The head of China's tourism office in Rome said he believed infrastructure and service construction will be enhanced for building Hainan International Tourist Island and referred to Sardinia's tourism development strategies.

Sardinia, the second-largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and one of Italy's most popular vacation spots, was able to maintain its booming tourist industry during last year's global financial crisis. Now it is developing new tourism projects and focusing on developing its image.

Hainan officials believe the island province has an advantageous location off China's south coast and are determined to turn it into a world-class vacation spot. The central and local governments have invested billions of yuan to improve its infrastructure and construct modern facilities to attract more foreigners. They are also launching massive clean-up campaigns to restore the environment and making efforts to refine local manners and reduce petty crimes.