Hong Kong reopens beaches, and pools while Mainland China continues zero-COVID policy

Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam announced the reopening of beaches and pools in the city.

Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam announced the reopening of beaches and pools in the city. People will now also be allowed to exercise outdoors without having to wear a mask.

Restaurants will now also be allowed to seat eight. In a statement, Lam said, “We hope that by relaxing the number of patrons allowed at a table, three generations—the grandmother, the mother, and also the third generation—can share a table together,” in reference to Mother’s Day which was celebrated over the weekend.

In a report by Business Standard, Bars and clubs will be allowed to reopen on 19 May. By then, restaurants will also be allowed to serve customers until midnight.

Tourism Update 2022, themed “Together Towards New Horizons,” drew 3,200 trade representatives from Hong Kong, Mainland China, and international markets, including travel agencies, airlines, and conference and exhibition organizers, reported Business Wire. On Monday, 6 May, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) held an online event to discuss the latest tourism trends and its work strategy for the coming year.

Hong Kong’s return to normality was stressed by HKTB Chairman Dr. Y K Pang, saying “The fifth wave of the pandemic is subsiding. Hong Kong’s daily life and economic activities are now gradually returning to normal, allowing us to stage large-scale events and prepare to welcome back visitors.”

More: Hong Kong lifts flight ban, inbound and outbound flight searches spike

While Hong Kong is reopening its borders, Mainland China stays true to its approach of mass testing and lockdowns, according to Fortune.

Authorities continue to identify COVID cases in “low-risk” areas of Shanghai, which is now in its fifth week under lockdown. Officials had promised to reopen the city after “societal zero COVID” was achieved.

Beijing shut down parts of its public transit system to restrict travelling in the city, as officials continue to uncover new COVID cases every day. They have already been required to complete three rounds of mass testing. In-person classes have also been postponed until after 11 May and dine-in services have been shut down.

The Property Report editors wrote this article. For more information, email: [email protected].