Travel - Sassy Hong Kong

Could This Be The Best Vantage Point In Hong Kong To Watch The National Day Fireworks?

Team Sassy — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 22:00:24 +0000

Fireworks are back! After a five year absence, it’s safe to say that we’re more than a little excited to catch the festivities on Sunday, 1 October. The only question left, where to watch the extravaganza?

For a front-row seat to catch what is set to be a spectacular fireworks display over Victoria Harbour, look no further than Regent Hong Kong. This cinematic haven on the waterfront promises not only unparalleled views but also an immersive experience for you and your friends. Whether you choose to enjoy the unforgettable evening panorama from the privacy of your harbour view room or by taking advantage of the exclusive outdoor vantage points offered to Regent Hong Kong Dining Destination guests, one thing is certain — you’re set for a night to remember!

Lai Ching Heen — Best for an indulgent Michelin-starred dining experience

At the two starred Lai Ching Heen, you can celebrate the long weekend with an eight-course dinner menu that showcases the refined Cantonese cuisine of Executive Chef Lau Yiu Fai. Renowned as one of the world’s finest Cantonese restaurants, you can expect refined dishes and elegant service that has been perfected over decades.

Price: $2,888 per person

The Steak House — Best for those who appreciate fine dining

The Steak House is offering a five-course dinner menu crafted by Head Chef Amine Errkhis to pair with your fireworks viewing. Think curated selections of prime meat, seared to perfection on the grill, served with imaginative starters and decadent desserts.

Price: $2,588 per person including wine pairing; $1,588 per child (aged 4 to 11 years old)

Harbourside — Best for a luxury, crowd-pleasing night out

Renowned as one of the most lavish buffet spreads in Hong Kong, Harbourside is for those who want to explore diverse culinary experiences. Feast on seasonal produce, authentic local tastes and the flavours of East Asia, India and beyond.

Price: $1,888 per person including a glass of Champagne

The Lobby Lounge — Best for a front-row seat

Get set for a mesmerising experience. Perched at the edge of Victoria Harbour with three-story floor to ceiling windows, you won’t find a more immersive location to take in the dazzling fireworks display. The Lobby Lounge is offering a set dinner menu which will secure you front-row seats for the evening extravaganza.

Price: $1,800 per couple

Private Dining — Best for a truly intimate evening

Lai Ching Heen and The Steak House both offer exclusive private dining venues, promising a custom culinary journeys paired with discreet luxury. As part of the fireworks showcase, you and your guests will enjoy an outdoor waterfront viewing experience that allows you to behold the awe-inspiring beauty of the harbour while reveling in the magnificent fireworks display.

Price: Enquire with Regent Hong Kong directly.

Classic Harbourview Room Personal Haven Package — Best for going all out

For the ultimate National Day fireworks experience, reserve a Classic Harbourview guest room or go all out in a corner room or suite! From your windowfront daybed with sweeping harbour views, you’ll have an exclusive up-close vantage point for the dazzling display. Relax and recharge in your Personal Haven, soak in the mesmerising views from the Oasis Bath and indulge in 24-hour room service from an extensive international in-room dining menu.

Sassy Tip: Get in touch with your Regent Experience Agent to curate your perfect weekend!

Price: Starting from $9,500 per night for double occupancy. Terms and conditions apply.

We all know it’s the evening panorama that is set to steal the show. But, when you elevate the spectacle with one of the Regent Hong Kong’s bespoke culinary journeys or intimate hotel stays, you’re guaranteed a night to remember!

Regent Hong Kong, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 2313 2313, www.hongkong.regenthotels.com

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The Best Hotel Staycation Packages In Hong Kong

Team Sassy — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 22:00:58 +0000

Whether you’re looking for a luxury staycation at Rosewood or an ultra-comfortable hotel stay at Grand Hyatt, there’s a Hong Kong hotel staycation to suit all budgets and locations.

We love a good Hong Kong staycation but with so many hotels dotted across the city, it can be tricky to narrow down exactly what to book. Whether you’re visiting Hong Kong and are looking for a place to stay or want to spoil yourself a little in your own city, Hong Kong hotels offer the total package, complete with stunning swimming pools, luxurious spas, world-class restaurants and more! Ahead, we’re spotlighting the best Hong Kong staycation packages, across different budgets and locations.

Bookmark this page for the latest hotel staycation offers!

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Autumn & Mid-Autumn 2023 Hong Kong Hotel Stay Offers & Packages
Our Go-To Hong Kong Hotel Staycation Offers & Packages

The Best Autumn & Mid-Autumn Hotel Staycation Offers & Packages In Hong Kong, September 2023

Ocean Park Marriott Hotel — Stay and Dine Vacation Package

Part of the Hong Kong Tourism Board’s HK Goodies Promotion, this Stay and Dine Vacation Package at Ocean Park Marriott Hotel includes a one-night stay in a deluxe king room, complimentary breakfast for two at Marina Kitchen, a bottle of red wine, a box of chocolates and $800 worth of Lai Sun Dining Cash coupons (8 x $100 coupons).

Pricing starts at $2,077 for two adults — book here.

Hong Kong Ocean Park Marriott Hotel, 180 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong, www.marriott.com

The Upper House — #WellnessOnTheRoad Staycation

Treat yourself to a wellness-inspired staycation at The Upper House, which grabbed the fourth spot in Forbes’ “The World’s 50 Best Hotels” this year. Your stay in the heart of the city includes one night in a Studio 70, breakfast for two at Salisterra, a selection of cold-press juices, a wellness gift from Royal Fern, one 60-minute in-room massage for two, a 20-minute Stone & Star introductory oracle and tarot reading plus complimentary access to group wellness weekend classes and a lululemon Wellness Loan Kit.

Pricing starts at $6,800 for one night — book here.

The Upper House, Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Admiralty, Hong Kong, 2918 1838, www.upperhouse.com

The Best Hong Kong Hotel Staycation Offers & Packages

Rosewood Hong Kong

The crown jewel of the Victoria Dockside arts and design district and number 2 on the World’s 50 Best Hotels list, Rosewood is perhaps one of the most iconic staycations in Hong Kong. Plus, if you’ve stepped inside Asaya, you’ll want to book a wellcation right away!

See hotel staycation packages and offers at Rosewood here.

Rosewood Hong Kong, Victoria Dockside, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 3891 8888, www.rosewoodhotels.com

Four Seasons Hong Kong

Home to Asia’s eighth-best bar and Michelin-starred restaurants, The Four Seasons exudes luxury with possibly one of the best hotel swimming pools and spas in Hong Kong. The rooms are a generous size and face the harbour — the glitz and glamour of Hong Kong!

See hotel staycation packages and offers at Four Seasons Hong Kong here.

Four Seasons Hong Kong, 8 Finance Street, Central, Hong Kong, 3196 8888, www.fourseasons.com

Read More: Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2023

K11 ARTUS

An “Artisanal Home” concept, K11 ARTUS is set on top of the K11 MUSEA with 287 suites spanning 14 floors. Each and every residence here has its own wraparound balcony — that’s right, your room could offer you one of the best views in the city.

See hotel staycation packages and offers at K11 ARTUS here.

K11 ARTUS, Victoria Dockside, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 2107 3388, www.artus.com.hk

The Landmark Mandarin Oriental

A staycation at The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong can feature the luxurious signature L600 Series Room and Suites, the ultimate dining destinations (including Michelin-starred Amber, Sushi Sikon and Kappo Rin and more casual outlets SOMM, PDT and MO Bar) and The Oriental Spa. What more could you need?

See hotel staycation packages and offers at The Landmark Mandarin Oriental here.

The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, LANDMARK, 15 Queen’s Road Central, Central, Hong Kong, www.mandarinoriental.com

Cordis, Hong Kong

Conveniently located, excellent service and affordable rooms. We’ve stayed at Cordis more than once and thoroughly enjoyed its rooftop pool, Michelin-starred restaurants (like Cantonese restaurant Ming Court!) and other amenities.

See hotel staycation packages and offers at Cordis here.

Cordis Hong Kong, 555 Shanghai Street, Mong Kok, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 3552 3388, www.cordishotels.com

Grand Hyatt Hong Kong

Conveniently located in the bustling hot spot of Wan Chai but just far enough from the chaos! From the grand lobby to the poolside restaurants, Grand Hyatt remains a favourite staycation option in Hong Kong with reasonable rates.

See hotel staycation packages and offers at Grand Hyatt Hong Kong here.

Grand Hyatt Hong Kong, 1 Harbour Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2588 1234, www.hyatt.com

Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong

Mandarin Oriental needs no introduction! Part of the homegrown Hong Kong hotel group, its decades-long luxurious hospitality speaks for itself. Soak in the finer things in life with grand spacious rooms that face the harbour and access to world-class amenities.

See hotel staycation packages and offers at Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong here.

Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong, 5 Connaught Road Central, Hong Kong, 2522 0111, www.mandarinoriental.com

The Fullerton Ocean Park Hotel Hong Kong

We’ll get straight to the point, what we love most about The Fullerton is there are no tall buildings in sight and the hotel pool is unlike any other we’ve been to! This oceanfront affordable luxury can make you feel worlds away from Hong Kong and is truly worth your buck.

See hotel staycation packages and offers at The Fullerton here.

The Fullerton Ocean Park Hotel Hong Kong, 3 Ocean Drive, Aberdeen, Hong Kong, 2166 7388, www.fullertonhotels.com

Read More: Top Glamping Sites In Hong Kong

The Murray Hong Kong, a Niccolo Hotel

Rejuvenate and recover at one of the five well-appointed spa suites at The Murray Hong Kong, a Niccolo Hotel, followed by a dip in the indoor pool. If you’re looking for an extra energy boost, sign up for one of the outdoor boot camps while enjoying the excellent view! The Murray is also one of the most sought-after hotels for weddings in Hong Kong!

See hotel staycation packages and offers at The Murray here.

The Murray Hong Kong, a Niccolo Hotel, 22 Cotton Tree Drive, Central, Hong Kong, 3141 8888, www.niccolohotels.com

Conrad Hong Kong

Conrad boasts six restaurants, a heated pool, a sauna and the ideal location. Whether you want to shop at Pacific Place or hop by the Maritime Museum, there’s plenty nearby to keep your day busy, though we doubt you’ll want to leave the hotel! Connecting rooms are also available to book.

See hotel staycation packages and offers at Conrad Hong Kong here.

Conrad Hong Kong, 88 Queensway, Admiralty, Hong Kong, 2521 3838, www.hilton.com

WM Hotel

We know how rare it is to get a room with a balcony in Hong Kong, so imagine that plus a generously sized bathtub! WM Hotel in Sai Kung takes you away from the city, putting you in close proximity to Sha Ha Beach and even boasting rooms that come with their very own private roof.

WM Hotel, 28 Wai Man Road, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong, 2196 6888, www.wmhotel.hk

Hyatt Centric Victoria Harbour

Harbour views without the Central price tag? A staycation at Hyatt Centric Victoria Harbour includes dips in the infinity pool and delectable eats at Cruise and Farmhouse. Plus, you can even bring your furry friends along for a dog-cation package.

See hotel staycation packages and offers at Hyatt Centric Victoria Harbour here.

Hyatt Centric Victoria Harbour, 1 North Point Estate Lane, North Point, Hong Kong, 3762 1234, www.hyatt.com

The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong

Treat yourself to a sky-high staycation at the top of the ICC with Ritz-Carlton, rising 118 floors above the city. Take in sweeping skyline views, chill at the world’s highest rooftop lounge and tuck into Michelin-starred meals. The Ritz-Carlton is also a popular choice for those looking for pet-friendly hotels.

See hotel staycation packages and offers at The Ritz-Carlton here.

The Ritz-Carlton, 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 2263 2263, www.ritzcarlton.com

Eaton HK

Eaton HK is like nothing we’ve ever seen before — think of this place as less of a traditional hotel and more of a community hub. With everything from crystal healing therapy to purifying Himalayan salt lamps, Tai Chi classes, climate activism and tofu gnocchi, this is as alternative as a staycation destination gets in Hong Kong.

See hotel staycation packages and offers at Eaton here.

Eaton HK, 380 Nathan Road, Jordan, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 2782 1818, www.eatonworkshop.com

Kerry Hotel

A Sassy favourite, this award-winning hotel will immerse you in a world of ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation. Book a relaxing aromatherapy massage at The Spa at Base Camp or take a dip in the infinity pool! And if live bands are your thing, head over to Dockyard.

See hotel staycation packages and offers at Kerry Hotel here.

Kerry Hotel, 39 Hung Luen Road, Hung Hom Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 2252 5888, www.shangri-la.com

W Hong Kong

Located in West Kowloon, right above Kowloon station and Elements Mall, W Hong Kong’s convenient spot makes it popular even with celebrities visiting Hong Kong! With panoramic views of the Island, a rooftop pool on the 76th floor and the award-winning Bliss spa, there’s not much more we could ask for.

See hotel staycation packages and offers at W Hong Kong here.

W Hong Kong, 1 Austin Road West, West Kowloon, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 3717 2222, www.marriott.com

The Peninsula Hong Kong

Treat yourself to a shamelessly over-the-top staycation at the legendary “Grande Dame”! The Peninsula Hong Kong offers 18-minute helicopter tours, dinner in the Peninsula Yacht and more indulgence. If you’re looking to end the evening in a more low-key fashion, Felix is a long-time favourite for soaking in spectacular skyline vistas in style.

See hotel staycation packages and offers at The Peninsula here.

The Peninsula Hong Kong, Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 3723 1234, www.peninsula.com

Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Sha Tin

Hyatt Sha Tin boasts a 25m outdoor swimming pool, tennis court and fitness centre (with steam and sauna) and rejuvenating treatments and meditation at the Melo Spa. Eat like royalty at Sha Tin 18’s four show kitchens and authentic Cantonese and Northern Chinese, and sit back on the restaurant’s outdoor terrace for breathtaking mountain views.

See hotel staycation packages and offers at Hyatt Regency here.

Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Sha Tin, 18 Chak Cheung Street, Sha Tin, New Territories, Hong Kong, 3723 1234, www.hyatt.com

More Hotel Staycations In Hong Kong

Auberge Discovery Bay — An oasis surrounded by ocean views and complete with first-class facilities. www.aubergediscoverybay.com
The Arca — Modern, contemporary hotel in South Side. www.thearca.com
The Hari Hong Kong — Boutique hotel with top-notch restaurants and service. www.thehari.com
Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel — Embrace your inner child at this Victorian seaside palace! www.hongkongdisneyland.com
Island Shangri-La — Oozes glamour and old-school elegance and has harbour-facing rooms. www.shangri-la.com/hongkong/islandshangrila
Ovolo Southside — Hong Kong’s first warehouse-turned-luxury hotel overlooking green mountains and blue waters. ovolohotels.com/ovolo/southside
Le Méridien Hong Kong, Cyberport — A newly revitalised hotel with a range of amenities. www.marriott.com
Madera Hollywood — Upscale hotel just a few steps away from bustling SoHo in the heart of Central. www.maderagroup.com
InterContinental Grand Stanford Hong Kong — Located at the eastern edge of the West Kowloon Cultural District in a prime waterfront location overlooking Victoria Harbour. www.hongkong.intercontinental.com

Editor’s Note: “The Best Hotel Staycation Packages In Hong Kong” was most recently updated in September 2023 by Sakina Abidi. With thanks to Fashila Kanakka for her contribution.

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Sweat, Swim, Spa & Repeat At Base Camp Kerry Sports

Team Sassy — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 22:00:18 +0000

Spend your days at Kerry Hotel’s five-star holistic wellness facility and enjoy exclusive membership perks.

Been working hard at the gym all summer? Don’t let the end of the season slow you down! Perhaps a little upgrade to your weekly routine is what you need to stay motivated. Just picture it: getting your workout done in a luxury five-star health club, followed by a dip in an infinity pool overlooking the harbour, and ending the day with a well-deserved visit to the spa for a luxurious treatment. Get exactly this and more at Kerry Hotel. Read on for all the details.

Base Camp Kerry Sports comprises the hotel’s 25-metre outdoor infinity pool, that famously offers panoramic vistas of Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong Island. You’ll be glad to know that the water is heated during the winter months, so you can enjoy a swim all year round.

The 24-hour gym also offers some amazing views — which can be enjoyed from the window-facing treadmills — and all the equipment you need to get a good sweat in. Book a free trial to get a feel of the space, and you might also want to look into the personal training programmes available if you’re looking to achieve specific fitness goals.

The Spa at Base Camp is where you can indulge in a variety of spa treatments, from therapeutic massages to results-driven facials. For the perfect post-workout treat, we’d go for the The Kerry Signature Massage — a combination of massage gun therapy and an aromatherapy massage that provides relief for sore muscles and tension points.

Rewarding our workouts with a dip in the pool and a soothing spa treatment? Now that’s something we can get used to! Opt for the Sweat-and-Splash Combo Membership (gym-only memberships are available too!) for unlimited access to the Base Camp Kerry Sports facilities.

What’s more, health club members are treated to a host of benefits including 25% off pool day passes for non-member guests, as well as use of the hot whirlpool bath, sauna and steam room. You’ll also receive discounts on selected spa treatments and the hotel’s food and beverage outlets (excluding Dockyard and Banquet).

To sweeten the deal, sign up for a 12-month subscription at $3,600 per month and enjoy 12 complimentary day passes for friends and family, six personal training sessions, three 60-minute spa treatments and more!

Base Camp Kerry Sports, 4/F, Kerry Hotel, 38 Hung Luen Road, Whampoa, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 2252 5350, Facebook: Kerry Hotel Hong Kong, Instagram: @basecampkhhk, www.shangri-la.com

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2023 Public Holidays: How To Maximise Your Annual Leave

Team Sassy — Wed, 09 Aug 2023 22:00:22 +0000

Looking to make the most of the Hong Kong public holidays in 2023? With travel finally back on the cards, you’ll want to know exactly when to book your annual leave!

We’ve picked our word of the year and it is TRAVEL! Gone are the days of quarantine and while we love this amazing city we are so ready to fly! So, to get set for the year of travel ahead, you’ll want to know how best to use your annual leave to maximise each and every weekend getaway. Whether you’re looking for a health retreat to reset and refresh or a city break that’s an easy direct flight away, here’s how to maximise your holiday time in 2023.

Read on to discover our top tips for maximising your time off…

Hong Kong Public Holidays 2023

The Hong Kong 2023 public holidays are set out by the government each year. Saturday is considered a work day for many in Hong Kong, so when a public holiday falls on a Saturday there is no extra weekday given. A shame for those of us working Monday to Friday as Hong Kong SAR Day and the day following Mid Autumn both fall on a Saturday this year! However, when a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday will be given as a day off.

New Year’s Day: Monday, 2 January, 2023 (public holiday falls on a Sunday)
Lunar New Year: Monday, 23 to Wednesday, 25 January, 2023 (public holiday falls on a Sunday)
Ching Ming: Wednesday, 5 April, 2023
Easter: Friday, 7 April to Monday, 10 April, 2023
Labour Day: Monday, 1 May, 2023
Buddha’s Birthday: Friday, 26 May, 2023
Tuen Ng (Dragon Boat Festival): Thursday, 22 June, 2023
Hong Kong SAR Establishment Day: Saturday, 1 July, 2023
The Day Following Mid-Autumn: Saturday, 30 September, 2023
National Day: Monday, 2 October, 2023 (public holiday falls on a Sunday)
Cheung Yeung: Monday, 23 October, 2023
Christmas Day: Monday, 25 and Tuesday, 26 December, 2023

Lunar New Year Public Holidays 2023

Chinese New Year is early in 2023. The streets are eerily quiet during Chinese Year, so make the most of fewer crowds, cooler weather and traditional festive happenings to get out and explore the city.

Travelling over the Chinese New Year public holiday in 2023

Get your health back on track in 2023, by booking a health retreat in Asia.
Oh, how we’ve longed for the white sand beaches of Thailand! Phuket, Krabi and Koh Lanta are all stunning at this time of year.
Catch the Australian summer in all its glory.
Snow bunnies should hop over to hit the slopes in Hokkaido.

2023 Public holiday: Monday, 23 to Wednesday, 25 January 2023
Book off: Thursday, 26 and Friday, 27 January
Annual leave days used: 2
Days holiday: 9

Ching Ming And Easter Public Holidays In 2023

With enough time to plan, we’re thinking April could be the perfect time to book a big overseas adventure!

Where to go for the Easter public holidays in 2023

Channel Indiana Jones as you explore the ancient wonders of Jordan.
Visit the New Zealand vineyards (just in time for the annual wine harvest!)
The heat of the blazing summer has passed making April a great time to book a South African safari.

Sassy Tip: Check the public holiday opening hours at your destination because some tourist providers in western destinations may close for the holiday.

2023 Public holiday: Wednesday, 5 (Ching Ming), Friday, 7 and Monday, 10 April
Book off: Monday, 3, Tuesday, 4 and Thursday, 6 April
Annual leave days used: 3
Days holiday: 10

Labour Day Hong Kong Public Holiday 2023

Tack on a few extra days to turn your 2023 public holiday into a long weekend.

Long weekend destinations for the Labour Day public holiday

In Penang, Malaysia you can lie on a golden sand beach in the morning, wander historic streets and take in fabulous murals in the afternoon and finish your day feasting on street snacks!
Get your city fix by heading to bustling Busan, South Korea for some of the freshest seafood on the planet.
With warm, sunny days and less crowds, May is one of the best times of year to visit Bali.

2023 Public holiday: Monday, May 1
Book off: Friday, 28 April and Tuesday, 2 May
Annual leave days used: 2
Days holiday: 5

Buddha’s Birthday Public Holiday 2023

We’ll let you in on a little secret, May is one of the best months of the year to travel! You’ll beat the crowds of July and August (not to mention the inflated prices and blazing heat) and tour providers are excited for the upcoming season (read – not exhausted!).

Where to go for Buddha’s Birthday public holiday

Take in the dramatic cliffs and sparkling sea on a romantic coastal getaway to the Almafi Coast in Italy, before the summer crowds spoil your perfect Insta shots.
Catch a Broadway show, shop ’til you drop and immerse yourself in the pumping atmosphere of New York City.
If you’ve ever wondered about visiting outback Australia, May is the time to do it, the days are warm and not scorching, making it perfect to hike the desert dunes.

2023 Public holiday: Friday, 26 May
Book off: Monday, 22 to Thursday, 25 May
Annual leave days used: 4
Days holiday: 9

Tuen Ng Festival Public Holiday 2023

Kickstart your summer with a well-deserved June vacation. These are our top picks to make the most of your June public holidays in 2023.

Where to travel for the Dragon Boat Festival public holiday

Explore the lush jungles, see orangutans swinging from the trees and maybe even catch sea turtles hatching! It’s all within easy reach of Kota Kinabalu in Malaysian Borneo.
For a foodie adventure like no other book your tickets to Portugal and wine and dine your way through Porto and Lisbon.

2023 Public holiday: Thursday, 22 June
Book off: Monday, 19 to Wednesday, 21 and Friday, 23 June
Annual leave days used: 4
Days holiday: 9

The Day Following National Day Public Holiday 2023

The October public holidays come just as we’re all in need of a bit of respite! These are our travel picks if you’re looking for a bit of adventure.

Where to travel during the October public holidays 2023

Catch the end of Oktoberfest in Munich which wraps up on Tuesday, 3 October.
Head on over to Kerala, India and explore the canals by houseboat.

2023 Public holiday: Monday, 2 October
Book off: Tuesday, 3 to Friday, 6 October
Annual leave days used: 4
Days holiday: 9

Chung Yeung Festival Public Holiday 2023

Only got a few days of leave left to spare? October brings with it some of the best weather we can hope for in Hong Kong so take some time for yourself Hong Kong staycation and explore the city as the weather is more comfortable. Still have leave days left for a holiday.

Quick getaways for the October public holidays in 2023

Pop on over to Macau and explore our sister city.
Singapore is always an easy destination full of fun.
Catch the autumn foilage in Japan.

2023 Public holiday: Monday, 23 October
Book off: Friday, 20 October and Tuesday, 24 October
Annual leave days used: 2
Days holiday: 5

Read More: Your Guide To Taipa Village, Macau

Christmas 2023 And New Year 2024 Public Holidays

It’s hard to imagine what the world will look like 12 months from now, but safe to say the world is at your finger tips. Whatever destination you decide on, it’s sure to be fabulous!

2023 Public holiday: Monday, 25, Tuesday, 26 December and Monday, 1 January
Book off: Wednesday, 27 December to Friday, 29 December
Annual leave days used: 3
Days of leave: 10

Read More: Sassy’s Quick Guide To Macau

Hong Kong Public Holidays 2024

New Year’s Day: Monday, 1 January, 2024
Lunar New Year: Saturday, 10 to Tuesday, 13 February, 2024
Easter: Friday, 29 March to Monday, 1 April, 2024
Ching Ming Festival: Thursday, 4 April, 2024
Labour Day: Wednesday, 1 May, 2024
Buddha’s Birthday: Wednesday, 15 May, 2024
Dragon Boat Festival: Monday, 10 June, 2024
Hong Kong SAR Establishment Day: Monday, 1 July, 2024
The Day Following Mid-Autumn Festival: Wednesday, 18 September, 2024
National Day: Tuesday, 1 October, 2024
Cheung Yeung Festival: Friday, 11 October, 2024
Christmas: Wednesday, 25 December and Thursday, 26 December, 2024

Editor’s Note: “Public Holidays In 2023: How to Maximise Your Annual Leave” was most recently updated in December 2022 by Jess Mizzi.

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Wellness Retreats In Hong Kong: Hotel Deals & Alternative Retreats

Fashila Kanakka — Mon, 07 Aug 2023 22:00:44 +0000

Need a quick reset? Restore your mind and body at these wellness retreats in Hong Kong across different budgets.

While South and Southeast Asia are quite the motherlands for wellness retreats, and as much as we’d not shy from a meditation session in the middle of a lush jungle, Hong Kong itself boasts a handful of wellness retreats for a quick wellness pick-me-up. From luxurious hotel spa amenities to more intensive yet immersive meditation sessions in the middle of nature, have your pick of wellness retreat options in Hong Kong.

The Ritz-Carlton Meaningful Wellness Journeys – Holistic, personalised wellness retreat designed to rejuvenate your mind, body and skin

The first Ritz-Carlton brand in the Asia Pacific to launch this new retreat, the treatments in the “Meaningful Wellness Journey” are based on three pillars; Mind, Body and Skin. From the Awakening Bamboo Massage, the Wellbeing and Resilience Massage and the Renew & Revitalize Ritual — all therapies are holistic, tailored to bring balance between the body and mind. You will be taken through an assessment designed to understand your needs and preferences prior to your treatment and given cards with helpful tips and techniques (covering everything from breathwork to affirmations) after, so you can continue to take care of your well-being and practice mindfulness at home.

When: From Thursday, 10 August, 2023
How much: 90-minute treatments are priced at $2,450 during non-peak periods and $2,650 during peak hours
How to book: Head here to book

The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Level 116, The Ritz-Carlton, 1 Austin Road, Hong Kong, 2263 2040, Facebook: The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong, Instagram: @ritzcarltonhongkong, www.ritzcarlton.com

The Retreat into Asaya Wellness Retreat at Rosewood Hong Kong

Cocooned inside Rosewood, Asaya offers world-class spa amenities and a serene setting for the picture-perfect reset. Coupled with access to the infinity pool, gym, fitness classes and a four-course set lunch from Asaya Kitchen, a one-night luxury accommodation also comes with a 60-minute guided wellness session and a 60-minute spa treatment that you can choose to your liking.

When: Until Sunday, 31 December, 2023
How much: Starting from $6,500 per night
How to book: Head here to book

Asaya, 6/F, Rosewood Hong Kong, 18 Salisbury Road, Victoria Dockside, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 3891 8588, www.rosewoodhotels.com/asaya

The Mandarin Day Spa Retreat

For an ultra-pampering day spa retreat, head to The Mandarin Oriental and bask in absolute opulence! Head over early in the day for its healthy breakfast at Cafe Causette, along with a choice of either the Detox Body Reviver or Ultimate Skin Soother body treatments in the morning. Followed by lunch at The Aubrey and an Oriental Essence or Aromatherapy massage to transition into the afternoon.

When: Every Tuesday to Thursday
How much: $6,800 for one and $9,800 for two
How to book: Head here to book

Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong, 5 Connaught Road Central, Hong Kong, 2522 0111, www.mandarinoriental.com

Bliss Body Journeys Wellness Retreats in Hong Kong

At Bliss Body Journeys, there are two wellness retreats in Hong Kong to choose from; Mauna, a three-day silent meditation retreat and Divine Body, a four-day healing retreat. Both come with complimentary transfers to the venue — a secluded villa nestled in nature — as well as plant-based nutritious meals to feel good inside out. The fully immersive spiritual practices will transport you worlds away from Hong Kong!

When: Various dates throughout the year, check the calendar here.
How much: Starts from $1,180 USD
How to book: Head here to book

Bliss Body Journeys, blissbodyjourneys.com

Kriya Lightning Foundation

A non-profit that seeks to support the well-being, harmony and happiness of humans everywhere, Kriya offers its teaching free of charge. There are one-on-one and group sessions suitable for beginners and advanced practitioners but the intensive wellness retreat is only available to those who are practiced and familiar with the Open Awareness and Heart’s Truth techniques.

Get in touch with Kriya Lightning Foundation for more details on its wellness retreats.

Kriya Lightning Foundation, Suite 4002A, 40/F, Tower 1, Lippo Centre, 89 Queensway, Admiralty, Hong Kong, www.kriyalightningfoundation.org

Beauty and the Sleep Spa Package at Cordis Hong Kong

Such is Hong Kong’s hustle and bustle that you really do sometimes need a wellness retreat to get in quality sleep! Cordis Hotel’s “Beauty and the Sleep” Spa Package comes with a 60-minute full-body calming massage and a 30-minute sensuous head massage, followed by a glass of “Sweet Dream Tea” by TEA CHÂTEAU.

When: Various dates throughout the year
How much: $1,388 per person
How to book: Head here to book

Cordis, Hong Kong, 555 Shanghai Street, Mong Kok, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 3552 3388, www.cordishotels.com

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8 Summer Music Festivals You Don’t Want To Miss

Chantelle Pang — Sun, 06 Aug 2023 22:00:15 +0000

The best music festivals worldwide to catch this summer include Creamfields North, Summer Sonic and Outside Lands.

Grab your festival fits, boots, face paint and belt bags, it’s that time of the year: summer music festival season! If you’re looking for somewhere to escape and all the good vibes, we’ve rounded up the best upcoming summer music festivals (and a couple to keep an eye on!) all over the world — including Creamfields North in the UK, Summer Sonic in Osaka and Tokyo, and Outside Lands in San Francisco — to grab your tickets for, covering genres like eDM, rock, R&B and more. Book your flights and get set for plenty of tunes, dance, live music and more…

Sziget Festival — Budapest, Hungary

Any festival lover would have heard of Sziget. One of Europe’s largest music and cultural festivals, it’s held annually over six days in northern Budapest, Hungary. Expect over 1,000 performances by some of the biggest names in music. This year’s line-up includes Billie Eilish, Lorde, Imagine Dragons and Macklemore, to name a few!

Fly to: Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, then get to the Island of Freedom directly with miniBUD (€17.50, approximately $150, for a single journey or €33, approximately $284, for a journey including return).
Flight time: 15 hours, 15 minutes

When: Thursday, 10 to Tuesday, 15 August, 2023
Where: Óbuda Island, Budapest, Hungary
How much: $817 to $903 for a one-day ticket, from $2,323 for a three-day pass, from $3,262 for a full six-day festival pass — see all ticket types and passes here and buy yours

Sziget Festival, szigetfestival.com

Outside Lands — San Francisco, USA

Taking place annually in San Francisco, Outside Lands is a three-day event celebrating music, food, art and more. In celebration of its 15th year, the 2023 festival will see Kendrick Lamar, Foo Fighters and Odesza headline alongside Megan Thee Stallion, Lana Del Rey and more big-name acts. Tickets are selling out as we speak — grab yours quickly from the official website.

Fly to: San Francisco International Airport (SFO), then take a 23-minute drive to the park. Please note that parking is not available at the festival. Outside Lands offers official rideshare from Balboa Street & 30th Avenue (adjacent to George Washington High School) and Irving Street between 25th and 27th Avenue.
Flight time: 12 hours, 55 minutes

When: Friday, 11 to Sunday, 13 August, 2023
Where: Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, California, United States
How much: From $1,678 — see all ticket types and buy yours here

Outside Lands, sfoutsidelands.com

Summer Sonic — Osaka and Tokyo, Japan

Summer Sonic — also known as Supersonic — is held annually over two days in August, in two separate cities in Japan: Osaka and Tokyo. The line-up in both cities is set to be more or less the same, with Kendrick Lamar or Blur alternating headlining in the different cities according to the day, and acts like Liam Gallagher, Fall Out Boy and Two Door Cinema Club. Tokyo will also offer an extra stage. Tickets for both venues have already sold out on the official website but you can try your luck on some reseller platforms.

Fly to:
Osaka — Osaka Kansai Airport, then a 27-minute drive to Cosmosquare Subway Station or a 1 hour, 20 minutes journey on public transport. From the airport, walk to Hatarugaike Station, take the Takarazuka Main Line to Osaka-Umeda Station and switch to the Midosuji Line towards Nakamozu direction. Get off at Hommachi Station before changing to Chuo Line to Cosmosquare Station. Once you arrive at the train station, take the paid shuttle bus to Maishima Summer Sonic Park.
Tokyo — Haneda-Airport, then get the airport shuttle bus to Kaihin-Makuhari Eki, which is two minutes from Kaihin-Makuhari Eki Station. Then it’s a seven-minute walk to Makuhari Messe or a 15-minute walk to ZOZO Marine Stadium.
Flight time: 3 hours, 55 minutes to Osaka, 4 hours, 25 minutes to Tokyo

When: Saturday, 19 and Sunday, 20 August, 2023
Where: Maishima Sonic Park, Osaka; ZOZO Marine Stadium & Makuhari Messe, Tokyo, Japan
How much: Osaka — $884 for a one-day ticket and $1,658 for a two-day ticket; Tokyo — $1,022 for a one-day ticket and $1,879 for a two-day ticket

Summer Sonic Festival, www.summersonic.com

Rock en Seine Festival — Paris, France

The City of Love is also home to Rock en Seine. The annual rock music festival has been one of France’s biggest summer events for almost two decades (the venue has the capacity for up to 40,000 festival-goers!). For three days, enjoy all kinds of rock music and discover some of the best up-and-coming French artists. This year’s headliners include Billie Eilish, Placebo, The Chemical Brothers, Florence + The Machine and The Strokes.

Fly to: Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. First, get on the RER B to Châtelet Les Halles and change to RER A to La Défense, then take RER L to Saint-Cloud. The park is a 15-minute walk from the station.
Flight time: 13 hours, 50 minutes

When: Wednesday, 23 to Sunday, 27 August, 2023
Where: Saint Cloud National Park, Paris, France
How much: From $639 — see all ticket types and buy yours here

Rock en Seine Festival, www.rockenseine.com

Delta Festival — Marseille, France

If you’re looking for the ultimate summer beach party, this is it! Delta Festival in Marseille is a three-day music bash that brings an epic line-up of dance music to the sunny Plage du Prado in the South of France. With some of the best French-speaking artists like Angèle and Damso headlining, alongside Amelie Lens and Charlotte de Witt, this really is a summer music festival that’s not to be missed.

Fly to: Marseille Provence Airport. Get the TER train to Saint-Charles station, change to Line M2 towards Sainte-Marguerite Dromel and get off at Rond-Point Du Prado. From there get bus 19 to Plague Du Prado.
Flight time: 16 hours, 10 minutes

When: Wednesday, 23 to Sunday, 27 August, 2023
Where: Plage du Prado/ Parc balnéaire du Prado, Marseille, France
How much: From $550 — see all ticket types and buy yours here

Delta Festival, www.delta-festival.com

Creamfields North — Daresbury, England, UK

Creamfields is one of the UK’s best electronic dance music festivals. With the event’s growing popularity, there’s been not one but two Creamfields festivals organised in the country, North and South. Taking place this August, Creamfields North’s headliners include Calvin Harris, David Guetta, Tiësto, Diplo, DJ Snake and Martin Garrix.

Sassy Tip: If you can’t make it all the way to England for this, don’t worry. Creamfields has expanded to Asia with festivals hosted in Japan, Taiwan, Vietnam and, of course, Hong Kong! Make sure to check out its website for news on upcoming events.

Fly to: Manchester Airport, then take a train to Warrington Central and get on a shuttle bus from the station to the festival. Shuttle bus tickets are £12 (approximately $119) each (£24, approximately $237, for a return)
Flight time: 14 hours, 20 minutes

When: Thursday, 24 to Sunday, 27 August, 2023
Where: Daresbury, Cheshire, United Kingdom
How much: From $1,043 — see all ticket types and buy yours here

Creamfields North, creamfieldsnorth.com

Kalorama Festival — Lisbon, Portugal

If you’re looking for a real unique music festival experience, Kalorama Festival in Lisbon promises to deliver. With Florence + The Machine and Arcade Fire headlining alongside acts like The Blaze, Blur and The Prodigy, this Portuguese music event is guaranteed to be Europe’s last big summer festival before the cold starts to sink in.

Fly to: Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport then take the red line directly to Bela Vista station, which is seven stops away. From there, it’s a 12-minute walk to the park.
Flight time: 17 hours, 30 minutes

When: Thursday, 31 August to Saturday, 2 September, 2023
Where: Parque da Bela Vista, Lisbon, Portugal
How much: From $556 — see all ticket types and buy yours here

Kalorama Festival, meokalorama.pt

Lights On Festival — California, USA

This summer R&B music festival is curated by H.E.R. and features huge-name acts like Jazmine Sullivan, PARTYNEXTDOOR, Alina Baraz, Smino, Syd, Doechii, UMI, FLO, Amerie and more! It promises to be an experience like no other — all for the love of R&B.

Fly to: San Jose (SJC) Airport. The Shoreline Amphitheatre is a 15 to 20-minute car ride away from San Jose.
Flight time: Starting from 18 hours for a flight with a layover. We’d recommend flying direct from Hong Kong, 13 hours, 25 minutes, to Los Angeles and taking a second one-hour flight to San Jose.

When: Saturday, 16 to Sunday, 17, September, 2023
Where: Shoreline Amphitheatre, Mountain View, California, United States
How much: From $1,920 — see all ticket types and buy yours here

Lights On Festival, lightsonfest.com

More Summer Music Festivals To Keep An Eye On — For 2023 & 2024!

KCON, Friday, 18 to Sunday, 20 August, 2023 in Los Angeles — The largest fan celebration of Korean culture and music. This year’s headlines include ATEEZ, (G)I-DLE, Stray Kids, XG and Everglow. www.kconusa.com
Head In The Clouds — 88rising’s annual music festival with a line-up featuring artists from across Asia and the Asian diaspora. New York’s edition in May 2023 saw ITZY, Rich Brian, beabadoobee and Milli headline while LA’s edition in early August 2023 featured DPR Live, DPR Ian, Rich Brian, NIKI, Rina Sawayama and more. Look out for more upcoming HITC festivals this year in Jakarta (September 2023) and Guangzhou (TBC!). hitcfestival.com
All Things Go Music Festival, Saturday, 30 September to Sunday, 1 October, 2023 in Washington, DC — A music festival with 32 groundbreaking artists performing across multiple stages at the historic Merriweather Post Pavilion. Acts include headliner Maggie Rogers, Carly Rae Jepsen, Lana Del Rey and Boygenius plus Lizzy McAlpine, beabadoobee and more. allthingsgofestival.com
Glastonbury Festival, Wednesday, 26 to Sunday, 30 June, 2024 TBC in the UK — A five-day contemporary performing arts festival with music, dance, comedy, theatre, circus, cabaret, and more. www.glastonburyfestivals.co.uk
Fiji Rock Festival, July, 2024 TBC in Niigata — The annual rock festival held at one of Japan’s most popular ski resorts, Naeba Ski Resort. This year’s line-up saw over 200 Japanese and international musicians. www.fujirockfestival.com
Lollapalooza, August, 2024 TBC in Chicago — The perpetually sold-out annual four-day music festival covering various genres. This year’s edition in Chicago included NewJeans, beabadoobee, Sabrina Carpenter, Maggie Rogers and more huge names. Lollapalooza also saw editions in Mumbai, India in January 2023; Sao Paulo, Brazil, Argentina and Chile in March 2023 (with March 2024 for all three to be confirmed soon!), Stockholm, Sweden in June 2023, Paris, France in July 2023 and Berlin, Germany in September 2023. www.lollapalooza.com

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How To Get Your Hands On Free Airline Tickets, Vouchers & More

Team Sassy — Thu, 13 Jul 2023 22:01:21 +0000

Want to get your hands on some free airline tickets? Here’s everything you need to know…

Hoping to get away this summer? You’re in luck! As we’re sure you’ve heard, Hong Kong is handing out more than 700,000 free airline tickets as part of the “Hello Hong Kong” campaign to boost the city’s tourism.

It was announced earlier this year that Hong Kong residents would be allocated 80,000 free airline tickets, while the rest will be distributed between Greater Bay Area visitors and overseas travellers. Read on to learn how to get your hands some free airline tickets. Plus, find out about the other free goodies up for grabs in the coming months.

Editor’s Note: This article was most recently updated on Friday, 14 July, 2023. Be sure to bookmark this page for more updates.

What Kind Of Free Airline Tickets Can You Win?

Four Hong Kong based-airlines — namely Cathay Pacific, HK Express, Hong Kong Airlines and Greater Bay Airlines — will be giving out free round-trip economy flight tickets. Winners will only have to pay the taxes, surcharges and fees that apply to the tickets.

When Will The Free Airline Tickets Be Distributed?

The free airline ticket giveaway officially rolled out on 1 March, 2023 and will run until September 2023.

From 2pm, Thursday, 17 August until 11:59am, Wednesday, 30 August, Cathay Pacific will be giving away over 1,000 discounted economy class tickets to over 30 short and long-haul destinations, including Japan, Korea, Thailand, Paris, London and more. Head to the Cathay Pacific website for more details.

How Do I Get Free Airline Tickets?

The airline tickets will be distributed via a number of different activities, such as lucky draws, first-come first-served arrangements, or buy-one-get-one deals. Full details on how to apply for free tickets can be found on the respective airlines’ websites.

World of Winners Rewards

Those who have won tickets as part of Hong Kong International Airport’s “World of Winners” campaign are eligible for a range of other rewards to be claimed at various attractions, hotels and malls across Hong Kong. We’re talking two-day tickets to Hong Kong Disneyland, discounted hotel packages and digital shopping vouchers. When claiming rewards, winners should present their World of Winners notification email.

The World of Winners campaign will also be releasing A new round of ticket giveaways will be launched in the third quarter of the year as part of the World of Winners campaign.

Other Goodies Up For Grabs

Visitors staying in Hong Kong for no more than 90 days will be given free welcome goodies upon arrival, including a welcome drink, a $100 cash voucher and an exclusive gift (available on a first-come first-serve basis).

To collect your goodies, visit one of the Hong Kong Tourism Board Visitor Centres and grab your Hong Kong Goodies visitor consumption voucher. You’ll need to register an account on the Tourism Board website by scanning the QR code on your redemption card to get your e-coupons for redeeming your free drink and gifts. Head here for more details.

As part of the “Hello Hong Kong” campaign, 16,000 local businesses will also offer special offers and discounts to visitors, to be distributed at four border checkpoints.

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12 Travel Accessories For Your Next Trip

Ciara Radburn — Mon, 03 Jul 2023 22:00:51 +0000

From silk eye masks to pocket-sized tech tools, these handy little travel accessories are here to make your next getaway that little bit smoother.

Whether you’re beach hopping around Asia, squeezing in a weekend city break or jet-setting across the globe this summer, these travel accessories are worth checking out before you pack your bags and take off. With long travel times, early morning flights and limited luggage allowance, the “getting there” element of the trip can be a bit of a drag… but with the right preparation and accessories, you’re guaranteed to feel more relaxed and organised. So sit back and enjoy your journey (however near or far it may be) – your adventure awaits!

ANORAK, Travel Wallet with RFID Protection, $750

When racing to your gate, there’s nothing more comforting than reaching into your bag and finding that everything you need is right where you want it to be. Better yet, when it’s all neatly tucked into one wallet. Made with 100% Saffiano, scratch and splash-resistant leather, ANORAK’s all-in-one travel wallet features labelled compartments for your passport, boarding pass and cards, and even has little pockets for your SIM card and phone pin. Available in a range of colours, the wallet comes complete with RFID protection and can be monogrammed with your initials for a personalised touch.

Use promo code SASSYHK10 at checkout to enjoy 10% off your entire order. Offer valid until Sunday, 30 June 2024.

GHD, Flight Travel Hairdryer, $675

Small but mighty, this travel-sized hairdryer is super lightweight at just 422g, and with dual voltage, you can easily enjoy salon style on the go.

Sephora Collection x Travelo, Pocket Atomiser, $140

Never be without your favourite scent thanks to this handy tool. Its patented filling system by Travalo makes it a breeze to refill in just a few seconds and will give you about 65 sprays.

Kikkerland, Travel Luggage Scale, $99

Not a light packer? Never risk paying a surcharge for overweight luggage again! The scale weighs up to 35kg and includes a built-in metre-long tape measure.

CASETiFY, PowerThru Power Bank, $589

Not only is CASETiFY’s PowerThru Power Bank pocket-friendly and easy to grip, but it packs 5,000 MaH to keep your phone powered up as you go exploring.

MOMAX, Universal Travel Adapter, $313.50

Working abroad? Boasting 100W power output, you can leave your bulky laptop charger at home and enjoy fast charging for multiple devices in more than 150 countries.

Hermès, Apple AirTag Key Ring, $2,699

Dress up your Apple AirTag with this calfskin key ring. The exclusive AirTag Hermès is etched with the iconic Clou de Selle signatures, and the “Picto Montagne” print makes it all the more fitting for your next wild adventure.

24 Bottles, Travel Tumbler, $319

This 350ml insulated mug can keep your drink (or food!) hot for six hours and cold for 24. What’s more, the stone-like finish makes it anti-slip and resistant to scratches.

July, Tech Kit, $610

Keep all your tech accessories neatly tucked into one sleek case. Its translucent polycarbonate shell allows you to check what’s inside with just a glance and is also crush-proof.

Slip, Silk Frequent Flyer Set, $1,250

You’re sure to be the envy of the cabin on your long-haul flight with this stylish trio from Slip. The set includes a memory foam neck pillow, sleep mask and face covering made with high-grade Mulberry silk.

Read More: 10 Sunglasses We Love

Paravel, Packing Cube Quad, $640

Made with lightweight, water-resistant Negative Nylon (a fabric made from 100% post-consumer upcycled plastic bottles), stay organised and maximise your luggage space with this sustainable packing cube set from Paravel.

Pacsafe, RFID Blocking Security Neck Pouch, $260

Keep your cash and cards safe with this discreet pouch. The RFIDsafe blocking material shields your credit cards against unwanted scans and the slash-resistant strap adds extra security.

Editor’s Note: “12 Travel Accessories For Your Next Trip” was most recently updated by Nicole Moraleda in June 2023. With thanks to Ciara Radburn for her contribution.

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7 Beachside Weekend Getaways From Hong Kong

Jessica Mizzi — Wed, 14 Jun 2023 22:00:43 +0000

Our top beachside destinations make for a perfect quick weekend getaway — in less than four hours, you could be kicking back on a golden-sand beach.

One of the many things we love about living in Hong Kong is its close proximity to so many other incredible destinations. Coupled with the generous number of public holidays you get per year, we’re certainly no stranger to a quick weekend getaway from Hong Kong. As long as you plan ahead, cheap flights should be available, saving on cost and on the number of annual leave days you have to take! It’s time to fish out your passport and start planning a short trip to one of our favourite beach getaways.

Taiwan – 90-minute to 2-hour direct flights to Taipei or Kaohsiung

While our tiny island neighbour might not immediately spring to mind for a beachside holiday, with frequent (and affordable!), direct flights to both Taipei and Kaohsiung and more than 1,600km of coastline, there are easily accessible strips of sand just waiting to be discovered. From Taipei, make a beeline for the 3km golden stretch of Fulong Beach. It’s an easy one-hour train ride from the city centre.

Sassy Tip: Visit from June to October to catch the annual Fulong International Sand Sculpture Arts Festival.

If you’d prefer to fly into Kaohsiung, Cijin Beach is popular for surfing followed by cheap seafood eats and is just a 10-minute ferry ride away!

Vietnam — 2 to 3-hour direct flights to Da Nang, Nha Trang or Phu Quoc

It’s no secret that this is a go-to destination for Team Sassy. Often overlooked, Vietnamese beach towns get our vote for their pristine coastlines, range and affordability of accommodation, delicious fresh food and activities. Fly direct to Da Nang, Nha Trang (HK Express is currently flying direct four days per week) or Phu Quoc (Vietjet has currently resumed flights three times a week) for quick and easy access.

Sassy Tip: If you’re looking to get a bit off the beaten path, consider Ho Tram, an up-and-coming coastal destination around 2.5 hours out of Ho Chi Minh City, or hop on a one-hour connecting flight to the stunning and remote Con Dao islands off the southern coast.

Japan — 2.5-hour direct flight from Hong Kong to Okinawa

Your mind may instantly think of bustling cities or thrilling winter escapades but there’s more to this captivating archipelago nation! Prepare to be amazed by the glorious beaches and distinctive charm on offer in Japan. Fly direct to Naha, Okinawa, where you can swim, snorkel and scuba dive in crystal-clear azure waters, relax on unspoiled beaches or explore verdant forests teeming with rare flora and fauna. The southern isles hold a treasure trove of natural and cultural wonders and with a whopping 160 islands beckoning you, this coastal paradise will call you back, time and time again.

Sassy Tip: Watch out for the eagerly anticipated revival of direct flights to Ishigaki, another gem nestled within Okinawa Prefecture, serving as your gateway to unparalleled scuba diving adventures.

The Philippines — 2.5 to 3-hour direct flights to Manila or Cebu

The irresistible allure of the Philippines needs no introduction. While some of the islands require layovers in Manila, you can make a beeline for tropical Cebu. There are lux beach resorts, idyllic snorkelling, scuba diving and watersports all on offer. Of course, with literally hundreds of islands to explore, it’s well worth venturing a bit further afield if you do have a bit more time up your sleeve.

Korea — 3-hour direct flight to Jeju Island

Prepare to be swept away by the awe-inspiring beaches of Jeju Island, a true paradise in South Korea. Nestled amidst the pristine waters of the East China Sea, spend your days exploring the enchanting coastline, adorned with dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and secret caves waiting to be discovered. Take a refreshing dip or even learn to surf! Don’t forget to indulge in mouthwatering seafood delicacies while you’re there. This is one quick weekend getaway that promises to draw you in with its charm.

Sassy Tip: Don’t miss the spectacular Jeongbang Waterfall that drops directly over the cliffs into the sea!

Malaysia — 3-hour direct flights to Kota Kinabalu

A quick weekend getaway to the tropical paradise of Kota Kinabalu could just be the answer to your wanderlust cravings. Just a short hop from Hong Kong, you’ll be completely surrounded by nature. Think diving into pristine waters, exploring lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls. Don’t miss treating your tastebuds to the fresh flavours of local seafood or giving yourself time for a pampering spa session.

Sassy Tip: Gaya Island sits a short boat ride off the coast and makes for an excellent weekend away!

Thailand — 3 to 3.5-hour direct flights to Phuket and Koh Samui

Whether you’re after a romantic getaway, a wild beach party, a packed weekend of watersports or a restorative retreat, there’s a Thai beach escape to suit! Sassy favourites like Phuket never disappoint, but it’s well worth considering nearby Khao Lak or Krabi (1 to 2 hours drive) to escape the masses. Alternatively, fly direct to Koh Samui (currently three times a week on Bangkok Airways) or take a road trip from Bangkok to Hua Hin. The options really are endless!

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Leaving Hong Kong Checklist: Your Practical To-Do List

Team Sassy — Mon, 12 Jun 2023 22:00:31 +0000

Leaving Hong Kong? We’ve put together a handy checklist to help you tie up loose ends before you hit the airport, from tax clearance to MPF withdrawal.

Hong Kong is a cultural melting pot, with many people from all over the world emigrating to this great metropolis. But as people arrive, people also leave. Whether you’ve been here as an expat for six months, six years or are a born and bred Hongkonger, no doubt it will be tough to say goodbye, but even tougher when you don’t know where to start on the admin front! We’ve created the ultimate leaving Hong Kong checklist to help you tie up those loose ends.

Tax Clearance

This applies more to those who have moved to Hong Kong from abroad. No less than a month’s notice is advisable to settle any outstanding payments or rebates (fingers crossed!). Once notified, IR will send you one final green tax form for completion within 14 days. Your employer will also need to notify IR of your salary up to the agreed leaving date by completing an I.R.56G form (available from Revenue Tower) one month in advance.

You will then be required to settle the final bill in person at Revenue Tower. We would recommend delivering the papers in person, or via fax to save time. Let’s hope you’ll be cashing a chunky rebate cheque in soon!

If you’re self-employed or running your own company you need to make sure you let them know you are ceasing business otherwise you will still be liable for various fees.

Request For MPF Withdrawal

If you wish to claim your MPF before leaving Hong Kong, the necessary application forms will be available from your pension holder. Finer details may vary, but all require a photocopy of your HKID card and satisfactory proof that you intend to leave Hong Kong permanently (if you’re returning to your country of origin, a passport copy and forwarding address should suffice), as well as your bank details including the swift code. You will also need to make a declaration confirming your move, which can be easily organised at a Public Enquiry Service Centre. Simply drop in and they will allocate you a time slot.

Once the application is complete, it should take one month for the money to arrive in your account (time for a shopping spree?). Remember, you can only claim your pension due to permanent departure from Hong Kong once, so think carefully about the likelihood of your return.

Utilities

Make sure you shut up shop when it comes to your home bills — notify your utility suppliers with the final date of your lease and be sure to close accounts. Main ones to think about are electricity, gas and water but don’t forget the pesky things like internet, TV contracts and water deliveries.

Notify Your Landlord And Declutter Your Home

Naturally, if you intend to bid farewell to your Hong Kong residence, you’ll need to give your landlord the required notice and ensure your flat is spick and span for inspection. All being well, your deposit should be returned to you within 10 to 15 working days of vacating.

No doubt, you will have accumulated more junk than you first thought, so give yourself sufficient time to ship, chuck or donate. Asia Expat or Facebook Marketplace can help to free you of superfluous goods. Alternatively, use your move as an excuse to get the girls around, open a bottle of wine and let them fight over your treasures. You’ll be surprised how sought-after extension leads, tea lights and cans of tomatoes are!

Cancel Any Existing Plans And Memberships

Because the least you’d want is to still have your autopay billing your gym membership even after leaving Hong Kong.

Insurance

Another thing that’s worth thinking about is any insurance policies you currently have in place. If these are arranged through your company, you’re in luck as they will probably cease with your contract but if you set them up on your own, be sure to cancel them: home, health, travel, etc. Most of them won’t be transferrable and don’t take the risk — travel insurance companies tend to be pretty strict on where your trips originate from.

Phone contract

When it comes to cancellations, phone contracts are pretty rigid in Hong Kong unless you are within the ‘rollover’ period. If you’re midway through your contract, most likely you’ll have to cough up the whole lot in one go. If possible, try to sell your handset online or even transfer the contract into someone else’s name if permitted by your operator.

Arrange To Ship Your Things Over

If you’re an expat, you may have the luxury of company-compensated shipping but do be mindful of what you’re sending. Take time to assess your boxes — just because they are ‘free’ doesn’t mean you have to use them all. Clearing out your junk can be terribly therapeutic but do remember the keepsakes! If you’re shipping your items yourself, the cheapest option is via the Hong Kong post office. Prices vary according to weight and location but for an idea, a 25kg box sent to the UK will cost around $1,500.

Check your luggage allowance in advance — it could be more (or less) than you first thought. If on the small side, pay for additional allowance before departure or, for the more flush amongst you, this could be an ideal opportunity to use those Marco Polo points and get a business upgrade. However light you think your baggage is, split it between two bags, one of which feasibly could become carry-on. You might just avoid extra costs by taking a backpack on board. Sore shoulders are better than an empty pocket in our view!

Update Your Bank Details

Many people leaving Hong Kong plan to return at some point in the near future, in which case it is not always necessary to pack up your bank account straight away. If you have a global account such as HSBC Premier, your money can be easily transferred into a new location and currency. Whatever your choice, ensure your contact details are up to date and that you have transferred sufficient funds to your new location. If closing your account with HSBC, you will need to fill out a “Consolidation and Closure” form, which takes three days to process.

Redirect Your Postal Address

The likelihood is that the main things you receive in the post are bills and delivery parcels, but if you’re worried that some important documentation might get left behind then it’s easy to set up a postal redirection with the Hong Kong post office simply by filling out a form and giving them a forwarding address for the affordable amount of $125 for three months.

Build Your Hong Kong Bucket List

Now that you’ve got the boring stuff out the way it’s time to start making the most of your last few days or weeks in the 852 and build up your Hong Kong bucket list. Whether it’s something adventurous (like attempting The Twins one final time), something indulgent (perhaps one last brunch or exploring a unique neighbourhood?) or just seeing friends as often as possible, the memories are here to stay. With that, we bid you adieu, bon voyage and bonne chance!

Editor’s Note: “Leaving Hong Kong Checklist: Your Practical To-Do List” was most recently updated by Team Sassy in June 2023. With thanks to Lexi Davey and Fashila Kanakka for their contribution.

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