A “dog's tail” of two cities
As Chinese New Year sees in the year of the dog, we look at the direct connectivity Manchester Airport offers to two key destinations in China – Hong Kong and Beijing.
Starting with Hong Kong Cathay Pacific launched flights in 2014 and in December 2017, due to its popularity, went to daily.
Flying one of the most modern aircraft in the skies, the Airbus A350, Cathay Pacific offer business, premium economy and economy classes. Taking less than 12 hours to reach Hong Kong, the flights leave Manchester each day at 11.30am.
James Ginns, Cathay Pacific’s Regional General Manager Europe, says: “The demand for our daily flight truly underlines the global importance of the Northern Powerhouse.
“Hong Kong has a compelling dynamism and energy that matches that of Manchester – stemming from hard-working, business-savvy communities with a huge appetite for arts and culture, as well as innovation, science and technology. These synergies are what make the two cities a perfect pairing for both business and leisure.
Whilst in Hong Kong, be that on business or leisure, there is a wealth of things to see and do.
If it’s your first time to Hong Kong, hop on the Star Ferry and take in the magnificent Victoria Harbour and surrounding skyline, go shopping or take the MTR to Mong Kok for the night markets and more.
For sunset drinks, take in some of the incredible views from some of the world’s best rooftop bars and restaurants including Skye, Sevva, Felix and Hutong.
It’s not all about the buzz of the city – for lush green spaces, travel just half an hour out of the city and you’ll reach Lamma Island. A fantastic respite after a busy day of meetings.
With an abundance of world-class hotels to stay from, stay in style at the luxurious Upper House – conveniently located close to the heart of Hong Kong’s business district – rooms start from £510 per night for a Studio 70 category room on a bed and breakfast basis.
With return economy fares from £499, premium economy from £879, and business class from £3,089, Cathay Pacific is the ideal way to reach Hong Kong and beyond.
Over on the mainland, Beijing, China’s capital city, is a bustling centre of commerce, culture and wonder.
Hainan Airlines fly direct from Manchester Airport using the state of the art Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. With two classes, business and economy, Hainan Airlines has an award-winning service ensuring you reach Beijing feeling your very best.
Hainan Airlines Manchester General Manager, Ryan Zhang, comments:
“We’ve been operating from Manchester Airport for almost two years and the route continues to go from strength to strength, surpassing all of our expectations.
“Our award-winning service, excellent entertainment and onboard catering will ensure our passengers are treated in style.
“Spring is the ideal time to visit Beijing with the temperatures beginning to increase, but cooler than the hot summer months.”
Whilst in Beijing there are a whole host of activities to keep the most intrepid explorer entertained.
For a glimpse of the ancient world, take a trip out to the Great Wall of China and stand in awe of the magnificent structure that spans for miles and miles. History lovers will be spoilt for choice in Beijing with The Forbidden City and neighbouring Tiananmen Square making for a great afternoon visit.
The new meets the old in Beijing in the famous Sanlitun district. A collection of trendy bars, restaurants and western shops sit side by side with authentic Chinese outlets. If crispy duck is your delicacy of choice, then Duck De Chine is a must do restaurant.
With numerous hotels to choose from the Fairmont Beijing is an excellent choice whether travelling on business or leisure. Deluxe rooms start from £132 plus local tax.
With excellent onward connectivity across all of China, direct economy flights from Manchester to Beijing start from £384 including tax. Return business class start from £1,780 including tax.
For more information:
Cathay Pacific/Hong Kong:
Cathay Pacific: www.cathaypacific.co.uk
Upper House: www.upperhouse.com
Discover Hong Kong: www.discoverhongkong.com
Hainan Airlines/Beijing:
Hainan Airlines: www.hainanairlines.com
Fairmont Hotel Beijing: www.fairmont.com/beijing
Duck De Chine: www.thebeijinger.com/directory/duck-de-chine