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2017: Bad luck for Hong Kong's long weekend lovers

As we get closer to the new year, the savvy planners among us will have had a look at what 2017 will bring in terms of public holidays. And while Hong Kong may be known for its long working hours, the city does offer a fairly impressive number of public holidays.

In 2017, workers can enjoy 17 days off. That is if Saturdays are included in your standard work week. Those of us who work Monday to Friday may feel a little cheated as they miss out on four public holidays this year since they fall on a Saturday.

Additionally, in 2017 the Ching Ming Festival and the day following Mid-Autumn Festival fall on a Tuesday and Thursday, respectively, meaning you would have to use an annual leave day if you want to enjoy a long weekend. Where 2016's public holidays guaranteed nine long weekends, 2017 only has six.

  • 2 Jan 2017 – The day following New Year’s Day – Monday
  • 28-31 Jan 2017 – Chinese New Year – Saturday-Tuesday
  • 4 Apr 2017 – Ching Ming Festival – Tuesday
  • 14 Apr 2017 – Good Friday – Friday
  • 15 Apr 2017 – The day following Good Friday – Saturday
  • 17 Apr 2017 – Easter Monday – Monday
  • 1 May 2017 – Labour Day  – Monday
  • 3 May 2017 – Buddha’s birthday – Wednesday
  • 30 May 2017 – Dragon Boat Festival – Tuesday
  • 1 Jul 2017 – HKSAR Establishment Day – Saturday
  • 2 Oct 2017 – The day following National Day – Monday
  • 5 Oct 2017 – The day following Mid-Autumn Festival – Thursday
  • 28 Oct 2017 – Chung Yeung Festival – Saturday
  • 25 Dec 2017 – Christmas Day – Monday
  • 26 Dec 2017 – Boxing Day – Tuesday
Although the 2017 calendar might not feature the most ideal public holiday dates, with a bit of planning and some annual leave you can still enjoy some much deserved time off throughout the year.

Furthermore, instead of feeling cheated about "missing out" on four days off, perhaps those of us who never have to work on Saturdays can try to practice a little more gratitude as part of our New Year's resolutions.

ALSO READ: The best companies for holidays

Photo / 123RF

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