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For most visitors, Hong Kong is neatly divided in to two, with hotels, restaurants, shops and bars located either on the Kowloon Peninsular of the mainland, or Hong Kong Island itself. Getting around is straightforward, so wherever you're based, it's easy to explore the city.
Perhaps the most fascinating thing about Hong Kong is the way in which east and West, Ancient and modern co-exist and intertwine. The junks of Aberdeen Harbour contrast dramatically with the five star luxury of some of the best hotels in the world; leave the jostle of Nathan Road and the modern stores laden with high-tech consumer goods and relax on the island of Lantau where Buddhist monks have eschewed all possessions.
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Things to do in Hong Kong |
Kowloon Park
Kowloon Park is one of the larger parks in Kowloon, covering an area of about 13.5 hectares (about 33 acres). The park is built in a classical Chinese style, and is visited by many tourists. The park has gardens with lotus ponds, a chess garden, as well as an aviary, which has a colourful collection of rare birds. There is a Sculpture Walk where local artists exhibit their masterpieces.
Big Buddha - Lantau Island
Standing at 26.4 meters high and weighing well over 200 tonnes, the Giant Buddha of Lantau Island is certainly a sight to behold! The majestic figure which is the world's tallest outdoor seated bronze Buddha situated nearby the famous Po Lin Monastery, symbolizes the harmonious relationship between man, nature, people and religion
Victoria Peak (Tai Ping Shan) - Peak Tower
Situated on the western region of Hong Kong, Victoria Peak is a popular spot among tourists. From here you will see some of the most amazing views of Hong Kong. You may wish to do this trip twice once by day and the other by night. By day you can see the dense glittering skyscrapers of Hong Kong and the lush green mountains of Kowloon. By night the view transforms into a fairyland of lights.
Ocean Park
This is one of the world’s most beautiful theme parks, housing some of the most exhilarating rides, an excellent replica of tropical reef with many colourful fish, shark tank, dolphin and sea lion shows, shark aquarium, children’s play area. Take the cable car with its panoramic views of Hong Kong and the South China Sea.
Stanley Market
Stanley Market is every shoppers dream come true. The famous market is good for large-sized foreigner clothes, souvenirs, and cheap (if somewhat artistically suspect) Chinese calligraphy and paintings. There is also a nice beach and good selection of bars and places to eat.
Star Ferry
The Star Ferry service operates between Kowloon and Hong Island from piers in Tsim Sha Tsui and Hung Hom in Kowloon and Central and Wan Chai on the Island. The trip across the harbour gives terrific views of the receding island for just HK$2.2.
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Shopping in Hong Kong: |
Central
The many stalls at "The Lanes" peddle everything from cheap clothing, watches, costume jewellery to luggage and shoes. Rain or shine, the markets stay open every day, from 10:00 until 19:00. Photography enthusiasts inevitably make a beeline for Stanley Street, and little wonder, since there's such a wide array of equipment on sale there. For antiques, head for Hollywood Road. A little to the west, sidewalk hawkers take pride of place
Western
Interested in getting some lovely fabric or Chinese handicrafts? Then Western Market is just the place to visit. The building itself is something of an attraction, with its Edwardian design and architecture. Move farther west, and you'll find that Chinese-style shops dominate the view, with their dried seafood and medicinal herbs. Antiques can also be found on Cat Street where you'll find and a dazzling array of old coins, watches and stone carvings, sold at the shops and stalls
Pacific Place
Located in Central/Mid-levels. A 3 floor mall which includes mostly high-end stores. This mall is popular among tourists, though it's not very comprehensive for fashion shopping. It has an AMC cinema and a variety of restaurants, and you can try different Chinese and south-east Asian cuisines there. Has various stores for all ages. Great way to spend a day! The MTR (local subway train) runs through it for an easy access.
Stanley
One of Hong Kong's most famous seafronts and its historic lanes are full of stalls peddling Chinese paintings, silk collectibles, handicrafts, furniture and lots and lots of Hong Kong souvenirs and curios. Stanley has gained widespread fame for its market.
Admiralty
This is another area for branded luxury items, with Pacific Place topping the list of popular shopping destinations. It has more than 130 outlets, including the famed Marks & Spencer, Lane Crawford and Seibu. Close to the mall are luxury hotels: the Conrad and JW Marriott.
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Eating out in Hong Kong:
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M at the Fringe - First floor, South Block, 2 Lower Albert Road.
M at the Fringe has large loyal following, this 15-year-old Australian-owned restaurant is one of Hong Kong's best. It offers wonderful continental cuisine (such as Mandarin Beluga served on a warm crepe Parmentier with crème fraiche) in an effortlessly artsy ambience.
Gaddi's – The Peninsula, Salisbury Road
Since opening in 1953, The Peninsula hotel’s restaurant has served gourmet French cuisine and fine wine. Chandeliers, large tables and blue and gold décor complement its spacious, layered space. There is a three-course lunch menu, with four-, five- and six-course options available for dinner. Perfect for either a romantic dinner or group celebration. Dinner jackets and advanced booking required for evening dinner.
Fish Bar - JW Marriott Hotel, 1 Pacific Place.
Teak furnishings, deep blue interiors and an alfresco terrace make this a great venue to lunch. From oysters to char-grilled barramundi, the food is exquisitely prepared and served with tangy and zesty sauces. The portions, both for starters and main course, are generous and the wine menu perfectly complements the seafood choices.
Café Deco Bar and Grill
Café Deco has one of the most breathtaking restaurant views. The stunning panorama views from Hong Kong Island’s central peak are stunning, especially dazzling at night. The cuisine is a hugely diverse array of East and West from perfect steaks to succulent sashimi and sizzling tandoori platters. The food is excellent value for money.
The Verandah
A characteristically romantic place for lovers to end long walks along Repulse Bay beach, The Verandah offers opulent international cuisine, along the lines of oysters and steamed lobster salad, in a palm-frond and ceiling-fan ambience. The outside courtyard is equally attractive and far cheaper. |