30/12/2017
Navigating Your Way from Hong Kong International Airport to Your Hotel
Arriving at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) is often the first step in an exciting adventure. For many travellers, the most convenient and comfortable way to reach their accommodation is via a dedicated airport shuttle bus service. These services are designed to whisk you directly from the airport terminal to the doorstep of your hotel, offering a hassle-free transition after a long flight. However, it's crucial to be aware of the operational status of such services, as they can change. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the hotel shuttle bus services previously available from Hong Kong Airport, their coverage, pricing, and importantly, their current operational status.
Vigor Airport Shuttle Services: A Past Overview
For a considerable period, Vigor Airport Shuttle Services Limited was the primary provider of direct shuttle bus services from Hong Kong International Airport to a wide array of hotels across the city. These shuttles were lauded for their affordability and convenience, offering a more economical alternative to private taxis or individual transfers. They aimed to provide a comfortable journey with luxurious business seats and ample space for luggage, ensuring a pleasant start to your stay in Hong Kong.
Service Details and Operational Hours
The Vigor Airport Shuttle service had a structured schedule designed to meet the needs of arriving passengers. Typically, buses would depart from the airport between 07:00 and 23:00, with departures occurring every 30 minutes. Some services had slightly different operating hours, running from 11:00 to 17:00. Departures from hotels back to the airport were generally scheduled from 04:50 to 22:00, with departures occurring on an hourly basis.
Ticket Pricing and Luggage Allowance
The pricing for the shuttle service was structured based on the destination area:
| Destination | Single Trip Price |
|---|---|
| Hong Kong Island Hotels | HKD 150 |
| Kowloon Hotels | HKD 140 |
There were specific regulations regarding luggage. Each passenger was permitted to carry two pieces of standard-sized luggage, with the total linear dimension not exceeding 158cm (62 inches). The total weight of the luggage should not exceed 20kg (44lbs). Surcharges would apply for excess luggage, making it important for travellers to be mindful of their baggage weight and size.
Important Note on Children: Children under 3 years of age travelled for free provided they did not occupy a separate seat. Children aged 3 and above were required to pay the full fare.
Current Status: A Significant Change
It is of paramount importance for travellers to be aware of the latest information regarding airport shuttle services. Unfortunately, the shuttle bus service from Hong Kong Airport to hotels provided by Vigor Airport Shuttle Services Limited has been suspended. This means that the direct hotel shuttle service previously operated by Vigor is no longer available.
What Does This Suspension Mean for Travellers?
The suspension of the Vigor Airport Shuttle service means that travellers arriving at Hong Kong International Airport will need to consider alternative methods of transportation to reach their hotels. Fortunately, Hong Kong offers a robust and efficient public transportation network, as well as other private transfer options.
Alternative Transportation Options
1. Airport Express Train: This is arguably the fastest and most convenient way to reach key areas of Hong Kong from the airport. The Airport Express line connects directly to major hubs like Kowloon and Hong Kong Station (Central). From these stations, you can easily catch a taxi or another form of public transport to your specific hotel. Many hotels are also located within walking distance of Airport Express stations or offer free shuttle services from the stations themselves.
2. Public Buses: Hong Kong has an extensive bus network, and several bus routes serve the airport, connecting to various parts of the city. While this can be a more economical option than the Airport Express, it may involve longer journey times and require more navigation to find your specific hotel.
3. Taxis: Taxis are readily available at the airport and provide a direct door-to-door service. There are different coloured taxis in Hong Kong, each serving specific areas::
| Taxi Colour | Area Served | Starting Fare (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Urban (Red) | Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and New Territories (except specific areas) | HKD 27 |
| New Territories (Green) | New Territories and Lantau Island (except Tung Chung and Airport) | HKD 22 |
| Lantau (Blue) | Lantau Island (including Tung Chung and the Airport) | HKD 24 |
Fares are metered, and surcharges may apply for tolls, luggage, and late-night travel. Taxis offer a convenient, albeit potentially more expensive, option for direct hotel transfers.
4. Ride-Sharing Services: While not as prevalent as in some other global cities, ride-sharing apps may be available in Hong Kong. It's advisable to check local availability and regulations upon arrival.
Hotels Previously Served by Vigor Shuttle
While the shuttle service is suspended, it's worth noting the extensive list of hotels that were previously covered. This gives an idea of the popular areas and types of accommodation that the shuttle catered to:
Kowloon Hotels (Service Hours 07:00 - 23:00)
Tsim Sha Tsui: Best Western Grand Hotel, Best Western Plus Hotel Kowloon, Butterfly on Prat, Empire Hotel Kowloon, Oasis Avenue - A GDH HOTEL, Holiday Inn Golden Mile, Imperial Hotel, Kimberley Hotel, Kowloon Hotel, The Luxe Manor, Mira Hotel, Panorama Hotel By Rhombus, Park Hotel, Page 148, Peninsula Hong Kong, Sheraton Hong Kong, Stanford Hillview Hotel, YMCA of HK (Salisbury), Langham Hong Kong, Marco Polo Gateway, Marco Polo Hong Kong, Marco Polo Prince, Royal Pacific Hotel, Harbour Grand Kowloon, Harbour Plaza Metropolis, Hotel ICON, Hotel sáv Hong Kong, InterContinental Grand Stanford, Kowloon Harbour Front Hotel, Kowloon Shangri-La, New World Millennium Hong Kong Hotel, Regal Kowloon Hotel, The Royal Garden.
Jordan / Yau Ma Tei: BP International House, Eaton Hong Kong, Evergreen Hotel, Hotel Stage, Largos Hotel, Nathan Hotel, Novotel Nathan Road, Pruton Prudential, Shamrock Hotel, Travelodge Hotel.
Mongkok / Kowloon East: The Cityview, Hong Kong Cordis, Metropark Hotel Kln, Mongkok Metropark Hotel, Royal Plaza Hotel, Silka Seaview Kowloon Hotel, Stanford Hotel.
Hong Kong Island Hotels (Service Hours 07:00 - 23:00)
Wanchai: The Best Western Hotel Causeway Bay, Butterfly On Morrison, The Charterhouse Hotel, Cosmo Hotel Hong Kong, Dorsett, Emperor Hotel, EMPIRE HOTEL, The Harbour View, Kew Green Hotel, Minimal Hotel．Urban, Novotel Century, Renaissance Harbour View, South Pacific Hotel, Vela Boutique Hotel, Wharney Guangdong Hotel.
Causeway Bay: Empire Hotel HK Causeway Bay, Empire Prestige Hong Kong, Hotel Pennington by Rhombus, L' Hotel CWB Harbour View HK, Le Petit Rosedale Hotel Hong Kong, Metropark Htl, Park Lane, Regal Hongkong Hotel, Rosedale Hotel.
HK Island – East: City Garden Hotel, Ramada Hong Kong Grand View, Harbour Grand, Harbour Plaza North Point, Ibis North Point, South China Hotel.
Additional Hotels Served (Specific Hours)
Kowloon (11:00 - 17:00): Harbour Plaza 8 Degrees.
Mongkok / Kowloon East (11:00 - 17:00): Dorsett Mongkok, Rosedale Hotel Kowloon.
New Territories (11:00 - 17:00): Disney Explorers Lodge, Disneyland Hotel Hong Kong, Disney's Hollywood Hotel, L'hotel Nina Et Convention Ctr, Panda Hotel.
Hotel in HK Island Side (11:00 - 17:00): Ramada Hong Kong Harbour View, Eco Tree Hotel, Hotel Jen Hong Kong, Island Pacific Hotel.
Important Caveat: Please note that the suspension means these hotels are no longer served by the Vigor shuttle. This list is for informational purposes regarding the previous service offerings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is there still a direct shuttle bus from Hong Kong Airport to hotels?
No, the shuttle bus service provided by Vigor Airport Shuttle Services Limited has been suspended. You will need to use alternative transportation methods.
Q2: What is the best alternative to the airport shuttle?
The Airport Express train is often considered the fastest and most convenient option to reach the city centre. From there, you can take a taxi or public transport to your hotel. Taxis offer direct door-to-door service.
Q3: How much is a taxi from Hong Kong Airport to the city centre?
The cost of a taxi will vary depending on the destination, traffic, and time of day. An urban taxi to areas like Tsim Sha Tsui or Central can range from HKD 350-500, including tolls. It's always best to check with the taxi driver or meter for the most accurate fare.
Q4: Can I find information about hotel shuttles directly from my hotel?
Yes, it is highly recommended to contact your hotel directly before your arrival. Many hotels offer their own shuttle services from major transport hubs like the Airport Express stations, or they can provide updated information on the best ways to reach them from the airport.
Conclusion
While the direct hotel shuttle bus service from Hong Kong International Airport is no longer operational, travellers have several excellent alternatives. The Airport Express train, public buses, and taxis all provide reliable ways to reach your accommodation. It is always advisable to plan your journey in advance and check with your hotel for the most up-to-date information and recommendations. Enjoy your stay in the vibrant city of Hong Kong!
If you want to read more articles similar to Hong Kong Airport Hotel Shuttles: What You Need to Know, you can visit the Transport category.