Hong Kong - Cosmopolitan Surprise
Flying to Hong Kong in Business Class on British Airways was second to none. The flatbeds and exceptional service made a 12 plus hour flight from London quite enjoyable!
I stayed on Hong Kong Island in the North Point area. Whilst this afforded me easy access to the MRT (Hong Kong’s underground train system) and taxis were readily available, I would suggest a hotel in the Causeway Bay area if staying on this island. Alternatively, if based on Kowloon, Tsim Sha Tsui is the ideal location.
On a first time visit, I would recommend taking in a Hong Kong Island Tour. Our day trip began on the Peak Tram that took us to the top of Victoria Peak, a spectacular spot to take in the amazing views of the Hong Kong skyline. After that great start, we meandered our way to Aberdeen, a floating fishing village of houseboats. A 20-minute sampan ride (traditional boat) gave a fascinating insight into a community who live afloat. Whilst on this traditional form of transport, we passed Jumbo, one of the largest floating restaurant. The coach then took in Deep Water Bay and Repulse Bay before making a stop at the well known Stanley Market, where we were able to test our bargaining skills.
By night, Hong Kong becomes the veritable Christmas tree with the city lights being a sight to behold. There is even a light show displayed across the buildings of Hong Kong Island in the Central district which is well worth a look. We found that possibly the best way of viewing the city skyline, by day or night is from the deck of the famous Star Ferry as you embark on the short trip across Victoria Harbour to Kowloon.
On Kowloon, we headed for Nathan Road and the Jade Market for some retail therapy, and stopped for a drink at the rooftop bar in the colonial style Peninsular Hotel. Make sure you make a stop in the ladies or gents facilities to experience a truly unique room with a view!
To my surprise, Hong Kong is not just a bustling metropolis of busy streets and shopping. For the family, there is now Disneyland Hong Kong (still under construction on my visit) on Lantau Island, easily accessible on the MRT. For every visitor, a must is a trip to some of the outlying islands. I was able to go by private charter to Cheung Chau and Lamma Islands; however ferries depart with daily regularity from Hong Kong Island.
Cheung Chau Island offers cultural and historical insight into the area with a visit to Pak Tai temple. Here you can take in Tang Wan beach. Yes – Hong Kong has some spectacular beaches! Lamma Island on the other hand is best known for seafood and the Lamma Island Hike - very enjoyable coastal walk from one side of the island to the other. This offers breathtaking views and island information points along the way, ending in a delicious seafood lunch!
I alluded to the food earlier, but I feel I need to emphasise this point. Hong Kong is a gourmet’s paradise. Still with strong colonial influences, English High Tea is a traditional institution in some of the hotels, one of which is the Excelsior Hotel. I don’t think I have ever seen such a display of sweet treats, and the chocolate fountain is definitely worth a mention! Knutsford Terrace, a food themed street behind Nathan Road, is a place where you can sample food from around the world and no trip to Hong Kong would be complete without sampling a selection of traditional Dim Sum or some of the local flavours at the many market cafes. To end off the evening, make your way to Lan Kwai Fong and experience this premier nightlife neighbourhood in the heart of Central where bistros and bars spill onto streets friendly to ambling pedestrians.
All in all, Hong Kong was more than a city for me and definitely a spot I’d like to visit again. If you need further enticement to visit, why not give me a call.