Chinese New Year in Hong Kong and Macau is nothing short of magical. Lantern-lit streets, vibrant lion dances, festive markets, and indulgent feasts create an atmosphere that’s both electric and deeply cultural. For many Filipino families, these neighboring cities are the perfect holiday duo—close together, easy to explore, and packed with experiences.
And while it’s true that trips abroad can stretch the budget, celebrating Lunar New Year in Hong Kong and Macau doesn’t have to mean overspending. With the right game plan—and your GCash Visa Card and e-wallet in hand—you can swipe, scan, and tap your way to a truly worth-it adventure.
Here’s how to make every peso count without compromising the experience:
Shop smart, score big in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is a certified shopping capital. But savvy travelers know it’s not just about where you shop—it’s how you shop.
For beauty and health finds at friendlier prices, head to Lung Fung Mall. It’s a go-to for fragrances, skincare, and wellness products without the usual mall markup. If you’ve been saving up for that new pair of running shoes or designer bag, Citygate Outlets in Tung Chung is the smart move. With brands like Lululemon, Evisu, and Marimekko offering outlet prices, you can finally say yes to that long-awaited splurge.
For a more vibrant, street-style shopping experience, Mong Kok is a must. Explore the iconic Ladies Market and the legendary Sneaker Street for clothes, snacks, collectibles, and pasalubong-worthy finds. Pro tip: Don’t be shy—haggling is part of the culture in certain stalls, so warm up those tawad skills.
And when your hands are full of shopping bags, make payments effortless with GCash Tap to Pay on NFC-enabled Android phones. No loose change, no card juggling—just tap and go through the bustling streets.
Beyond the casinos: Family fun in Macau
Macau is often associated with its glittering skyline and grand resorts—but there’s so much more waiting beyond the casinos.
A quick one-hour ferry ride from Hong Kong brings you to this charming city. Booking your ferry tickets is seamless when you use GCash Scan to Pay—just generate your QR code, choose Pay Abroad with GCash, and scan participating merchants’ A+ QR codes.
Once there, stroll through Taipa Village, where you can stock up on affordable local favorites like almond cookies and beef jerky—perfect for pasalubong. The cobblestone streets, colorful heritage houses, and cozy cafés make it a picturesque family stop.
For something immersive and unforgettable, visit teamLab SuperNature Macau, an interactive digital art space featuring towering, vibrant installations that respond to movement. It’s the kind of place where kids and adults alike lose track of time—in the best way possible.
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Before you pay, check GCash Travel Treats inside the app. Some merchants abroad offer exclusive promos of up to PHP 1,500 off—an easy way to stretch your travel fund even further.
Feast without the splurge
No Hong Kong trip is complete without legendary roast goose. At Yung’s Tangerine Peel Roast Goose, you’ll savor crispy skin, tender meat, and deep, aromatic flavor—without paying luxury restaurant prices.
Craving something Michelin-recognized without the intimidating bill? Cheung Hing Kee Shanghai Pan-fried Buns at Lock Road carries a MICHELIN Bib Gourmand distinction, which celebrates quality and value. Their pan-fried soup buns, scallion noodles, and wontons are perfect for refueling mid-exploration.
In cities known for high-end dining, these spots prove that world-class flavors don’t have to mean world-class spending.
Swipe. Scan. Tap. Travel smarter.
Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean holding back. With GCash abroad, you enjoy:
• Real-time spend tracking
• Competitive forex rates updated in-app
• Seamless QR, card, and tap payments
• Access to exclusive travel promos
Whether you’re navigating Mong Kok’s lively markets, ferrying to Macau, or indulging in a Michelin-recognized bite, every transaction becomes simpler and more secure.
This Lunar New Year, celebrate with intention. Shop smarter. Eat better. Explore deeper. And make every swipe, scan, and tap truly worth it.
Download the GCash app today—and start planning your smartest Chinese New Year getaway yet.