New standard of behavior to promote 'civilized' tourism

A tourist climbs on a statue in Wuxi, Jiangsu province, on May 10, 2013.

Authorities have released a standard of behavior for tourists to follow, which takes effect on May 1 and is considered the first such move promoting "civilized" tourism.

The China Youth Travel Service drafted the standard based on opinions from industry insiders. By clarifying the requirements of travel agencies and tour guides, the standard aims to give tourists adequate reminders, before and during their trips, to follow local laws and customs.

According to an official statement from the China National Tourism Administration, the latest reports about Chinese tourists breaking local laws or customs have had a negative impact on the country's image and effective regulating travel groups would help to create "civilized tourism".

The standard provides details on when and how to guide tourists before and during their trips and urged travel service providers to enhance the training of tour guides. It spells out "uncivilized" behavior such as abusing toilet facilities, littering and using equipment designed for people with disabilities.

The standard also gives tour guides the right to report certain tourists' behavior to tourism authorities. Such behavior will be recorded and tracked if it is deemed inappropriate.