Results for: Hong Kong

Hong Kong transforms into a vibrant hub of water-based activities and cultural extravaganzas in June, with the iconic Dragon Boat Races taking center stage. The 2024 edition of the “Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races” will bring together over 170 teams and 4,000 participants from around the world for an exhilarating weekend of competition on Victoria Harbour. Beyond the adrenaline-pumping races, attendees can enjoy a cultural immersion with the Fancy Dress Competition and dragon boat-themed LINE FRIENDS displays. Local delicacies and specialty beverages will be available, creating a lively atmosphere for spectators and participants alike. June also marks the exciting debut of the Waterbomb festival from Korea, featuring energetic music and interactive water battles. The S2O Festival, renowned for its water music extravaganza, will return for its second year, promising world-class DJs and captivating performances. The festive spirit continues with the monthly Drone and Pyro Show at Victoria Harbour, showcasing a captivating drone show and breathtaking pyrotechnic display on the opening night of the Dragon Boat Races. Whether you seek intense competition, cultural experiences, or high-energy entertainment, Hong Kong offers an extraordinary June itinerary.

Beijing’s top diplomat in London has cautioned that the UK’s recent actions, including accusations of espionage and assisting Hong Kong’s intelligence service, are straining relations between the two countries. The Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office summoned Ambassador Zheng Zeguang after three individuals were charged with supporting Hong Kong’s intelligence agency, conveying that this behavior is unacceptable. Zheng, in turn, expressed concerns over the UK’s allegations against the Hong Kong government and China, and urged them to cease their anti-China stance. The summons further exacerbates the tensions between London and Beijing, who have been critical of each other’s actions in Hong Kong.

In an effort to revitalize Hong Kong’s economy, eight additional Chinese cities have been granted permission to send their residents to Hong Kong as individual travelers under the Individual Visit Scheme (IVS). This expansion aims to boost Hong Kong’s tourism sector, which has been severely impacted by the economic downturn caused by a national security crackdown and stringent COVID-related controls.

Hong Kong has been selected to host the 2025 Routes World conference, set for September 24-26 at AsiaWorld-Expo. This pivotal event connects global leaders from the aviation sector, including airline executives, airport authorities, and destination representatives. The 30th iteration of Routes World is poised to draw key network planning executives from over 260 prominent and rapidly expanding airlines. Hosting Routes World is significantly beneficial economically, with a typical event generating an economic impact exceeding $590 million.

Hong Kong’s cultural scene explodes in May with a diverse range of events and festivals. From the Cheung Chau Bun Festival to the Tam Kung Festival and the inauguration of a new drone and pyrotechnic show at Victoria Harbour, there’s something for every taste and interest.

Hong Kong experienced its first red rainstorm warning of the year on May 4, 2024, leading to widespread flooding and disruption across the territory. The heavy rainfall, attributed to an upper air disturbance, prompted the issuance of additional warnings for landslips and thunderstorms. The impacts were particularly felt in the New Territories area of Lohas Park, where vehicles were submerged in a flooded public car park, and in Tseung Kwan O, where road closures and bus suspensions disrupted daily life. The Saikung district recorded up to 140mm of rainfall in less than two hours, with more rain expected, leading to the suspension of school classes and limited services in some hospital clinics in the area.

11-year-old Yu Zidi, a Hong Kong native, has impressed the swimming world with her performance at the Chinese National Swimming Championships. Yu finished second in the women’s 400m individual medley, just two seconds shy of the qualifying time for the Paris Olympics. Her time would have also been sufficient to earn her a spot at the World Aquatic Championships in February. Despite her impressive performance, Yu will not compete at the Paris Games due to China having already reached its quota of female athletes. Her time in the 400m medley would make her the 11th fastest American in history, highlighting her immense potential in the sport.

The Hong Kong government has reduced the estimated cost of a contentious trunk road project by close to 5%, from HK$7.16 billion to HK$6.81 billion, following concerns raised by lawmakers regarding a significant increase in the initial budget. The revised funding request was submitted to the legislature’s Finance Committee by the Transport and Logistics Bureau with the assurance that the scope of works and functionality of the project remain unaffected by the cost reduction.

Hong Kong has procured the world’s most extensive self-righting fireboat, capable of recovering from a complete capsize in under six seconds. The new vessel, expected to arrive in June, boasts an inherent self-righting capability, ensuring uninterrupted fire and rescue operations even in extreme conditions. The fireboat’s self-righting feature enhances firefighter safety and improves its maneuverability in challenging weather.

Hong Kong is facing a shortage of dental services, leading to long wait times and overnight queues at public clinics. Lawmakers and a concern group are calling for a public-private partnership to alleviate the demand, with suggestions to divert patients to private clinics and subsidize check-ups for adolescents.