Hong Kong offers 500,000 free air tickets in a bid to revive tourism
The Hong Kong government has launched a campaign to revive its struggling tourism industry by offering 500,000 free airline tickets.
Dubbed as the “Hello Hong Kong” tourism campaign, the move aims to attract visitors back to the city and jumpstart its reopening to international travelers.
The ticket giveaway was announced by the city’s leader, John Lee, during the launch event, which featured performances by aircrew-themed dancers and chefs.
Hong Kong has recently lifted COVID-related travel restrictions and announced smooth travel to mainland China starting next week.
“This, ladies and gentlemen, is probably the world’s biggest welcome ever,” Lee said onstage.
Why did tourism slide in Hong Kong?
According to The New York Times, the city of Hong Kong has faced significant challenges over the past four years, including the response to the pro-democracy protests in 2019 that resulted in violent clashes between protesters and police and significant damage to parts of the city.
The central government’s response was a law that suppressed speech and dissent, leading to the arrest of pro-democracy leaders.
The COVID-19 pandemic brought additional difficulties, including border closures, strict quarantines, and COVID-19 restrictions, which have since been eased but are not completely gone.
The city still mandates the use of masks indoors and outdoors and those caught violating the requirement face a fine of up to $1,275.
How does the free tickets campaign work?
The tickets will be divided among the three local airlines: Cathay Pacific, HK Express, and Hongkong Airlines, and the cost to the city is estimated to be $254.8 million.
The ticket giveaway will first become available to Southeast Asia residents starting on March 1, followed by mainland China in April, northeast Asia, and the rest of the world in May. An additional 80,000 free tickets will be offered to Hong Kong residents in the summer and another 80,000 to those living in the Greater Bay Area.
The tickets can be applied for through the online channels of the three participating airlines. The Hong Kong Airport Authority will pay for the economy-class airfare, but winners will have to pay taxes and additional fees.
What discounts are available in Hong Kong?
Euro News reports that visitors to Hong Kong can take advantage of various incentives, including special offers and vouchers.
One million vouchers worth over HKD100 each will be distributed to offer discounts on food, drinks, transportation, hotels, retail, and attractions.
The vouchers will be available at four border checkpoint tourist inquiry counters starting on February 2 at 5 PM, according to Time Out Hong Kong.
In addition to the vouchers, the city will host over 250 events and festivals in 2023, ranging from the Hong Kong Marathon to the Clockenflap music festival, Art Basel, and Hong Kong Rugby Sevens.