China's tourism crisis deepens

Fodors Travel describes in a new article that once a vibrant hub for international jet-setters, Hong Kong, China is grappling with a significant decline in global tourism, a trend exacerbated by prolonged COVID-19 restrictions and years of protests testing the "One Country, Two Systems" policy. 

While Mainland Chinese visitors have largely filled the void, their day-trip spending falls short of pre-pandemic international levels, leading to a slower-than-projected recovery in tourism revenue.

The city is now aggressively vying for international tourism dollars in a crowded global market. Despite ambitious projects like a new sports park and efforts by carriers like Cathay Pacific to introduce new luxury offerings such as the Aria Suite, Hong Kong faces stiff competition from regional rivals like Bangkok and Singapore. Furthermore, loosened visa restrictions for transit through several Mainland Chinese cities are siphoning away potential visitors.

A recent four-night visit, coinciding with Cathay Pacific's inaugural Dallas-Fort Worth nonstop flight, offered a firsthand glimpse into a city brimming with world-class amenities yet sensing a palpable anticipation for its return to former glory. Luxurious stays at the Rosewood Hong Kong, boasting two Michelin-starred restaurants, revealed a vibrant foodie culture and a burgeoning cocktail scene. From braised Kobe beef at The Legacy House to caviar-topped oyster panipuri at Indian restaurant CHAAT and jet-engine-shaped cocktails at Darkside, the city's high-end offerings are undeniably world-class.

Beyond the glitz, Hong Kong offers diverse experiences, from exploring secondhand markets on Hong Kong Island to sampling local delights like egg tarts and durian in Yau Ma Tei. The city's extensive infrastructure appears ready and waiting for a resurgence of international visitors, with hotels, eateries, and cocktail parlours poised to welcome a new wave of global travelers.

By Naila Huseynova