Why Hong Kong and Macau Will Always Be One of My Favorite Getaways (And How to Do It on a Budget)

There are trips that surprise you --> not because they’re grand or expensive, but because they feel just right. That’s how our Hong Kong and Macau family trip felt. It was affordable, exciting, and filled with small, beautiful moments I’ll always remember.

I traveled with my sisters, Mylene and Len, and my two daughters. Five of us, hopping through busy streets and quiet alleys, bonding over food, getting “budoled” in markets, and soaking in the magic of two cities that felt so near, yet full of wonder.

​If you're craving a break and watching your
budget, here’s why Hong Kong and Macau are perfect --> and how we made it happen without overspending.

Visa-Free, Worry-Free
Filipinos can travel to both Hong Kong and Macau visa-free. No embassy appointments, no paperwork stress. Just book your flight, show up with your passport, and you're good to go. We scored a promo fare from Cebu Pacific (watch out for Piso Fare promos) and flew straight from Manila to Hong Kong. If you’re lucky and flexible with dates, you can get roundtrip tickets for as low as ₱3,000 to ₱5,000.

Where We Stayed: A Family Room in the City
We chose Dorsett Wanchai, a hotel that’s both stylish and practical for families. The room was spacious enough for all five of us, and we loved the free hotel shuttle that took us to Causeway Bay, Central, and more. Since Hong Kong hotel rooms are known for being small and pricey, this one was a win. Just note --> they’re strict on check-in time. While waiting, we took a walk around Causeway Bay to stretch our legs and grab snacks.

Macau Day Trip: Free Shuttles and Big Views
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Macau is just a ferry ride away from Hong Kong. We used the Cotai Ferry, leaving at 8 AM and coming back around 3 PM. Book tickets in advance to get better rates. Once we got there, we saved money by riding the free hotel shuttles offered by major casino hotels like The Venetian, Galaxy, and Sands.
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Even if you’re not gambling or checking in, these shuttles are open to tourists. We used them to get around the city comfortably without spending a cent on taxis or buses. It’s a smart way to explore the city’s old Portuguese corners and grand hotel interiors without busting your budget.

Our Travel Highlights (And Budget-Friendly Tips)

🛍 Ladies Market “Budol” Alert
Yes, I was budoled into buying a Labubu keychain for 100 HKD by a very persistent saleslady. My kids found it hilarious. If you’re heading to markets, set a budget and practice saying “No, thank you.” But also, don’t be too hard on yourself if you give in to a cute souvenir.

🍜 Noodle Heaven
We skipped fancy restaurants and focused on local noodle shops and food courts. They’re everywhere, affordable, and delicious. My kids couldn’t get enough of wonton noodles, beef brisket soup, and stocking milk tea. Expect to spend around 40 to 60 HKD per meal.

🚋 Tram Rides Over Taxis
We didn't buy an Octopus card. Instead, we used Visa debit and credit cards to tap on MTRs and trams. This saved us from loading cards and made it easier to track spending. Also, tram rides in Hong Kong are charming and cost only 3 HKD --> a budget-friendly way to explore the city.

👣 Walking Tour with Heart
We joined a walking tour in Central with a local guide named Summer. Her stories about her grandparents and growing up in the city made the experience so much more meaningful. Free or low-cost walking tours are a great way to learn about a place beyond the surface.

🏨 Macau Hotel Hopping for the Views
Instead of booking an overnight stay, we explored luxury hotels like The Venetian and Sands just to admire the interiors, grab some snacks, and take photos. Hotel hopping is free, air-conditioned, and feels like a mini adventure.

How We Kept It Budget-Friendly
Here are some more ways we saved:
✔ Book flights during seat sales
✔ Stay in family rooms and split the cost
✔ Bring snacks or cup noodles from home
✔ Skip taxis and ride the tram or hotel shuttles
✔ Use credit or debit cards for transport (no need to buy a card)
✔ Eat like locals --> food courts are your best friend
✔ Schedule Macau as a day trip to avoid extra hotel nights
✔ Skip souvenir shops in tourist spots --> try smaller stores in Mong Kok
✔ Check free attractions like Victoria Harbour, Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, and Avenue of Stars

Final Thoughts
This trip reminded me that traveling doesn’t have to be expensive to be unforgettable. It just needs good company, a little planning, and an open heart.

I’ll always remember that ferry ride to Macau, the laughter during our market strolls, and the quiet moment when our guide talked about family and loss. These are the things that stay with you.

So if you’re thinking of taking a break, check those Cebu Pacific promos, book that trip, and go. Even a few days can give you memories that last much longer than your vacation leave.

Because some places feel like a dream. And sometimes, that dream is just two hours away from Manila.