Hong Kong Ocean Park Milestone

source: Hong Kong Tourism Board

 

One should not be surprised if Hong Kong tours suddenly become more in demand these days. This is after Ocean Park authorities announced the birth of a king penguin in the park. It is a momentous event since it is the first of its kind to be born in Hong Kong.

Dr. Allan Zeman, Chairman of Ocean Park had recently stated that the newborn animal ambassador is doing well in its environment. It is thought to be highly curious as it goes around its habitat with its parents. Ample foods are given to the family, as well as various vitamins to keep it strong. The baby penguin is to stay in a safe zone where it can avoid constant disturbance from the onlookers. The said zone is also guarded by the team to make sure that the chick is kept safe as it still cannot swim.

The King penguin after 20 days. 

source: The Guardian

Definitely, the presence of the king penguin will attract travelers from major parts of the globe to Hong Kong. However, the birth of this lovely creature is not the lone reason why tours to Hong Kong are expected to double, and why there is a cause for celebration. Ocean Park has announced that in 2012, it recorded a total of 7.5 million visitors. 50% of which comes from China; 35% comprises local visitors, and the remaining 15% encompasses arrivals from other countries.

These record-high statistics are believed to be because of the completion of the Master Redevelopment Plan (MRP). Meaning, more facilities and attractions are opened to cater to the growing demands and needs of the tourists. 

It is not entirely a secret that Ocean Park Hong Kong is striving hard to provide its guests with the best kind of facilities. It is determined to retain its title as the first-ever Asian winner of the Applause Award, a prestigious recognition given to elite theme parks around the world. The head of the amusement park said that they owe gratitude to the people who have constantly patronized the beauty of Ocean Park.

Indeed, Hong Kong Ocean Park has gone a lot better with the birth of the king penguin, and the completion of its developments. Therefore, Hong Kong air tickets are expected to sell like hotcakes these days. Well, it’s not like it’s not a usual thing, right?

More Filipinos Travel to Hong Kong and Singapore on 2012

Photo by Simon Zhu 

According to recent surveys, many Filipino tourists still prefer to travel to Hong Kong and Singapore for vacation and leisure. Thanks to the frequency of flights to the city offered by different airline companies, said Tim Tio, sales and outbound marketing manager of Travelite Travel and Tours Philippines.

Hong Kong received a 15.6-percent increase in arrival from the Philippines from January to July 2012. In 2011, it received 659,829 visitors. Singapore, on the other hand, has been visited by 677,681 Filipinos that year; and had served 154 flights, compared to the 148 which landed in Hong Kong.

It is the boosting tourism industries of Singapore and Hong Kong that are held responsible for the statistics. Hong Kong is very much known for its shopping culture which Filipino travelers truly take pleasure in. On the other hand, it is the Singapore attractions - Resorts World Sentosa and Universal Studios Singapore - which immensely contribute to the strong number of arrivals from the Philippines.

This kind of set-up is expected to continue especially with the opening of the Legoland in Johor Bahru (Malaysia), which is easily accessed from Singapore. Some travel agencies in the Philippines have begun to offer tours to the amusement park, which will cover transfers from a hotel in Singapore to Legoland, and back.

But if Singapore and Hong Kong are enjoying a great reception from Philippine tourists, Malaysia seemed to have experienced a drop in 2011. That is why Malaysia has prompted a more aggressive tourism program which includes product seminars in Manila, Clark, Cebu, and Davao. Positive results have been noted in June 2012 though.

Furthermore, new air links have been established by different airline companies originating from the Philippines to Malaysia. Airphil Express, Zest Air, and SEAir offered flights to the country earlier this year; while Cebu Pacific Air is set to launch flights from Cebu to Kuala Lumpur, come December.

Toy Story Land - The Latest Attraction at Hong Kong Disneyland

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With an additional attraction at Hong Kong Disneyland, tourists have one more reason to book air tickets to Hong Kong. Toy Story Land was officially opened last November 17, 2011. This new themed area is based on the Pixar movie entitled Toy Story.  Toy Story Land is designed to replicate Andy’s backyard from the movie itself. It contains giant props intended to make visitors small as the toys in the film.

They used bamboo to act as giant blades of grass surrounding the area. Many themed props and characters from the movie were used such as giant Woody, a giant Rex, an oversized plane, and also a large ball.

The three main attractions are Slinky Dog Spin, RC Racer, and Toy Soldier Parachute Drop. Children will howl with laughter as they join Slinky in a rollicking spin to catch his tail. RC Racer provides the thrill as it races along a 27-meter-high U-shaped coaster while visitors will experience a high-flying adventure in the Toy Soldier Parachute Drop.

Toy Story Land also features interactive soldier drill training at the Toy Soldier Boot Camp. Barrel of Fun offers picture-perfect moments with some of the movie’s characters like Woody and Jessie. Visitors will have fun playing with Cubot as they mix and match different faces and voices of this spinning block toy. These attractions are accompanied by a range of souvenir shops and F&B outlets.

Hong Kong Disneyland will be opening more themed areas in the near future such as Grizzly Gulch in 2012 and Mystic Point in 2013. Upon the completion of these expansions, the park’s footprint will increase to 23% and bring the total number of attractions, entertainment, facilities, and shows to more than 100.

Let your children be the first ones to share stories with their friends about the fun-filled attractions in the newly-opened Toy Story Land, search for affordable air tickets to Hong Kong, and have a wonderful time playing with the toys of the Toy Story Land.

Top 10 Destinations Where You Can Have A Splendid Christmas

With the Christmas season fast approaching, people keep on searching and hoping to find discounted airfares that will allow them to celebrate this festive season abroad where they can have a different experience that will make the celebration extra special. If you are still hesitant and cannot make up your mind where is the best place to spend this holiday season, take a look at the following list that might help you finalize your holiday trip.

Brazil

Photo by Raphael Nogueira 

If you enjoy sun, heat, and waves Brazil is the best option to celebrate Christmas. With its spectacular nature and beautiful coastlines, every visitor will surely have a fabulous time on its fantastic beaches. With the two upcoming events set to take place in this largest country in South America namely FIFA World Cup in 2014 and the Olympics in 2016, the tourism industry is picking up like never before. 

London

Photo by Eva Dang 

With the economic crisis in Europe, the tourism industry might also get affected. Keep on searching and you might land on a discounted air ticket to London which will enable you to take a close-up look at a tilted Big Ben. Go on a shopping spree to retail shops along Oxford Street or visit stunning landmarks such as Tower Bridge and Buckingham Palace. It will surely be an experience of a lifetime to have a close-up look at those places which have been part of the country’s rich history.

Morocco 

Photo by Philipp Klausner

Considered one of Africa’s most popular destinations, Morroco is famous for its beaches and some of the best seaside towns such as Essaouira, Tangler, and Asilah. It also possesses natural wonders like the Atlas Mountains, the Sahara Dessert, and the Dades Valley. 

United States of America

Photo by Gert Boers 

Celebrate this festive season in the United States of America and get a chance to experience the white Christmas that you are dreaming of. However, this huge country has a lot of things to offer besides the winter wonderland scenery. It can also be a dream destination for history buffs. Head to Washington D.C and take a look at its impressive array of museums and monuments or explore the magnificent Grand Canyon in Arizona. You might get lucky and find discounted air tickets to the U.S.A if you will keep on searching.

South Africa

Photo by redcharlie 

Enjoy miles of unspoiled beaches from the East Coast to the West Coast and experience a fun-filled Christmas at the beaches of South Africa. Visitors will also be captivated by the picturesque locations of more than 20 National Parks spread throughout the country which offer diverse attractions of wildlife, mountains, floral scenery, and more. 

Nepal

Photo by Bikalpa Pokhrel 

For those adventure seekers, spending a holiday break might mean visiting the Himalayan country and going for a trekking pilgrimage in Nepal. This country is not only known for breathtaking landscapes and excellent places for trekking and mountaineering but also because of the hospitality and warmth of its people. Choose among the available airfare promo to Nepal and grant your wish for a dream vacation filled with an adrenaline rush.

Greece

Photo by Jonathan Gallegos 

Immerse yourself in history as you tour the Acropolis and see the ruins of the ancient city in Athens, shop-til-you-drop in fun-shops at the Island of Hydra, or spend your Christmas holidays in the Crete Island where you can find wonderful beach towns, great natural wonders, and sophistication. Greece is indeed a destination that offers a diverse package for a wonderful vacation. 

Portugal

Photo by Liam McKay 

Try searching for a discounted airfare to Portugal and you might get a chance to have abundant opportunities to celebrate your holidays with peace and serenity in little-trodden places away from the usual tourist circuits. Medieval castles, picturesque villages, and flower-draped hillsides will definitely make your vacation full of unforgettable memories.

Hong Kong

Photo by Kon Karampelas 

Disneyland will surely be the best place in Hong Kong to celebrate Christmas with its Western concept considering that it is not a traditional Chinese festival. However, a visitor might be surprised to see how this city adorns and decorate its trees with lights and snow to take part of the Christmas spirit. One of the most outstanding Christmas attractions is the Winterfest. Statue Square which is situated at the heart of the city is transformed into a winter wonderland with a Swarovski Christmas tree right at its center. 

Cuba

Photo by Spencer Everett 

With tourism in Cuba not quite popular yet, it might be easy to find discounted air tickets for this island nation in the Caribbean. Have a taste of its famous mojito as you dance to the rhythm and music Cuba is well known for.

Top Tourist Destinations in Hong Kong

Photo by Unknown Wong 

Hong Kong is said to have multiple personalities. A lot of beautiful spots and attractions can be seen in the region – perfectly satisfying the cravings of people for total entertainment and relaxation; and definitely proving that purchasing an air ticket to Hong Kong is a good decision.

A small country it is, but it is gifted with natural beauty and is furnished with awe-inspiring modernity. The most popular tourist attractions in Hong Kong are as follows:

1. The Peak

Hong Kong flaunts a very beautiful skyline and there is no other place in the region that could give a more stunning view of it other than The Peak. Located a few hundred meters above sea level, this spot surely provides a good escape from the bustles of the downtown. The air is fresh and lush greens abound. Though quite commercialized already, The Peak is still an ideal destination for people who wish to calm their minds and souls. 

2. Victoria Harbour

Splendid particularly at night, the Victoria Harbour is definitely a precious gem for the tourism industry of Hong Kong. It is one of the places that people will never get tired of. The main feature in the area is the Symphony of Lights wherein colorful light beams can be seen dancing on the blank sky, as emitted by more than 40 skyscrapers by the harbor. It is a magnificent sight to see, especially while on a romantic cruise across the river.

3. Ocean Park Hongkong

Since its opening in 1977, Ocean Park Hong Kong has always been a great attraction. It houses fascinating animals like pandas, monkeys, rodents, alligators, salamanders, and more species that are natives of Asia. It also has an amusement park wherein the main attraction is a 360-degree water-screen show.

4. Hong Kong Disneyland

One reason why one should purchase an air ticket to Hong Kong is the Hong Kong Disneyland. The fare to this magical world is relatively cheaper so people will have more cash intended for fun in the park. Features include rides, parks, and encounters with Disney characters like Mickey Mouse, Daffy Duck, and the Disney Princesses.

5. Ping Shan Heritage Trail

To fully appreciate Hong Kong, one has to understand its history and to do so, tourists must visit the Ping Shan Heritage Trail. It gives home to ancient pagodas, temples, and edifices in which walls the colorful and rich history of the region is etched.  It is a haven for photographers. 

There are lots of other places in Hong Kong which tourists must discover for themselves. It is certainly worth the visit.

What to Expect in Hong Kong Travel

A fair lot of tourists think of Hong Kong as one small, dynamic country where you can already explore everything in a week. But those who have stayed longer in Hong Kong to fully enjoy the worth of their air tickets know that there is more to Hong Kong than meets the eye. The cluster of tourists usually just stays within Tsim Sha Tsui and the Causeway Bay area, but if you make the effort to explore the innermost parts of the country, you will find inexhaustible delights that any type of tourist will surely appreciate.

Forty percent of Hong Kong’s open land is allotted for tourism, recreation, and conservation. You will find marine parks, beautiful coasts, and country parks all over Hong Kong. Nature lovers will surely enjoy spending time at the Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve, which houses various types of woodland creatures. Another place for nature-tripping is the Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden, which serves as a great sanctuary for plants and people who are dedicated to agriculture.

No vacation in Hong Kong will be complete without enjoying the country’s shopping sites. If you manage to save a lot in getting an air ticket to Hong Kong, then you can spend it when you shop for both luxury and cheap items. There are lots of designer stores for those who can afford it, and there are lots of night markets for those who are on a budget.

Hong Kong is made for those who love water activities. Those looking for great surfing will surely enjoy testing the waves at Tai Long Wan or Big Wave Bay. Surf in waves as high as fourteen feet or simply enjoy the buff bodies walking around the area.

Dolphin lovers will find their place here in Lantau Island, where you can join their exciting dolphin tour. Watch out for those cute pink dolphins and the white dolphins, which are considered as one of the endangered species.

Those who are into mountain biking must explore Hong Kong’s trails, such as the Dragon’s Back, Wan Tsai Peninsula, and Chi Ma Wan. Make sure to go only to designated trails to avoid accidents.

Exploring Hong Kong's Popular Tourist Spots

There is a reason why Hong Kong remains to be one of the most favorite tourist destinations in the world. This small but dynamic country has everything that tourists could possibly want or need. There are lots of tourist spots that must be included in your itinerary, which are definitely worth your cheap air tickets to Hong Kong. Here are some of them:


• Disneyland

image source

Do not even think of getting out of Hong Kong without visiting the happiest place on Earth. This sprawling park near Lantau Island needs no introduction and thousands of tourists spend considerable time here with their friends and family. Disneyland Hong Kong is a perfect alternative for those living in Asia who don’t want to go all the way to Disneyland in Florida.


• Times Square

Shop till you drop here at Times Square, which holds lots of stores that offer everything from designer items to cheap thrills. Times Square is the perfect place to be if you are going to be in Hong Kong in time for the Western New Year.


• Wong Tai Sin Temple

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Those who are into religious attractions should visit Wong Tai Sin Temple, with its elaborate red pillars and golden ceilings. Here you can observe a mixture of Taoist, Confucian, and Buddhist traditions.


• Victoria Peak

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It ranks high up there with Disneyland as one of Hong Kong’s must-see destinations. Enjoy the magnificent view of the highest point in the city, which is definitely a very relaxing way to spend a day of your vacation. Make sure to buy some of those souvenirs sold in those shops to give to your friends and family.


• Star Ferry

Enjoy the views of the waterfront by taking the Star Ferry, which will take you across Victoria Harbour.


• Hong Kong Museum of History

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History buffs should not miss taking a tour of the Hong Kong Museum of History. Explore the rich variety of artifacts housed in this museum. You will get to see traditional costume displays, old photo collections, and village house replicas, among other things.


To get to know more about the other attractions in the country, visit other travel websites and check out the list of tourist spots that you would love to visit in case you will get a tour package to Hong Kong.