Between May 14 and 22, 2025, the China National Tourist Office (London) hosted a major familiarisation tour across Guizhou Province and the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, bringing together 33 tourism experts from across Europe. Among the invited guests was Pat McCarthy, an Irish philanthropist and the founder of the Ireland Sino Institute.

Although officially a delegate, McCarthy approached the experience with a deep sense of purpose, viewing it as a personal mission to raise global awareness of southwest China’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and social potential.

“St. Patrick walked Ireland not just as a figure of history, but as a builder of unity and understanding,” McCarthy reflected.

“In the same spirit, I want to walk new lands, connect cultures, and help share the stories and wisdom of places like Guizhou and Guangxi with the world.”

Building Bridges Through Tourism

The delegation, which included participants from Ireland, the UK, Finland, and Norway, was part of a larger initiative to foster deeper tourism and cultural ties between Europe and China. During the tour, McCarthy also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Guizhou officials, laying the groundwork for ongoing collaboration in cultural exchange and tourism development.

Exploring Guizhou

The journey through Guizhou included iconic sites such as Huangguoshu Waterfall, the Baling River Bridge, and ancient Dong and Miao ethnic villages. Visitors were treated to vibrant folk performances and traditional hospitality, offering an authentic glimpse into local heritage.

The delegation also explored the UNESCO-listed karst landscapes of Libo, including Xiaoqikong, Daqikong, and Cuigu Waterfall—known for their lush biodiversity and surreal natural beauty.

Discovering Guangxi

In Guangxi, the group visited the secluded Baiku Yao Village, the massive Dongtian Shengjing cave network, and the renowned Bama County, a region celebrated for its high concentration of centenarians and emphasis on health and wellness.

The tour underscored Guangxi’s growing appeal as a destination for eco-tourism, cultural heritage, and longevity-based travel.

A Lasting Mission

Since returning to Europe, McCarthy has been actively promoting both provinces through media, events, and institutional networks. His efforts have helped spark increased interest in Guizhou and Guangxi as meaningful, culturally rich destinations.

According to Zhang Li, head of CNTO London, the tour represented the largest European familiarisation delegation to visit these regions to date—marking a milestone in Europe-China tourism collaboration.

Tourism with Purpose

Drawing inspiration from St. Patrick’s legacy of service and outreach, McCarthy believes that travel and cultural understanding can play a key role in uplifting communities. His hope is that increased tourism will not only bring visitors, but also help drive poverty reduction, economic opportunity, and shared prosperity in underdeveloped areas of Guizhou and Guangxi.

“When cultures meet with mutual respect and purpose,” McCarthy said, “everyone rises together.”

Human Connections Beyond Tourism

What left the deepest impression on McCarthy and the delegation, however, was not just the scenery—but the people. From sharing meals with village elders to watching traditional performances passed down through generations, the group experienced firsthand the warmth, resilience, and hospitality of the local communities. These human encounters turned the tour into something more than a professional visit—it became a shared cultural moment that left lasting memories and a desire to return, collaborate, and contribute meaningfully.