The US city of Sarasota established the sister-city relationship with Xiamen's Siming district on October 9, 2007.
Sarasota is located in the southern state of Florida, next to the Gulf of Mexico. It covers an area of 67.2 square kilometers and a population of more than 52,000. The per capita income for residents of the city is $23,197.
Sarasota is abundant in animal and plant resources and features a pleasant, humid subtropical climate. It has hot summers and mild winters, and is humid all year round. The picturesque port city boasts stunning beaches, ideal for bathing.
Honored as Florida's cultural center along the coast, Sarasota is home to many cultural venues, such as Ringling Museum, Ringling College of Art and Design, institute of marine biology, Sarasota ballet school and botanical gardens.
China announced and implemented on May 15 a policy allowing visa-free entry of foreign tourist groups aboard cruise ships via all cruise ship ports along the country's coastline.
China and Georgia are set to waive visa requirements for travelers starting May 28.
