Chief Executive John Lee on Tuesday said preparatory work is underway to ensure that travellers heading to the SAR during the upcoming National Day Golden Week holiday next month would have a pleasant experience.

Speaking ahead of the Executive Council meeting, Lee noted that a real-name reservation trial scheme – a crowd management measure – that was adopted at the Po Pin Chau trail in Sai Kung East Country Park went smoothly over the first weekend.

He expects more people will set foot there during the holiday.

"The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department will also step up manpower to remind visitors to protect the environment, dispose of their waste properly, and keep order," he said.

"And since many visitors will be using the registration system for the first time, we'll be there to assist them."

Meanwhile, the Travel Industry Authority last week revoked the licences of two travel agencies and a tour guide over forced shopping – the third such enforcement action so far this year.

The CE said the government would crack down on any misconduct by agencies, tour guides, as well as shops, given that this kind of misbehaviour would damage the reputation of Hong Kong’s tourism sector.

The registration of those will also be cancelled if violations are found, he stressed.

Lee called on society to adopt a welcoming and courteous attitude to tourists, saying that the period is crucial for the tourism industry as well as an opportunity for the city to showcase its hospitality.

He said in addition to the Tourism Board’s website dedicated for the holiday period, the government would step up information dissemination, including on boundary crossings, the waiting time and opening hours of popular tourist attractions and transportation arrangements.


Edited by Tony Sabine