A First Look Inside Hong Kong’s Breathtaking New Kyra Lounge

Airport lounges can often feel like crowded waiting rooms, but every so often, a space redefines the pre-flight experience. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of one of the world’s busiest transit hubs, the newly acclaimed Kyra Lounge at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) is hitting pause on travel stress.

Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful Priority Pass lounges in the Asia-Pacific region, Kyra Lounge blends sustainable design, multi-sensory relaxation, and a taste of local culture. Whether you are navigating a long layover or starting your journey early, here is a look inside this serene oasis.

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Design and Atmosphere: A Multi-Sensory Escape

Kyra Lounge draws its design inspiration from the natural world and the daily cycles of the sun. The color palette—transitioning from warm sunrise beiges to deep sunset greens—creates an immediate sense of calm. The architecture features a striking sculptural wave ceiling that evokes the movement of the ocean, paired with dynamic lighting designed to replicate sunlight breaking through clouds.

One of the lounge’s standout architectural achievements is its commitment to sustainability. The stunning central bar was crafted from reclaimed typhoon-damaged wood, while solar fins are integrated to naturally regulate the temperature. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light and offer panoramic, unobstructed views of the tarmac and the surrounding mountains.

Amenities and Dining

Kyra Lounge understands that every traveler has different needs before a flight, offering specialized zones to dine, work, or completely unplug.

• Food & Beverage: A global-meets-local menu provides complimentary fresh, seasonal dishes. You can grab a quick bite at the cold buffet or settle in with a crafted beverage from the standout bar.
• Work & Productivity: Fast, reliable Wi-Fi, quiet work pods, private workstations with computers, and enclosed booths for taking calls ensure you can stay connected without interruptions.
• Relaxation: For the ultimate unwinding experience, the lounge features a tranquil relaxation zone equipped with massage chairs tucked into quiet corners, modern shower suites to freshen up, and a central fireplace area that invites you to sit back and recharge.

How to Access Kyra Lounge

Located in Terminal 1, Level 6 (Departures), near Gate 23, the lounge is conveniently situated just past security and passport control. It operates daily from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM.

As a shared-use lounge, it is incredibly accessible for travelers across different airlines and cabin classes:

• Lounge Memberships: Complimentary access is available for members of Priority Pass and LoungeKey (subject to your specific credit card or membership terms). You can enter up to three hours before your scheduled flight.
• Day Passes: If you do not have a lounge membership, day passes can be purchased via The Club for $80, which can be booked up to a year in advance.

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Hong Kong is a city of beautiful contradictions—where soaring glass skyscrapers meet ancient traditions. The Kyra Lounge perfectly captures this essence, offering a sophisticated, modern retreat rooted in natural tranquility.

Hong Kong Restaurants Claim Top Two Spots In Asia’s 50 Best

“Culinary Capital” Title Reaffirmed with Over 200 Restaurants Listed in Internationally Acclaimed Gourmet Guides.

Following last year’s “The World’s 50 Best Bars” Award Ceremony in Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) this year brought the “Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026” Awards Ceremony to Hong Kong for the first time. The event today (25 March) brought together over 1,000 culinary industry representatives, renowned chefs and media worldwide. Top local Cantonese restaurant The Chairman and contemporary Cantonese restaurant Wing secured first and second places respectively on the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026 list, once again highlighting the leading position of Hong Kong’s dining scene in Asia.

HKTB Chairman Dr Peter Lam said: “We extend our sincere gratitude to the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants team for selecting Hong Kong for the first time as the host city for the Awards Ceremony. This international award recognises the outstanding achievements of the culinary sector. I am very proud of Hong Kong’s remarkable accomplishments in this year’s Awards. Together with the ‘MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong Macau 2026’ and ‘The Black Pearl Restaurant Guide’, over 200 restaurants have been listed in these internationally acclaimed gourmet guides, reaffirming Hong Kong’s position as a “Culinary Capital” in Asia. We are delighted to welcome the esteemed Asian chefs and other culinary professionals attending the Awards Ceremony to Hong Kong, and we warmly invite everyone to explore the city’s unique and diverse gastronomic charm by following the master chefs’ curated recommendations featured in the citywide ‘Taste Hong Kong’ Gourmet Guide.”

Danny Yip, owner of The Chairman, said “Being named The Best Restaurant in Asia for the second time is a huge honour for our entire team, and to achieve it here in Hong Kong makes it even more meaningful. This recognition — as well as the strong results for the city on this year’s list — reflects the depth and diversity that define Hong Kong’s dining culture today. It’s a privilege to represent our city in this way and to continue sharing the traditions and stories that shape our cuisine.”

Hong Kong Leads Asia Culinary Landscape with Two Restaurants in the Top Three

Together with the previously announced extended list of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants (51th – 100th), a total of ten Hong Kong restaurants were recommended in the Asian edition of the prestigious list. These include six restaurants in the top 50: while The Chairman and Wing topped the list at first and second spots, Neighborhood (No. 24), Estro (No. 32), Caprice (No. 35), and Mono (No.46) stayed strong on the list. Four other restaurants were also featured in the extended list, namely Ta Vie (No. 68), Vea (No. 70), Andō (No. 88), and Amber (No. 90). With this stellar performance, Hong Kong reaffirmed its leading position in the regional culinary scene. The winning restaurants cover a diverse range of cuisines, demonstrating Hong Kong’s unique appeal as a melting pot of global flavours and a hub for star-rated dining establishments.

In the recently announced “Black Pearl Restaurant Guide”, the number of Hong Kong entries increased to 39, up from last year, including four first-time entries – Mosu Hong Kong, founded by three-Michelin-star South Korean chef Sung Anh; Jee, a Cantonese-French fusion restaurant; contemporary Indian restaurant Leela, and Cantonese fine-dining establishment Man Ho Chinese Restaurant. In addition, homegrown chef Vicky Cheng of Chinese-French restaurant VEA, and Terry Ho, Chef de Cuisine of French restaurant Amber, received the Master Chef Award and the Young Chef Award respectively in the Black Pearl Restaurant Guide, affirming the distinguished reputation of Hong Kong’s culinary talent in the Asian dining scene. In the “MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong Macau 2026”, more Hong Kong establishments were awarded MICHELIN stars than in the previous year, bringing a total to 77 Michelin-starred restaurants in one destination, further demonstrating the world-class standard of the city’s culinary scene.

Top Asian Chefs and Global Media Gather in Hong Kong to Experience the City’s Culinary

Capitalising on the opportunity presented by major culinary event being hosted in Hong Kong, HKTB arranged exchanges between leading Asian chefs and renowned local culinary talent, enabling them to experience the city’s diverse gastronomic offerings and produce promotional videos dedicated to “Taste Hong Kong”. In addition, HKTB leveraged its global network to invite media representatives from the Chinese Mainland, Taiwan, South Korea, Southeast Asia and other key markets to visit Hong Kong. In addition to attending the award ceremony for media coverage of the event, HKTB curated a series of immersive culinary experiences to fully showcase Hong Kong’s unique charm as a Culinary Capital.

Highlights of the itinerary included engaging with local master chef Vicky Cheng to gain firsthand insight into his exceptional culinary skills and cooking philosophy; participating in a dim sum workshop led by master chef Wong Lung-to, Executive Chef of Forum Restaurant, to learn how to make classic Cantonese dim sum such as siu mai (Cantonese pork dumplings) and har gow (shrimp dumplings); and joining an egg tart baking workshop. Media representatives were also invited to dine at several listed restaurants and visit emerging bars to experience Hong Kong’s diverse food and beverage culture in full. Through in-depth media coverage, the media trip will help promote Hong Kong’s distinctive culinary appeal to audiences worldwide, attracting more visitors to explore “Taste Hong Kong” and further consolidating the city’s status as a Culinary Capital.

11 Exclusive Collaborative Signature Sessions around the Awards Ceremony to Share Hong Kong’s Gastronomic Experiences

To encourage locals and visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere surrounding the award ceremony, HKTB partnered with the organiser for the first time this year to invite 40 internationally renowned and local award-winning restaurants to present 11 limited-time collaborative Signature Sessions covering various global cuisines, bringing multiple tasting surprises to locals and visitors. The events attracted many locals and visitors, allowing everyone to experience the charm of global cuisines converging in Hong Kong at a single table.

Full results of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026:

https://www.theworlds50best.com/asia/en/list/1-50

“Taste Hong Kong,” A Chef-Curated Gourmet Guide To The City’s True Culinary Soul

More than 50 master chefs handpick 250 restaurants to showcase the authentic flavours of Hong Kong’s neighbourhoods.

Hong Kong’s longstanding reputation as one of the world’s great food cities has been built on contrast — a destination where humble street stalls sit comfortably alongside polished Michelin-starred dining rooms, and where “Great Taste” can be found everywhere in Hong Kong. This season, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) celebrates the city’s rich culinary culture with the launch of Taste Hong Kong, a new gourmet guide developed in collaboration with the Chinese Culinary Institute (CCI) that invites visitors to experience the city through the eyes — and appetites — of its master chefs.

Taste Hong Kong is a chef-curated culinary guide to the city’s diverse neighbourhoods. More than 50 master chefs — all graduates of CCI’s prestigious Master Chef Course in Chinese Cuisine — have collectively handpicked 250 restaurants throughout Hong Kong, shining a spotlight on the places they return to time and again. The guide offers a comprehensive and refined overview of the city’s culinary landscape, highlighting a rich tapestry of Chinese cuisines alongside an array of international flavours, from traditional noodle shops and classic dessert parlours to family run local gems, artisanal cafés, upscale hotel restaurants, and Michelin-starred fine dining destinations. Going beyond conventional rankings and accolades, the guide provides an authoritative, insider perspective on the city’s most authentic and distinctive gastronomic experiences.

At the heart of Taste Hong Kong are the chefs themselves. As the creative minds behind some of Hong Kong’s most celebrated dining rooms, they bring a rare perspective on what defines a great meal — and what makes a restaurant endure. Among them are acclaimed figures such as Adam Wong and Lee Man-sing, who have each contributed personal recommendations that reflect both their culinary roots and their deep connection to Hong Kong’s dining culture.

“When I think about Hong Kong food, I think about the neighbourhood places I always go back to — dai pai dongs, cha chaan tengs and small restaurants that define the city’s everyday dining culture. These spots reflect how locals really eat and the city’s culinary soul. I am excited to be part of this guide because it gives visitors a genuine way to experience Hong Kong through the food and neighbourhoods that locals know and love,” says Adam Wong, a 3-star Michelin Executive Chef at the Forum Restaurant.

“I have always believed that some of Hong Kong’s best food is found in the simplest settings, whether it’s a comforting bowl of noodles or hot pot shared with friends. The restaurants highlighted in Taste Hong Kong are places with history, consistency and heart. They show why Hong Kong is one of the world’s most exciting cities to eat in,” says Lee Man-sing, Executive Chef of Mott 32 Group.

Designed for both visitors and locals, Taste Hong Kong organises its 250 restaurant picks by neighbourhood. With various neighbourhoods represented, travellers are encouraged to venture beyond well-trodden dining districts and experience the distinctive character of each area. From sizzling woks in bustling street kitchens to quiet neighbourhood favourites passed down through generations, the chefs’ selections offer visitors and locals a deeper insight into Hong Kong’s rich culinary heritage and vibrant diversity, guiding them to the true “Great Taste” of the city.

The guide is supported by a rich suite of digital content, including neighbourhood videos and curated maps, hosted on the campaign’s dedicated website. A downloadable digital edition of the Taste Hong Kong guide will also be available, serving as an easy-to-use companion for planning meals and neighbourhood discovery. QR codes will be displayed at various MTR stations, bus shelters and visitor signage across neighbourhoods. HKTB will also broadcast the “Taste Hong Kong” promotional video at major tourist hotspots, and prominent shopping malls and hotels across the city, reinforcing Hong Kong’s status as a global gourmet capital where exceptional food can be found everywhere — often in the most unexpected places.

To discover the full Taste of Hong Kong guide and begin your culinary adventure, visit tastehk.discoverhongkong.com. Download the digital guide, watch the neighbourhood videos and join the conversation using #TasteHongKong to discover the authentic flavours that define Hong Kong, one neighbourhood at a time.

Source: Hong Kong Tourism Board

World-Renowned Chefs And Fine Wines Unite At Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival 2025, October 23-26th

Hong Kong welcomes one of Asia’s most anticipated culinary events. From 23 to 26 October 2025, the Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival will be transforming the Central Harbourfront into an epicurean festival of masterful dishes, innovative wine pairings and high-profile collaborations. Guests can look forward to the return of signature highlights, from the BEA Grand Wine Pavilion – showcasing rare wine vintages and emerging global discoveries – to the Tasting Room, where acclaimed chefs unveil exclusive limited-time creations. And you won’t want to miss Towngas Gourmet Avenue, which brings together 12 of the city’s most lauded restaurants.

Renowned chefs join hands at the Tasting Room of the Wine & Dine Festival (Left to right: Menex Cheung, Cheung Yat Fung, Jung Ji-sun, Jayson Tang, Andrew Wong)

Among the standout moments will be the chance to hear directly from leading voices in the industry, including celebrated chefs from both the Tasting Room and Towngas Gourmet Avenue.

Celebrated chefs showcase Cantonese fusion at the Tasting Room

For a once-in-a-lifetime culinary experience, the Tasting Room is a must. The venue's restaurant, under the theme Taste the Extraordinary: Beyond Cantonese Flavour, will bring together a star-studded lineup of chefs.

London-based chef Andrew Wong, owner of A. Wong and the first Chinese restaurant outside of Asia to hold a two-Michelin stars, can’t wait to visit Hong Kong for the premier culinary event. “I’m honoured to be part of the Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival,” he says. “I look forward to working alongside so many talented local chefs to present an unforgettable experience that brings modern Chinese flavours to life while paying homage to Cantonese traditions.”

Cheung Yat Fung, the acclaimed chef behind three-Michelin-starred Chao Shang Chao (Chaoyang), sees the festival as a platform for cultural exchange. "Hong Kong’s reputation as a gourmet capital where East meets West is perfectly embodied by the Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival, which bring top chefs from across the world together under one roof," he shares. "I’m excited to showcase my signature Chaozhou cuisine at the Tasting Room and collaborate with esteemed peers to craft an innovative menu that blends tradition with creativity.”

Jayson Tang of Michelin-starred Man Ho Chinese Restaurant – JW Marriott Hotel Hong Kong looks forward to showcasing the city’s culinary heritage. “As a local chef, I see the festival as a chance to share the elegance and versatility of Cantonese cuisine with a global audience.”

His fellow Hong Kong chef, Menex Cheung of China Tang echoes this sentiment, adding that the festival taps into the city’s creative spirit. “Hong Kong has always been a melting pot of culture and flavour. At the Wine & Dine Festival, I want guests to experience how that spirit of innovation and fusion defines our food scene – and why it continues to make our city so special.”

Adding a dynamic new voice is Jung Ji-sun, the rising Korean chef and “Queen of Dim Sum” from Netflix’s Culinary Class War, owner of Tian Mi Mi Restaurant in Korea. “The festival is unlike any other event in Asia,” she observes. “Joining hands with respected chefs to reinterpret Cantonese flavours is inspiring and humbling. As a Korean chef, I’m thrilled to put my own spin on these traditional dishes. Sharing them with guests at the Tasting Room will be a highlight for me, and I hope they enjoy them just as much.”

Skip the line to Hong Kong’s hottest tables at Towngas Gourmet Avenue

The action continues at Towngas Gourmet Avenue, where award-winning restaurants – usually booked out weeks in advance and recognised by the Michelin Guide and Black Pearl Restaurant Guide – will gather in one dynamic space, no reservation needed.

Michelin-starred chefs unveil signature dishes at Gourmet Avenue of the Wine and Dine Festival (Left to right: Alvin Leung, Marc Mantovani, Adam Wong)

Alvin Leung, known as 'The Demon Chef,’ is ready to turn heads with his molecular gastronomic creations, bringing his unique flair from his two-Michelin-starred Bo Innovation, which is participating in the festival for the first time. “I couldn’t be more excited about the Wine & Dine Festival,” he says. “This festival showcases the best of what Hong Kong has to offer, and it’s a real privilege to be part of such an amazing lineup. I can’t wait to present some of my signature dishes including ‘X-treme Xiao Long Bao’, H2egg and more for the first time here. I encourage everyone to come by and experience these dishes—they’re a fun blend of tradition and innovation that I believe will surprise and delight your taste buds!”

French culinary icon Anne-Sophie Pic – whose restaurants hold 10 Michelin stars, more than any other female chef – will have her one-Michelin-star restaurant, Cristal Room by Anne-Sophie Pic, featured at this year’s Wine & Dine Festival for the first time. The restaurant will showcase signature dishes such as Chinese peas from Yunnan with caviar and flower crab seasoned with sobacha geranium. “For me, cooking is about emotion and memory,” says Pic. “Every dish is tied to personal stories – and the Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival is a wonderful chance to share them with Hong Kong. Joining this festival allows me to connect with a vibrant culinary community and showcase the unique flavours that inspire my work. I will continue my exploration of the Asian continent, which is so dear to me, reinterpreting and incorporating ingredients through the lens of French culinary traditions.” Head chef of Cristal Room by Anne-Sophie Pic, Marc Mantovani, will be present at the event to showcase some of the best offerings from the restaurant.

Meanwhile, Adam Wong, executive chef of Hong Kong’s three-Michelin-starred Forum, returns to once again shine a spotlight on one of his most celebrated dishes and a true Hong Kong classic. “I had such a rewarding experience at Wine & Dine Festival last year,” he reflects. “It’s inspiring to see even more world-renowned talent joining this time, and I’m delighted to share our signature Braised Forum Dried Abalone once again. In addition to the abalone, we’ll be offering a variety of dishes, including limited-edition Dried Longan, Red Dates, Lotus Seed and Lily Bulb Ice Cream, Braised Oxtail, and more. These dishes represent the iconic flavors of Cantonese heritage, and I hope everyone enjoys them at the festival.”

Let the Countdown to Wine & Dine Festival 2025 Begin

The Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival 2025 is almost here, promising an unforgettable epicurean celebration at the Central Harbourfront. From 23-26 October, immerse yourself in a world of flavour as you join renowned experts and taste exclusive premium wines alongside limited-time gourmet creations from world-class chefs. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the city’s most anticipated culinary event. Stay tuned for more exciting updates as the countdown begins!

Find out more here: https://www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/what-s-new/events/wine-dine-festival.html

Delta Deepens LAX Investment With New Service To Hong Kong And Chicago

Launching service to Hong Kong and Chicago from LAX underscore Delta’s continued investment in LAX as a premier coastal gateway for both international and domestic travel.

Delta is expanding its reach from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) with two new nonstop routes: daily service to Hong Kong (HKG) beginning June 6, 2026, and three daily flights to Chicago O’Hare (ORD) starting June 7, 2026. These additions underscore Delta’s continued investment in LAX as a premier coastal gateway for both international and domestic travel.

“Launching service to Hong Kong and Chicago from LAX strengthens our presence in two of the world’s most dynamic markets,” said Paul Baldoni, SVP of Network Planning. “As the largest global carrier at LAX, we’re continuing to invest in routes that matter to our customers and deliver the premium travel experience that they’ve come to expect from Delta.”

Expanding global and domestic options from LAX

A dynamic fusion of tradition and modernity, Hong Kong draws travelers with its iconic skyline, vibrant neighborhoods, and world-class shopping, dining and cultural experiences. From bustling street markets and ancient temples to cutting-edge architecture and luxury boutiques, the city offers something for every kind of traveler. Delta’s new nonstop service between Los Angeles and Hong Kong provides direct access to this global city, while also unlocking more than 30 convenient one-stop connections to and from LAX.

The addition of Hong Kong also strengthens the Delta–Korean Air Joint Venture, further expanding the partnership’s reach and enhancing travel options for customers across the Pacific.

To the east, Delta’s new service between LAX and Chicago O’Hare connects two of the nation’s most influential cities, each a hub for commerce, culture and travel. With schedules tailored for both business and leisure, the route offers Angelenos quick access to Chicago’s manufacturing, insurance and financial sectors, as well as its legendary culinary scene. For Midwestern travelers, it provides a convenient gateway to LA’s tech and entertainment industries, along with seamless connections to Delta’s growing West Coast and transpacific network via LAX.

“As one of the world’s busiest airports, LAX is proud to welcome Delta’s new nonstop service to two critical global hubs, Hong Kong and Chicago," said Doug Webster, Chief Operations and Maintenance Officer, Los Angeles World Airports. “These routes not only enhance our trans-Pacific and domestic reach but also reflect the strength of our partnership with Delta in delivering world-class service to travelers across the Pacific and to key destinations throughout the United States.”

A comfortable journey from curb to gate

Whether you're heading to Hong Kong or Chicago, Delta customers departing from LAX can enjoy a smooth and comfortable travel experience, beginning with an upgraded airport journey designed to make every step more relaxing and efficient.

Customers flying Delta One to Hong Kong receive exclusive access to the new Delta One Lounge at LAX, offering nearly 200 seats, a rotating chef-curated menu, year-round sushi bar, wellness room with full-body massage chairs, and a design aesthetic inspired by the natural and architectural beauty of Southern California. These travelers also benefit from Delta One check-in, a dedicated, concierge-style service from curb to gate.

Meanwhile in Chicago, eligible customers can enjoy the Delta Sky Club in Terminal 5, a premium lounge experience spanning over 22,000 square feet. Part of a $50 million investment to enhance the terminal, the club offers a spacious and comfortable environment to relax and recharge.

A premium experience in the air

Flights to Hong Kong will be operated daily on Delta’s flagship Airbus A350-900, featuring four product experiences: Delta One, Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort and Delta Main. Delta One offers lie-flat seating, premium bedding and a seasonal chef-curated four-course meal. Delta Premium Select provides wider seats with deeper recline and enhanced amenities for a more spacious and relaxing journey.

Flights to Chicago O’Hare will operate three times daily on the Boeing 737-800, featuring Delta First, Delta Comfort and Delta Main. All cabins are equipped with seatback entertainment, fast, free Wi-Fi for Sky Miles Members, power at every seat, and consistent onboard service designed to make the journey enjoyable from takeoff to landing.

All passengers can enjoy a wide selection of in-flight entertainment options, with complimentary access to 1,000+ hours of content on Delta Studio.

Delta in LAX: Investing beyond the gate

These routes build on Delta’s momentum in Los Angeles, where the airline operates as the largest global carrier* with more than 160 peak-day departures to over 50 destinations, including the return of service to Shanghai (PVG) and upcoming year-round flights to Melbourne (MEL) launching in December 2026.

Additionally, Delta’s $2.3 billion transformation at LAX features the Sky Way at LAX and the modern Terminal 3, a 1.2-million-square-foot, 27-gate complex. Highlights include a centralized check-in lobby, an expanded security checkpoint and an award-winning Delta Sky Club.

With over 5,000 employees at LAX, Delta’s commitment to Los Angeles goes well beyond the airport. The airline partners with more than 20 local organizations and supports over 30 nonprofits across Southern California, advancing education, workforce development, hunger relief, and sustainability. Delta also proudly sponsors beloved hometown teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, reinforcing its role as a dedicated community partner.

Delta is also playing a key role in shaping the city’s global presence. As an inaugural Founding Partner of the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games and the Official Airline of Team USA, Delta is honored to support Los Angeles on the Road to 2028.

The airline will continue deepening its roots in the region, connecting Angelenos to the world—from the heart of Chicago to the skyline of Hong Kong.

*Delta is the largest global carrier at LAX by seats and departures

Hong Kong Disneyland Resort Unveils Expansion Plan For All-New Extended Marvel-Themed Area

The universe of Marvel stories continues at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort. Josh D'Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, announced at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in Anaheim, California an extended Marvel-themed area featuring a new attraction at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort as part of its multi-year expansion. With the concept art of the attraction unveiled for the first time ever, the highly anticipated project calls on Marvel fans worldwide to gather at the resort and immerse themselves in this thrilling adventure.

To ensure a better and brighter future for all mankind and the world, the most brilliant minds from the Avengers are working together and bringing new pavilions to the Stark Expo to showcase their most recent inventions and technologies. Peter Parker (a.k.a Spider-Man), the newest Stark Industries intern, is among one of them and will also be the host to demonstrate the latest breakthrough. Undoubtedly, the presence of Spider-Man will also attract one of the most formidable villains, who wreaks havoc at the scene. Peter will need all the help he can get to protect his brand-new technology while saving guests caught in the middle of the showdown.

The upcoming new project marks the third major addition to the immersive Marvel-themed experience with an extended area in Tomorrowland at Hong Kong Disneyland, and will include all-new entertainment, shopping and dining offerings. It will further expand the epicenter of the Marvel Super Heroes at Hong Kong Disneyland, attracting fans from around the world to unite and fight against various villains from different stories across the Marvel Universe.

The Marvel saga at Hong Kong Disneyland began with Tony Stark (a.k.a. Iron Man) choosing Hong Kong as the Asia headquarters of Stark Industries. The park also became the home of the Stark Expo, showcasing the largest and latest high-tech creations of Stark Industries. Following the immense popularity of its existing Marvel-themed experiences, from Iron Man Experience and Ant-Man and The Wasp: Nano Battle! – both of which are available only at Hong Kong Disneyland and have entertained millions of guests since their launches in 2017 and 2019, respectively – to ever-growing seasonal offerings including a rich lineup of Marvel Super Heroes, the Avengers Deployment Vehicle, and the one-of-a-kind Marvel-inspired drone show, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort is thrilled to continue to bring to life more heroic Marvel stories through its unique and innovative storytelling.

*Guests are required to purchase their tickets in advance and have a valid park reservation for their visit. Please refer to the latest visit arrangements on Hong Kong Disneyland's official website: https://www.hongkongdisneyland.com/

Regent Hong Kong Named #1 Hong Kong City Hotel At The 2024 Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards

In the 2024 edition of the Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards readers' survey, Regent Hong Kong has just been named the #1 Hong Kong City Hotel, #2 among the 20 Favourite City Hotels in Asia, and #7 among the 100 Hotels Voted Best in the World.

As per Regent Hong Kong Managing Director Michel Chertouh, "From serene interiors that juxtapose unrivalled cinematic views of Victoria Harbour to exceptional dining experiences, Regent Hong Kong is a rare gem on Victoria Harbour. However, what truly sets us apart is the highly personalised service "on your terms" and our unwavering commitment to quality and consistency. This accolade reflects the hard work and dedication of our colleagues, who consistently strive to create highly personalised experiences that create lasting memories for our guests. We thank our loyal guests and the travel community for enthusiastically embracing the new Regent Hong Kong and bestowing our hotel with this highly coveted award."

In 2024, Regent Hong Kong was named the Best Hong Kong Hotel at the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2024 and a Travellers' Choice Awards Winner by TripAdvisor. In addition to receiving a coveted spot on Condé Nast Traveler's prestigious 2024 Hot List and Travel + Leisure's 2024 It List, as one of the Best New Hotels and Best New City Hotels in the world, regionally, Regent Hong Kong was named the Best Business Hotel in Hong Kong at the 2024 TTG China Travel Awards and also received the Best Design Hotel accolade at the 2024 The Bund Design Hotel Awards. Additionally, the newly relaunched Presidential Suite has been named one of Elite Traveler's Top New Hotel Suites.

Regent Hong Kong also received numerous awards as a celebrated Dining Destination. The hotel's signature Cantonese restaurant, Lai Ching Heen, has retained two MICHELIN Stars and two Diamonds in the Black Pearl Restaurant Guide for numerous years. The Steak House, a MICHELIN recommended restaurant, has recently been named one of the World's 101 Best Steak Restaurants. Meanwhile Qura Bar was named the Best Restaurant Bar in Hong Kong by Time Out.

Eight More Chinese Cities Join Hong Kong Solo Travel Scheme

Eight more Chinese cities have joined a scheme allowing their residents to travel to Hong Kong on their own, rather than as part of a tour group, as part of efforts to boost Hong Kong's economy.

Hong Kong is battling to revive its economy following a national security crackdown and COVID-related controls, which led to many local and expats leaving the city and caused tourist numbers to dwindle to a fraction of pre-pandemic levels.

The "Individual Visit Scheme" (IVS) began in 2003 as part of a cooperation agreement between mainland China and Hong Kong to boost the city's economy by allowing Chinese residents to apply for individual travel, rather than in a tour group.

Fifty-one cities have already joined the programme and will be joined by Taiyuan in Shanxi Province, Hohhot in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Harbin in Heilongjiang Province, Lhasa in Tibet Autonomous Region, Lanzhou in Gansu Province, Xining in Qinghai Province, Yinchuan in Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region and Urumqi in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.

Hong Kong city leader John Lee said: "These eight cities are all provincial capital cities with large populations, significant economic growth and high spending power".

Although recent official figures showed the territory growing 2.7% in the first quarter compared with the year before, local businesses have described shopping malls as "dead", with low foot traffic and shops covered with "for lease" or "coming up soon" signs.

One lawmaker recently told the city's legislature that more than 20,000 companies had deregistered in the first quarter of 2024, up more than 70% from the same period last year.

China imposed a sweeping national security law in 2020 after months of pro-democracy protests in 2019. In March, authorities enacted another set of security laws that some foreign governments say further undermine rights and freedoms.

The Hong Kong and Chinese governments have repeatedly said the security laws have brought stability.

Reporting by Jessie Pang; Editing by David Holmes, Reuters

Iconic Hong Kong Dragon Boat Races Are Back In Full Force As Thousands Of Spectators Gather

Thousands gathered Thursday in southern Hong Kong to watch the iconic dragon boat races, a highlight of the annual Chinese Dragon Boat festival.

The dragon boat races were back in full force after years of cancellations, postponements and social-distancing restrictions during the pandemic.

Dragon boat teams in Hong Kong range from 8 to 50 people, depending on the size of the boat. A standard boat in Hong Kong typically has a crew of 20 people who race between about 250-500 meters (820-1640 feet).

The Dragon Boat festival, also known as “Tuen Ng” in Cantonese, is associated with a story of a righteous official in ancient times who drowned himself after falling out of favor with his leader.

According to the lore, villagers rushed out to the river with boats to try and save him, and threw rice dumplings into the water to prevent fish from eating his body and to ward away evil spirits. Thus the tradition of dragon boating and eating rice dumplings, which are called zongzi in Chinese, was born.

The holiday is celebrated in mainland China and regions like Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan, as well as in countries like Singapore that have a large Chinese diaspora.

The dragon boat race at Hong Kong’s southern fishing port of Aberdeen is famous for having local fishermen join the race with traditional dragon boats they make themselves.

“Wherever there’s fishermen, there’s dragon boats,” said Cheng Man-Tat, a second-generation fisherman from a local fishing family. “There have been dragon boat competitions in every fishing port during the Tuen Ng Festival every year.”

Some 45 teams — made up of fishermen, secondary school students, mixed-gender and all-men and all-women teams — joined 28 races this year at Aberdeen.

Participants compete in either traditional wooden boats or standard glass-fiber dragon boats.

Shelly Chan, a paddler who joined the race for the 10th year, said the hardest part of the races is how tiring it gets. Races often last two to three minutes, but can go to 10 minutes or longer depending on the course.

“You can’t stop, once the competition starts, you will need to keep it going,” she said. “If it’s a long-distance race, it relies on your stamina.”

Races were also held at five other areas across Hong Kong’s shores.

By KATIE TAM

Travelore News: Hong Kong Rejects US Report Criticising Crackdown On Freedoms

Hong Kong today "firmly rejected" findings in a new U.S. government report that said U.S. interests had been threatened and that Beijing continued to "undermine" the rule of law and freedoms in the territory under a national security crackdown.

The U.S.' 2023 Hong Kong Policy Act Report, published by the U.S. State Department, said Chinese and Hong Kong authorities "continued to use 'national security' as a broad and vague basis to undermine the rule of law and protected rights and freedoms."

China imposed a national security law on Hong Kong in June 2020 without any local legislative or consultative process, outlawing crimes such as subversion with possible life imprisonment.

Authorities say the law restored order after protracted pro-democracy protests in 2019, that called for, among other demands, full democracy.

The city's tougher security regimen mirrors mainland China, where Chinese leader Xi Jinping has implemented a fierce crackdown on dissent over the past decade, jailing critics and rights defenders.

"Hong Kong authorities continued to arrest and prosecute people for peaceful political expression critical of the local and central governments, including for posting and forwarding social media posts," the U.S. report said.

A Hong Kong government spokesman, however, said in a statement that it "strongly disapproved of and firmly rejected the unfounded and fact-twisting remarks" in the report.

"The U.S.' attempt to undermine the stability and prosperity of Hong Kong will only expose its own weakness and faulty arguments and be doomed to fail."

The spokesman added the safeguarding of national security was of "cardinal importance" and all people are equal under the law regardless of political stance or background.

Over 230 people have been arrested for alleged acts endangering national security since 2020, including 47 prominent democrats now battling subversion conspiracy charges in a landmark trial that will continue for several months.

The U.S. report also noted a drop in the number of U.S. citizens in Hong Kong from 85,000 in 2021 to around 70,000 due to a number of factors including tight COVID restrictions and national security.

China "increasingly exercised police and security power in Hong Kong, subjecting U.S. citizens who are publicly critical of the PRC (China) to a heightened risk of arrest, detention, expulsion, or prosecution in Hong Kong," the report wrote, adding these risks had been highlighted in its government travel advisories for Hong Kong.

Forty of the 100 U.S. senators co-sponsored a resolution earlier this month urging a strong U.S. government response to any Chinese efforts to clamp down on dissent in Hong Kong, including the use of sanctions and other tools.

Reporting by James Pomfret and Michael Martina in Washington D.C.; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan

Hong Kong Woos Tourists With Air Tickets And Vouchers

Hong Kong will give away air tickets and vouchers to woo tourists back to the international financial hub, racing to catch up with other popular travel destinations in a fierce regional competition.

During the pandemic, the city largely aligned itself with mainland China’s “zero-COVID” strategy and has relaxed its entry rules months slower than rivals such as Singapore, Japan and Taiwan. Even after it reopened its border with mainland China in January, tourism recovery was sluggish.

On Thursday, Chief Executive John Lee launched a tourism campaign “Hello Hong Kong,” saying the city will offer 500,000 free air tickets to welcome tourists from around the world in what he called “probably the world’s biggest welcome ever”.

“Hong Kong is now seamlessly connected to the mainland of China and the whole international world and there will be no isolation, no quarantine,” he said at a ceremony. “This is the perfect timing for tourists, business travelers, and investors from near and far to come and say, ‘Hello, Hong Kong.’”

Under the campaign, most of the plane tickets — worth 2 billion Hong Kong dollars ($255 million) — will come from three Hong Kong-based airlines through various promotional activities, including lucky draws, “buy one, get one free” promotions and games. The project will begin in March and last about six months, said Fred Lam, CEO of the Airport Authority.

“We hope those who secure the air tickets can bring two or three more relatives and friends to the city. Although we are just giving away 500,000 air tickets, we believe this can help bring Hong Kong over 1.5 million visitors,” Lam said.

The airlines will distribute the tickets in phases, with the Southeast Asian markets set to benefit in the first stage, he said.

An additional 80,000 air tickets will be given away to Hong Kong residents in the summer, Lam said. Those living in the Greater Bay Area will also benefit from the policy that offers over 700,000 tickets in total. The Greater Bay Area is a Chinese government initiative to link Hong Kong with neighboring mainland cities, including the technology and finance hub of Shenzhen and the manufacturing powerhouses of Dongguan and Foshan.

Visitors can also enjoy special offers and vouchers among other incentives in the city, Lee said.

Hong Kong received 56 million visitors in 2019 — over seven times its population — before the pandemic began. But its strict COVID-19 restrictions have been keeping visitors away over the past three years, devastating the tourism sector and its economy. The city’s GDP last year fell 3.5 % from 2021, according to the government’s provisional data.

In the past few months, it finally dropped its mandatory hotel quarantine rule and PCR tests for incoming travelers, resulting in a slight increase in arrival figures. Still, its 2022 visitor numbers were just 1% of the 2019 level.

By KANIS LEUNG

Hong Kong Scraps Vaccine Pass, COVID-19 Tests For Travelers

Hong Kong will scrap some of its COVID-19 restrictions, including PCR tests for inbound travelers and vaccination requirements to enter certain venues, the city’s leader said Wednesday.

For most of the pandemic, Hong Kong has aligned itself with China’s “zero-COVID” strategy, requiring stringent COVID-19 tests and isolation for close contacts of infected cases as well as for incoming travelers.

But the mainland has relaxed measures in recent weeks, and Hong Kong is preparing for the January reopening of its border with China, which had previously imposed harsh restrictions and snap lockdowns to stamp out the virus.

“Our society as a whole has built an extensive and high-level barrier of immunity (to COVID-19),” said Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee at a news conference. Over 80% of the city has at least three doses of COVID-19 vaccine.

Close contacts of those who test positive for COVID-19 will also no longer need to isolate in Hong Kong, he said, and there will no longer be a limit on the number of diners per table at restaurants. The relaxed measures will take effect from Thursday.

Masks, however, will still need to be worn in public unless residents are exercising, as doing away with masks may lead to a surge in respiratory diseases like influenza just as Hong Kong faces a seasonal surge of flu cases, said Secretary of Health Lo Chung-mau at the news conference.

In September, Hong Kong did away with quarantine requirements for arriving travelers as it sought to boost tourism after over two years of entry restrictions.

Starting Jan. 8, China will no longer require inbound travelers to quarantine, authorities said earlier this week.

Hong Kong Leader Aims To Reopen Border With China In January

Hong Kong’s leader said Saturday that China has agreed to a reopening of the city’s border with the mainland, which has been largely closed by pandemic restrictions, and that he is aiming for a mid-January start.

Chief Executive John Lee, returning from a trip to Beijing where he met President Xi Jinping and other officials, told reporters at the Hong Kong airport that the two sides would develop a plan to reopen the border in a gradual and orderly manner.

The announcement came as China is easing a “zero-COVID” policy that has restricted entry to the country, isolated infected people and locked down areas with outbreaks.

Hong Kong is a semi-autonomous Chinese territory that borders Guangdong province in southeast China. People must pass through immigration to cross between the two, and most land and sea entry points have been closed and controls tightened because of the pandemic.

Lee has made a full reopening of the border a priority to boost the city’s flagging economy. The issue was one of several on his agenda for this week’s trip to Beijing to deliver an annual report to the central government, his first such report since taking office on July 1.

He offered no details on how the border might be reopened, and whether it would include an elimination of the five days of hotel quarantine required for people entering mainland China.

Hong Kong Airport Launches New Third Runway

Hong Kong’s airport on Friday officially launched a new third runway which is expected to boost the city’s status as an aviation hub.

The Airport Authority Hong Kong said about 140 flights a day are already using the new runway, which has been in operation since early July.

However, the airport is still using only two runways because its center runway was closed in July for reconfiguration.

The airport is also expanding its Terminal 2 and is building a new concourse and baggage handling system.

Work is expected to be completed by 2024, after which the airport will use all three runways, giving it more flight capacity. The entire project will cost 145 billion Hong Kong dollars ($18.5 billion), according to Jack So, chairman of the airport authority.

“The project was funded from the private market and it doesn’t involve any government money,” So said at the launch ceremony. “This proves that the international financial community, banking sector and funds are confident of Hong Kong and its airport.”

Brendan Sobie, an independent aviation analyst based in Singapore, said that when all three runways are operating, it will allow more planes to land during peak hours, thereby expanding the airport’s capacity.

“You need that capacity, that infrastructure, because you’d start losing out if others have something you don’t have,” Sobie said.

He noted that several other airports in Asia, including in Bangkok and Jakarta, are either working on a third runway or have already added one.

Hong Kong’s additional runway will also facilitate cargo growth.

The city eased pandemic travel restrictions last month, allowing inbound and outbound travel without mandatory quarantine. However, incoming travelers must have a regular COVID-19 test upon arrival.

Hong Kong’s Iconic Jumbo Floating Restaurant Capsizes At Sea

Hong Kong’s iconic Jumbo Floating Restaurant has capsized in the South China Sea less than a week after it was towed away from the city, its parent company said Monday.

The restaurant encountered “adverse conditions” on Saturday as it was passing the Xisha Islands, also known as the Paracel Islands, in the South China Sea, and water entered the vessel and it began to tip, according to Aberdeen Restaurant Enterprises Ltd.

The company said no one was injured, but that efforts to save the vessel failed and it capsized on Sunday.

“As the water depth at the scene is over 1,000 meters, (it makes it) extremely difficult to carry out salvage works,” it said in a statement.

It said the company “is very saddened by this accident.”

The Jumbo Floating Restaurant, almost 80 meters (260 feet) in length, had been a landmark in Hong Kong for over four decades, serving Cantonese cuisine to over 3 million guests including Queen Elizabeth II and Tom Cruise.

It closed in 2020 due to the pandemic and laid off all its staff. Aberdeen Restaurant Enterprises said the restaurant became a financial burden to its shareholders, with millions of Hong Kong dollars spent on its inspection and maintenance even though it was not in operation.

The restaurant was towed away last Tuesday. The company said it planned to move it to a lower-cost site where maintenance could be carried out.

It said that prior to its departure, the vessel had been thoroughly inspected by marine engineers and hoardings were installed, and all relevant approvals were obtained.

“The company is now getting further details of the accident from the towing company,” the statement said.

Hong Kong To Ease COVID-19 Restrictions As Infections Fall

HONG KONG (AP) — Hong Kong will ease some social distancing measures later this month, allowing people to dine in at restaurants in the evening and lifting restrictions on private gatherings, as the number of COVID-19 infections declined in recent weeks.

From April 21, restaurants will be able to operate until 10 p.m. with a maximum of four people per table, officials said Thursday.

Other businesses that were ordered to temporarily close due to Hong Kong’s fifth wave of infections, such as beauty parlors, gyms, theme parks and cinemas, will also be allowed to re-open, although capacity will be limited to 50%. Bars and pubs will remain closed.

Restrictions that currently only allow two households to gather will also be lifted.

“To relax these measures, to allow some degree of normal activities in society, with more interactions among citizens, inevitably they will come with some transmission risks,” Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said during a news conference Thursday.

Lam appealed to the public to comply with the social distancing measures that remain in place and to get vaccinated.

“While the number of positive cases reported every day has dropped to a relatively low level, in absolute terms they are still rather high,” she said.

The city reported 1,260 cases in the community on Wednesday, down more than 95% from the peak of the outbreak in March, when over 30,000 daily infections were reported.

Lam said the city is now “much, much better prepared” to handle another wave if it hits, due to increased levels of vaccination and more facilities to handle patients, such as community isolation and treatment centers.

Lam also said the government has not given up on mass testing for the city, but that timing was important.

Other restrictions will be also lifted later this month. Local tours will be allowed to resume and public gatherings of four people instead of two will also be permitted.

‘No-COVID’ Policy Drags On Hong Kong Economy As Cases Surge

HONG KONG (AP) — Hong Kong’s Fung Shing Restaurant was bustling this week as customers came for one last taste of the traditional Cantonese dim sum that has made it famous.

With COVID-19 restrictions cutting too deeply into its bottom line, the restaurant will shut its doors for good on Sunday, another economic victim of the pandemic.

Many fear the worst is yet to come with Hong Kong experiencing its most severe outbreak, and fret the authorities’ determination to stick to mainland China’s “zero-tolerance” strategy may prevent it from recovering as a financial and travel hub.

“Even though maybe zero-COVID can be reached, there is still uncertainty on how long it can be maintained and what the cost is of maintaining it,” said Natixis senior economist Gary Ng.

“The biggest risk of in Hong Kong in 2022 is that it may be entering the path of basically, if not recession, at least a downward drag in economic growth again while the world begins to normalize,” Ng said.

Hong Kong has seen banks close branches and movie theaters have shut down. The streets of popular shopping and dining districts are lined with shops displaying “for rent” signs. Its international airport is nearly devoid of travelers.

A ban on onsite dining after 6 p.m., imposed last month, is depriving restaurants of critical dinner and banquet revenues.

Daily new coronavirus cases exceeded 2,000 for the first time on Monday; on Thursday, 6,116 new cases were reported.

Hospitals are becoming overwhelmed so the city is looking into converting hotels and even unoccupied public housing into quarantine areas. But it shows no sign of backing away from matching mainland China’s stringent policies even as the rest of the world learns to live with the coronavirus.

As part of its zero-tolerance strategy, China has locked down entire cities, literally keeping people sequestered in their homes and providing them with food and supplies as they are isolated during extensive testing and contact tracing to quell outbreaks.

But China has many cities. Hong Kong, a former British colony and semi-autonomous region of China, lacks the resources for such a complete lockdown, which would halt virtually all economic activity in the city of about 7.5 million.

And people living in Hong Kong, which was handed over to Communist-ruled China in 1997 under a “one country, two systems” approach, are used to greater freedoms than residents of the mainland. Lockdowns of single buildings or city blocks have raised vehement criticism.

Regional rival Singapore faces a similar wave of coronavirus infections caused by the highly contagious omicron variant. But it has opted for a strategy of “living with COVID.” That calls for very high vaccination rates and widespread testing. Unlike Hong Kong, which is requiring people who test positive to quarantine in hospitals or other government facilities, Singapore lets COVID-19 patients with mild or no symptoms isolate at home.

So while Singapore’s health care system is not in jeopardy of becoming overwhelmed, Hong Kong hospitals are at 90% capacity and some have had to treat patients outdoors for lack of room inside.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam shows no sign of retreating from the “zero-COVID” stance, saying Thursday that fighting the pandemic is her “paramount task” and the city would “not be distracted by other things.”

“We will impose any measures that we should,” she said. “The aim is to make sure Hong Kong people’s lives and health are protected and to uphold Hong Kong’s stability.”

On Friday, Lam announced she was postponing the city’s election for chief executive for six weeks to May 8 due to “public health risks” it would pose at this stage in the pandemic. It’s not yet clear if Lam will run for reelection.

To relieve some pressure on hospitals, officials now say some patients with mild symptoms will be able to leave hospitals after just seven days — half the current requirement — if they test negative and are not living with any high-risk individuals.

At the current rate of spread of infections, new daily cases could rise to 28,000 by March, so it’s unclear that will be enough.

On the other hand, relaxing the zero-COVID strategy would hinder travel between the city and the mainland, where authorities require three weeks of quarantine or more. Beijing will not reopen Hong Kong’s border with the mainland until the city reaches and maintains zero COVID-19 cases.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping said this week that Hong Kong’s “overriding task” is to get control of the situation. Some health experts from the mainland arrived Thursday to help with testing. Beijing also sent antibodies and other resources.

Customers at the Fung Shing Restaurant said they feel powerless.

“I feel so helpless for this restaurant under the pandemic,” said customer Mo Wan, a 78-year-old who has been a regular for the past decade. “I have established a deep friendship with the staff members.”

Up to 3,000 of Hong Kong’s 17,000 restaurants could end up closing if current restrictions continue through March, said Michael Leung, chairman of the Association for Hong Kong Catering Services Management, which represents 800 restaurant owners.

Leung has temporarily shuttered his own restaurant, the Lucky Dragon Palace.

It’s a sprawling establishment that would normally seat 1,000 before the pandemic. Leung hopes to hold on, paying the rent and saving on labor and utilities until he can reopen.

“The pandemic is very serious, there’s barely anyone on the street,” he said. “With fewer people going out, it means no business for restaurants. This fifth wave really impacts us terribly. It’s really an ice age for the catering business.”

Hong Kong’s Zero-Covid Approach Meets Growing Frustration

HONG KONG (AP) — Hong Kong residents expressed growing frustration Thursday after new, tighter coronavirus restrictions went into effect, imposed by city leaders in line with Beijing’s zero-COVID policy.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam ordered new strict measures to take effect Thursday as the highly-contagious omicron variant of the virus causes record daily cases.

That includes limiting public gatherings to two people and private ones to members of only two households. Places of worship, hair salons and other businesses were ordered to close.

Such measures are part of Hong Kong’s effort to align itself with mainland China’s “zero-COVID” policy, which aims to totally stamp out outbreaks, even as infection numbers continue to rise and other countries shift their approach to living with the virus.

Outside a vaccination center in the Sai Wan Ho area on Thursday, retiree Ken Wong waited in a long line to get his first shot so that he would qualify for a “vaccine pass” when it’s available.

“This is insane,” the 70-year-old said. “There is no way to reach zero cases. If we are going to achieve zero cases it would mean everyone’s wallet will become empty because a lot of people will be out of work and have no income.”

The latest measures will remain until at least Feb. 24, when the vaccine pass will be rolled out, allowing only vaccinated people to visit places like shopping malls and supermarkets.

Newly confirmed cases fell slightly on Thursday to under 1,000 after hitting a daily record 1,161 on Wednesday, Hong Kong health authorities reported. Overall, Hong Kong has seen only about 18,500 cases of COVID-19 and 215 deaths among its population of some 7.5 million.

Opponents of the zero-COVID approach contend that with nearly 65% of the population fully vaccinated and signs the omicron variant of the virus is less severe for those with some immunity, that it is time to change course.

“The government is having difficulties adopting a new strategy which will both align with mainland China but also serve the interests and adapt to the situation in Hong Kong,” said Jean-Pierre Cabestan, a professor of political science at the Hong Kong Baptist University.

“Nothing can be decided without Beijing’s green light, and the local authorities don’t want to take any chance with that.”

Hong Kong, a former British colony, was handed over to communist-ruled China in 1997. Under the “one country, two systems” principle, the territory was to retain its own political, social and financial institutions for 50 years after being transferred from British rule.

But China has been tightening its control, stamping out political opposition and curtailing free speech. It imposed a sweeping National Security Law following anti-government protests in 2019, resulting in the imprisonment, intimidation and exile of most opposition voices.

There’s a practical reason for complying with zero-COVID policies — to facilitate travel between Hong Kong and the mainland under less stringent quarantine rules than the three weeks or more required of all foreigners arriving in the Chinese mainland.

Beijing will not let Hong Kong’s borders to the mainland be reopened unless the city reaches and maintains zero-COVID.

This week, Beijing officials and Chinese state media warned Hong Kong against any changes, saying that adopting a “living with the virus” policy would overwhelm its medical systems, the newspaper South China Morning Post reported.

In the upscale Discovery Bay neighborhood on mountainous Lantau island, home to many foreigners, all residents were ordered tested this week after authorities found traces of the virus in the sewage.

Sewage testing is a common practice in Hong Kong, but government demands for entire communities to be tested if the virus is detected are stretching the patience of residents enduring long lines at testing centers.

“The approach is obviously not working,” said Ivan Serrano, a 42-year-old from Spain who had just been tested with his son.

“We can see that other countries with different approaches — apparently the situation currently is better and here, it just got worse.”

Celebrations For Year Of The Tiger Are Muted, But Bring Hope

People across Asia prepared Monday for muted Lunar New Year celebrations amid concerns over the coronavirus and virulent omicron variant, even as increasing vaccination rates raised hopes that the Year of the Tiger might bring life back closer to normal.

The Lunar New Year is the most important annual holiday in China and falls on Tuesday, Feb. 1. Each year is named after one of twelve signs of the Chinese zodiac in a repeating cycle. The Year of the Tiger follows the Year of the Ox.

This will be the third new year in a row celebrated in the shadow of the pandemic. It was two days before the holiday in 2020 that China locked down Wuhan — a city of 11 million people — following the detection of the coronavirus there.

Some 85% of Chinese are now fully vaccinated, according to Our World in Data, and more Chinese have been traveling domestically this year, despite government warnings. Many people prepare to celebrate by buying red lanterns and other decorations for their homes, and food to mark the beginning of a new year.

Still, 63-year-old retiree Huang Ping lamented as he shopped at a Beijing flower market that the new year’s “atmosphere has faded” with the closure of temples and seasonal fairs to prevent large crowds. He said he hoped for better times soon.

“I wish for the epidemic to pass as early as possible and for the economy to recover as well,” he said.

Another retiree, Han Guiha, said he was planning on making the best of the situation.

“I’ll stay at home enjoying good food and wine,” the 62-year-old said. “I will make my house clean and beautiful. Right now the virus is spreading and we need to be careful.”

Some 260 million people traveled in China in the first 10 days of the holiday rush starting Jan. 17 — fewer than before the pandemic but up 46% over last year. Overall, the government forecasts 1.2 billion trips during the holiday season, up 36% from a year ago.

This year the celebrations coincide with the Beijing Winter Olympics, which open near the end of the weeklong holiday. The Chinese capital has been tightening controls to contain coronavirus outbreaks ahead of the sporting event.

The Games are being held inside sealed-off “bubbles,” and organizers have announced that no tickets will be sold to the general public and only selected spectators will be allowed.

“I’ll watch the games with my kid, but of course on TV,” said Wang Zhuo, a retail manager from Beijing.

In Hong Kong, which saw a surge in cases in January, people wore surgical masks as they shopped for red and tiger-themed holiday items. The city has closed schools because of the outbreaks and required restaurants to close at 6 p.m., forcing many to dine at home for traditional New Year’s Eve family dinners.

With the Year of the Tiger, many are hoping the traditional powers attributed to the animal will help put the country on a path out of the pandemic, said Chen Lianshan, a Beijing university expert on Chinese folklore.

“The tiger is a protection against evil spirits and it can defeat demons and ghosts of all kinds, and the Chinese believe that the plague is one kind of an evil spirit,” he said.

Elsewhere in Asia, there were signs that celebrations might not be as subdued as they were last year. Despite ongoing pandemic restrictions, most people are now vaccinated with at least two shots in many of the region’s countries.

In the old quarter of Hanoi, people flocked on the weekend to the traditional market to get decorations and flowers for the festival, known as Tet in Vietnam.

Vietnam’s daily case count remains at about 15,000 new infections but its low hospitalization and death rate has allowed the country to reopen for business and cautiously resume social activities.

More than 70% of Vietnamese are fully vaccinated, and 80% have had at least one shot, according to Our World in Data.

Still, the country has cancelled Tet fireworks and other large events to minimize risks this year.

In Thailand, where 69% of people are fully vaccinated, Bangkok decided this year not to hold traditional Lunar New Year celebrations in Chinatown for the second year in a row, but was going ahead with lighting seasonal lanterns on the district’s main street.

In Singapore, Lunar New Year celebrations are more subdued due to coronavirus restrictions that allow residents to receive only five unique visitors a day, and preferably only one visit daily. The rules are likely to get in the way of the tradition of visiting relatives during the holiday.

“This year it will be rather quiet, as people are spacing out visiting over the next two weeks instead of on the first or second day of the new year,” said Sebastian Lim, a Singapore resident.

Business was brisk at a flower market in the Taiwanese capital of Taipei on Monday as people made last minute purchases. Some 73% of Taiwanese are fully vaccinated.

“The pandemic is surely affecting it a bit, but people still like flowers, so they come out and buy flowers,” said one shopkeeper, who only gave his name as Lee.

“But prices are lower because we have overproduction and we can’t export some items — this is our biggest problem.”

Ethnic Chinese shopkeepers in Myanmar face a bigger dilemma, as the new year coincides with the one-year anniversary of the military’s seizure of power from the democratically-elected government.

Supporters of the growing anti-military movement have called for people to close their shops and businesses in a nationwide “silent strike” protest. Military leaders have warned that anyone who participates could face legal action, including charges of violating the country’s counter-terrorism law.

But that has left shopkeepers who had planned to close anyway for the Lunar New Year to spend time with their families wondering what to do.

“Normally we are closed during Chinese new year, but don’t know what to do this year,” said Hu, a noodle vendor in Yangon who wouldn’t give his full name out of fear of reprisal. “We want to close, but we have to be afraid of the authorities.”

Hong Kong Bans Transit Flights From Over 150 Countries

Hong Kong International Airport said it will ban transit passengers from 150 countries and territories starting Sunday, tightening stringent travel controls in an effort to stem the spread of the highly contagious omicron variant.

Authorities also said Friday they will extend social distancing restrictions, including a ban on dining in after 6 p.m., by another two weeks over the Lunar New Year holidays to Feb. 3. Large-scale events, such as Lunar New Year fairs held annually in Hong Kong, will be canceled.

The transit ban and extension of distancing rules come as the city grapples with an omicron outbreak of the coronavirus, with most of the cases traced to two crew members of Cathay Pacific who had broken isolation rules and dined at restaurants and bars in the city before testing positive.

Over the past two weeks, authorities have locked down multiple residential buildings across the city and mass-tested thousands as they sought to stamp out omicron infections.

“We’re worried that there may be asymptomatic Hong Kong carriers who are still missed in the community,” said Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam during a news conference Friday.

“So our assessment on this basis is that there is still a risk of an outbreak,” she said.

Airline passengers who have stayed in over 150 places deemed “high risk” in the last 21 days, including the United States and Britain, will be banned from transiting in Hong Kong from Jan. 16 to Feb. 15, according to a notice posted by the airport.

Over 50 local infections have been reported in the community since the end of 2021. Prior to that, Hong Kong went three months with no community transmissions and had been in talks with the mainland to resume quarantine-exempted travel with the rest of China.

Last week, Hong Kong imposed a two-week ban on incoming flights from the U.S., Canada, Australia, France, Britain, India, Pakistan and the Philippines.

By ZEN SOO