Sheila Edwards of AMA Travel wins Hong Kong trip courtesy of HKTB & Cathay Pacific

We have a winner! Sheila Edwards from AMA Travel Shawnessy in Calgary, Alberta, will soon be saying "hello" from Hong Kong.

Organized in collaboration with the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), Cathay Pacific, and PAX News, the Hello Hong Kong contest required travel agents to read an article and answer a question for a chance to win.

When Edwards received a Friday afternoon surprise call from PAX that she had won the grand prize, including a return Economy Class flight on Cathay Pacific to Hong Kong, three nights' accommodation, three attraction tickets, and round-trip Airport Express Line transfers, she was thrilled. 

"I'm just delighted. I haven't been to Asia in six years, so this is a wonderful opportunity to be able to visit the region again. I'm just elated. Wonderful," she said.

Edwards, a travel counsellor with CTC and ECC designations, has been in the industry for 20 years having started her career at Sears Travel. She just celebrated her 15th anniversary with AMA Travel.

READ MORE: Say hello to Hong Kong, where arts & culture festivals never stop

Edwards recalled a brief stopover in Hong Kong several years ago and was captivated by the city's blend of tradition and modernity.

"I was there for about three days on a stopover during a FAM and remember liking it so much - the old and the new, like there was so much to see. I think there's still more to see since I was there last. I'm really excited," she shared.

Edwards is also excited to fly with Cathay Pacific. "I've actually never flown with Cathay Pacific before, so that is going to be a great experience as well," she said.

Asked if she sells Asia, particularly Hong Kong, to her clients, Edwards said: "Yes, absolutely."

She stressed the importance of first-hand experience when promoting a destination. "While my stop years back in Hong Kong was brief, I think it's a plus that you can speak a bit more of a destination once you've been there," she explained. “I just love the contrast of what Hong Kong offers, so I'm excited to experience it again." 

Michael Lim, director, Americas at the HKTB, extended his sincere congratulations to Edwards. 

"We look forward to welcoming you to Hong Kong to experience culinary treats, arts and cultural finds, and exploring hidden green treasures. Don’t forget to check out Hollywood Road, one of the coolest streets in the world!” Lim said. 

Chris van den Hooven, senior vice-president, the Americas at Cathay Pacific, also shared a statement.

“Cathay Pacific is delighted to hear that Ms. Edwards from AMA travel was the lucky winner of a round-trip ticket to Hong Kong. As Hong Kong's home carrier for over 75 years, we are proud to partner with the Hong Kong Tourism Board and Pax News to allow the opportunity to see all that Hong Kong has to offer. We look forward to welcoming Ms. Edwards onboard very soon," van den Hooven said. 

Congratulations Sheila!

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