Something old, something new and exciting in Hong Kong
Hong Kong never gets old. No matter how many times you visit, it seems like you’ve barely scratched the surface. The city’s vibrant culture, diverse culinary offerings, constantly evolving skyline, and dynamic energy remain as exciting and fresh.
The rickety and crowded streets of Kowloon are still interesting, disorienting, and yes, exhausting. The neighborhood of Mongkok, where the roads are lined with shops and restaurants, remains a popular spot for cheap thrills. Shing Chai Hot Pot in TST, Pondside in Admiralty, Lua in Causeway Bay, and Dragonfly in Central District are Gen Z-approved establishments where you can eat, hang out and pose!
“It’s a place my young family keeps going back to,” shares Miguel Linao during Hong Kong Tourism Board’s (HKTB) “Juan in a Million” celebratory dinner at the Grand Ballroom of Shangri-La, The Fort, Manila. “We love the city’s culinary scene and modern vibe. We just let ourselves get lost in the city because it’s easy to find your way back.”
In case you didn’t know, Miguel is officially recognized as the one-millionth Filipino tourist to visit Hong Kong in 2024.
“It felt like winning the lottery,” the doting father of two adds. “We went to Hong Kong last year to support our daughter in a gymnastics competition and, of course, to enjoy the sights.”
As a token of gratitude, the HKTB is inviting the Linaos back to Hong Kong for an all-expense four-day, three-night trip that includes airfare, accommodations, and admissions to some of Hong Kong’s attractions and experiences.
A year of milestones
“2024 was truly a remarkable year for Hong Kong. Not only did we reach this milestone, but we have also surpassed pre-pandemic numbers with an impressive 1.2 million arrivals,” enthuses HKTB executive director Dane Cheng.
This fete can be attributed to celebrity-led initiatives that captured the imagination of tourists and audiences, including Under the Parallel Skies, a film top-billed by Janella Salvador and Thai actor Win Metawin, and “Be With U,” a music video starring KD Estrada and Alexa Ilacad. Both projects showcase “Asia’s World City” as a city of love and adventure.
Cheng also cites the successful culinary collaborations like the Four Hands Dinner with Asia’s Best Female Chef (2016), the late Margarita “Gaita” Forés, and Hong Kong’s chef Vicky Cheng. Chef Gaita was instrumental in bringing Hong Kong closer to Filipino palates.
Four Hands Dinner also serves as the perfect prologue in anticipation of the annual Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival.
Discover Hong Kong 2025
“As we look forward to 2025, we have no intention of slowing down,” notes Cheng. “We remain committed to staying one step ahead in providing visitors with a million and one reasons to explore Hong Kong.”
Here’s a preview of the exciting events and new attractions that await visitors on their next visit to Hong Kong:
Ocean Park. Ocean Park Hong Kong’s beloved panda family welcomed its two adorable members: An An and Ke Ke. Gifted by the Central Government of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the twins are ready to greet visitors at their new home, too! Catch them live in their sanctuaries through Ocean Park Hong Kong’s live feed.
Panda Go! Fest Hong Kong. The festive lunar year stop of Pando Go! Fest Hong Kong takes place at D’Park and Central Market until March 6. Over 800 panda sculptures will be showcased, featuring festive Lunar New Year designs for the first time.
Hong Kong Disneyland’s 20th anniversary. Witness the brand-new anniversary-only castle stage show called “Castle of Magical Dreams,” as well as the “Friendtastic!” Parade, the newest and largest-to-date daytime parade the park offers. And no Hong Kong Disneyland celebration is complete without the “Momentous” nighttime spectacular.
Kai Tak Sports Park. A new landmark in Hong Kong, Kai Tak Sports Park is set to open its doors this year. With a seating capacity of 50,000 (for the main stadium), the park will be the venue of Hong Kong Sevens, an iconic sporting event in March, and Coldplay’s upcoming show in April. The park also houses shopping malls and Joypolis Sports Hong Kong, Japan’s all-weather indoor sportainment complex developed by Tokyo Joypolis.
Indeed, staying ahead of trends and keeping the momentum going is essential in maintaining a country’s appeal as a dynamic global destination.
