July marks the beginning of a new era of travelling for Victorians. How so? A recent statement by Melbourne Airport announced 2017 is the year Virgin Australia starts flying between Hong Kong and Melbourne.
GOpening the door to Greater China
With over 9 million international passengers going through the travel hub, demand is not only here, but growing according to the Andrews Labor Government. As Virgin Australia takes flight to the Greater China region, local travellers can expect an even better connection to the wonders of the world.
"Hong Kong is undoubtedly a significant market for the Australian tourism industry, both in terms of a growing number of inbound travellers and as a destination for globe-trotting Australians. It's also a great hub for connecting to onward services into mainland China and North Asia more broadly," Melbourne Airport's Chief of Aviation, Simon Gandy, further suggested.
What to do in Hong Kong
The new air connection now also means all travel-hungry Victorians get to enjoy trips to Hong Kong. Here are some of the absolute must-dos Lonely Planet recommends you should plan on visiting there:
- Victoria Peak – One of the most visited spots by tourists, the Peak is the highest point on Hong Kong Island at 552 metres.
- Tsim Sha Tsui East Promenade – The ultimate way to get a view of one of the world's best skylines is to wander along the promenade.
- Man Mo Temple – Built in the 18th Century, the Man Mo Temple is a monument dedicated to the gods of literature and war, holding writing brush and sword respectively.
- Luk Yu Tea House – Renowned for its Eastern art deco decor vibes and masterful cooking, the teahouse was a favourite of many artists – from opera singers to painters.
- Lai Chi Wo – Nestled inside the Plover Cove Country Park is a 400-year-old village hailed as one of Hong Kong's best preserved Hakka walled villages. It also is one of the most diverse freshwater wetlands in the region.
Get ready for your trip
Before you jet off into the sunset, make sure you plan your holiday in advance. While you'll be relatively safe travelling to Hong Kong, you should always use common sense and beware of pickpocketers, particularly on public transport.
To avoid getting into trouble, don't take strangers up on dodgy offers of massages or the like and make sure you book all your flights and hotels beforehand. We also suggest you learn some basic phrases to make it easier to find your way around Hong Kong when you get there. Another thing you'll want to organise ahead of time, of course, is booking your vehicle in at Pacific Airport Parking to score the cheapest Melbourne airport parking. 
