Tourists are encouraged to show good manners.[Photo/IC]

A lot happened in China's travel industry in 2015. From new rules regulating tourists' behaviors to the removal of Shanhaiguan's 5A rating, we saw an ever-progressing trend towards more civilized and standardized tourism. From Britain's new visa policy to Chinese tourists, to a bouncing back of inbound travellers, we witnessed a boom in China's tourism exchanges with the outside world. With 2015 almost becoming a past tense, let's recount the milestones helped shaped the travel industry this year.

New regulations to promote civilized tourism

According to industry standards issued by the China National Tourism Administration that came into effect on May 1, tour guides and leaders have the right to report on bad behaviors to authority.

The regulation comes amid growing concern about the bad manners of Chinese tourists both at home and abroad.

Tourists will be blacklisted for uncivilized behaviors such as acting antisocially on public transport, damaging private or public property, disrespecting local customs, sabotaging historical exhibits or engaging in gambling or pornographic activities.

The new standards add more responsibility on tour guides, who are required by law to remind tourists of civilized behaviors.