Over 500,000 locals head to the mainland over the Dragon Boat Festival holiday

Over 520,000 locals left Hong Kong on the first day of the three-day Dragon Boat Festival holiday, with about 80 percent heading to the mainland to enjoy their break and spend money.

Chinese media reported that, including the past Saturday and Sunday, as of 1 pm today on Dragon Boat Festival, more than 227,000 people entered and exited via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, of which 164,000 were Hong Kong and Macau residents, 1.5 times more than the previous year.

Over the same period, 42,000 vehicles, with 27,000 having Hong Kong and Macao license plates, entered and exited the Zhuhai Port, accounting for 70 percent of the total private cars, setting a new high since the port was opened.

A local surnamed Wong, who only had one day off during the Dragon Boat Festival, said she had to return to Hong Kong on the same day she visited the mainland. She spent most of her time eating, meeting relatives, and bringing food back to Hong Kong. 

Wong added that she plans to revisit the mainland soon, as it has become much more convenient since the borders re-opened.

Other tourists have also praised the mainland for its spacious area and slower pace, which allowed them to enjoy their holidays. Many plan to head north during the next long holiday as they think it is cheaper than traveling overseas.