Destination desolation

Angkor Wat in Cambodia is the largest religious monument in the world.  Provided to China Daily

"Malaysia's priority is to regain the goodwill and friendship of the Chinese people," Taiyab says.

"We are confident that the tourist flow from China will return to normal soon."

King says Thailand has been "particularly active" in courting Chinese tourists.

"(It's) waiving visa fees; launching special retail offers; partnering with Chinese travel agents to develop appealing packages; lessening import duties on luxuries; and stimulating flights to airports away from Bangkok.

Indonesia has started a Chinese-language website."Indonesia has emerged as the region's main beneficiary of neighboring countries' decline.

Outbound tourism to the country grew 22 percent in the first half of the year, King says.

Lyu points out the archipelago proactively courts Chinese tourists.

"Direct flight routes between major Chinese cities and Bali, plus a visa-free policy, win them a handful of bills. More resources and money are being spent on advertising, upgrading facilities, training Chinese-speaking guides and trade shows."

The tourism authorities, embassies and comparable bodies of Thailand, Singapore, Vietnam and the Philippines didn't respond to repeated China Daily interview requests.