Chinese New Year is one of the most exciting times to travel, and for many Filipinos, Hong Kong and Macau sit right at the top of the holiday wishlist. The two destinations are just a short ferry ride apart, making it easy to enjoy twice the culture, food, and experiences in one trip. Add festive decorations, lively celebrations, and seasonal treats, and you have a Lunar New Year getaway that feels extra special.
That said, traveling during peak season, especially with family, can quickly feel expensive. The good news is that celebrating Chinese New Year in Hong Kong and Macau does not have to mean overspending. With the right spots, smart choices, and cashless travel tools like the GCash Visa Card and GCash e-wallet, you can enjoy a truly worth-it experience without constantly worrying about your budget.
Travel Smarter with GCash Abroad
When traveling overseas, small expenses can add up fast, especially when exchange rates and payment fees come into play. Using your GCash Visa Card and e-wallet helps stretch your budget further through lower foreign exchange rates, seamless cashless payments, real-time spend tracking, and fewer moments spent counting change.
Whether you are shopping, dining, or booking activities, every swipe, scan, or tap helps you stay in control of your spending. It is a simple travel habit that makes a noticeable difference, especially during busy holidays like Chinese New Year.
Shop Smart and Sulit in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is known as a shopping paradise, but knowing where to shop is key to getting the best value.
For beauty lovers, Lung Fung Mall is a must-visit. This wholesale-style store offers skincare, fragrances, and health products at prices that are often lower than regular retail malls. With multiple branches across Hong Kong, it is easy to fit into your itinerary.
If outlet shopping is more your style, head to Citygate Outlets. This spot is perfect for finally buying those big-ticket items you have been saving for, such as running shoes, bags, or workout wear. Brands like Lululemon, Evisu, and Marimekko are available at discounted prices, making it ideal for smart splurges.
For travelers who love bargain hunting, Mong Kok is always a classic stop. Sneaker Street and Ladies Market are filled with clothes, snacks, and pasalubong items. Some stalls allow haggling, so bring out your tawad skills. After a long shopping day, GCash Tap to Pay on NFC-enabled Android phones makes checkout quick and convenient, even when your hands are full of shopping bags.
Family-Friendly Finds in Macau
Macau may be famous for its grand landmarks and architecture, but it also offers plenty of experiences that families can enjoy together. Getting there is easy with a ferry ride that takes about an hour from the Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Terminal.
Ferry tickets can be paid for using GCash Scan to Pay. Simply generate your QR code, select Pay Abroad with GCash, and scan merchant QR codes with the A+ logo for a smooth transaction.
Once in Macau, make time for Taipa Village, where you can sample and buy local favorites like beef jerky and almond cookies. These treats are affordable, delicious, and perfect for sharing back home.
For something more immersive, teamLab SuperNature Macau is a standout attraction. The interactive art space features towering, colorful installations that captivate both kids and adults. It is a memorable stop that adds creativity and wonder to your holiday itinerary.
Where to Eat Without Overspending
Food is a major highlight of any Hong Kong and Macau trip, and you do not need to dine at luxury restaurants to enjoy exceptional flavors.
In Hong Kong, trying roast goose is non-negotiable. Yung’s Tangerine Peel Roast Goose offers rich, flavorful dishes at prices that remain approachable, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
For Michelin-recognized dining without the hefty bill, Cheung Hing Kee Shanghai Pan-fried Buns on Lock Road is a great find. Recognized with a MICHELIN Bib Gourmand, this spot is known for its pan-fried buns, scallion noodles, and wontons. It is the perfect place to refuel while exploring the city.
Extra Perks When You Pay with GCash
Here is a lesser-known tip for travelers. When using GCash abroad, some merchants offer exclusive promos and discounts of up to PHP 1,500 off. Simply head to the Travel section in the app and explore Travel Treats to see what deals are available during your trip.
A Worth-It Lunar New Year Trip
Celebrating Chinese New Year in Hong Kong and Macau does not require cutting back on experiences. With thoughtful planning, budget-friendly spots, and cashless tools like GCash, you can enjoy festive travel that feels both meaningful and sulit.
From shopping and dining to family-friendly attractions, all it takes is a few smart choices to make your Lunar New Year getaway truly worth it. Just remember to scan, swipe, and tap your way through the journey and enjoy every moment.