CHONGQING (CQNEWS) -- As the May Day holiday draws to a close, Chongqing remains one of the top ten popular destinations this year, according to data from platforms like Ctrip and Fliggy. Hotel bookings, car rentals, and inbound and outbound travel orders have all seen significant growth. While visitors from other places are flocking to Chongqing, where have the locals avidly supporting their favorite spots gone?

On May 5, the final day of the holiday and the first day of the Beginning of Summer according to the solar terms, Chongqing welcomed clear weather. At Zhongshutuo Wharf in Jiangbei District, a gentle breeze accompanied the sparkling river surface reflecting the sunshine. The harmonious interplay between the river view and the urban landscape captivated many locals, drawing them to the waterfront.

As far as the eye can see, the expansive water sparkles with azure waves, mirroring the cerulean sky above. Along the river, people on paddle boards exert themselves, their efforts evident in beads of sweat, while fully loaded cruise ships swiftly glide by, leaving long tails of white waves in their wake. On the riverbank, campers sit beneath umbrellas, sipping coffee, while playful children chase each other with toys, laughter filling the air. Meanwhile, the wharf bustles with activity, bustling with a crowd of people.

"May Day gives the opportunity for out-of-town tourists to have a good time, so us locals will make do and come to the riverside for some fun!" On the embankment, Mr. Zhang, strolling leisurely with a water glass in hand, exuded a strong sense of civic responsibility as soon as he spoke. He shared with reporters that he's in his fifties and a born-and-raised Chongqing native. Having retired, he frequently explores different parts of Chongqing with his family.

"It’s great fun playing by the riverside! We dug a huge sand pit!" Nine-year-old Chengcheng enthusiastically gestured with her arms, her eyes crinkling into crescents as she smiled, her cheeks flushed like two ripe apples. Chengcheng is a true-blue Chongqing kid. This May Day holiday, he tagged along with his parents to visit many places, proudly listing them off, "We went to Jiefangbei, Chongqing Young Power 1862, Jinhaiwan Riverside Park..." He counted on his fingers, ticking off each cherished memory.

"Chongqing covers a vast area, with plenty of fun places to explore in the main city, districts, and counties. There's a wide variety of activities, well-planned layouts, and effective tourism promotion. We often take our children out to play," Ms. Li, Chengcheng's mother, remarked. As a Chongqing native, she deeply appreciates the significant progress in Chongqing's tourism development in recent years. "Not to mention when we were young, even just seven or eight years ago, Chongqing didn't offer as many entertainment options. Chongqing's development is steadily improving!"

During the interview, Ms. Li, though shyly dodged the camera, was the only interviewee who actively engaged with the reporter. She mentioned overhearing the interview topic and felt compelled, as a local, to share her sentiments about Chongqing. "I believe Chongqing embodies an unwavering urban spirit. Despite the current tourism boom, it continues to forge ahead, and has carved out its own path and consistently ranks as a top tourist destination. Chongqing represents a remarkable vitality, and I take pride in it!"

Li also said that there are many cultural and tourism resources out there to be tapped in Chongqing, and she believes in the city's boundless potential for the future.

And we share that hope and anticipation with Li! (Translated by Wang Zhong, Fathom Language Limited)