Among the top places to visit in Asia, one is definitely Hong Kong. The financial hub is not all about money matters; so don't let the skyscrapers and luxury malls make you believe that's all there is to the city. Step out of the concrete jungle and you will discover that Hong Kong's green side is even more impressive, providing travellers a wide range of options to explore the region, soak in the local culture, get to know its people and have the best kind of a holiday.
Talk about Hong Kong and one can't leave out Disneyland or other amusement parks such as Ocean Park that are immensely popular. Then a day trip to Macau also features in the itinerary of most travellers, as well as shopping at the various hubs (Causeway Bay, Night's Market, Mok Kong). If you are a kind of traveller who likes to explore more than the obvious, then you will love Hong Kong with its marvellous architectural monuments, well-connected transport system, an evident influence of various cultures, old-world Colonial charm, its delectable food offerings and so much more.
While we can go on and on about Hong Kong, we list down our top eight favourite things to do while in the region:
1. Walk through Avenue of Stars near Victoria Harbour
Because Hong Kong consists of a group of islands, breathtaking sights of the sea and other waterways is a common ordeal. Victoria Harbour is of course the most popular, which is surrounded by iconic skyscrapers on both sides. A ferry ride across the harbour is a must. Every evening at 8, you can watch a spectacular light and sound show, and walk down the Avenue of Stars to get the most of the view and the vibe.
2. Take the tram to Victoria Peak
The best views of Hong Kong can also be enjoyed from the peaks in the region, such as Victoria Peak. Every local person will tell you that it's a must-do. The best way to reach the top is to take a historic tram ride though we also feel that a bus ride is worthwhile too. On top, there's a bustling food and shopping centre, as well as a lot of green cover to explore.
(Also read: 6 Secluded Beaches In Bali That Will Take Your Breath Away)
Victoria Peak
3. Indulge in Egg Tarts
Since Hong Kong was a former British colony, the English influence is still very prevalent. The locals love their afternoon tea sessions and in every nook and corner you will come across bakeries selling tea-time treats, of which a must-try is the egg tart. They come in many varieties; the most sought after being the Macanese egg tarts.
4. Trek to Dragon's Back and Shek O
While there are many spectacular trails across Hong Kong, Dragon's Back is undoubtedly the most popular pick. It's a 90 minutes trek, which offers your breathtaking views of the sea, the hills and the sky. It's not difficult to do, and you can either end it at Big Wave Beach or take a bus ride to Shek O Beach to enjoy a chill day.
Dragon's Back trail
5. Visit the Big Buddha
Hong Kong has numerous temples and monasteries to explore such as Man Ho Temple, Ten Thousand Buddha Monastery, Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple, etc. But the Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery in Lantao Island is a must-visit. You can take the sky cable car from Tung Chung to reach the top or take the bus if you are on a tight budget.
The Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery
6. Don't miss the dim sum
The amazing food culture in Hong Kong is no secret. Its dim sum, of course, is legendary where you can indulge in cha siu baos, gyozas, baozi, har gao, and so many other kinds. Tim Ho Wan, Luk Yu Tea House and Din Tai Fung come most recommended. For some innovative dim sum, don't miss the eatery called Yum Cha.
7. Explore Sai Kung
Sai Kung is a little away from the centre, but it's worth the visit for its famous seafood street and surrounding beaches and trekking routes that are secluded and a paradise for travellers. Don't miss Sai Kung Seafood Street and a trek to Ham Tin Beach.
8. Sail on junk boats
A favourite weekend thing to do for the locals is to go sailing. While there are many yachts that you can hire, don't miss the opportunity to sail on a junk boat. It's a local tradition that has been kept alive, and besides, it's thrilling and comes with F&B offerings while on board to get the party started.
Make the most of your holiday in Hong Kong and live like a local.
