The Worth-It Way to Celebrate Chinese New Year in Hong Kong and Macau

Sneaker Street

When you think of traveling to Hong Kong, it’s easy to see why Macau is often visited too—they’re just so close! With its endless shopping spots, iconic attractions, and mouthwatering delicacies, these places have become popular holiday destinations for many Filipinos - especially during Chinese New Year.

Trips to these cities can feel pricey, especially if you’re traveling with family. But it doesn’t always have to be that way! There are plenty of cool spots and tasty eats in both cities where you can score great value without sacrificing the experience.

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If you’re heading to Hong Kong and Macau for the Lunar New Year, check out these stops that are perfect for families and guaranteed to give a worth it experience.

Macau Tower

Shop sulit and smart hauls at wholesale stores and markets
Hong Kong is admittedly a shopping haven - but if you want to shop smart, you need to know where to go. Lung Fung Mall offers beauty, skincare, and health products at friendlier prices than malls. You can find fragrances, skincare, and other beauty products at reduced prices at their many locations across Hong Kong.

Meanwhile, if you’re finally ready to buy that brand new item you’ve been saving up for, like new running shoes, a bag, or workout gear, Citygate Outlets is your best option. They carry many brands, such as Lululemon, Evisu, Marimekko, and many more.

For seasoned travellers who frequent Hong Kong, going to Mong Kok to buy clothes, snacks, and a wide variety of anik-anik is also a no-brainer. If you’ve ever heard of Sneaker Street and Ladies Market, you can find things for you and for your pasalubong back home. The best part is that you can still haggle the prices in certain stores, making shopping in the area even more budget-friendly—so get your tawad skills ready!

And when carrying multiple bags after your pasalubong spree becomes a hassle, you can tap your way to easy, convenient payments with GCash Tap to Pay. Available for all NFC-enabled Android smartphones, it lets you pay with just one tap—making it much easier to get around the often-crowded streets.

Lung Fung Mall

Discover hidden gems and family fun in Macau
Macau isn’t just about its famous landmarks and beautiful architecture – though it is worth going just to see them for yourself. But there are also many fun experiences that the family can enjoy, and it’s all just a convenient ferry ticket away! These boat trips take about an hour from the Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Terminal, and you can secure your tickets by paying with GCash Scan to Pay for a hassle-free experience. Simply generate your QR code and select Pay Abroad with GCash, and look for merchants with a QR code bearing the A+ logo to scan. If you’re looking for local delicacies, head over to Taipa Village, where you can stock up on crowd favorites like beef jerky and almond cookies. These treats are delicious, affordable, and loved by locals!

You can also book tickets to team Lab SuperNature Macau, an incredible interactive art space with 8-meter-tall, colorful exhibitions that kids and adults will enjoy.

Team Lab Macau

Here’s a secret hack when paying with GCash abroad: some merchants also offer special promos and discounts up to PHP 1,500 off, just tap Travel and go into Travel Treats to browse what’s available.

Eat without the splurge at Yung’s Tangerine Peel Roast Goose and Cheung Hing Kee
One of the best parts of traveling to Hong Kong and Macao is the food. You can’t leave Hong Kong without trying their roast goose, and a great spot to try is Yung's Tangerine Peel Roast Goose. Yung’s is rich and flavorful, and best of all, budget friendly.

Yung's Tangerine Peel Roast Goose

When you hear that a restaurant has been recognized by Michelin, would you believe that you don’t have to pay a fortune for high-quality food? Because that’s what you can expect from MICHELIN Bib Gourmand Cheung Hing Kee Shanghai Pan-fried Buns at Lock Road. Other than their pan-fried buns, their scallion noodles and wontons are a must-try—perfect bites to snack on when you want to refuel while exploring the city.

 

Scan, Swipe, and Tap for a sulit and enjoyable trip
Traveling on a budget doesn’t have to mean limiting yourself. When you pay with GCash abroad, you get real-time control over your spending, low forex rates updated instantly in-app, and fast, convenient transactions throughout your trip — all while enjoying to the fullest.

Card, Tap to Pay, Scan to Pay

Remember to scan, swipe, and tap for an experience you’ll definitely say is worth it! Download the GCash app today to get started.

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iJuander celebrates 14 years of travel and discovery in Asia’s World City

The Filipino spirit is always steeped in adventure, and for fourteen years, the famed magazine show iJuander has aimed to satisfy the wanderlust in every Filipino’s heart. Showcasing the many facets of Filipino culture through the years, the show recently celebrated its 14th anniversary with a double-episode special featuring the sights and sounds of Asia’s World City, Hong Kong.

Hong Kong, with its proximity to the Philippines, has always been one of the lasting top-of-mind destinations for Filipino travelers. The city reached a monumental milestone in 2024 with the arrival of over one millionth Filipino tourist. This proves that, in a way, Hong Kong registers as somewhat of an extension of home for many Filipinos. iJuander, as part of its anniversary special, sought to highlight just how Filipino-esque Hong Kong can get.

What really makes the Philippines is its people. Empoy Marquez and Susan Enriquez, the dynamic duo of hosts for this show, were able to sneak a peek into the lives of Filipinos who have chosen to live and call Hong Kong their second home. Among them is Ace Chong, a photographer and architect who fell in love with the dazzling sights and cityscapes of Hong Kong. In true Pinoy kilig fashion, through his photography, he was able to meet his would-be wife, Deborah, who happens to also be a photographer just like him. Since then, they’ve been walking and treating the streets of Hong Kong as their own photo wonderland.

Hong Kong-based Filipino photographers Ace Chong (L) and Deborah Sy (R)

Aside from Ace and Deborah’s picture-perfect story, the iJuander team was also able to get a taste of what Filipino hospitality is like in Hong Kong, and nothing screams Filipino warmth more than food. Angelo Reyes and Mary Jean Silva have resided in Hong Kong for twenty years and are deeply familiar with the city and its Filipino community. That’s why their classic Filipino eatery “Angel’s” is a hit with their fellow overseas workers. Their humble beginnings as waitstaff in Hong Kong’s bar scene inspired them to open their own restaurant and give back to their fellow OFWs.

Susan Enriquez with "Angel's" founder, Mary Jean Silva

Angelo Reyes

Of course, Empoy and Susan’s food adventure doesn’t end there. The city is bursting with flavors, both eastern and western, traditional and fusion. The legendary Lin Heung Lau, still serving dim sum old-school style on trolleys, live seafood at Sai Kung, and street food after a round of shopping at Temple Street are some of the culinary wonders that the iJuander team was able to indulge in during their time in the city. For Susan and Empoy, there was a shared love for rice meals and hearty comfort food in the city, as well as the rich flavor profiles. In Hong Kong, you know a meal is good when it leaves you full and warm with comfort.

Chuen Kee Seafood Restaurant

Temple Street night market

Lin Heung Lau

But, if there’s one thing Filipinos love more than food, it’s a sunny day out at the beach or a day trip to their favorite amusement park with the family. Hong Kong has no shortage of picturesque beaches and towering rock formations, as seen in Sai Kung, where Empoy and Susan learned just how the islands of Hong Kong came to be through a volcanic eruption. Susan was particularly amazed by the island-hopping experience and the presence of volcanic rock formations. Even though she had been to Hong Kong before, most of the places visited on this trip were new to her, making it feel like a fresh discovery to an already familiar place.

Paired with a quick hike at Dragon’s Back, Empoy and Susan had the perfect great outdoors experience. But if the outdoors aren’t your cup of tea, Empoy has you covered with his day out at Groundswell, an indoor surf house that lets you ride the waves with ease. And of course, who could forget Ocean Park? With its newest and cutest attraction, the twin pandas, the amusement park is a foolproof family-friendly outing.

Empoy at Dragon's Back

Groundswell

Cruising at the islands of Hong Kong

Hong Kong boasts more than its proximity to the Philippines; it’s a diverse place that welcomes Filipino travelers with open arms. iJuander, in its 14th year and with its continued pursuit of championing Filipino culture anywhere, has shed much light on the wonders of Hong Kong that are close to the hearts of each and every Filipino who visits.

Watch the full iJuander episodes on the GMA Public Affairs YouTube channel and check out the Hong Kong Summer Viva promotions if you’re planning your own trip to Hong Kong!

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Hidden Gems in Hong Kong to Explore beyond Disneyland

Summer Triple Rewards from Hong Kong Tourism Board await all visitors

With over a million Filipino tourists having already visited Hong Kong early this year, the city continues to be a favorite destination. Surveys indicate Filipino travelers are increasingly seeking hidden gems and culturally immersive experiences. In response, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has curated a list of must-try activities perfect for every type of traveler:

1. Escape the city’s hustle and bustle by visiting Peng Chau

A quaint car-free island, Peng Chau offers a glimpse into Hong Kong’s slower-paced lifestyle. Once a 
bustling industrial hub with over 100 factories, one of its now-defunct factories has been transformed by a
local resident into an art junkyard, showcasing quirky displays and vibrant graffiti.

2. Bike around Cheung Chau island

Get the best of Hong Kong’s natural beauty and cultural heritage while exploring this island by bike. For an adrenaline boost, explore the Cheung Po Tsai cave, a former treasure hideout of a 19th-century pirate. After a long day, treat yourself to delectable seafood all while enjoying the fresh sea breeze.

3. Savor sunsets at the Braemar Hill

Also known as the Red Incense Burner Summit, this easy and short hiking trail offers a panoramic view of Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and Victoria Harbour, perfect for capturing those golden-hour selfies.

4. Experience birdwatching bliss at Mai Po Nature Reserve

A haven for bird watchers, this wetland reserve is home to rare migratory birds. Guided tours provide fascinating insights into the reserve's ecological importance, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.

5. Embark on a spiritual retreat at Tsz Shan Monastery

Nestled in the lush hills of Tai Po, this monastery houses a majestic 230-foot bronze-cast white Guan Yin statue. Below it lies Hong Kong’s first museum dedicated to Buddhist art and relics, enriching visitors with mindfulness activities like tea meditation, zen calligraphy, and water offerings.

6. Step Back in Time with a Water Tour Around Aberdeen

Delve into the life of local fishermen and history of floating houses all at once. Indulge in a bowl of boat noodles, traditionally prepared by fishermen, while enjoying the picturesque view of Aberdeen Harbour from a sampan, a traditional flat-bottomed boat.

7. Enroll in a Mahjong Workshop

Mahjong is a beloved tradition deeply rooted in Hong Kong culture. Learn the process and enjoy the creative process of designing a mahjong tile that’s uniquely yours with metallic colors and patterns.

8. Create your own neon sign

What’s Hong Kong without its bright neon sign boards? They’ve become synonymous to the city’s vibrant nightlife. Now, you could take home a piece of this iconic scene by crafting your own personalized neon sign in a fun, interactive workshop.

9. Learn a new skill from a local artists at the Mills

Once a textile factory, The Mills is now a revitalised centre for arts, culture, and innovation, featuring a mix of shops, galleries, and eateries. Discover the rich history of Hong Kong’s textile industry while exploring modern creative spaces that celebrate innovation and design.

10. Hunt for rare collectibles at the Upper Lascar Row

Known for its eclectic mix of antique shops and thrift stores, this vibrant street offers unique finds and vintage treasures. It is a paradise for shoppers looking for one-of-a-kind items, from antique trinkets to retro collectibles.

11. Taste tradition at Tai Ping

Known to be one of the oldest western restaurants opened by Chinese in China and Hong Kong, Tai Ping Koon is a historical restaurant known for its fusion of Western and Chinese cuisine, offering a nostalgic dining experience. Their roasted pigeon and Swiss style chicken wings are a must-try!

12. Enjoy a nostalgic evening at Kinsman
Inspired by Wong Kar-wai’s classic film In the Mood for Love, this bar pays homage to Hong Kong's rich heritage and traditions while showcasing the best of Cantonese and Chinese spirits. Be sure to try their Kowloon Dairy, which is the bar’s innovative interpretation of Hong Kong milk punch.

Explore Hong Kong to the fullest with the “Summer Triple Awards”

Discover these hidden gems and more with HKTB’s Summer Triple Awards which will be available starting July 11, 2024. Visitors can pick up their card from designated locations and enjoy over 500,000 sets of offers from restaurants, shops, transportation, and sightseeing tours. Eligible participants only need a non-local registered mobile phone number to register. The promotion and its offers are available in limited quantities on a first-come, first-served basis.

For more of Hong Kong’s hidden gems and exclusive deals, please visit:
https://www.discoverhongkong.com/seasia/what-s-new/highlights/hkhiddengems.html

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Must-See Art Events in Hong Kong this March 2024

Whether you're up for brand new events or the comeback of top exhibitions, discover incredible art experiences on both sides of Victoria Harbour this March and beyond.

It’s that time of year again! Hong Kong is gearing up to host an array of creative experiences this spring. From a mesmerising new teamLab installation to much-anticipated annual events like Art Basel Hong Kong, travellers will be immersed in art on the banks of Victoria Harbour.

Dazzling New Experiences to Explore

1. Art@Harbour 2024: teamLab “Continuous” - March 25 to June 2

Kick-start your artsy adventure with teamLab’s groundbreaking “Continuous” installation on Central Harbourfront. Part of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD)’s Art@Harbour 2024, hundreds of glowing egg-shaped structures come alive with ever-changing colors and sounds, responding to visitors' interactions.

2. WestK FunFest: “Ephemeral” - March 16 to April 7

Next, admire digital art facades illuminating the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade, then continue the evening at WestK FunFest, where an award-winning, large-scale immersive art installation features a world of giant, vibrant inflatable “bubble-tecture”.

3. ComplexCon Hong Kong - March 22 to 24

A must for pop culture lovers, ComplexCon Hong Kong will also be in town. The expertly curated festival features the world's most influential brands and artists, creating an unforgettable experience that blends fashion, sneakers, art, food, music, inspiration, and more. It will be making its international debut at AsiaWorld Expo, just minutes away from Hong Kong International Airport.

The Return of Landmark Art Events

1. Art Basel Hong Kong - March 28 to 30

A cornerstone of the art season, Art Basel Hong Kong needs no introduction. Taking place at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, the prestigious art fair will return with more than 240 world-class galleries and 16 large-scale installations.

2. Art Central - March 27 to 31

Returning to Central Harbourfront after four years, Art Central will once again showcase boundary-pushing contemporary art from the region’s most forward-thinking galleries, as well as a new sector, “Neo”, devoted to first-time exhibitors.

3. Hong Kong Palace Museum & M+ - March 16 to April 11

Love the classics? In West Kowloon Cultural District, one of the harbour’s coolest districts, see masterpieces from London’s National Gallery at the Hong Kong Palace Museum’s “Botticelli to Van Gogh” exhibition, then pop over to M+ for the impressive “Noir & Blanc” exhibition on black-and-white photography.

Meanwhile, the Arts in Hong Kong Harbour Tour, arranged by the Hong Kong Tourism Board, will offer front-row seats to the artistic wonders along the sea. More details to follow on discoverhongkong.com. 

Can’t visit this spring? Don’t worry. As Asia’s leading art destination, Hong Kong offers exciting creative experiences all year. Book your trip to Hong Kong, where diverse art experiences await!

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Lei Ho! Lived it, love it!

im soooo back! - dawn zulueta (sa isang billboard sa edsa.)

enjoy ako sa HK trip ko last week. hindi ko pa nga nalubos kasi hindi ako nakapunta ng disneyland saka ocean park. well, hindi naman mawawala yun so pwede pa balikan.

well, mahirap ikwento lahat dito sa blog but i want you to take a look at the pictures.

http://orgulaschubb.multiply.com/photos/album/155

there are some things that i want to share with you from HK:

1. they are busy late in the morning. around 10am i think for work.
2. mahirap kapag walang trabaho sa HK. kahit sa mcdo, matatanda na ang crews nila. and the young people spend their times studying and they have been very busy.
3. sobrang linis. as in! makikita ko lang kalat sa kalsada ay withered leaves. they leave cigarette butts in specific boxes na makikita naman kahit saan. kung mejo malayo sila sa trash bin na yun, they make the efforts to go there and throw the waste inside.
4. try roast duck, white chicken and suckling pig na makikita sa Cafe de Coral. i say it's a must-try!
5. try to eat at regular restos parang carinderia dito sa atin pero aircon! they will serve you tea pero their fingers are dipped inside the glasses. wag ka, mga tao dun takam na takam! hehehe...
6. they serve food in BIG SERVINGS, and i mean BIG! dko nga naubos ung mga lunch ko e.
7. may San Miguel Beer dun pero mas sikat ata ang Corona Beer. may lemon pang nilalagay. hehehe..
   
8. Mong Kok is a shopping haven for ladies, Jordan for male shoppers. since HK is what i call, "Mother Divisoria" tumawad ka kaagad ng 50% off from the regular price. pero pag hindi cla pumayag sa tawad mo, iwan mo sila pero hahabulin ka pa rin nila to give you a bargain! hehehe...
   
9. take the Star Ferry to go to the other side of the harbor. it's one of the must-do things in the world ayon sa National Geographic.
10. some unusual birds glide from building to building. dko lam what type of bird un. but it is still unusual to see birds in the urban setting.
11. means of transpo: taxi, double-decker bus, tram (double-deckers pero may riles), MTR, ferry, and signature car models. dun lang ako nakakita ng ferrari, BMW, audi or any luxury car na parang wala lang. o diba sosyal?!
12. right-hand drive dun kaya ingat-ingat sa pagtawid.
    
13. i really want you to see the light show of Wan Chai from Tsim Sha Tsui harbor. nasa pics and videos ko ung reason kung bakit. :)
14. may sariling mall and airport nila for departure. san ka pa?! meron din namang disney items dun.
15. almost all people go to work walking and in a fast pace. i think yun cguro ang reason kaya bakit they stay slim kahit bandehado na sila kumain.
16. i think i have to learn cantonese na. not only mandarin. hehehe...
17. yung mga makikita mong imitation items, looks like original dito sa atin.

gusto ko lang sabihin para masingit lang, marami sana akong gustong magaya natin from HK. tutal magaling naman gumaya daw ang mga pinoy, bakit hindi pa gayahin ung maganda at positibo diba?

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from HK to Pinas

for a while you wont see me online on multiply or any of my online accounts starting monday, oct.29 to nov. 3, well, i am not online on weekends too so i think this will be effective starting tomorrow. in case you all are wondering, i am bound for hong kong on monday for a work-related activity that i'm sure you will all miss me. (hahaha... asa!) i'm gonna make most out of my stay there for it is my first time to fly overseas good thing that the company shouldered for the expenses. as i keep on saying to those who are close to me, the only thing that i need is a luggage bag. i am so prepared! the clothes, everything. but still i have to double-check if i already got everything i need.

we'll be leaving manila by 8AM. first flight. so i have to get up as early as 3AM (pray for me!) so i can prepare myself and my luggage before i hail a taxi going to makati where all of my companions will assemble.

i dont know what to expect when we arrive in hong kong but i really have to make my stay worthwhile. we'll be staying at Imperial Hotel i suppose but i don't know where the real event is going to take place. i would still be bringing extra money for my own expense aside from the pocket money that they will be proving us. hehehe... WALANG MAGPAPABILI KUNG WALA KAYONG PATAGO! hehehe... just joking. i also don't know how will i buy all the stuff that i want. got to make the best decisions.

im gonna need some of your advise, from those who have been there.
hmmm... so that's all that i'll be saying for now.

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My Mabuhay Miles

They've advised me to get a Mabuhay Miles number, e di ayan!

Congratulations on taking your first step to a more rewarding travel experience. Here's your Mabuhay Miles membership number:

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