Chiang Mai to Hong Kong: Our Smart Points Redemption
After Chiang Mai’s magical Lantern Festival, we’ll jet off to Hong Kong for essential family time. Whenever we are close to Hong Kong, we always try to visit family if time allows us because we realized that time is limited and we want to spend as much time with our loved ones as we can.
The Flight: Hong Kong Express (Points + Budget Hack)
We’re flying Hong Kong Express direct from Chiang Mai (CNX) to Hong Kong (HKG)—about 2.5 hours and a straightforward hop to reunite with family. Total cost? Minimal, thanks to smart planning.
We learned quite a bit about Hong Kong Express luggage fees. Adding baggage during online check-in was 30% cheaper than pre-booking. Therefore, we will wait until we have to check in 48 hours prior to our flight to pay for our extra luggage(s).
💡 Pro Tip: HK Express checked bag = 20kg
✈️ Online check-in luggage: ~HKD 400 ($51 USD)
✈️ Pre-booked luggage: ~HKD 550 ($70 USD)
✅ 30% savings = $19 USD per bagHoliday Inn Causeway Bay: 4th Night Free Magic
Hong Kong hotels average $250+ USD/night, so our Holiday Inn Causeway Bay stay for 4 nights using IHG points with the 4th night free promotion was a no-brainer. Pay points for 3 nights, stay 4—perfect math.
Causeway Bay Location = Unbeatable:
3-min walk to Causeway Bay MTR
Times Square + Sogo shopping across street
Victoria Park
15-min MTR to Central/Star Ferry
Family dim sum at Lin Heung Tea House
Why This Stop Matters
After Chiang Mai’s spiritual intensity, these 4 nights will recharge us with:
Family dim sum mornings
Peak Tram sunsets
Causeway Bay neon nights
Loved ones laughter
Hong Kong isn’t just transit—it’s where we will reconnect before Vietnam’s rugged adventure.
Bottom line: Strategic points + luggage timing = maximum Hong Kong family time, minimum cost.
