A growing number of local residents are planning to travel outside Shanghai over Christmas this year, with Hong Kong and Macao among the most popular destinations.

"Our customers are mostly working people, and they don't have Christmas holidays," said Yu Zhen, a representative of Shanghai Jinjiang Travel. "Since Christmas is on a weekend this year, many have asked for the December 22 and 23 off to go to Hong Kong or Macao for a short holiday celebration."

Li Weiming, a spokesperson for Shanghai Spring Travel, said the agency is selling more than 100 tickets a day to the two destinations.

"The average daily sales have surpassed last year, which was under 100," said Li. "Our bookings are not over yet, I'm very optimistic about this year's (Christmas) market."

The Hong Kong Tourism Board said it is expecting a large number of local tourists this year.

"Now we have the new Disneyland to go along with other great holiday features," said Flora Wei, the board's Shanghai representative. "This Christmas, Hong Kong will be more worth traveling to."

"Over 50 percent of our customers chose Disneyland as part of their holiday in Hong Kong," said Yu.

A good trip to Hong Kong or Macao usually takes at least three days, said Yu, noting that amount of time is needed if you want to do some shopping and enjoy the sites.

Visitors to Hong Kong will be able to take part in the annual "Winter Day" celebrations. A Christmas village has been set up in Zhonghuan area. Markets in the village sell holiday goodies and young kids can also meet Santa Claus.

(Shanghai Daily December 8, 2005)