Tourism officials warn over Dalian

        Tourism authorities yesterday warned travelers to avoid visiting scenic areas polluted by an oil spill last week in Dalian, Liaoning Province.

        Officials said they have ordered Dalian travel agencies arranging trips for Shanghai groups to adjust tours and stay clear of any areas affected by the pollution, the Shanghai Tourism Administration said yesterday.

        A oil pipeline exploded on Friday in Xingang Area in Dalian, causing an oil spill that has covered more than 50 square kilometers of sea. Although the local government believes the incident didn't affect the city's ecology, tourists still better avoid these areas, the administration said.

        Dalian is one of the most popular travel destinations on the Chinese mainland in summer because of the cooler weather and the beaches.

        Meanwhile, backpackers have been warned to be cautious while traveling around the Yangtze River and Huaihe River valley due to frequent rainstorms, which can lead to landslides, flash floods and mud-rock flows.

        Officials said backpackers need to be prepared if they go to such areas, including bringing survival equipment and buying travel accident insurance.