Hongkongers prepare for ‘revenge spending’ spree as city set to relax coronavirus curbs from April 21
- Residents set to splash out after city leader Carrie Lam announces curbs will ease next week
- Industry leaders say they are preparing for reopening, but regular rapid-testing requirement for staff could add to costs
Hongkongers have vowed to go on a spending spree from April 21 when social-distancing measures against Covid-19 will be relaxed for the first time in more than three months, with businesses already making preparations to lure back customers.
Residents were set to splash out after Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor announced on Thursday that the city’s strict social-distancing curbs would be relaxed for many venues after the Easter holidays.
Businesses such as gyms, beauty massage parlours, cinemas, game centres, theme parks and places of worship will be allowed to reopen, while restaurants will be able to offer dine-services until 10pm and seat four people per table. Local tours will also be available.
Several residents have already started booking beauty treatments, yoga classes and gym sessions while others are planning holidays at theme parks in what they called “revenge spending.”
Chloe Cheung, a 27-year-old teacher, said she would be revenge spending next week by booking a 30-minute facial treatment, a body massage and a yoga class.
The leisure activities will cost her about HK$3,500 (US$446), with Cheung saying she planned to take four days of annual leave to enjoy herself.
