As Hong Kong reopens, people rush to... spend money.

This was the first time Hong Kong residents were allowed out after months of lockdown. They were ready to "spend revenge," indulging in pent-up desires during the Covid-19 pandemic. Many Hong Kongers immediately went for manicures, facials, or spa treatments. Others went to the gym, watched movies, ate at restaurants, strolled in parks, or visited museums to relieve the fatigue caused by the fifth wave of Covid-19.

Chloe Cheung, a 27-year-old teacher, decided to "spend revenge" on beauty treatments, massages, and a yoga class next week. She plans to take four days off to enjoy these services. Chloe spent approximately HK$3,500 (over VND 10 million) and is very satisfied with the experience.

"Finally, we're returning to normal life," said Chloe Cheung.

Leung Chun-kit, a 32-year-old office worker, shared that he recently spent a large sum of money on an 18-class gym membership. His work-from-home habits had made him lethargic and unhealthy. Leung also plans to spend the money on Disneyland tickets with his girlfriend.

Facilities such as gyms, massage and beauty salons, movie theaters, game centers, and amusement parks are also busy with bookings.

Sarah Vega (27 years old) booked an appointment last week for a facial and manicure on April 21st. She also planned to have dinner and go to the movies with friends over the weekend.

“I feel like I’m trying to catch up on all the activities I’ve missed for the past four months in just one weekend. While I’m happy that the city is reopening, I’m also disappointed that it took so long. Some places, like the beach, are still closed,” the graduate student said.

Currently, all businesses and establishments in Hong Kong are subject to numerous quarantine measures. For example, upscale restaurants are receiving a surge in reservations, but many are having to wait until after June because opening hours remain limited to 6 pm to 10 pm. This period also limits restaurants to a maximum of four people per table.

In addition, customers and employees must adhere to the current Covid-19 vaccination program, in which the first dose must be administered before April 29th, the second dose between April 30th and May 30th, and the third dose after May 31st. Businesses are required to have their employees take a rapid Covid-19 test every three days.

Ray Chui Man-wai, chairman of Kam Kee Holdings, which owns nearly 44 food establishments with almost 1,000 employees, is concerned that the costs incurred by the business to meet pandemic prevention requirements will increase significantly. Rapid Covid-19 testing every three days also adds pressure on employees.

"We're not too worried about the costs. But for other small and medium-sized businesses, they won't be able to afford it. Every month, we have to spend HK$100,000 (over VND 292 million) on pandemic prevention measures," said Ray Chui Man-wai.

Anh Thi