Beijing, 12 April 2010 – As part of its strategy to boost travel to the UK, global premium carrier, British Airways has teamed up with national tourism agency, VisitBritain, to launch its “Britain – The great big, little country” promotion – a special fare on its services to London, providing a gateway to the pick of Britain’s greatest assets.

 

Running until 22 April 2010, the promotional fare is valid on all flights between 26 April and 30 September 2010, and sees British Airways’ customers able to book a return World Traveller (economy class) fare from Beijing or Shanghai to London Heathrow from just RMB4, 400, or opt for a one-way upgrade to World Traveller Plus (premium economy class) for an additional RMB2, 500 only for extra comfort and flying pleasure.

 

British Airways’ partnership with VisitBritain highlights the airlines’ continued commitment to providing quality service, unique style and comfort for all travellers, offering the ultimate British experience the moment you set foot on the plane.

 

“Steeped in history and famed for its top sporting events, musical and literary heritage, not to mention its vast array of shopping and culinary experiences, the UK is a hub of activity all year-round,” said Kevin McQuillan, British Airways Regional General Manager, East Asia.  “Our Beijing/Shanghai–London routes continue to be very important to us, and we want to maximize their worth by giving leisure travellers more reasons to visit.”

 

Garry White, Regional Director of APMEA for VisitBritain, added, "Our partnership with British Airways illustrates our commitment to making the UK a more accessible destination. This campaign highlights the great range of experiences you can enjoy when visiting the UK and what's more, all are within in a few hours of each other! That is what makes Britain such a great big, little country. You can also enjoy our many free museums and galleries as well as tax free shopping."

 

British Airways’ and VisitBritain’s ‘Best of British’ highlights include:

 

 “Time to hit the shops!”

Visitors to the nation’s capital really are spoilt for choices when it comes to shopping – from luxury shops in Knightsbridge such as Harrods and Harvey Nichols, to fashionable retail outlets like Dover Street Market and Carnaby Street, London has it all. Bargain fashions and art can also be found at the world-famous markets in Portobello, Camden, and Covent Garden. Put simply - if you can’t find something to suit your tastes, then you won’t be able to find it anywhere!

 

“A sporting chance”

With many of the world’s most famous games originating here, sport has been appropriated as a source of national pride. The sporting calendar is always jam-packed and 2010 is no different with Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championships, the Ryder Cup, the London Marathon, the Grand National and many more events scheduled throughout the year.

 

Home to the world famous Barclays Premier League, one of China’s favourite football leagues, a trip to the UK would not be complete without watching a match or two.  Horseracing in Britain is also a national institution and a great family day out, while a visit to one of Scotland’s links courses is an absolute must for golf fanatics.

 

“A green and pleasant land”

Whether you are looking to escape the heat and delight in seclusion or you’re an adrenaline junkie looking for a fix, there is no better place to do it than the great British countryside. From the rugged Northumberland coastline to the Welsh valleys, the dramatic Scottish Highlands to the rustic attractions of rural Northern Ireland, Britain is renowned the world over for its breathtaking natural beauty. Exploring the flora, fauna and abounding wildlife that inspired many a famous author is a favourite pastime for many Brits and international visitors.

 

“Heritage and history”

The works of Shakespeare; the legend of King Arthur; the intellect of Newton; the leadership of Churchill and the exploits of Henry VIII all provide a cultural backdrop to an unparalleled range of historic buildings, landscapes and monuments. 

 

The leading role that Britain plays in developing parliamentary democracy and in advancing literature and science is evident all over, and its long and fabled history is truly fascinating. Whether you choose to explore the traditional mining towns of the North East, where traces of life at the turn of the century are still apparent, visit Shakespeare’s birthplace in the market town of Stratford Upon-Avon or take an outing to one of the many war or maritime museums, you will undoubtedly get a real sense of the UK’s historical heritage.

 

“Britain rocks!”

From Abbey Road to Penny Lane, The Philharmonic Orchestra to the Beatles and from the Albert Hall to the Proms, Britain rocks!

 

If music is your thing then a visit to the birthplaces and favourite hangouts of legendary musicians, locations that inspired their music and featured on album covers will be right up your street. There is plenty to keep music lovers of all genres satisfied especially as the summer season approaches and a variety of concerts and festivals get underway. 

 

“West End story”

The vibrant heart of Central London offers the best of the best when it comes to theatre. This year sees the much anticipated world debut of Love Never Dies by Andrew Lloyd Webber. This part of London is home to some of the best-rated shows, from Chicago and Les Miserables to The Lion King and an updated stage rendition of the late Michael Jackson’s Thriller, and latest hits such as Enron – a classic retelling of the biggest financial scandal in recent memory – and Legally Blonde to favourites like The Phantom of the Opera and Oliver!, London guarantees a show to fit the tastes of any discerning critic, and a ticket to great memories.

 

“Heaven of Gourmet & Drinks”

Restaurants serving food from every corner of the world, cosy pubs with traditional menus, sophisticated eateries offering the best in cutting edge cuisine - Britain has them all. You can also find out some of the best restaurants run by celebrity chefs that Britain has to offer. And you might just get to meet your cooking hero! Don’t forget to check out for the latest English wines, real ales, rare cider and the finest Scottish malt whisky.

 

About British Airways 

British Airways has a worldwide route network that covers more than 150 destinations in 75 countries. It is one of the world's largest international airlines carrying approximately 36 million passengers around the world every year.

 

British Airways commenced services to China in 1980 and now offer seven flights a week (six flights a week in winter) from Beijing to London and six flights a week(five flights a week in summer) between Shanghai and London. British Airways’ home at London Heathrow’s Terminal 5 opened on March 27, 2008. The terminal is capable of handling 30 million customers a year. The airline’s move to Terminal 5 was completed in October 2008. Terminal 5 is now handling approximately 510 flights every day.

 

In September 2009, British Airways was awarded the Best European Airline by readers of Business Traveller at the 18th Business Traveller Asia Pacific Awards. 

 

For further information on British Airways visit ba.com

 

About VisitBritain

VisitBritain is Britain's national tourism agency, responsible for marketing Britain overseas. We work in partnership with thousands of organisations in the UK and overseas and seek to ensure that Britain is marketed in an appropriate way in 35 markets around the world. We also work to promote the tourism industry within the UK itself.

 

Our international website: www.visitbritain.com.