A historic milestone was marked on 29 November 2024, as Hong Kong welcomed its 1 millionth Filipino visitor of the year. This achievement highlights the city’s dynamic recovery as a premier Southeast Asian travel destination.
Miguel Linao, his wife Ana, and their three children were greeted with a heartwarming surprise at Hong Kong International Airport by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB). Celebrated as the millionth Filipino visitors for 2024, the Linao family was honored for helping Hong Kong surpass its previous record of 930,000 Filipino arrivals in 2018.
“This isn’t our first time in Hong Kong, but this experience is definitely unforgettable,” Miguel Linao said. “We’re here to support our daughter in a gymnastics competition and enjoy the city. Hong Kong’s proximity, exciting attractions, and vibrant energy make it a perfect getaway for our family.”
Southeast Asia Drives Hong Kong’s Tourism Revival
Hong Kong’s reopening to international travelers has sparked impressive growth in visitor numbers, particularly from Southeast Asia. Filipinos have emerged as a cornerstone of this resurgence, accounting for 920,000 of the 2.3 million visitors from the region between January and October 2024. This represents a 127% recovery compared to pre-pandemic levels, solidifying the Philippines as Hong Kong’s top Southeast Asian market.
“Filipino travelers have been instrumental in Hong Kong’s tourism recovery,” said Dane Cheng, HKTB Executive Director. “Their love for our city’s festive atmosphere and attractions inspires us to create even more exciting experiences. This holiday season, we’re inviting everyone to join our Hong Kong WinterFest, where they can enjoy the best of Hong Kong’s vibrant celebrations.”
What Keeps Filipinos Coming Back?
Hong Kong’s mix of adventure and accessibility continues to captivate Filipino travelers. Staying an average of 3.4 nights and spending about HK$7,100 per trip, they flock to iconic attractions such as:
📍 Theme Parks: Hong Kong Disneyland and Ocean Park
📍 Markets: Temple Street and Ladies’ Market
📍 Cultural Landmarks: Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, Avenue of Stars, and Clock Tower
Upcoming events are set to enhance the city’s appeal further:
📍 Coldplay Live at Kai Tak Sports Park: January 2025 will see the iconic band light up the newly opened Kai Tak Sports Park with their Music of the Spheres World Tour. 📍 Meet the Panda Twins at Ocean Park: In February 2025, twin panda cubs will make their debut, delighting animal enthusiasts and families alike.
Celebrating the Milestone
This milestone reaffirms Hong Kong’s enduring charm for Filipino visitors. From world-class attractions to cultural gems, the city continues to offer experiences that resonate deeply with travelers from the Philippines.
As Hong Kong gears up for a festive season filled with dazzling events, it’s clear that this vibrant city remains a top choice for Filipino families and adventurers alike, providing a slice of excitement just a short flight away.
