Although the tram won’t be running, the Peak Tower and Sky Terrace 428 will still welcome tourists. Alternative transport options include

• Citybus Route 15 from Central;
• The Green Minibus Route 1 from Hong Kong Station;

To handle the increased demand, bus and minibus services will be enhanced as needed. However, the Citybus 15C service between Central Ferry Piers and the Peak Tram Terminus will not operate during this period. You can still reach the Peak by taxi or even on foot during this period.

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Maintenance like this is part of routine safety measures to keep services reliable. Operators say they’ll try to finish the work quickly and reduce inconvenience for passengers.

In December 2024, the Peak Tram also introduced a single fare structure for all days to avoid confusion caused by dynamic pricing. A return adult ticket now costs HK$108, while children and seniors pay HK$54. One-way tickets are priced at HK$76 and HK$38 respectively.

The Peak Tram is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Hong Kong. It began running in 1888, making it the city’s oldest funicular railway. Originally powered by coal-fired steam, the system has evolved over the decades. Its steep incline and dramatic views have made it a must-visit spot.

Header Image Credit: Simon Nicol/SPRG

Pet cabin available only on Japan routes for now

For the first time, passengers can fly with their furry companions right beside them, rather than placing them in the hold. This unique offering is currently available only on select routes to Japan, including Tokyo (NRT), Osaka (KIX), and Nagoya (NGO).

However, on the way back to Hong Kong, all pets will be kept in the plane’s climate-controlled cargo, and there are different rules to follow regarding the booking of the tickets, the bag requirements, and the weight limit, currently set at 8 kilos. Check this page to see all the rules.

What other upgraded services can passengers expect?

The pet travel service is just one part of Hong Kong Airlines’ wider upgrade plan. The new baggage policy offers Economy Class travellers 23kg checked baggage (plus 7kg carry-on) and Business Class passengers a generous 64kg (two pieces, 32kg each) plus 15kg of cabin baggage.

Inflight dining has been elevated with signature Cantonese dishes crafted in collaboration with Michelin-starred Ming Court. Meanwhile, the Club Autus lounge at Hong Kong International Airport, upgraded in partnership with Plaza Premium Group, now provides an enhanced premium experience.

Passengers also benefit from improved online check-in, with free adjacent seating for children under 12 and more complimentary seat selection options.

Looking ahead, Hong Kong Airlines is expanding fast. Daily non-stop flights to Sydney should be launched on June 20, marking its second Australian route this year.

Meanwhile, has climbed back to ninth place among the world’s busiest airports, showing strong recovery even if operations remain slightly below pre-pandemic levels. One last thing for travellers to keep in mind, since April 7, power banks are banned on flights, so make sure your devices are fully charged before take-off.

Header Image Credit: Andy Blackledge (Flickr) / Melv_L – MACASR (Wikimedia Commons)

The tour started with fun dances and greetings at the refreshed Tsim Sha Tsui restaurant on Peking Road. The restaurant now has bright colours, playful decor and spaces designed for photos, including a colourful wall that says “CHICKEN JOY FOREVER”. Guests can also enjoy easier ordering with new self-service kiosks.

Fans who want to meet the mascot can visit Hung Hom on 10 May from 10am to noon, or North Point later that day from 3pm to 5pm. Jollibee will also take part in the Philippine Independence Day parade in Central on 1 June, adding even more fun to the city’s celebrations.

Each visit promises entertainment, smiles and a chance to snap a photo with the friendly mascot. Whether stopping by for a selfie or sitting down for a plate of Chickenjoy, customers are invited to enjoy the warmth and happiness that Jollibee brings to every meal.

Header Image Credit: Sinclair/Jollibee

New rules start May 1st, 2025

Under the new rate, employees are entitled to the minimum hourly wage whether they are employed full-time, part-time, casually, monthly, daily, hourly or by piece. The increase applies regardless of whether the employment is permanent or temporary.

However, the minimum wage does not apply to live-in domestic workers, student interns, work experience students, and persons not covered under Hong Kong’s employment laws.

Employees with disabilities are also covered. They may opt for a productivity assessment to determine whether their wages should be based on the statutory minimum wage or on a rate that matches their productivity.

Also, Employers are now required to record the total number of hours worked by employees earning less than HK$17,200 per month, an increase from the previous HK$16,300 threshold.

Hong Kong remains one of the World’s most expensive cities

Hong Kong continues to rank among the world’s most expensive cities, as confirmed by multiple studies in recent years. In 2023, it was named the second most expensive city globally, just behind New York, reflecting the high costs faced by residents and visitors. The city has also retained its reputation as the priciest destination for expats, holding the top spot in Mercer’s 2024 global rankings.

Recent, research further shows Hong Kong remains one of the most expensive places to live, adding to the financial pressures already well-known to those living and working in the city. In a global inflationary context, the Consumer Council also highlighted cases of shrinkflation last year, revealing that shrinkflation in Hong Kong is real, with 90% of supermarket products shrinking in volume or weight by up to 30%.

Header Image Credit: Leung Cho Pan via Canva

An initiative to attract more international tourists

The scheme has been used in past years as a way to stimulate tourism, similar to campaigns rolled out in 2024 and earlier in 2023, when free rides and special promotions helped boost visitor numbers after travel restrictions eased.

Other initiatives like the “buy one get one free” promotion in 2023 for Hong Kong residents were also proposed to encourage visitors to cross the sea. With Hong Kong ranking as the 9th busiest international airport in 2024, welcoming 34.6 million passengers, Macao sees a real opportunity to attract more travellers stopping over in the region.

Last year, over 310,000 international visitors took advantage of the offer between February and December, according to the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO). Officials are hoping to build on that success in 2025 by once again partnering with Hong Kong ferry and bus operators to provide the complimentary rides.

How to get free transportation to Macao

International visitors arriving in Hong Kong can enjoy free travel to Macao by bus or ferry under this scheme between May 1, 2025 and December 31, 2025. This scheme does not apply to visitors from Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan.

Free bus from Hong Kong International Airport

Visitors arriving at Hong Kong International Airport can claim a free one-way bus ticket at the designated counter inside the restricted area. This ticket allows direct transfer from the SkyPier Terminal to Macao via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge. Visit www.macauhkairportbus.com for details.

Free ferry tickets from Hong Kong

Visitors can secure a free ferry ticket by showing valid travel documents and proof of arrival in Hong Kong within seven days. Advance booking is required via the official websites of the ferry operators. Free tickets are subject to seat availability and operator terms and conditions that you can review using the links below.

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To celebrate the occasion, a free carnival will take place that day at Victoria Park, on Football Pitches 4, 5 and 6.

The event will run from 9:00AM to 5:30PM, with cultural performances starting at 9:15 am. Organised by the Hong Kong Buddhist Association, the celebration will feature over 100 booths with cultural activities, games, exhibitions and vegetarian food.

Programme highlights include:

• 09:00 – 17:30: Buddha Bathing and Cultural Carnival
• 09:45 – 11:30: Opening Ceremony and Blessing Ritual
• 11:30 – 17:00: Public Buddha Bathing, Parent-child Activities and Vegetarian Culture
• 17:00 – 17:30: Prayers for Peace and Disaster Relief

Other activities include bell-ringing for wishes, a parade representing the Shakya clan, the Cloud and Water Mobile Library, and exhibitions about the life of the Buddha and Buddhist teachings.

These experiences are designed to encourage reflection, kindness and a deeper understanding of Buddhist values in everyday life. Visitors can take time to explore artworks, join peaceful rituals, or engage with displays that highlight the wisdom of the Dharma in modern society.

Families and children can enjoy hands-on workshops and educational zones that present Buddhist culture in a fun and accessible way. Quiet spaces are also available for reading, writing sutras, or simply relaxing in a calm environment. Vegetarian food booths will offer not only meals, but also insights into the role of mindful eating in Buddhist practice. Visitors who take part in various activities across the site can collect stamps at selected booths and receive a special souvenir as a memory of the day.

Header Image Credit: Hong Kong Tourism Board

Recurring collab with HK Tramsways

This marks the fourth consecutive year that Keung To, a leading figure in Cantopop and a core member of the boy group MIRROR, has partnered with HK Tramways and his fan club for his birthday celebrations.

Last year, Ocean Park Hong Kong also celebrated Keung To’s birthday by featuring cartoon images of the singer on its iconic cable cars. In 2023, the fan club organised various activities across the city, including a Birthday Carnival display and limited-edition birthday merchandise.

Special treasure hunt in West kowloon

Ahead of the free tram ride day, fans can join the Keung To Birthday Treasure Hunt 2025, taking place on 26 April at AXA x Wonderland in West Kowloon. Still organised by the Keung Show Hong Kong Fan Club, the event will feature an exclusive treasure hunt adventure, surprise performances, and limited-edition merchandise including a commemorative admission ticket, a special event cap, and a Treasure Hunt passbook.

Tickets are priced at HK$980, with all seats assigned randomly. This highly anticipated event is expected to create unforgettable memories and set the perfect tone for the birthday celebrations. Will Keung To be there?

Header image credits: Kwok Ho Eddie Wong via Flickr / Keung To via Instagram

Starting on 23 May 2025, HK Express will launch direct flights to Changzhou in Jiangsu Province. Travellers will be able to discover this vibrant city, mixing traditional Jiangnan beauty with modern energy, with three flights a week and just over two hours of flight time. Then, from 29 May 2025, the airline will add three weekly flights to Yiwu in Zhejiang Province, known for its lively markets and business opportunities.

As for Japan, HK Express will bring back its seasonal flights to Miyako (Shimojishima) starting on 27 June 2025. This relaxing island escape will be served with four round-trip flights a week until 24 October 2025, perfect for summer holidays.

For those dreaming of Korea, two new direct flights are on the way with flights to Cheongju that will start on 5 June 2025, followed by Daegu flights on 6 June 2025. Both cities offer a glimpse into Korea’s culture, history and popular K-drama settings, with an easy three-hour journey from Hong Kong.

With these new routes, HK Express keeps making travel more flexible and exciting for everyone, offering new adventures just a short flight away.

Header Image Credit: 袁勇博, Travel and Still life photography via Canva

Why is Thailand introducing the TDAC?

Thailand welcomes between 30 and 40 million tourists every year. To better manage this growing number of visitors, the government is moving towards a paper-free process that helps speed up immigration, improve public health tracking, and strengthen border security. The TDAC is part of this effort.

It also allows officials to screen travellers more efficiently and avoid long queues at immigration counters.

Who needs to complete the TDAC?

All non-Thai nationals entering Thailand are required to complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card. It applies to travellers coming by plane, land border, or sea. Thai citizens are exempt.

When and how to submit the TDAC

Travellers must submit the form within three days before arrival in Thailand. The process is done online through the official Immigration Bureau website and here is what you need to know about the process:

• Submissions are free of charge
• A QR code is sent by email once the form is submitted
• The QR code must be shown upon arrival in Thailand

You can submit the form individually or as part of a group (up to 10 people per submission). You can also update your information before you arrive, but some personal details cannot be changed once submitted (such as name, passport number, nationality, and date of birth).

What information do you need to provide?

To complete the TDAC, travellers must fill in the form in English only. You can choose to enter the information manually or scan the MRZ (machine-readable zone) of your passport to auto-fill details.

The required information includes:

• Passport details (upload or manual entry)
• Personal information (name, date of birth, nationality)
• Travel itinerary and flight number
• Accommodation details in Thailand
• Health declaration (especially if travelling from a flagged country)

If you’ve been in a high-risk country within the last 14 days, or your flight is on a watchlist, the system will prompt you to provide extra health details as required by Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health.

What happens after submission?

Once you’ve submitted your TDAC:

• A confirmation email with a QR code will be sent to you
• Keep a digital or printed copy of the QR code with you
• You’ll need to show this at immigration when you arrive

If your travel plans change, you can return to the system and update your TDAC, as long as your core personal data stays the same.

Important notes

• The TDAC is not a visa – if you need a visa, apply separately
• The form is available in English only
• You cannot update the following once submitted: Full name, Passport Number, Nationality, Date of Birth
• Group submissions allow up to 10 people

The Thailand Digital Arrival Card is now a must for all foreign travellers starting 1 May 2025. It’s free, easy to complete, and helps speed up your arrival at Thai borders. Make sure to submit your TDAC within 3 days of your arrival, and keep your QR code ready. For full details or to submit your card, visit https://tdac.immigration.go.th.

Header Image Credit: BiG-FOTOSKIT from pixabay

Here is the top 10 cities with the most millionaires worldwide:

The top 10 includes four cities from the United States, three from Asia, two in Europe, and Sydney representing Australia. Hong Kong ranks 8th worldwide with 154,900 millionaires, according to consultancy firm. Despite its global financial status, growth in millionaire numbers has been slow, rising just 3 percent in the past decade.

Looking at growth over the past ten years, The Bay Area saw a 98% rise in millionaires, Singapore grew by 62%, and New York by 45%. Hong Kong, with a 3% increase, one of the lowest among major cities. London dropped by 12%, while Tokyo and Paris both grew modestly at 4 and 5%.

At the same time, Hong Kong is now the third most expensive city to live in across Asia, according to a recent survey. This ranking, which looks at daily expenses like food, transport, and dining, puts Hong Kong ahead of Shanghai, Beijing, and Shenzhen, even without counting rent.

Header Image Credit : Ben Cheung & Muratani Via Canva

Opened in September 2005, the park has welcomed millions of guests annually and announced end of February that it welcomed a record 7.7 million guests in fiscal year 2024. This milestone follows the opening of World of Frozen, the world’s first Frozen-themed land, which debuted in November 2023.

To mark this 20th anniversary, three major new attractions will headline the festivities.

• Disney Friends Live: Party at the Castle!, a live concert-style show in front of the Castle of Magical Dreams.
• Friendtastic!, the biggest parade in the Hong Kong resort’s history,
• Momentous: Party in the Night Sky!, a new version of the iconic nighttime spectacular, with even more lights, fireworks and visual effects.

Disney Friends Live: Party at the Castle!

The 15-minute live show brings pop music, dance, and fun moments to the Castle of Magical Dreams. Mickey, Duffy and Friends appear in special outfits, joined by Princesses Aurora, Tiana, and Belle. With new songs, colourful visuals, and party effects like balloons and fog jets, it’s a high-energy celebration for everyone.

Friendtastic!

The 30-minute “Friendtastic!” parade features 11 colourful floats, over 100 performers, and more than 30 Disney characters. With music, dancing, and vibrant costumes, it includes favourites from Zootopia, Encanto, Toy Story, and more. Special appearances and new outfits make it a lively, can’t-miss highlight of the 20th anniversary celebration.

Momentous: Party in the Night Sky!

Momentous: Party in the Night Sky!” is a 30-minute nighttime show filled with music, fireworks, lasers, drones, and 3D projections. It features Disney characters, magical scenes, and a glowing 20th anniversary logo in the sky. From the castle to Main Street, it’s a stunning 360° experience that ends each day with sparkle and magic

Other details and discounted tickets

On top of that, from now through July 31, 2025, Hong Kong residents can enjoy the “Double the Fun” offer, which gives guests two park visits for the price of one at HK$859. Expect over 80 exclusive food items, a fresh range of 20th anniversary merchandise, and limited-time hotel experiences.

Meanwhile, Hong Kong Disneyland also recently announced a separate limited-time event, Marvel Season of Super Heroes, which takes place in Tomorrowland until 1 June 2025. The highlight is “Join the Mission: Scarlet Skies,” an upgraded nighttime drone show featuring The Scarlet Witch, who makes her Hong Kong Disneyland debut.

In another initiative, Hong Kong Disneyland will give away 200,000 one-day tickets to NGOs and city-based charities this year — doubling its usual annual donation. Registered organisations can apply online before the end of April. You can find all the details here.

Header Image Credit: Hong Kong Disneyland

The decision comes after the US said it will end duty-free treatment for packages from Hong Kong and increase tariffs starting 2 May. Hongkong Post called the move unfair and said it will not help collect any US tariffs. Parcels that have already been posted but not yet shipped will be returned and refunded, starting 22 April.

Hongkong post also mentioned that “For sending items to the US, the public in Hong Kong should be prepared to pay exorbitant and unreasonable fees due to the US’s unreasonable and bullying acts. Other postal items containing documents only without goods will not be affected.”.

This isn’t the first disruption. In February, the US Postal Service suddenly stopped accepting parcels from Hong Kong and mainland China, then reversed the decision just one day later. The rising costs and sudden rule changes are part of a growing trade and postal clash between the two sides, with regular people and small businesses caught in the middle.

Header Image Credit: LN9267 via Wikimedia Commons

Organised between May 1 to May 5, the event will aim to encourage both locals and tourists to explore the cultural charm of the Tuen Mun area. Thousands of real and artificial hydrangeas will decorate the entire promenade, creating what organisers describe as a “Hydrangea Town”. The highlight will be the 120-metre Hydrangea Promenade, filled with soft pastel blooms weaving along the seafront.

Visitors will find large-scale displays, live music, workshops and market stalls in a laid-back setting by the sea.

Nearby, the Hydrangea Aqua Garden will feature hundreds of blossoms surrounding mirrored pools, creating a calm and reflective photo spot.

On 1 May at 7:30pm, a sky show titled Love in the Sky will launch the festival. A total of 1,288 drones will light up the evening with patterns inspired by the hydrangea flower.. The best place to view the drone display will be Gold Coast Piazza, although weather conditions may affect the timing.

Local girl group Lolly Talk will appear as special guests during the opening, adding extra energy to the night.

Throughout the five days, over 50 stalls will offer handmade goods, floral items, drinks and snacks such as floral teas and desserts. A number of booths will be operated by social enterprises and charities, including the Hong Kong Federation of Handicapped Youth, Star Artisan and others, with part of the proceeds going to the Children’s Cancer Fund.

Daily workshops will invite visitors to join flower-themed activities under a “create as you like” format. Guests will be able to take part in multiple sessions with one ticket. The event will also feature a rolling schedule of live shows, while pop-up experiences, scenic photo zones, and free cultural programs will also be held.

To know more, visit www.goldcoastpiazza.com.hk.

Header Image Credit: Gold Coast Piazza

The organisers have confirmed the festival will be back in a post on Instagram, although details such as the exact dates, location, and performer line-up have not yet been announced.

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Waterbomb stands out from other festivals with its strong visual style and interactive format. Alongside live music, the event includes large-scale water fights where the crowd and artists are divided into colored teams. Attendees are encouraged to take part using powerful water guns, turning the festival into a playful, full-body experience. The festival features three main elements.

• The music and performance with unique visuals, K-pop bands, hip-hop acts, and high-energy sets from Korean DJs.
• The water battles where festival-goers become part of the action in a light-hearted team competition.
• And the Waterbomb Time, their signature part of the event filled with water cannons, huge splash moments and group energy, designed to create a sense of thrill and shared joy.

In 2024, artists like Jay Park, Jessi, Rain, Yugyeom or tripleS performed at the debut Hong Kong edition. While the event faced some delays due to typhoon weather and long entrance queues, many enjoyed its atmosphere and unique format.

Despite major events in Hong Kong during the first quarter of 2024, such as the Rugby Sevens and the long-awaited Coldplay concerts, the music festival scene has faced some challenges. Creamfields has been cancelled, and Shi Fu Miz is currently crowdfunding in hopes of returning. Clockenflap is still scheduled for December in Central. Further details about Waterbomb Hong Kong 2025 will be announced in the coming weeks.

To know the latest announcements, follow @waterbomb_hongkong_official on Instagram or visit www.waterbombhongkong.com. If you’re looking for more fun things to do, read our guide to the best concerts and music festival in Hong Kong.

Header Image Credit: Waterbomb

Hong Kong Airport Now Ranked 6th in the World

Hong Kong International Airport has moved up five places in this year’s World Airport Awards and now ranks as the 6th best airport in the world, a strong jump from 11th last year.

The World Airport Awards are based on a large global survey, where passengers from more than 100 countries gave feedback, and they shared their experiences between August 2024 and February 2025. The rankings look at areas like check-in, cleanliness, shopping, staff, and how easy it is to get through immigration and security.

Hong Kong’s higher ranking comes as travel picks up again after the pandemic. Earlier this year, the airport handled over 5 million passengers, matching numbers from before COVID-19. HKIA has also benn named one of the world’s 10 busiest airports again, after increasing seat capacity by 40% since 2023.

The Hong Kong airport is also known for being clean. In 2024, it was ranked the 8th cleanest airport in the world, behind airports in Japan, South Korea, and Singapore. Later this year, the government will increase the departure tax for travellers. From October 1, passengers will pay HK$200 instead of HK$120, the first change in over 20 years.

Asian Airports Lead the Top 10 in 2025

Airports in Asia take six of the top ten spots in this year’s list. Singapore Changi is now No. 1, moving up from second place in 2024. Doha’s Hamad International, which held the top spot last year, is now second.

Japan has two airports in the top five with Tokyo Haneda (3rd) and Narita (5th). Seoul Incheon Airport comes in at 4th, and Hong Kong is just behind in 6th. European airports fill the rest of the top ten.

These include Paris CDG (7th), Rome Fiumicino (8th), Munich (9th), and Zurich (10th). Paris CDG was again named the best airport in Europe.

Here’s the Top 10 Best Airports in the world in 2025:

Many of the top airports also won extra awards. Tokyo Haneda was named the cleanest major airport and the best for domestic flights. Incheon in South Korea was recognised for its helpful staff.

These results show that airports in Asia are still leading when it comes to service and passenger satisfaction.

Read more at https://www.worldairportawards.com/.

Header Image Credit: Benson Kua via Flickr

iShowSpeed announced his Asia tour on March 24, sharing his excitement about visiting China, Mongolia, and Hong Kong. His journey has been packed with viral moments and bold stunts, including a daring backflip off the Great Wall of China and practising kung fu, which he shared proudly with his followers. In China, he also tackled the famed Love Ladder hike, further showcasing his adventurous spirit.

Known for his unpredictable humour and lively personality, iShowSpeed has taken his audience along for the ride, keeping them engaged with both cultural experiences and comedic commentary. His popularity has only grown throughout the trip, with each stream drawing in tens of thousands of viewers keen to see what he will do next.

To follow his live stream, visit his YouTube channel.

Header Image Credit: Youtube/iShowSpeed

The event aims to celebrate Kai Tak’s rich aviation history, which continues to be remembered by many in the city, and will also match with the very first Rugby Sevens organised in the newly built Kai Tak Stadium.

Kai Tak Airport, which operated from 1925 until its closure in 1998, served as Hong Kong’s primary international gateway for decades. Located in Kowloon City, its single runway stretched out into the harbour, requiring pilots to navigate a challenging approach path that took aircraft low over densely populated urban areas.

This unique landing approach, paired with the airport’s proximity to the city’s skyscrapers and mountains, made Kai Tak a globally recognised aviation landmark. Enthusiasts and travellers alike remember it as one of the most demanding yet iconic airports in the world, symbolising Hong Kong’s growth and connectivity throughout the 20th century.

Header Image Credit: Cathay Pacific & Ywchow via Wikimedia Commons

While Puglia has a long winemaking history dating back to ancient Greece and Rome, it was often overlooked for much of the 20th century. Many of its wines were produced in high volumes with a focus on quantity rather than character. This started to change in the 1980s when a group of producers began working with native grape varieties and promoting organic farming and artisanal techniques.

One example is Tenuta Viglione, a family-owned winery based in the Gioia del Colle PDO. It is part of a growing number of estates focused on small-batch, organic production, helping to highlight the region’s potential in international markets.

Puglia’s most recognisable grapes are Primitivo and Negroamaro, both known for bold reds. But the region also offers lesser-known varieties like Nero di Troia and Susumaniello, as well as white and rosé wines. Verdeca, a native white grape, is gaining attention for its fresh acidity, which pairs well with seafood. Meanwhile, Puglia’s rosés are being praised for their elegance and crispness.

In markets like Hong Kong, where wine drinkers are becoming more adventurous, these unique offerings are seen as a welcome change. The rising interest also mirrors a wider trend across Asia: a desire for wines with a clear identity, rooted in tradition but open to modern taste.

As more importers and sommeliers turn to regions like Puglia for new inspiration, the region’s wines are finding their place on shelves and menus across Asia. It marks a step forward not only for Puglia, but for the broader recognition of Southern Italy’s wine potential.

For more information and stockist details, visit Tenuta Viglione’s official website.