Global Travel News

It already seems like ages ago (March) that Hong Kong lifted its COVID mask mandate and Canada removed temporary pre-departure test requirements for air travellers from China, Hong Kong, and Macao. The double move eliminated two major obstacles for the return of travel to the favourite destination for Canadians and prompted the always industrious Hong Kong Tourism Board to ramp up operations to accommodate visitors ready (and able) to return after the long pandemic.

The tourism board had already launched its “Hello Hong Kong” tourism campaign with great fanfare in February to re-introduce itself to the world, including giving away 500,000 air tickets to global tourists in what Chief Executive John Lee called “probably the world’s biggest welcome ever.”

Activations included promotional activities, including lucky draws, “buy one, get one free” promotions, and games – all designed to reignite visitor interest.

In addition to a “we’re open” theme, the campaign, which included high-profile celebrity endorsements, highlighted new attractions, dining, and hotels, and was meant to show that Hong Kong “never rested during the pandemic” – constantly developing and improving its tourism product, even if tourists were unable to go there at the time.

The “fluid” campaign has continued throughout the summer and will carry on into the fall and winter, says HKTB’s Director for the Americas, Michael Lim, who adds the Canadian office is very happy with the reaction to “Hello Hong Kong” and the engagement it has generated, noting that travel agents can still tap into a huge array offers on the HKTB web site, such as free drinks at local bars and “other goodies” to offer their clients as a value-added goodwill gesture.

Lim says that interest amongst Canadians in Hong Kong remains strong, and despite the challenges early in the year, there were close to 75,000 arrivals from this country from January to June.

The HKTB’s current target market in this country includes those with disposition for long-haul travel, along with VFR and luxury travellers, and mainland Chinese transiting through the city due to a lack of direct flights.

Further, that it is a “must-see destination” for travellers enroute to other (Asian) destinations and/or as a destination on its own.

And for business travellers, a city that offers after-hours experiences – from nightlife to attractions to local cultural activities – and is worth an extension of a few more days.

HKTB Senior Trade Marketing Manager Yuen Kan Wong says her office is staging B2B, B2C and B2B2C campaigns in Canada to reiterate that Hong Kong is a “vibrant and exciting destination with lots to offer the visitor – both new experiences and timeless traditions.”

Attention is similarly being bestowed on travel agents through trade campaigns, and agent contests that will feature trip prizes.

“Our objective with the travel trade is to showcase that Hong Kong has a world of new discoveries” says Lim, who notes that “so much has happened during the pandemic.”

For example, “where do people stay?” he asks, pointing out that 15 new hotels have been built (with 84,000 rooms in the city overall).

And there are over 10,000 restaurants, covering all price points and including 77 with Michelin stars.

There are also new tours being developed and new attractions, not least the West Kowloon district, one of the world’s most ambitious cultural projects, which includes a rich variety of arts and cultural facilities that will produce and host world-class exhibitions, performances, and arts and cultural events.

The Xiqu Centre, Freespace, the Art Park, and M+ are already open to the public, along with the district’s crown jewel, the Hong Kong Palace Museum, which presents over 900 priceless treasures from the Palace Museum – many of them on display in Hong Kong for the first time, while others have never been shown to the public before.

Canadians should also know that Hong Kong is more than just an urban destination, says Lim, with wellness and outdoor options (like hiking) aplenty, spread across 260 islands. There’s even a UNESCO Global Geopark.

And better still, he points out, everything is within an hour’s reach, and accessible by affordable transit.

Importantly, the HKTB director points out that Canadians can easily get to Hong Kong with service from Cathay Pacific and Air Canada. The former offers 11 weekly flights from Toronto and eight from Vancouver (effective Sept.), while Canada’s national carrier provides seven per week from YVR.

As capacity resumes, says Yuen, there are even more “big plans in the pipeline” for Hong Kong in Canada.

And all of them, adds Lim, will continue to be designed to “be in front of our audience, and to drive business – to have people see Hong Kong and say, ‘I want to go there!’”

To help keep on top of developments in Hong Kong, agents are recommended to sign up to receive the monthly HKTB Canada newsletter. Register here: https://forms.office.com/r/FP7BDJwqxD.

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

While the world – and tourism – paused during the pandemic, Hong Kong used the unavoidable downtime to nevertheless continue developing its infrastructure and attractions for the day when tourism resumed. And that day has come.

Hong Kong Director for the Americas Michael Lim says both first-time and returning visitors will find a city with a new look and amazing new experiences that compliment or enhance traditional favourite activities and cultural touchstones, such as discovering Old Town Central, or ascending Victoria Peak for unparalleled views of the harbour and skyline.

Here are some of the highlights that visitors won’t want to miss:

PEAK TRAM

The Peak is considered by many to be Hong Kong’s most spectacular destination, but even the journey reaching it can be equally as spellbinding. Taking approximately six minutes and rising from 33 m. to 396 m. above sea level along a 1,278-m.-long track, the journey is a visually memorable experience as skyscrapers glide past at what appear to be impossible angles while the Peak Tram makes its ascent.

The Peak Tram began operation in 1888 and today is one of the world’s oldest funicular railways. And now, having returned after a major facelift and upgrade project, the iconic tourist attraction features new tramcars with larger panoramic windows; the replacement of all haulage, control, and signalling systems; new ropes and track rails; and the refurbishment of its Central and Peak Termini to facilitate the beautiful new, larger capacity tramcars.

In addition to reducing passenger waiting times by over 70%, visitors are greeted by a dynamic, brand-new entertainment experience that introduces five engaging zones that include: Eye of Infinity, The Beating Heart, An Icon is Born, Once Upon a Tram, and Go Wild at the Peak at the Central Terminus.

OLD TOWN CENTRAL

One of the oldest yet also most dynamic districts in the city, Old Town Central – encompassing the sloped streets and small alleys of Central and Sheung Wan – encapsulates Hong Kong’s rich and diverse spirit. A place where century-old temples share the same streets as fashion-forward concept stores, or where authentic tea houses coexist with modern art galleries, the colourful neighbourhood is at once old and new while also being proudly local and unmistakably global.

Immensely walkable and brimming with attractions, this neighbourhood is perfect to experience on foot. There’s plenty to discover, from heritage buildings and art institutions to local eats and fun souvenirs.

And, of course, historic Central Market, which dates to 1842, but which has seen multiple transformations since – the latest iteration coming in August 2021. With the motto ‘Playground for All,’ the three-level establishment is split into three core concepts: a boundary-less spatial experience, a green urban oasis, and a curated heritage experience.

Different entrances lead into the ground floor space, while shops are designed as individual islands separated by green partitions. More than 500 mini lampshades – a symbol of the classic wet market – hang above the ground floor entrance, their traditional red and contemporary bronze symbolizing the meeting of old and new. The market’s original built structure remains mostly unchanged, with the historical red brick walls and hanging clock of the grand staircase kept as a testament to its predecessor. Greenery fills the grounds both indoors and outdoors, including an air-filtrating arcade of 400 green plants in the corridor. Of the original market stalls, 13 remain, and displays of traditional shop signs and signage hark back to Hong Kong’s past.

SHAM SHUI PO

Many of Hong Kong’s unique neighbourhoods recall the authentic Hong Kong beyond the glamourous central city. The historically blue-collar Sham Shui Po neighbourhood, for example, offers a lot of cheap but cheerful experiences that can’t be found anywhere else in the city. Instead of glitzy, glass-panelled skyscrapers, here you’ll find buildings that hide a rich history behind their humble façades – many now adorned with colourful street art.

Don’t come here for a fancy gourmet meal. Instead, come here for Michelin-recommended noodles and snacks that only cost under CDN$10. And to shop – sifting through anything and everything for sale at bargain prices on Fuk Wing, or Toy, street, and open-air street markets, including the wet food market on Pei Ho Street.

From traditional temples built by early immigrants to the Ex-Sham Shui Po Service Reservoir – a historic Romanesque cistern featuring granite piers, red brick arches, and concrete cove ceilings that can now be toured (individually or in groups) – to concept stores and coffee shops that are bringing a new energy and attitude to the bustling district, visitors will discover all the simple pleasures that give Sham Shui Po its distinct charm.

WEST KOWLOON DISTRICT

A growing arts and cultural hub with performance and exhibition centres, green open spaces, a growing selection of cafés and restaurants, and a waterfront promenade perfect for enjoying sunset views and evening strolls, the West Kowloon Cultural District stretches from MTR Austin Station to the waterfront west of MTR Kowloon Station, and all venues are within easy distance of public transport.

• A highlight of the district is the Hong Kong Palace Museum, which is dedicated to presenting Chinese history, art, and culture from a new perspective, while advancing dialogue among world civilizations through international partnerships. The museum presents the finest objects from the Palace Museum and other important cultural institutions around the world.

• There is also M+, Asia’s first global museum of contemporary visual culture, featuring collections spanning 20th- and 21st-century visual art, design, and architecture, moving image and Hong Kong visual culture. The expansive podium cantilevers above ground and includes 17,000 sq. m. of exhibition space across 33 galleries, three cinema houses, the Mediatheque, Learning Hub, and Roof Garden that faces Victoria Harbour.

• The Art Parkoffers open green spaces where visitors can relax, play, or picnic on the lawns, and a long waterfront promenade perfect for sunset views of the harbour. Art Park is also a vibrant venue for open-air performances, exhibitions and other cultural events, and home to occasional street performers, a gourmet food truck and multiple restaurants and cafés.

• Freespace– Hong Kong’s centre for contemporary performance in the heart of the Art Park – presents multi-genre performances and events, and showcases emerging and established artists from Hong Kong and around the world.

• Located at the eastern end of the district, the Xiqu Centreis an award-winning venue showcasing world-class productions of Cantonese opera and other regional forms of Chinese opera (xiqu). The Centre also hosts regular film screenings, workshops, talks, exhibitions, and guided tours.

And, of course, there is an endless list of traditional sites, sounds and activities, in Hong Kong that help make the city one of the world’s most unique destinations.

Here are just a few:

• On Lantau island at the Po Lin Monastery, the Tian Tan ‘Big’ Buddha is a 34-m. high bronze statue that requires 268 steps to reach. And that’s after getting there via cable car from Tung Chung MTR station, a ride that is clearly half the fun.

• Hong Kong is famous for its flowers, and the markets that sell them – especially at Chinese New Year. But visiting a Flower Market at any time of year makes “scents.”

• Temple Street Night Market is a kaleidoscope of colour, a delightful hodgepodge of stalls, cafés, and mystic arts. Near the temple rows of fortune tellers predicting the future through such means as palm and ear readings, as well as bird-assisted tarot card reading.

• Star Ferry, which sails across Victoria Harbour every 10 minutes, is a great way to see how the locals travel, and to get a magnificent view of the harbour – all for just a few dollars.

• Hong Kong’s classic trams have earned Guiness World Record recognition as the ‘largest double-decker tram fleet in service.’ The trams ply the north corridor of the main island from morning until midnight; be sure to sit on the top deck for the quintessential sightseeing experience.

• Returning mega events to the city in 2023 include the annual Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival, which will make its grand return to the Central Harbourfront from Oct. 26 to 29. Set against the breathtaking Victoria Harbour skyline, it offers a sensational outdoor wine and dine experience, with tasting and cooking workshops, as well as live entertainment. And the festival continues to delight taste buds in November: for four weeks, Hong Kong locals and visitors can share fantastic gastronomic experiences and a myriad of special offers from hundreds of bars and restaurants.

And in October, Hong Kong Cyclothon offers a rare opportunity to cycle through the diverse cityscape of Hong Kong. Alongside thousands of cyclists, it’s a breathtaking ride and exhilarating event!

• Chinese New Year is the highlight of the Hong Kong Cultural calendar. It’s a time of lavish fireworks, a world-famous night street parade, elaborate banquets, and glittering illuminations. Symbolizing prosperity and unity, while invoking good fortune for the year ahead, this festival is cherished and celebrated across the city. In the weeks leading up to the event Hong Kong is abuzz with activity as preparations for the holiday get underway. Visitors do not have to look hard (or at all!) to find a lion dance, a colourful, noisy, and athletic display aimed at frightening away evil spirits and bringing good luck.

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

From thrilling theme parks and vibrant art and cultural attractions to family-friendly hospitality options with easy access to the city’s must-see attractions, Hong Kong is an ideal destination for families.

Here is short list of some of most sensational offerings around the city this summer, and venues destined to thrill both now and in the future:

World-Class Theme Parks

No family stay in Hong Kong would be complete without a visit to one of the city’s favourite theme parks, which include Ocean Park and Disneyland:

• Marine-based Ocean Park Hong Kong has remained a firm fan favourite with locals and visitors alike for four decades. Committed to raising awareness of environmental conservation, the sprawling park allows guests, big and small, to get close to some of nature’s greatest wonders, from exotic sharks that swim about in a 360-degree aquarium to furry giant pandas and waddling penguins. Aside from being a haven for animal-lovers, the park is also the perfect spot for thrill-seekers who want to test their courage on the floorless rollercoaster, or the hair-raising turbo-drop ride fitted with VR technology.

• Hong Kong Disneyland features seven exciting themed lands, more than 100 attractions and entertainment offerings, character-filled parades, and three hotels with distinctive themes that help create an unforgettable experience. In 2023 the theme park is celebrating ‘Disney’s 100 Years of Magic,’ marking the 100th anniversary of Disney.

Art and Culture

• teamLab Future Park: Art and technology meet at a new immersive experience by world-famous art collectives teamLab. There’s interactive fun, with six stunning works on display until Jan. 14, 2024, including ‘Graffiti Nature – Beating Mountains and Valleys, Red List,’ which sees the Hong Kong newt, a local endangered species, take centre stage. Other highlights are ‘Sliding through the Fruit Field’ and ‘A Table where Little People Live,’ which have already proven a huge hit with families.

• Hong Kong Palace Museum: Appreciate traditional Chinese history, art, and culture from a new perspective at the incredible Hong Kong Palace Museum. The Harbourfront institution is excellent for families to explore local culture through fascinating year-round exhibitions and multimedia installations. Families can also join hands-on, creative workshops, such as ceramic and jewellery making.

Timeless fun

• Get the best view of the city, harbour, and beyond from the lofty heights of The Peak – a must-see city attraction. And what better way to get there than by the historic (but renovated) tram, one of the world’s oldest funicular railways?

• Kids will find four storeys of space jam-packed with fun interactive activities at the Hong Kong Science Museum.

• Visitors to the island of Ma Wan will find the unlikely scene of elephants, giraffes and other wild animals walking two-by-two from a giant ship. This is Noah’s Ark, or at least the world’s first full-size replica of the Genesis vessel with many life-like animals. The themed attraction boasts fun yet informative galleries, immersive exhibitions, and family-friendly games that are all aimed at promoting the values of social and environmental harmony.

The great outdoors

Despite being one of the most highly developed regions in the world, more than 40% of Hong Kong remains protected country parkland. These verdant tropical reserves offer up some of the best hiking to be found globally, not to mention culturally enriching and health-promoting experiences for visitors of all ages. Consider these fabulous hiking trails for families:

• Peak Circle Walk(all ages): Provides a bird’s-eye vantage of all of Hong Kong’s most famous views in one short and sweet hike.

• Lamma Island Family Trail(5 and up): A day on this historical trail has it all: boat rides, heritage and religious sites, local industry, a peek at island life, and a gentle-moderate hike that is easy to handle for most primary-school aged kids and above.

• Dragon’s Back(all ages): Hong Kong’s most famous hike, the undulating Dragon’s Back Hike, is not as steep or as challenging as some of the region’s more advanced trails, but a decent level of fitness is still required – as is a good pair of trainers.

Family-Friendly Hotels

• Regala Skycity Hotel: Located in Skycity, Hong Kong International Airport, the hotel boasts several colourful themed family suites in which kids can make their dreams come true by living out their prince and princess fantasies in the princess castle suite or feeling the speed in the car racing suite.

• The Fullerton Ocean Park Hotel Hong Kong: Surprise the little ones with a ‘Baby Shark Adventure’ at the Fullerton Ocean Park Hong Kong! Running until Nov. 30, the experience includes a thematic guestroom and a range of experiences that revolve around the popular children’s song and TV show ‘Baby Shark.’

Consider a family itinerary 

https://www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/plan/trip-planner/4-days-of-family-fun.html

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News