"Silver-haired' train trips boost tourism, consumption in China

As China's silver economy flourishes, special trains for senior travelers are driving tourism and cultural consumption, providing elderly passengers with a more comfortable and diversified travel experience.

In recent years, train travel has become a favored leisure activity for retirees, offering them a unique way to explore new places.

"We've traveled to many destinations after our retirement. On average, we go on two to three long trips each year. We've visited places like Enshi and Emei Mountain," said Mrs. Hao, a senior traveler.

The introduction of silver-haired trains has transformed travel for elderly passengers, providing them a more comfortable and diversified experience. These trains feature specialized carriages, including a bar, a tea room, and card rooms, allowing seniors to enjoy a range of entertainment on their way. Moreover, passengers can purchase local specialties from a variety of products available onboard, making the journey even more enjoyable.

"Age-friendly" features extend beyond the physical train upgrades to include thoughtful service offerings. For instance, some trains provide meals designed to meet the tastes and nutritional needs of the seniors, offering light, soft, and easily digestible dishes.

In addition to high-quality services, the trains also offer the seniors with opportunities to learn new things. On one such train, an expert in artificial intelligence (AI) introduced elderly passengers to AI-related concepts and shared apps designed to assist the seniors with health consultations and travel information.

"AI lessons are definitely something we need, especially with the increasing role of AI in elderly care. I think every senior should learn some basics about this," said one of the passengers.

According to the China Tourism Academy, by the end of 2025, the number of younger, healthier senior travelers in China is expected to exceed 100 million, with the silver tourism market projected to surpass one trillion yuan (about 138 billion U.S. dollars) in revenue.

Data from Qunar, a Chinese travel services platform, revealed a 30 percent increase in hotel bookings by elderly travelers during the May Day holiday, running from May 1 to 5. In addition, the number of scenic site bookings by family groups with elderly travelers has risen by nearly 20 percent.

"A single dedicated train trip for senior passengers can stimulate consumption in dining, accommodation, and entertainment along the route, creating approximately 1,000 flexible job opportunities," said Liu Xiangdong, an associate professor at the School of Economics and Management of the University of Science and Technology Beijing.

"Silver-haired' train trips boost tourism, consumption in China

The Iranian government is focusing on public concerns and maintaining stable supplies of essential goods amid recent protests, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said in a televised interview on Sunday.

In the city of Karaj, northwest of the capital Tehran, daily life has largely continued as normal. A video filmed by a local resident on Sunday shows food stores open and grocery shelves fully stocked.

"This is the block near my home, and there are some food stores here. Daily life continues here. Last night we did not see many protests in Karaj. Right now the city is very safe. This is a grocery store close to my home. All the food is available; nothing is in shortage. Here are noodles and different types of beans. Here are dairy products, cheese, and yogurt. I also checked other grocery stores and didn't see any shortages. Everything is available," said local resident Ali Reza.

Iranian officials have described recent disturbances as acts orchestrated by the "enemy," including some carried out by well-trained and armed "terrorists." The incidents have caused casualties among security personnel and civilians, as well as property damage.

The Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council Ali Larijani has directed authorities to severely punish the "terrorists."

Meanwhile, Iran's police chief Ahmad-Reza Radan said on Sunday that the police had raised alert levels and arrested several leaders of the troublemakers during the operations on Saturday.

President Pezeshkian noted in the interview that the normal demands of the Iranian people are reasonable and justified, but they must realize that triggering riots and carrying out terrorist acts are the enemy's attempts to undermine the country. He urged the public to remain vigilant.

Also on Sunday, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf warned that Tehran would regard U.S. and Israeli bases and facilities in the Middle East as "legitimate targets" if Washington takes military action against Iran. His remarks followed media reports saying U.S. President Donald Trump is "seriously considering authorizing a strike" against Iran.

Iranian state media reported that at least 109 members of Iran's security forces have been killed in clashes since the protests began 14 days ago. Meanwhile, human rights groups based outside the country said the number of protesters killed has exceeded 200, though the figure could not be independently verified.

The protests initially erupted over a sharp depreciation of the rial and sweeping subsidy reforms. Iranian authorities have blamed the unrest on foreign-linked agents and sanctions imposed by the United States.

Iranian president says government focusing on ensuring supplies amid protests