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Business Standard
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Business Standard
Hong Kong, The Ultimate Family Destination For Every Kind Of Vacationer, Is Calling. Will You Answer?
NewsVoir Hong Kong, June 13: In the first quarter of 2025, Hong Kong witnessed a 9% increase in visitor arrivals. The city in East Asia that boasts a melting pot of culture recorded 3.8 million tourist arrivals in April. The 13 per cent year-on-year growth in tourism can be attributed to Hong Kong's appeal as a family tourism destination. The blend of unique cultural experiences, natural beauty, panda-mania, traditional fishing villages and scintillating street food spots adds to the city's appeal. Offering a melange of experiences and activities across iconic sites, theme parks, the outdoors and culinary trails, Hong Kong promises to be the ultimate family destination. Positioned as the 'World's Meeting Place,' rightfully so, in the global business community, its allure can be attributed to four factors - its thrilling theme parks, outdoorsy activities, culinary gems and its unique travel offerings. Hong Kong's theme parks have a charm that attracts people of all ages. A family favourite is the Hong Kong Disneyland. 'The Happiest Place on Earth,' synonymous with its fantastical zones and thrilling rides, recently threw open its newest attractions, 'World of Frozen' and 'Mystic Manor'. Not checking these out in person causes major FOMO. Hit by a city-wide 'panda-monium,' the government-backed campaign 'Pandastic Hong Kong' has let visitors get up close with the city's most adorable, furry inhabitants. At Ocean Park Hong Kong, Ying Ying, the oldest first-time panda mother and her twin cubs are the celebrities people from all over the world are flying in to meet. Here, you must sign up for the Giant Panda Discovery (29 March 2025 to 31 August 2025), an experience that lets you get insider access to restricted areas and observe the furry beings go about their daily routine. Ocean Park Hong Kong will be hosting a birthday party for its twin cubs on 15 August 2025. That's a panda-mania you can't miss out on! Doing full justice to the 'Ultimate Destination' tag are Hong Kong's outdoorsy activities that let vacationers soak in unparalleled views while being active. On the cards is Tai Mei Tuk, a cycling trail overlooking the Plover Cove Reservoir; the chance to explore the city's oldest fishing village on foot, Tai O Fishing Village, and escape to the Tian Tan Buddha & Po Lin Monastery for a slice of tranquillity. For adventure seekers, Hong Kong offers the opportunity to go horse racing at Happy Valley Racecourse and the Hong Kong Jockey Club. Thalassophiles can let down their hair and rent a charter yacht or a boat to sail the extensive coastline along the South China Sea. And football fans must attend the Hong Kong Football Festival, an unmissable sporting event. Kickstarting on 26 July 2025 at Kai Tak Stadium, the first international match between Liverpool FC vs AC Milan promises to be an adrenaline-pumping event. Creating waves in the tourism industry, Hong Kong's ultimate destination tag extends to its commitment to promote 'sustainable travel.' Charting a new era of 'green tourism,' Hong Kong will unveil 'Four Peaks Tourism' in 2026. Catering to the wanderlust hikers, this initiative will give them access to four peaks-The Peak, Lantau Peak, Sai Kung Hoi, and Tai Mo Shan-encouraging eco-conscious travel. Outdoorsy activities would leave one with a growling appetite. So, for discerning foodies, Hong Kong is nothing short of paradise. Riddled with a mesh of Michelin-starred experiences like Shang Palace and Arbor, a Temple Street Night Market for street fare, dim sum and egg tart workshops with expert chefs, the ultimate family destination will feel like a home to vegetarian, vegan and non-vegetarians. For culinary enthusiasts, Hong Kong has a stream of food-forward festivals. From 1 May 2025 to 8 June 2025, Hong Kong will host the French GourMay, a culinary festival dedicated to gastronomy a la francaise. The 16th edition brings forth gourmet stalls featuring French flavours, live cooking demos and curated spirit tasting all under one roof. As always, food and travel must be taken in the same breath. So, apart from the most unique food offerings, among Hong Kong's most unique travel highlights is Victoria Peak, standing at 552m, offering the most stunning views of the city skyline. Accessible by a 10-minute tram ride, the peak is a captivating attraction. Another unmissable experience in Hong Kong is the 'Symphony of Lights', a light and sound show on a sunset cruise that promises cherishable memories for family vacationers. Another unique event in the city is the 70 Years of Miffy 2025, happening from early May until October. It is the first playhouse and exhibition in Hong Kong dedicated to Miffy, the titular character of picture books illustrated by Dutch author and designer, Dick Bruna. Watch Miffy and her world come alive at the 1881 Heritage through simple line drawing and full-colour art. Check out DiscoverHongKong's calendar of cultural events to stay up to date and plan your vacay around key events. Hong Kong is a destination where the larger-than-life theme parks meet thrilling outdoor activities, where the choicest culinary creations are found by the most unique experiences beloved to the city; where festivals, sporting events and exhibitions run throughout the year in plenty. A place that boasts the top 5 family-friendly attractions, including a visit to Disneyland Hong Kong, a panda-spotting outing at Ocean Park Hong Kong, a splendid day of cycling at Tai Mei Tuk, soaking in the stunning views at Victoria Peak and a spiritual trip to Tian Tan Buddha & Po Lin Monastery. This city offers the ultimate escape for the holiday goer demanding more out of a travel experience. Curly Tales is India's leading food, travel and lifestyle platform founded by Kamiya Jani in 2016 after her decade-long experience as a finance, sports and lifestyle journalist and TV anchor. Curly Tales is a platform that offers content to inspire and inform viewers with a focus on celebrating food, travel and unique experiences across India and the globe.
Fashion Value Chain
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Fashion Value Chain
Hong Kong, The Ultimate Family Destination For Every Kind Of Vacationer, Is Calling. Will You Answer
Hong Kong In the first quarter of 2025, Hong Kong witnessed a 9% increase in visitor arrivals. The city in East Asia that boasts a melting pot of culture recorded 3.8 million tourist arrivals in April. The 13 per cent year-on-year growth in tourism can be attributed to Hong Kong's appeal as a family tourism destination. The blend of unique cultural experiences, natural beauty, panda-mania, traditional fishing villages and scintillating street food spots adds to the city's appeal. Offering a melange of experiences and activities across iconic sites, theme parks, the outdoors and culinary trails, Hong Kong promises to be the ultimate family destination Offering a melange of experiences and activities across iconic sites, theme parks, the outdoors and culinary trails, Hong Kong promises to be the ultimate family destination. Positioned as the 'World's Meeting Place,' rightfully so, in the global business community, its allure can be attributed to four factors – its thrilling theme parks, outdoorsy activities, culinary gems and its unique travel offerings. Hong Kong's theme parks have a charm that attracts people of all ages. A family favourite is the Hong Kong Disneyland. 'The Happiest Place on Earth,' synonymous with its fantastical zones and thrilling rides, recently threw open its newest attractions, 'World of Frozen' and 'Mystic Manor'. Not checking these out in person causes major FOMO. Hit by a city-wide 'panda-monium,' the government-backed campaign 'Pandastic Hong Kong' has let visitors get up close with the city's most adorable, furry inhabitants. At Ocean Park Hong Kong, Ying Ying, the oldest first-time panda mother and her twin cubs are the celebrities people from all over the world are flying in to meet. Here, you must sign up for the Giant Panda Discovery (29 March 2025 to 31 August 2025), an experience that lets you get insider access to restricted areas and observe the furry beings go about their daily routine. Ocean Park Hong Kong will be hosting a birthday party for its twin cubs on 15 August 2025. That's a panda-mania you can't miss out on! Doing full justice to the 'Ultimate Destination' tag are Hong Kong's outdoorsy activities that let vacationers soak in unparalleled views while being active. On the cards is Tai Mei Tuk, a cycling trail overlooking the Plover Cove Reservoir; the chance to explore the city's oldest fishing village on foot, Tai O Fishing Village, and escape to the Tian Tan Buddha & Po Lin Monastery for a slice of tranquillity. For adventure seekers, Hong Kong offers the opportunity to go horse racing at Happy Valley Racecourse and the Hong Kong Jockey Club. Thalassophiles can let down their hair and rent a charter yacht or a boat to sail the extensive coastline along the South China Sea. And football fans must attend the Hong Kong Football Festival, an unmissable sporting event. Kickstarting on 26 July 2025 at Kai Tak Stadium, the first international match between Liverpool FC vs AC Milan promises to be an adrenaline-pumping event. Creating waves in the tourism industry, Hong Kong's ultimate destination tag extends to its commitment to promote 'sustainable travel.' Charting a new era of 'green tourism,' Hong Kong will unveil 'Four Peaks Tourism' in 2026. Catering to the wanderlust hikers, this initiative will give them access to four peaks-The Peak, Lantau Peak, Sai Kung Hoi, and Tai Mo Shan-encouraging eco-conscious travel. Outdoorsy activities would leave one with a growling appetite. So, for discerning foodies, Hong Kong is nothing short of paradise. Riddled with a mesh of Michelin-starred experiences like Shang Palace and Arbor, a Temple Street Night Market for street fare, dim sum and egg tart workshops with expert chefs, the ultimate family destination will feel like a home to vegetarian, vegan and non-vegetarians. For culinary enthusiasts, Hong Kong has a stream of food-forward festivals. From 1 May 2025 to 8 June 2025, Hong Kong will host the French GourMay, a culinary festival dedicated to gastronomy la franaise. The 16th edition brings forth gourmet stalls featuring French flavours, live cooking demos and curated spirit tasting all under one roof. As always, food and travel must be taken in the same breath. So, apart from the most unique food offerings, among Hong Kong's most unique travel highlights is Victoria Peak, standing at 552m, offering the most stunning views of the city skyline. Accessible by a 10-minute tram ride, the peak is a captivating attraction. Another unmissable experience in Hong Kong is the 'Symphony of Lights', a light and sound show on a sunset cruise that promises cherishable memories for family vacationers. Another unique event in the city is the 70 Years of Miffy 2025, happening from early May until October. It is the first playhouse and exhibition in Hong Kong dedicated to Miffy, the titular character of picture books illustrated by Dutch author and designer, Dick Bruna. Watch Miffy and her world come alive at the 1881 Heritage through simple line drawing and full-colour art. Check out DiscoverHongKong's calendar of cultural events to stay up to date and plan your vacay around key events. Hong Kong is a destination where the larger-than-life theme parks meet thrilling outdoor activities, where the choicest culinary creations are found by the most unique experiences beloved to the city; where festivals, sporting events and exhibitions run throughout the year in plenty. A place that boasts the top 5 family-friendly attractions, including a visit to Disneyland Hong Kong, a panda-spotting outing at Ocean Park Hong Kong, a splendid day of cycling at Tai Mei Tuk, soaking in the stunning views at Victoria Peak and a spiritual trip to Tian Tan Buddha & Po Lin Monastery. This city offers the ultimate escape for the holiday goer demanding more out of a travel experience. About Curly Tales Curly Tales is India's leading food, travel and lifestyle platform founded by Kamiya Jani in 2016 after her decade-long experience as a finance, sports and lifestyle journalist and TV anchor. Curly Tales is a platform that offers content to inspire and inform viewers with a focus on celebrating food, travel and unique experiences across India and the globe.
The Star
28-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Jia Jia and De De chosen as names for Hong Kong's twin panda cubs
Panda mum Ying Ying and her twin cubs, Jia Jia (left) and De De, at Ocean Park's Giant Panda Adventure on Tuesday. -- Photo: Eugene Lee Lo Hoi-ying / SCMP Hong Kong's nine-month-old twin panda cubs, previously known only as 'Elder Sister' and 'Younger Brother', have been named Jia Jia and De De, respectively, conveying the Cantonese slang term for encouragement 'add oil' and the notion of virtue. Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law Shuk-pui revealed on Tuesday the results of the panda naming contest, which received more than 35,700 entries from members of the public since submissions opened in February. 'All suggestions reflected beautiful blessings for the giant pandas,' she said. The Chinese characters for Jia Jia conveyed a message of support, 'add oil' in Cantonese, and had the same pronunciation as the words 'home' and 'auspices' in Mandarin, the park said. 'Younger Brother' has been named De De, after the Chinese word meaning 'success'. De shares the same pronunciation as the Mandarin and Cantonese pronunciation for 'virtue', suggesting that giant pandas possess virtues cherished by the Chinese. Jia Jia is also the English name of another panda who lived at Ocean Park until her death in 2016, although the Chinese characters for the name of 'Elder Sister' are different. Chairman Paulo Pong Kin-yee said visitor numbers and revenue had increased during the Easter and Labour Day holidays. 'What's worth noting is that the per cap spending has also increased,' he said. 'We feel that this will continue well into the summer.' He added that the park had benefited from increased exposure and intellectual property fees brought in by the Panda Friends series' product sales. 'It's been a very good first half of the year for the park,' he said. Pong also added that exclusive VIP tours that allowed visitors to see the twin cubs brought in more than HK$2 million (US$255,177) in March and April. The tours, which cost HK$1,500 per person, provided visitors early access to the facilities and a half-hour to capture pictures of the cubs. Ocean Park earlier said that the nicknames 'Elder Sister' and 'Younger Brother' would be kept as usual, while the Mandarin pinyin of the selected Chinese names would be adopted as the English names. On the same day, the cubs and mother Ying Ying were to be moved to the Alpine Zone of their enclosure at the Giant Panda Adventure. Pong said that the cubs already weighed more than 21kg (46lbs) and visitors no longer had to be separated by a glass panel when visiting them in their new enclosure. The enclosure will be open from 10am to 4.30pm daily starting on Wednesday for visitors to catch the twins together with their mother. The twins' father, Le Le, is housed at the Giant Panda Adventure but separate from Ying Ying and the twins, in line with their natural solitary behaviour, according to Ocean Park. The cubs have been drawing fans to the enclosure every day since they made their public debut on February 16, six months after they were born on August 15 last year. Ying Ying became the oldest first-time panda mum in captivity when she gave birth to the cubs. The journey to parenthood for Ying Ying and Le Le took more than 10 years, with multiple phantom pregnancies and miscarriages.
The Star
27-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
‘Elder Sister' and ‘Little Brother' get official names
Bear-y cute: Ying Ying and daughter Jia Jia at their enclosure in Ocean Park while De De (inset) is seen climbing. — AP THE first locally born giant pandas have finally been named and introduced as Jia Jia and De De. The names of the cubs, affectionately known as 'Elder Sister' and 'Little Brother', were announced yesterday in a ceremony at Ocean Park, the theme park housing them, their parents and two other giant pandas that arrived from mainland China last year. The names were the winning suggestions from residents in a naming contest that drew more than 35,700 entries. The Chinese character 'Jia' carries a message of support and features an element of family and a sense of auspicious grace. The name embodies the prosperity of families and the nation and the happiness of the people. The Chinese character 'De' means to succeed, carrying the connotation that Hong Kong is successful in everything. De also has the same pronunciation as the Chinese character for virtue, suggesting pandas possess virtues cherished by Chinese people. Ocean Park chairman Paulo Pong said 'Jia' sounds like a word in the Cantonese term for elder sister, while 'De De' sounds a bit like the Cantonese phrase for little brother. 'It's a very positive pair of names,' he said. The twins' birth in August made their mother, Ying Ying, the world's oldest first-time panda mum. — AP
South China Morning Post
27-05-2025
- Business
- South China Morning Post
Tonic for Hong Kong as panda cubs named
The twin giant panda cubs born in Hong Kong last August are cute as buttons and have now been officially named with monikers that will appeal to their vast army of fans. Their official naming also marks what many hope will be a boost to the so-called panda economy. Affectionately nicknamed 'Elder Sister' and 'Younger Brother', a traditional way of addressing siblings in a Chinese family, the nine-month-old twins were yesterday formally given the names Jia Jia and De De, respectively. 'Jia Jia' in Mandarin means home and family, while its Cantonese version also signifies encouragement and support. 'De De' expresses hope that Hong Kong can do well in everything and also represents virtue in Chinese. The names were chosen as they also sound similar to their nicknames. The naming followed a public engagement that attracted more than 35,000 submissions, a process underlining the excitement surrounding their birth. As in the christening of newborns and other naming ceremonies, the choice of names signifies that the twins are now not only a part of the Hong Kong family but also places expectations on the cuddly pair as they grow up. The cubs have been drawing fans to their home at Ocean Park since they debuted in mid-February, six months after the first successful panda births in the city. Along with their mother Ying Ying, they will be moved to the Alpine Zone of their enclosure at the Giant Panda Adventure, where visitors can meet the family without a glass barrier. Their father, Le Le, continues to stay in a separate area, in line with pandas' natural solitary behaviour. The city has been buzzing with excitement since last summer, with the surprise twin births coinciding with the arrival of adult pandas An An and Ke Ke, gifted by Beijing to mark the 27th anniversary of the city's return to Chinese sovereignty. As we welcome Jia Jia and De De as part of the community, hopes are high that Hong Kong can better capitalise on the opportunities arising from the six pandas that now call the city home. We trust Ocean Park's efforts in raising the twins will enhance its conservation experience. With the right strategy, the pandas can help generate more positive energy and add to economic benefits for the city.
