Tropical treat for the winter

Nanshan Temple, a famous tourist destination in Sanya, Hainan province.

"The provincial government is striving to develop the island into an international destination. We're improving infrastructure such as roads that connect to the scenic spots," says Zhou.

In 2015, the circular railway that connects the provincial capital Haikou with Sanya city was completed.

It is supposed to be the world's first high-speed train circling an island, and it takes more than three hours to complete the loop, giving travelers stunning views of the ocean and the greenery.

Zhou says that while most of the popular destinations are in the eastern part of Hainan, the western part is also beginning to draw visitors with the railway opening.

Easing travel restrictions is another way that Hainan has sought to attract overseas visitors.

In 2000, Hainan waived visas for tourist groups from 21 countries who used authorized Chinese travel agencies, and added five more countries to the list in 2010.

Zhou says the local government also offers subsidies to airlines to increase inbound traffic, and plans to allow more direct flights from Europe and the United Stated.

Chartered flights are also being encouraged, he says.