Hong Kong readies for return of international groups

Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) is anticipating an increase in incentive groups to Hong Kong, following further easing of restrictions on inbound travellers.

Inbound visitors to Hong Kong who have pre-registered their itineraries are now allowed to visit tourist destinations such as theme parks, museums and temples and they can also dine out in designated premises.

Hong Kong welcomed an incentive group from Thailand beauty brand IB Skincare, which visited the destination from 25 to 28 November. The group was treated to unique experiences with a ‘wow’ factor, including a specially arranged tour of the new Hong Kong Palace Museum, temple-hopping and an exclusive Christmas tree light-up moment at Hong Kong WinterFest.

Kenneth Wong, general manager, MICE & cruise at HKTB, said: “We’re delighted to welcome our friends from Thailand to Hong Kong again. This group marked the very first of our line-up of incentive groups from short-haul markets, with even more coming in the future. It indicates encouraging overseas demand for motivational incentive programmes to Hong Kong, especially after the recent implementation of favourable arrangements for inbound tour groups.”

HKTB said that new inbound travel arrangements will help bring back short-haul visitors to experience Hong Kong’s seasonal festivity, especially those visitors from Southeast Asia.

Raymond Chan, regional director, Southeast Asia at Hong Kong Tourism Board said: “We are glad that the announcement of the new travel guidelines has been well received by our Southeast Asian partners and consumers. We will be rolling out more trade and marketing activities in the upcoming months to welcome Southeast Asian group tours to Hong Kong.”