Travel agents in Hong Kong are witnessing a shift in how residents plan their long-haul trips to Europe, as safety concerns stemming from the ongoing US-Israel conflict in Middle East prompt many to seek alternative routes. Instead of flying directly through the Middle East, more travelers are opting to transit through mainland China, a trend that has emerged in response to rising fears and increased airfare.
Alex Lee Chun-ting, general manager of Miramar Travel,noted that initial apprehensions about traveling to Europe during summer had dampened interest. However,he now anticipates a 3% increase in bookings compared to last year . “Safety concerns over flying through the Middle East and pricier airfares have made residents hesitant to travel,” Lee explained, highlighting how these factors have reshaped travel preferences.
Many travelers are now considering routes that include stopovers in cities like Shanghai or Beijing before reaching their European destinations. This shift has not gone unnoticed by airlines,with some mainland carriers offering group discounts to attract Hong Kong travelers. Lee remarked, “Some mainland airlines noticed this trend too,and offered us group discounts for tours departing from Hong Kong.” This strategy has helped absorb some of the demand that would typically go to Middle Eastern airlines.
The financial aspect also plays significant role in this transition. For instance, flights to London,a favored destination among Hongkongers, are now averaging HK$1,000 to HK$2,000 (approximately US$127 to US$255) cheaper when transiting through mainland China, excluding additional fuel surcharges and taxes . This price difference is particularly appealing during the peak summer travel season.
Carmen Chan Hiu-nam,chief operating officer of Goldjoy Holidays, reported that nearly 50% of their European tour clients are choosing to continue with their plans, opting for the mainland transit option. This indicates a growing acceptance among travelers for services that connect through mainland,driven by improvements in airline offerings and airport facilities.
As the conflict in the Middle East continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how these travel patterns will evolve. For now, the trend towards mainland transit routes reflects a significant change in the travel landscape for Hongkongers, who are adapting to new realities while still seeking to explore Europe.
