Chinese outbound tourism has been skyrocketing in recent years. For many, these vacations are their first trips abroad. Air China has taken it upon itself to give its passengers some travel advice when adventuring in new cities. Though, its recent message revealed some nasty racism.
The airline’s monthly magazine Wings of China featured a story on visiting London, which included some “Tips from Air China,” reports CNBC.
The passage reads:
London is generally a safe place to travel, however precautions are needed when entering areas mainly populated by Indians, Pakistanis and black people. We advise tourists not to go out alone at night, and females always to be accompanied by another person when traveling.
Needless to say, people are pretty pissed.
The BBC reports that a London member of Parliament has contacted the Chinese ambassador to the UK, demanding an apology. Another has asked for the magazine to be taken out of circulation immediately, stating that the multi-cultural areas of London are “of great value for those visiting London to see.”
This isn’t the first time there has been published advice made available for the growing body of Chinese tourists (who spent $215 billion abroad last year). In the past, the China’s National Tourism Administration published an info packet on the correct etiquette to follow while abroad.
That packet didn’t include any racial slurs, however.
CNBC reached out to Air China regarding its London safety tips, but has not heard back.