Initially released in January 2011, WeChat is now China's most-used app, combining multiple functions including instant messaging, social media and payment services. Its monthly active user count approached 1 billion by the end of 2017. Besides its chat functionality, which keeps travellers connected with friends and family, its WeChat Pay system has also moved beyond the country's borders to help Chinese travellers make payments overseas.
In the romantic destination and the shopping haven of Paris, WeChat Pay is now accepted at two major department stores – Galeries Lafayette Haussmann and BHV Marais. The parent group of the former, the upscale department store chain Galeries Lafayette, revealed that Chinese visitors remain its top customers, spending an average of 1,400 euros per visit.
The Asian Art Museum in San Francisco launched its public WeChat account a year ago, on which its followers can receive updates about the museum, as well as access audio guides, maps and more. In July 2017, it also began accepting WeChat Pay for admission. It's among numerous businesses and institutions around the world that are opening their arms to Chinese travellers – and both sides are reaping the rewards.
