Tourists say they aren't afraid to travel in Xinjiang

Zhang Xiang, 23, who came to the region last week to visit relatives, said he plans to find a job in the region.

"After I land a job here, I will be able to travel around Xinjiang. Safety has never been a concern for me," he said. "I am thinking about going to Turpan now because the grapes are ripe. I will indulge myself with sweet grapes."

Anne Craig, from Scotland, said she just finished a sightseeing tour in Kashgar and has decided to spend at least two days in Urumqi.

"I've seen a lot of beautiful places in Xinjiang and met so many friendly people who were very nice and helpful."

Craig said she had heard of the terrorist attacks but does not worry for her safety.

Asel Kuzhakhmet, a businesswoman from Kazakhstan, said: "To be honest, I was a little scared when I watched the news about the incidents."

Kuzhakhmet said this is her fourth trip to Xinjiang.

"I am now feeling relaxed since I know the local government is able to protect us," she said. "And even if something bad happens, I am sure the police will do their best to ensure our safety."

Her confidence in Xinjiang is shared by a group of tourists and Chinese micro-bloggers who have launched an online campaign to support the region and its tourism sector.

The campaign, called "Xinjiang, here I come!" has attracted tens of thousands of Web users to post travel photos taken in Xinjiang, with some saying they want to show the world the treasures the region has to offer.