Steven Weathers, an American who has long worked as a TV host in China and boasts a popular travel vlog showcasing his experiences across the country, has also discovered growing business prospects in the inbound tourism industry.
When Steven arrived in Shanghai 19 years ago, he was captivated by the city's lively and dynamic atmosphere and decided to make it his permanent residence.
Now a popular online influencer with two million followers, he travels extensively across China and shares his experiences with his audience. The videos he uploads on social media platforms always receive a flood of messages from across the globe.
In addition, with China opening wider to the world and lowering the barriers to foreign investment, he has seized the chance to open his own business.
"Business opportunities in China have changed over the years. I would say 10 or 20 years ago, there were a lot of large companies coming over setting up factories. Right now, there are a lot of smaller opportunities, at least the ones that I am touching, of which one would be inbound tourism," said Steven.
A trip to the picturesque mountain resort of Moganshan in east China's Zhejiang Province inspired him to start the new venture. Since 2017, he and his business partner Ernest Guan have been running their boutique hotel there.
Steven has traveled to all of the country's provinces, spending his time filming and interviewing people from diverse backgrounds. Through his work, he showcases China's stunning natural landscapes and its rich culture to his audience.
American travel vlogger discovers China's small business opportunities
