Experience Hong Kong: Free Airline Tickets and Exciting Offers
From temples to skyscrapers, museums, and vibrant street markets, there are countless ways to enjoy Hong Kong. The Hong Kong Tourism Board is currently offering a unique opportunity: the chance to obtain free round-trip flights for international visitors—perfect for those looking to explore this captivating city.
How Can You Get a Free Airline Ticket to Hong Kong?
If you’re situated in the UK, entering the flight-ticket lottery is simple. You can enter your name into the lottery on the Hong Kong Airport website or register via Cathay Pacific’s website starting at 9am (GMT) on May 9. However, bear in mind that tickets will be awarded through a lottery system, or on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning that availability is not guaranteed.
The offer includes airfare on round-trip economy-class flights, but if you win, you will still need to pay any related surcharges, fees, and taxes. The competition will remain open for about a week, with winners announced on May 15. Details on when travelers from other regions can apply are expected soon.
Why Is This Happening?
Since the reopening of its borders in January, Hong Kong has faced a slow return of tourist arrivals. The Hong Kong Tourism Board hopes its “Hello Hong Kong” campaign will encourage visitors to return by offering up to 500,000 free airline tickets. This initiative aims to be “probably the world’s biggest welcome ever,” according to Hong Kong’s chief executive, John Lee.
Throughout the year, numerous events and festivals such as Art Basel and the Dragon Boat Festival will take place. Visitors can also expect discounts on dining, attractions, and accommodations—making their stay even more enjoyable.
What Discounts Can You Receive?
Upon arrival, tourists will receive a welcome pack brimming with discounts across 1500 attractions and services in the city. The Hong Kong Tourism Board has announced that at least 1 million “Hong Kong Goodies” vouchers, valued over HK$100 each, will be distributed to visitors. These vouchers can be redeemed for complimentary welcome drinks at participating bars and restaurants or as cash vouchers for local transport, accommodations, and tourist attractions.
Welcome packs can be collected from tourist information desks at the airport and various locations throughout the city.
If You Go to Hong Kong, What Events Should You Plan to See?
Hong Kong has curated approximately 250 events and festivals in line with the tourism campaign. Notable events include the Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival, the Hong Kong Open, and the Dragon Boat Festival. Art enthusiasts can visit the largest retrospective of Yayoi Kusama’s work in Asia (outside of Japan) at M+ museum, available until September 2023.
Will This Campaign Boost Tourism in Hong Kong?
Before the pandemic, Hong Kong struggled to attract tourists, particularly after a series of pro-democracy protests led to a significant downturn in tourism. Following the implementation of conflict-related restrictions and a national security law, many travelers were deterred from visiting.
The recent initiative seeks to revive interest in Hong Kong as a destination. Chief Executive John Lee stated the city is now ready to welcome tourists back. With the removal of inbound travel restrictions and the ending of the long-standing mask mandate, travelers can expect a more relaxed environment. However, scrutiny from mainland authorities at border crossings remains likely.
The effectiveness of this campaign in restoring tourism levels to pre-2019 numbers is yet to be determined.
This article was first published on February 28, 2023, and updated on April 28, 2023.
