrity, accountability, innovation, and exemplary performance.
2. Encouraging initiative and setting clear accountability parameters is essential. Optimizing mechanisms for error correction will protect proactive and bold cadres while addressing any wrongful accusations against those who take responsibility.
3. It is vital to enhance our cadres’ capabilities regarding political insight and developmental skills, improving their ability to assess political situations, maintain stability, and manage potential risks effectively.

**Interviewer:** For a mega-city like Shanghai, what steps can be taken to bolster the political and organizational roles of its grassroots Party organizations?

**Zhu Yueyue:** First, we need to have a problem-solving approach that addresses the immediate concerns of the community. Second, Party work must be closely intertwined with key initiatives to ensure that Party-building efforts are not disconnected from daily operations. Third, we should consistently strengthen the Party’s political leadership, ideological direction, community organization, and social influence to ensure grassroots organizations serve as strong pillars of Party leadership. Ultimately, we want to ensure that wherever there are people, there is Party presence and organization.

Recently, Nankai University has seen a resurgence of the “Three Patriotic Questions” originally posed by its first president, Zhang Boling, back in 1935.

“Are you Chinese?” “Yes!”
“Do you love China?” “I do!”
“Do you wish for China to thrive?” “I absolutely do! I wish our motherland to prosper and grow strong!”

These profound questions and their firm answers have resonated deeply within the university community, sparking significant online engagement. The journey China has undergone—from enduring hardships to achieving remarkable success—has transformed the nation, yet these timeless inquiries continue to inspire passion among the people today.

General Secretary Xi Jinping has stated, “Patriotism is the deepest and most enduring emotion in human existence.” For many Chinese, love for their country transcends personal identity and requires no justification; it is an innate and timeless sentiment.

This deep-seated love often springs from a rational understanding of the nation’s journey. Recent years have witnessed an uplifting surge of positive energy and a reinvigorated national spirit. From the successes of mainstream films like “Awakening Age” and “The Battle at Lake Changjin” to the rise in popularity of programs such as “This is China” and “The Pioneers,” along with a newfound interest in classic Marxist literature among youth—these cultural phenomena reflect a renaissance of spirit and thought.

Today, individuals not only express love for their country but also harbor a deeper appreciation and unwavering confidence in its history and chosen paths. The blend of emotional and rational patriotism has become increasingly passionate and profound.

Culture plays a vital role in fostering a strong connection to the Chinese national community. The sight of young people gracefully wearing traditional Hanfu in bustling streets, the long lines outside museums, and the growing enthusiasm for calligraphy, opera, traditional music, and Go among children highlight the vibrant resurgence of Chinese traditional culture in modern life.

As poet Wen Yiduo poignantly remarked, “I love China not only because it is my homeland but especially because it is a country with such respected culture.” The rich cultural heritage and the spirit of the times inspire one another, elevating cultural confidence to unprecedented levels.

As we embrace patriotism, we simultaneously become more open; and with greater openness, we grow to cherish our patriotism even more. Ideas like “the world is a shared space” and “the importance of cultural refinement in shaping the world” exemplify our collective aspirations. Adopting a global perspective has been a crucial lesson for our party’s century-long journey. China’s wisdom in navigating contemporary international relations is reflected in its commitment to building a community with a shared future for humanity, allowing the nation to contribute to global progress while pursuing its own development in an age of economic globalization.

President Xi has emphasized: “Chinese people uphold a spirit of patriotism while also embracing an international perspective and an open mindset.” By fostering mutual benefits, a strong nation cultivates an open outlook that, in turn, fuels its prosperity and strength.

Patriotism doesn’t demand a reason; it calls for action.

On September 29th, a grand ceremony recognized individuals for their significant contributions to the country. Wang Zhenyi, a recipient of the “Republic Medal” and a distinguished medical educator, finds his greatest joy in two pursuits: learning—transforming the unknown into knowledge—and healing those in need.

Greatness often springs from the ordinary, with heroes emerging from the ranks of the people. Even the most illustrious individuals achieve success through steadfast dedication to a singular mission. True patriotism need not be loud or ostentatious; it is about recognizing the right course amidst the prevailing tides and taking responsibility when faced with challenges. Generations of relentless effort have shaped the flourishing China we see today, and it is our duty to excel in the relay race designated for our generation.

“In this vast, beautiful, and resource-rich land, people of all ethnicities share a common home—China; we share a common identity as part of the Chinese nation; we bear a collective name—Chinese; and we hold a shared dream of achieving the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation!” By transforming sincere patriotism into the courage to move forward, we ensure that no shores are too distant and no dreams beyond our reach.

In the lush landscapes of Pu’er, Yunnan Province, vibrant avocado orchards are bursting with ripe fruit, creating a perfect backdrop for the second annual Menglian Avocado Festival, aptly themed “Soaring Avocados, Green Menglian.” Set against the backdrop of the National Day holiday, this event aims to promote tourism while offering visitors a one-of-a-kind avocado experience.

Avocados, praised for their high protein content and healthy unsaturated fats, are often dubbed “forest butter.” Once reliant on imports, China has seen Menglian County rise as the nation’s largest avocado-producing region, cultivating over 120,000 acres devoted to this crop. Currently, nearly 25,700 acres are in active production, with the 2024 season anticipated to yield around 19,500 tons.

As the holiday festivities continued, both locals and tourists flocked to the Nan Yun Food Street, relishing various unique avocado snacks and browsing inventive avocado-themed products. Ms. Zhou, a vendor at the bustling food street, expressed her excitement: “This year’s festival coinciding with National Day has been an amazing opportunity. I brought along my home-grown avocados and coffee beans to sell, and we’re seeing tremendous interest, selling about 300 cups daily.”

Tourist Qiu Longge, who traveled to Menglian specifically for the festival, shared his enthusiasm, stating, “This is my first avocado festival, and I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and size of the avocados in the orchards.” As someone in the coffee industry, Qiu sees this as a chance to gain insights into the avocado market and hopes to bring back innovative avocado-infused coffee ideas to other cities.

During the festival, Menglian held a special ceremony to grant the geographical indication trademark for “Menglian Avocado,” unveiled a quality tracing system for the fruit, and introduced a new product: avocado-infused yogurt. The event also included a range of cultural activities such as an ethnic market, a kick-off for the avocado harvest, a rock night music season, culinary contests, and cultural banquets, all aimed at celebrating avocados and drawing in tourists eager to experience the unique flavors of Menglian.

Qin Guowei, Deputy General Manager of the Menglian County Industrial Investment Group and Deputy Secretary-General of the Menglian Avocado Industry Development Association, highlighted the festival’s success, stating, “We’ve attracted business people and tourists from all over the nation, which speaks volumes about the quality recognition of our avocados. It’s encouraging to see many customers increasing their orders from their initial expectations.”

Cai Shuqiang, Chairman of Guangzhou Jinda Food City and a participating vendor, added, “Avocados are extremely popular in the Greater Bay Area. Through this festival, we aim to raise awareness about the value of avocados and collaboratively drive growth in the industry.”

On World Mental Health Day, Aisha Bubah and Jecinta Egbim are stepping up their advocacy for inclusive and equitable mental healthcare in Nigeria.

The movement for mental health awareness is gaining traction in Nigeria, fueled by an urgent need to combat stigma and expand access to care. Despite having a mental health policy in place since 1991, the country continues to grapple with a lack of community-based mental health services.

As Nigerians navigate an inadequate mental health system, Nguvu Collective Change Leaders Aisha Bubah and Jecinta Egbim are drawing attention to this critical issue.

Aisha Bubah, a psychologist and dedicated advocate, underscores the importance of enhancing access to mental health care across Nigeria. She has launched a campaign urging the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA) to train primary healthcare workers as lay counselors capable of providing essential mental health support and referrals. Additionally, she is advocating for the creation of mental health desks at healthcare centers and the training of doctors and nurses to address mental health concerns within communities.

“As a survivor of insurgency, I comprehend the profound need for mental health support, particularly for those who have faced trauma,” Aisha states. “Access to quality mental healthcare is a fundamental human right, and we must ensure it is available to everyone.”

Jecinta Egbim, Aisha’s fellow Change Leader, is focusing her efforts on the mental well-being of adolescents attending public schools in Nigeria, especially in regions impacted by violence. She sheds light on the significant psychological impact of crises such as bombings, kidnappings, and banditry, particularly in states like Kaduna. Jecinta advocates for mandatory Guidance and Counseling units in public schools, as outlined in Nigeria’s National Policy on Education.

“Our children are growing up in environments where threats of violence are ever-present, and the trauma from these experiences is frequently neglected,” Jecinta explains. “It is essential that we provide mental health support in schools. Teachers need training to offer counseling, and every child should have access to a safe, supportive environment where they can heal and flourish.”

According to the World Health Organization, over 720,000 individuals die by suicide each year, with 77 percent of these deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria. The nation also has one of the highest rates of depression in Africa, coupled with a critical shortage of mental health professionals. A 2021 report from the Association of Psychiatrists in Nigeria (APN) indicates that there are only 250 psychiatrists available to serve Nigeria’s 215 million population.

Through their petitions and advocacy, Aisha and Jecinta aim to inspire policymakers to work alongside local stakeholders in crafting a mental health system that is inclusive, equitable, and responsive to the needs of all Nigerians.

Their efforts highlight the necessity of tackling mental health issues at the grassroots level, ensuring that community members and students receive the care they genuinely deserve. As Nigeria confronts widespread trauma and an overstretched healthcare system, the work of these Change Leaders is paving the way for a more compassionate, responsive, and inclusive approach to mental health in the country.

On October 8, Beijing marked the beginning of the Cold Dew solar term with a press conference hosted by the National Health Commission, where seasonal health tips were discussed. Dr. Xialin Tong, a renowned physician and academician at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, urged those who are overweight or obese to rethink the traditional notion of “gaining weight for winter” during the fall season and to maintain their weight loss efforts instead.

Dr. Tong stated, “The expression ‘autumn fat is gold’ reflects a cultural and physiological reality.” This saying stems from a time when dwindling food supplies in winter prompted people to gain weight in autumn as a preparation for the colder months. However, Dr. Tong cautioned that for individuals currently facing obesity, indulging in this practice can jeopardize their earlier weight loss achievements.

He explained that while summer often demands higher energy expenditure, autumn should be a period of replenishment for most. Yet, those who struggle with their weight need to be vigilant about their food intake. He recommends adopting a lighter diet, which includes foods like hawthorn, and suggests drinking teas such as pu-erh or black tea. Increasing one’s consumption of vegetables and fruits is also beneficial. Furthermore, incorporating regular exercise is key to burning excess fat, and non-pharmacological methods like gua sha or cupping can help boost metabolism.

As autumn progresses into winter, Dr. Tong addressed the widely held notion of “autumn dryness.” He pointed out that the temperature drop and accompanying dryness can result in symptoms such as dry skin and throats. To mitigate these effects, he advised people to focus on nourishing and hydrating their bodies.

He shared a remedy inspired by Qing Dynasty expert Wu Jutong, known as the “Five Juice Drink.” This involves juicing a combination of pear, lotus root, water chestnut, fresh reed root, and ophiopogon. To enhance the drink, one can add honey or brown sugar, or simply boil and cool it before consumption to help nourish the body and combat dryness.

“If you can’t find all these ingredients, using just one or two is perfectly fine. Alternatives like coconut water, fresh milk, fresh dendrobium, fresh lily, or fresh tremella work well too,” Dr. Tong suggested. The emphasis should be on creating simple, nourishing beverages at home that can help maintain hydration and relieve dryness during the autumn months.

According to the China Meteorological Administration’s recent report, a weak cold front has swept through several regions. On October 8, northern Xinjiang, northwestern Gansu, northern Qinghai, and midwestern Inner Mongolia experienced wind gusts ranging from 6 to 8 on the Beaufort scale, with some isolated areas even hitting 9 to 10. Dust storms were also reported in western and northeastern Xinjiang, along with sections of western Inner Mongolia, where Hami faced particularly severe sandstorms.

Looking ahead, this cold air mass is expected to move further south, impacting many northern regions. From October 9 to 11, temperatures in parts of North China, Northeast China, and Inner Mongolia are projected to drop by 3 to 6 degrees Celsius, with some areas in central and eastern Inner Mongolia possibly experiencing declines of over 8 degrees. This weather pattern will also bring northern winds at levels 4 to 5, with gusts potentially reaching 6 to 8. Today, the primary effects of the cold air will be felt in central and eastern Inner Mongolia, as well as northern Shanxi and Hebei. Additionally, from the night of October 9 through the day of October 10, the Bohai Sea will experience northeast winds ranging from 5 to 7, with gusts up to 8.

Before the cold front’s arrival, air quality in southern North China and western Huanghuai was generally moderate, with reports of light haze in some locations and brief instances of moderate haze in isolated spots. However, starting the night of October 9, the haze is expected to gradually decrease as the cold air moves south. Unfortunately, conditions for air diffusion may worsen again beginning the night of October 10, prompting officials to recommend that the public take necessary precautions.

In the southwest, persistent rain is anticipated. Over the next week, areas including the eastern Tibetan Plateau, southern Sichuan, and central and northern Yunnan, along with Guizhou, are expected to experience significant overcast weather. Specifically, regions in southeastern Tibet, southern Sichuan, central and northern Yunnan, and Guizhou may face moderate to heavy rainfall, with localized areas susceptible to torrential downpours. Furthermore, central and southern Qinghai, as well as northern areas of the western Sichuan Plateau, might receive light to moderate snow or sleet.

As gun violence continues to rise in the United States, the Biden administration is pushing for tougher regulations on “ghost guns,” which are notoriously hard to trace. Interestingly, many Supreme Court justices appear to support this initiative. During oral arguments on October 8, The Washington Post reported that several justices expressed doubts about the claims made by gun owners, manufacturers, and advocates of the Second Amendment who argue that the government’s regulations from 2022 exceed its authority.

Ghost guns are generally assembled from components manufactured privately or through 3D printing, and their presence in criminal activity has surged over the last decade. Manufacturers often assert that they aren’t bound by standard commercial gun sales regulations, arguing that ghost guns fall outside the legal definition of firearms under current national laws and are sold only to those who share their views.

Chief Justice John Roberts questioned the accessibility of ghost guns, stating he found the claims hard to accept. While discussing the case Garland v. VanDerStok with the plaintiff’s attorney, he remarked, “Drilling one or two holes, I think, is quite different from the satisfaction of working on your car over the weekend.”

If the Supreme Court decides to back the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ (ATF) ruling regarding ghost gun regulations, it would be a notable shift, especially with the Court’s conservative majority typically skeptical of gun regulations. In 2022, they made a groundbreaking ruling that simplified the process for challenging restrictive laws.

Elizabeth Prelogar, the U.S. Solicitor General representing the government, emphasized the critical relationship between gun control measures over the past fifty years. She argued that failing to regulate ghost guns poses significant risks. “Recent cases involving ghost guns have surged,” she highlighted.

In 2017, law enforcement tracked 1,800 ghost guns, a number that skyrocketed to over 19,000 by 2021. That year alone, nearly 700 homicide or attempted homicide cases were linked to these weapons. Authorities note that fewer than 1% of these firearms can be traced due to the absence of serial numbers and purchase records.

Additionally, ghost guns do not require background checks, making it alarmingly easy for prohibited individuals, including criminals and young people, to obtain them. In response to this growing issue, the ATF has revised its interpretation of the Gun Control Act of 1968, asserting that ghost guns should be subject to the same regulatory standards as commercially sold firearms.

**Interview with Local Officials on the Tourism Boom in Xinjiang County, Shanxi Province**

*Reporter: Can you tell me about the impressive increase in tourism during this year’s National Day holiday?*

**Official:** Absolutely! This year, Xinjiang County saw over 204,000 visitors, marking an incredible 198% increase from last year. This surge can be attributed to the dedicated efforts of our local government in promoting our unique cultural and natural attractions.

*Reporter: What initiatives did the county implement to improve the visitor experience?*

**Official:** We addressed several challenges tourists encountered, such as parking, navigation, accommodations, dining, and restroom access. Starting in early September, we initiated a comprehensive road reconstruction project linking Zezhang Town to Guangcun, enhancing access to major attractions. We also installed clear signage to guide visitors and opened local government buildings for free parking.

*Reporter: What about public transportation options?*

**Official:** We introduced three free bus routes connecting the county to various scenic spots, deploying 49 buses throughout the holiday week. This initiative successfully transported around 53,000 visitors.

*Reporter: How did the local hospitality industry prepare for this influx of tourists?*

**Official:** Local hotels focused on creating a welcoming and safe environment for guests. We also collaborated with local restaurants to offer delicious regional cuisine without increasing prices. We enforced strict measures against price gouging to maintain trust with our customers.

*Reporter: What cultural activities were available to engage visitors?*

**Official:** We featured cultural performances like traditional Jiangzhou drum music and shadow puppet theater. Additionally, we promoted local folk arts such as woodblock printing and paper cutting through interactive demonstrations, allowing visitors to engage with our rich heritage.

*Reporter: I’ve heard that you leveraged the success of the game “Black Myth: Wukong” to boost tourism. Can you explain how that worked?*

**Official:** Definitely! The popularity of the game helped draw attention to our region. We cleverly connected online players with offline visitors, creating an exciting framework that showcased our historical sites and unique cultural products. By highlighting our recognition as a “Chinese Historical and Cultural Village,” we sparked greater interest in our local stories and traditions.

*Reporter: What innovative initiatives did you launch to promote local culture?*

**Official:** In the lead-up to the holiday, we issued a nationwide call for creative products that reflect our historical culture. Artists, students, and local artisans collaborated to create over 400 unique items featuring the distinctive elements of Xinjiang. These products have become highly sought-after souvenirs for tourists.

*Reporter: What is your vision for the future of tourism in Xinjiang County?*

**Official:** We envision a synergistic relationship between our famed historical sites and cultural experiences. By improving accessibility and promoting our local heritage, we aim to position Xinjiang as a must-visit destination for travelers, both from nearby and far beyond. Our goal is to sustain this momentum and transform short-term interest into lasting cultural engagement.