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Hong Kong recorded post-pandemic highs in daily mainland visitor arrivals during the Labour Day Golden Week, but many travelers maintained strict budgets - with some choosing to stay overnight in local fast-food outlets.

Photos circulating on Threads showed groups of travelers with luggage occupying a Mong Kok fast-food restaurant, leaving no space for regular diners.

The visitors were seen surrounded by food and outside beverages, drawing criticism from online communities.

One mainland student arriving Saturday (May 3) told reporters he planned to visit Victoria Peak and the Avenue of Stars but chose to rest at a Tsim Sha Tsui fast-food outlet rather than book accommodation, as he was returning Sunday (May 4).

A Chongqing traveler cited Hong Kong's steep accommodation costs - approximately HK$7,000 per night - as her reason for staying at a fast-food restaurant.

Similarly, a Guangzhou visitor admitted he hadn't booked accommodation for the night: "If I can't find an option, I'll just sleep at McDonald's."

Budget-conscious mainland tourists opt for fast-food stays during Golden Week