Everyone needs time to rest and recharge, especially after a busy work week. A time to catch up on sleep, meet up with friends, learn a new hobby, or go on a day trip somewhere!
For foreign domestic helpers, Hong Kong law states that they are entitled to one day off every seven days, and no work during statutory holidays. If you’re new to the city and wondering how to spend your rest day, here are some great ideas, from relaxing solo activities to fun get-togethers!
1. Get Enough Rest
No work? Sleep in. Take a nap. It is your “rest” day, after all. If you’ve had a busy week, now’s the time to slow down; let your mind and body relax. If you’ve got something planned for your day off, go to bed early the night before, so you can be ready and energized for the day ahead!
2. Spend Time with Family and Friends
Got family and friends in Hong Kong, or hoping to make new pals? Head to the nearest public park or square, where domestic helpers often gather on rest days. Some popular spots are Victoria Park and Statue Square, which feature open spaces for picnics and small gatherings.
3. Savor Your Favorite Foods
Although Hong Kong is known for its diverse cuisines, you’re probably missing some classic Pinoy food: adobo, pancit, lumpiang shanghai, bibingka, puto, and many more. Plan a “pot luck” for your next rest day, where everyone can bring their “specialties” and favorite dishes. No time to cook? Head to a Filipino restaurant; there’s quite a number of them here!
4. Join a Cooking Class
Speaking of food, would you like to hone your cooking skills? There are some organizations that hold cooking classes, providing lessons on Hong Kong cuisine, which is influenced by Chinese, British, and other cultures. After class, surprise your family and friends with some new recipes!
5. Read and Exchange Books
Reading is a great way to relax, learn something new, or simply be entertained. Whether you’re into cook books, “how to” guides, mystery thrillers, or romance novels — reading is something you’ll surely enjoy. And when you meet your friends, consider having a “book exchange”!
6. Enjoy Some Karaoke
What’s a Filipino gathering without karaoke?! Pinoys are known for their love of music and singing, belting out popular hits with sheer talent and gusto! The next time you go to the park, sing along with your friends using a mobile karaoke app, or bring a guitar if you have one.
7. Visit a Museum
Learn more about the city you live in by going to the Hong Kong Museum of History and the Hong Kong Heritage Museum, which feature interactive exhibits on the city’s colorful past. For art enthusiasts, there’s the Hong Kong Museum of Art, which houses an impressive collection of both traditional and contemporary artworks.
8. Go Hiking
Hiking is a popular activity in Hong Kong, among locals and tourists alike. For beginners, there’s Dragon’s Back, which showcases breathtaking views of forests, the coast, and the South China Sea. For a “family friendly” hike, go to Lantau Island, where there’s a family trail offering views of the coastline, as well as the majestic Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery. Similarly, there’s a scenic trail along the Tai Tam Reservoir that is also ideal for beginners and intermediate hikers.
9. Take Pictures and Videos
Throughout all your activities, don’t forget to take lots of pictures and videos! Hong Kong is a multicultural city with plenty of attractions, so be sure to capture your experiences on camera. Someday, when you look back at these pictures, you’ll be glad to have made wonderful memories!
10. Take Time to Reflect
Of course, rest days are not just for leisure and socializing, but also for reflection and meditation. Attend a church service, read inspirational books, write in a journal, and pray. During your day off, take time to nourish your mind and spirit, as well.
These are just some of the things you can do to make the most of your rest day. Whatever you plan to do, remember that it’s a day to relax, recharge, and connect with family and friends.
Aside from rest days, statutory holidays, and leaves, domestic helpers are entitled to other rights and benefits. Check out this article for more information about the basic rights of domestic helpers in Hong Kong.