Good Times in Hong Kong

Dining out in Hong Kong can be an expensive habit.

Whether or not you're rolling in money, no one likes to pay more than they have to just to have a good time.

We once purchased a coupon book but weren't happy with the restrictions imposed, which made it difficult to use, and the book's steep price meant we had to use it often to make it pay for itself. The other problem was that using a coupon felt a tad gauche.

Good TimesEnter Good Times, a card-based program with offers valid seven days a week. Created by a Hong Kong company, Good Times helps diners save money and support non-profit and charity groups in the bargain.

That's an idea we could sink our teeth into!

The low-cost membership allows diners either to save 50% or take advantage of 'Buy 1, Get 1 Free' offers at close to 100 of Hong Kong's top restaurants and bars in SoHo, Lan Kwai Fong, Wan Chai, Tsim Sha Tsui, Stanley and more. Using the impressive and handy full-colour directory (printed in both English and Chinese) or the Good Times web site, all you need to do is choose where you want to eat, which might be difficult because there are so many mouth-watering choices (we've already picked half a dozen places we've either been to before or have yet to try).

The best part is that a large percentage of the funds raised are donated to charity. For example, when you purchase a membership online, within a couple of days your membership pack will arrive. After you leaf through the amazing directory (try not to drool), simply register your card number and then choose which charity or non-profit organisation you wish to support, such as The Society for AIDS Care, The Matilda International Hospital Children's Foundation, or Operation Santa Claus, to name but a few. It's that easy.

A membership also makes an excellent gift, whether for Christmas, birthdays, anniversaries, or just to show someone your appreciation. I guarantee the recipient will enjoy a gift that lasts all year and lifts the community.

So if you like the idea of giving others a helping hand while cutting your dining expense in half, visit Good Times now and buy a membership. Or two.

Not only will you have good times, so will the folks who'll benefit from your thoughtful purchase.