Tibet, one of the most secluded and private places in the world, has an image of tradition and simplicity. However, it is a considerable surprise to find out that it is one of the only places in the world that has gone cashless and is now in their fourth successful year.
Known as the Tibet Autonomous Region of China, the region has been given rights to their type of governance, flag, religion and even currency. However back in 2012 with the hype of technology and communication, establishments all over the region have started to offer up means to pay online.
Although their currency and bank notes are still accepted anywhere in the region, almost all major establishments have provided means of paying online. When establishments have seen the benefits from a few stores, more and more businessmen has started to accept online payments.
This is to provide convenience for tourists who wish to visit the area. Travelers could pre-pay online to receive services in hotels, restaurants, and even movie theaters. It is also a perk that the locals have adapted and enjoyed pretty well.
Reports have indicated that it is because of an e-payment platform known as Alipay that this kind of trend has become popular in the region. A platform introduced by Alibaba Group in 2004, it has provided its services to hundreds of millions of Chinese users throughout the entire country. As explained by China Daily, an estimated 1.6 Million internet users have been registered in the Tibet Autonomous Region alone.
This impressive number shows that locals do enjoy the efficiency and convenience of e-payment platforms. A report from the New Indian Express has explained that about 83.3 percent of payments in Tibet were done electronically through mobile phones just last year. This has shown a significant change in the payment habits of residents in the region.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
