Shanghai hotel occupancy hits post-COVID high

The average occupancy rate of hotels in Shanghai hit 65.8 percent between August 9 and 15, a new high since the COVID-19 outbreak, city cultural and tourism authorities announced on Monday.

The figure was higher among five-star hotels in the city, reaching 67.4 percent, according to the Shanghai Administration of Culture and Tourism.

The resumption of Chinese cross-province tourism started on July 14.

Occupancy rates in Shanghai plummeted after travel agencies were ordered to suspend group tours in late January.

In February, the average occupancy rate of hotels in Shanghai was only about 6 percent. 

Rates have climbed steadily month on month as the epidemic has waned, reaching 13 percent in March, 23 percent in April, and 30 percent in May, according to the administration.

In the first week of July, it grew to 45 percent. 

The growing accommodation occupancy rate shows the gradual recovery of consumer confidence among tourists, said Jin Lei, deputy director of the administration. 

Summer holidays and promotional activities from the hospitality industry have also boosted occupancy, said Jin. 

”Families with children from other Chinese cities account for a large proportion, and there has also been a significant increase in guests born after 1990 at high-star hotels," said Jin. "The lower occupancy rate compared with peak summer season last year lifts the comfort of accommodation, attracting young tourists who pursue high-quality travel experiences."

Hotels in Shanghai have increased the frequency of cleaning and disinfection and some hotels have launched intelligent non-contact services, such as self-help check-in and robot delivery, to create a safer accommodation environment.