A female tourist from The Netherlands has become the most lucky overseas tourist to Hong Kong in 2004 -- the 20 millionth tourist to Hong Kong who received a package of rewards.

Barbara Wallerbosch, who arrived in Hong Kong at about 8:00 a.m. at Hong Kong International Airport Sunday was recognized by Hong Kong's Immigration Department as the 20 millionth tourist to Hong Kong in 2004.

Hong Kong Tourist Development Board (HKTB) has offered her a 12-minute Helitours at night, week-long Museum Pass, guided heritage tour, guided Lantau Island monastery tour, Hong Kong WinterFest guided tour, hotel upgrade, transfer to hotel from airport and dinner, crystal junk and about 10 souvenirs from the HKTB.

Surprised at the gift offering, Wallerbosch said she was very happy to be the luckiest tourist to Hong Kong.

She said she was most interested in the helicopter tour at night during which she could observe the well-known charms of Victoria Harbor.

She said this is her first trip to Hong Kong. During her one-week stay in Hong Kong, shopping was one of her major destinations as she planned to buy jewelry items, a digital camera, fashions and gifts for friends.

Selian Chow, chairman of HKTB presented a certificate to the 20millionth visitor at the airport.

She said welcoming 20 million tourists to Hong Kong is an achievement that all Hong Kong residents would feel proud of.

She expected that tourist arrivals to Hong Kong would reach 21.36 million by the end of December, up 29 percent over the pervious annual record and setting a new record in Hong Kong's history.

She said Hong Kong is speeding up the construction of Disney Land projects, a wetland park and some other tourism projects and more tourists are expected to visit Hong Kong next year.

(Xinhua News Agency December 6, 2004)