Hong Kong Eases COVID Restrictions For Incoming Tour Groups
In September 2022, Hong Kong relaxed a number of its stringent COVID-19 policies, including mandatory hotel quarantine for international travelers. However, some restrictions continued, making it difficult to visit. However, Hong Kong’s government has finally relaxed coronavirus restrictions on inbound tour groups. Read on to find out about the latest rules and regulations for visitors to Hong Kong.
Hong Kong relaxes COVID regulations
On September 26, 2022, Hong Kong relaxed many of its stringent coronavirus regulations, including mandatory hotel quarantine for international visitors. Last week, Hong Kong’s government announced that it was relaxing COVID-19 restrictions for inbound tour groups. This latest move allows tourists to enter museums and theme parks on arrival in the financial hub. However, tour groups must be received by licensed travel agents and pre-register their itineraries.
While many regulations have been eased, international travelers are still, however, subject to a number of COVID tests on arrival. Moreover, they are barred from entering restaurants, bars, and sports venues for the first three days of their stay.
Latest travel arrangements to be announced
While regulations have been eased for tour groups, Hong Kong’s government has said specific arrangements for international visitors will be announced this month. However, the start date wasn’t specified.
In a statement from the government, it was announced that:
The relevant arrangements can support the gradual resumption of the inbound travel market in an orderly manner and provide more favorable business environment for the travel trade.
This announcement happened last week after the financial hub hosted a high-profile financial summit. Apparently, more than 200 financial executives were flown into the former British colony and were exempt from Hong Kong’s strict rules for international travelers.
When will Hong Kong return to normal?
Meanwhile, many local residents have noted the inconsistencies in the way authorities handle restrictions. They have requested that restrictions should be removed for everyone equally.
The COVID-19 pandemic and the necessary coronavirus restrictions have lasted almost three years. This fact has battered Hong Kong’s economy, with many small to medium-sized businesses closing down.
Prior to the pandemic, Hong Kong attracted some 56 million visitors each year. However, now, after almost three years of the toughest regulations, tourism officials are keen to win travelers back.
It was recently reported that visitors were to be lured to the territory with 500,000 free air tickets. A spokesman for the Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) announced that the air tickets, worth some $254.8 million, would be offered to international travelers, as well as residents.
The Peak Tram returns to service
Meanwhile, when entry requirements do return to “normal,” Hong Kong still has many attractions for travelers. Back in August, one of its most recognizable tourist attractions reopened. The Peak Tram is the oldest funicular in Asia and has been ferrying people up to The Peak since 1888. However, after it was closed for more than a year undergoing renovations, it reopened on August 27.
During the upgrades to the funicular, longer cars have been introduced to hold around 200 passengers each ride. Moreover, access to the tram is now step-free to easily accommodate wheelchair and stroller users.
When riding on The Peak Tram, passengers climb to 1,300 feet above sea level in just a few minutes. Along the way, every seat on the tram offers stunning views over the busy city. Meanwhile, once at the top, The Peak offers several attractions, including Madame Tussauds and a number of shops and restaurants. Read more about The Peak Tram here.