'Visitor numbers for Lunar New Year rebound'
The head of the Tourism Association on Tuesday said about 200 mainland tours visited Hong Kong each day over the Lunar New Year break, reaching nearly 70 percent of pre-pandemic levels. Speaking on an RTHK radio programme, Timothy Chui said hotels were operating at over 90 percent occupancy during the period. Chui attributed the rebound in tourist numbers to large-scale events organised by the government, such as the Lunar New Year fireworks. "The fireworks display has undoubtedly attracted numerous mainland tourists, whether they're part of a guided tour group, travelling on their own, or not planning to stay overnight," he said. "Obviously, these tourists were drawn to Hong Kong because of the events organised by the government. Therefore, Hong Kong must host mega events to attract tourists - and even get them to extend their stay in the city." Several border crossings were packed with travellers on the last day of the Lunar New Year holiday. At the express rail station in West Kowloon, a family who returned to the SAR said they had travelled to Shenzhen to visit friends and to shop. Meanwhile, tourists returning to the mainland said they had spent time in Cheung Chau, and had bought snacks and souvenirs._____________________________
Last updated: 2024-02-13 HKT 12:35 