Singapore and Hong Kong finally shared more details on the Air Travel Bubble (ATB) earlier today. As expected, there are plenty of precautions in place to protect the outstanding efforts that both governments have done thus far to combat the pandemic. The process is fairly similar to my RGL Business trip to Malaysia. Let me summarize all that you need to know.
Key points to note
General travel (tourism) is allowed. No quarantine/SHN on either side.
Starts on 22 Nov 2020 but travel from 7 Dec 2020 for a less complicated process.
Three swab tests required; pre-departure in SG, arrival in HK and pre-departure in HK. Total testing cost of about S$430/person.
Only dedicated flights allowed. From SIN: SQ890 or CX734. From HKG: SQ891 or CX759.
Flying Cathay Pacific (instead of Singapore Airlines) with cash or miles is cheaper across all seat classes.
Lowest round trip air fare on Cathay is $487 or 10,000 miles + $87.
Limited award space (requires more miles) on Cathay till end of Feb 2021. Travel from Mar 2021 for a more value-for-miles experience.
Pre-departure process (Singapore, from 7 Dec)
Before booking your flights, please check that you have been in Singapore for at least 14 days prior to the departure date.
After booking your flights, make a swab test appointment at any of the clinics listed by ICA. A COVID-19 PCR test costs between $185 – $200.
Arrival process (Hong Kong)
Upon arrival in Hong Kong, you will have to be tested again. This test costs HKD 499 (S$87). The result can take up to 4 hours to be out. Once you are cleared, you will be allowed to collect your luggage and proceed with your holiday plans.
Pre-departure process (Hong Kong)
If you are staying in Hong Kong for more than 72 hours, you will have to take a pre-departure test within 72 hours of your departure to Singapore. Depending on the clinic, this will cost around S$150. Also remember to submit your SG Arrival Card here.
Arrival process (Singapore)
There will not be any test required upon returning in Singapore.
Bottom line
Should you consider travelling from one concrete jungle to another? Oh hell yes, if you can afford the extra time and cost. Don’t be afraid of the nasal swabs, it is nothing more than a few seconds of discomfort. As complicated as it may sound, I guarantee that you will return with a much more memorable adventure than that 15-min Grab ride to a staycation hotel.
Is this the beginning of the end? Let’s hope for announcements for ATB to Vietnam, Australia or New Zealand next!
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