Przemyslaw Drapikowski, a Polish university student, set out to tour China in 2006. He wanted to experience Chinese culture. Little did he realize what fate had in store. Now four years later he has a Chinese fiancee and a steady job in the world's fastest developing economy.

"In the beginning it was like learning new things, going to a totally different environment and meeting different people," he told ChinAfrica. "I just wanted to stretch my mind and to think outside of the box."  One of the delegates at the World Youth and Student Travel Conference (WYSTC) held in Beijng this October, Drapikowski said by knowing two cultures he can expand his life experience and understand more about the world.

WYSTC, an annual event held by the World Youth Student and Educational (WYSE) Travel Confederation, is aimed at increasing international understanding through the promotion of travel and educational opportunities for students and youth. It's the most important trade event of the year for youth worldwide and the educational travel industry.

Running from October 17 to 20, this year's meeting brought together 551 delegates representing 355 organizations from 60 countries under one roof to pursue partnerships, and develop marketing and distribution channels through seminars, networking events, trade exhibitions and pre-scheduled business appointments.

Global force

This year marks the first time the conference has taken place in China, which reflects the rapid growth of the country's tourism industry and its growing prominence as a youth travel destination.

Statistics from the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), China is the world's fourth most popular tourist destination with 48 million visitors per year. UNWTO predicts that China will surpass France (which currently ranks No.1) as the world's top tourist destination by 2015.

"China is the world's fastest growing economy, and its tourism is big business. It's important for the members to come here to see the potential and how to do business in China," said Robin Wicks, Director General of WYSE Travel Confederation.

Speaking at the conference opening ceremony, Qiu Xiaoping, Director of Beijing Municipal Education Commission's Division for International Cooperation and Exchange, expressed his hope that the conference could be a bridge to bring more foreign students to China and provide Chinese students with more opportunities to travel abroad. "These traveling and exchange programs will enhance their cross-cultural communication skills and increase international understanding," he said.