Hongkongers eager to travel and spend abroad this year despite economic gloom, survey finds
Japan, South Korea and Taiwan are most popular destinations as smartphone chargers rank highest in preferred items to pack
The gloomy economic outlook is unlikely to dim Hongkongers’ appetite to travel abroad, as 60 per cent of them plan to take three or more trips this year, with Japan, South Korea and Taiwan being the three most popular destinations, according to a local survey.
The survey conducted by online travel company Travelzoo showed that, despite the economic slowdown, 62.7 per cent of the 633 Hong Kong-based respondents said they would spend about HK$20,000 on travel this year, up from 58 per cent in the company’s survey last year.
Japan topped the list as favourite travel destination for Hongkongers this year, followed by South Korea and Taiwan.
READ MORE: Hongkongers flock to Japan in record numbers as yen depreciates
Vivian Hong, Travelzoo’s president for Asia Pacific, said: “Adverse economic conditions have not had a negative effect on the travel intentions of Hong Kong people.” She said Japan’s unique attractions and weakening currency had helped the island nation secure the top spot.
Despite the wishes of many Hongkongers to get away from their busy city routines, a large number still preferred to stay online and have their smartphones charged at all times, the survey found.
The survey posed the question: ‘If your baggage could accommodate only one additional item, what would you choose?’
READ MORE: Hong Kong to see flat growth in mainland China tourist numbers for next five years
The most popular answer was a smartphone charger, selected by 31.7 per cent of the respondents. It was followed by a Wi-fi router and a camera.
