Hongkong Pools – The Best Places to Unwind This Summer
When it comes to hongkong pools, the first thing that might pop into your mind is not exactly swimming and sunbathing. But in fact, Hong Kong is home to some of the best pool staycations in Asia. From the world’s highest pool to natural infinity ponds on a mountainside, Hong Kong is loaded with picture-perfect places for you and your family to relax and unwind as temperatures rise.
Earlier this month, Hong Kong’s government announced that it would ease some coronavirus restrictions, including allowing public beaches and swimming pools to reopen. It also reduced the quarantine period for international arrivals to 14 days from 21.
Although the easing of restrictions was welcomed, many public swimming pools remain closed this week due to the shortage of lifeguards. The Hong Kong Recreation and Sports Professionals General Union (HKRSPGU) said that around 20 public pools may only partially reopen and over 500 licensed private pools may not open at all this summer due to the crisis of lifeguards.
The HKRSPGU also urged the government to allow schools and training centres to use the facilities without lifeguards on duty, provided that they ensured a qualified person could be present at all times during the time of the visit. This is the same approach that is already taken by some clubs for their members to attend fitness classes or other activities during the reopening of the pools.
Despite the gloomy weather, a handful of public swimming pools opened for business on Thursday. Kennedy Town Swimming Pool, a larger water sports centre with two indoor and outdoor pools, saw many visitors in the morning, especially those who prefer to swim their morning laps.
Another highly popular choice among families is the Hammer Hill Road swimming pool. The largest of its kind in the city, this public pool features a pirate ship with water cannons, as well as waterslides and fountains that will keep kids entertained for hours. This is a great option for those who cannot make it to Ocean Park’s new water park!
The Pao Yue-Kong Swimming Pool complex was the only public swimming pool in Southern District before 1986. In the same year, the Urban Council was disbanded and management of pools in the New Territories transferred to the Regional Council (RegCo). Since then, the RegCo has built a number of new facilities to service the region’s growing population. The complex was named after Yue-Kong Pao, who donated funds to support the pool. The pool was officially opened on 9 July 1977. Today, there are more than 22 public pools under the control of the LCSD and they all charge an entrance fee of HK$17 on weekdays and HK$19 on weekends. Children, people with disabilities, seniors and full-time students are eligible for concession rates. Swimming lessons are also available at most pools for an extra charge. For more information, please visit the LCSD website.