Hong Kong is rolling out the welcome mat for all types of tourists as it looks to enhance visitor experiences through technology, Chief Secretary Eric Chan announced on Saturday. His comments came in the wake of impressive tourist numbers during the recent Golden Week holiday, which saw around 1.1 million visitors flock to the city, marking a 22 percent increase from the same period last year.
Chan, speaking on a radio program, noted that the surge in tourism exceeded initial forecasts, which had predicted only a 10 percent rise. With hotel occupancy rates soaring to around 90 percent, he expressed satisfaction with the overall performance of the holiday period. "We did a lot of preparation in advance to ensure that the overall order of visitors was good," he stated, highlighting the efforts made by an interdepartmental working group he led to review public transport services and measures at attractions.
The Chief Secretary also addressed the diverse nature of tourists visiting Hong Kong. He emphasized that the city welcomes not just high-spending travelers but also those who may have different spending habits. "There are also tourists who prefer not to stay overnight and would rather spend their money on shopping," Chan explained. He believes that even visitors who may not spend much initially could become significant contributors to the economy in the future. "Even if someone isn't a big spender today, if they have a good impression of Hong Kong, in a few years when they find a job, they could become a high-spending visitor," he added.
As part of the government's strategy to improve the visitor experience, Chan revealed plans to leverage technology for real-time updates on queuing lengths at border checkpoints. This initiative aims to streamline the entry process for tourists, making their arrival and overall experience more pleasant.
Moreover, with many mainland visitors showing interest in outdoor activities, the government has set ambitious goals for the development of the 60-kilometre Round-the-Island Trail on Hong Kong Island. Chan stated that the trail is expected to be 90 percent complete within the next two to three years, further enhancing the city’s appeal as a destination for nature lovers.
In light of ongoing challenges, including US tariffs on Hong Kong goods, Chan mentioned that the city is actively seeking business opportunities in other regions. This includes a recent delegation led by the chief executive to the Middle East, aiming to explore new avenues for economic growth.
The rise in tourist numbers during the Golden Week is a positive sign for Hong Kong's economy, which has been gradually recovering after the challenges posed by the pandemic. Chan's remarks indicate a proactive approach from the government to adapt to changing visitor preferences and enhance the tourism sector.
As Hong Kong continues to position itself as a vibrant and diverse travel destination, the focus on technology and customer experience could play a crucial role in shaping the future of tourism in the city. With ongoing efforts to monitor trends on social media and respond to the needs of tourists, Hong Kong aims to create a welcoming environment for all visitors.
