With the rise in relocation amidst the pandemic, more and more people are looking into vacationing with their pet overseas, and pet relocation expert, Melody Fork from Global Paws HK, shares some tips for pet owners to consider before booking your tickets.
Some of the top holiday destinations for pet owners traveling from Hong Kong include...
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom is a great destination for those who want to travel with their dog. Although it may not be as accommodating to dogs as some parts of Europe, as dogs travelling in and out must travel as manifest cargo - there are still many dog-friendly establishments, such as pubs, cafes, parks, and even beaches.
Good thing is once you have landed in the UK you can rent a car and drive around the EU and vice versa, opening up your travel opportunities to other parts of the world! You just need to make sure that you get the necessary EU/GB health certificate.
A top spot to visit is the Lake District and Wales, where you will find plenty of great walks and hikes, with breathtaking views
Europe
The EU has some of the most dog-friendly countries in the world, such as Ireland, France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Austria. For most of these destinations, you can travel on most trains with your dog. Some popular tourist destination to visit include;
Ireland: Cliffs of Moher
France: Chamonix - snow, Colmar - inspiration for the beauty and the beast Disney film.
Germany: Mainz, Heidelberg, Munich (English Gardens)
Austria: Beautiful mountains and snow
Japan
On Japan’s bullet trains, dogs usually have to travel in a carrier, but on Saturday they can stretch their paws and enjoy the scenery on a special pet-friendly express.
A popular site for pet owners to visit is Shirakawa-go, Gifu - a scenic place in the snow for your pets to frolic.
Other
Other popular holiday destinations include;
Hawaii, where dogs can enjoy the dog-friendly beaches and hikes with Jurassic park-like landscapes and scenic views
Singapore, with its Botanic gardens and plenty of beautiful parks to enjoy, such as the Green Corridor.
Canada - a magical location with a mix of wooded walks, National Park with lakes and their turquoise clear waters and snow-capped mountains.
Getting there
Europe is a popular destination amongst pet owners with pets weighing under 7kg as they are able to travel in the cabin with you to most EU countries. This has to be confirmed case by case, as this depends on your pet's measurements as well.
For all other countries on the list and also larger pets, can arrive as excess baggage however the return trip to Hong Kong must be as manifest cargo.
Book a private jet holiday!
Private jet charter is also available for those looking for luxury.
Global Paws are offering a special Private Jet promotion starting from April 2023! Simply sign up to their mailing list for more information, and take your pick of two holiday destinations for a seven day trip! Head to...
Tokyo - one way for approximately HK$98k or return for HK$177k, per person and pet under 25kg, all inclusive!
Seoul - one way for approximately HK$90k or return for HK$165k, per person and pet under 25kg, all inclusive!
For more traveling advice and information from Global Paws, visit Global Paws' pop up event, PAWS-ON Pet Travel at Petisan on April 15th and 16th (between 13:00-17:00)
About Global Paws
Global Paws is a family-owned business that specialises in pet travel and relocation, with over 20 years of experience in all aspects of canine and feline husbandry. The company is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of your pets during travel or relocation. As a member of the International Pet & Animal Transport Association (IPATA) and a holder of The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Live Animals Regulations (LAR) certification, Global Paws has the expertise and knowledge to provide a personalised and stress-free travel experience for you and your furry family members.
To book a trip, visit their website here