Guest Contributor: Zoe Abbott
Hong Kong is a unique, bustling and dynamic city with a spectacular skyline and harbour. The city is a fantastic blend of culture, shopping and world-class dining and is the perfect stopover destination en route to China. Here Zoe Abbott, Customer Insight Manager at Wendy Wu Tours, describes her favourite sights and experiences.
Zoe at The Peak, Hong Kong
Day 1
MORNING – The Peak
A visit up The Peak, the highest point on Hong Kong Island, is a must for any visitor to Hong Kong. I would take the Peak Tram, an exhilarating ride on the funicular railway to the top, and then spend an hour or so admiring the view over the harbour below. This is a great way to start your time in Hong Kong and definitely gives you a good orientation of the city.
Streets Around Sham Shui Po
LUNCH
Jump on the MTR (Hong Kong’s public transport system) and head over to Sham Shui Po, one of Hong Kong’s best foodie districts. Feel like a local and sample many of the local foods, including delicious cakes, noodles and dim sum.
AFTERNOON – Hong Kong Island
I would recommend a short cruise around Aberdeen Harbour to see the old junks and fishing boats, followed by a visit to Stanley Market to pick up your quintessential Hong Kong trinkets. A visit to Hong Kong wouldn’t be the same without a trip here.
Symphony of Lights, Hong Kong
EVENING
Take the Star Ferry across the bay to Kowloon and walk along the Avenue of Stars, pausing to take in the Symphony of Lights – an astonishing display of neon lights and lasers dancing over the Hong Kong waterfront. For a great local food experience, head to Temple Street Night Market – I ate some of the most delicious food I’ve ever had, whilst sat out on small benches, watching the world go by.
Day 2
MORNING
After a relaxing sleep at the Metropark hotel, head to the MTR and take the metro to Kowloon Park for a morning stroll. I loved walking around Kowloon Park, where you can see the local people taking advantage of one of Hong Kong’s green spaces. It’s a small snippet of serenity in the middle of the Hong Kong skyscraper jungle.
The Tian Tan Buddha on Lantau Island
AFTERNOON – Lantau Island
Spend the rest of the day exploring Hong Kong’s largest island. With beautiful beaches and fishing villages as well as the Giant Buddha, it’s a great contrast to the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong’s city life.
Top Tip
Don’t miss out on a ride on the quirky trams; it’s an interesting way to see one of Asia’s most colourful cities. Head to one of the many rooftop bars dotted around the sea of towering skyscrapers and enjoy a cocktail or two as you watch the sunset.