Hong Kong offers visitors a sensory feast, with its enchanting islands and neighbourhoods. Many people are unaware that over 70% of Hong Kong is sprawling country parks and mountains. You’ll also see plenty of historical and geological gems here, and there really is something for everyone.
Top tip: Getting in from an international flight can be exhausting- particularly if you’ve flown long-haul. Your best bet is to get an airport transfer so you can be taken straight to your hotel. This will allow you to take a quick nap, have a shower, or grab something to eat before you get out and begin exploring Hong Kong.
Here are some reasons why you should visit Hong Kong:
Shopping
The sheer variety of the products available for sale in Hong Kong can be overwhelming. Regardless of your budget, or whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find a huge assortment of venues, from glitzy malls to vintage dens, chic boutiques to gadget bazaars. And, of course, a huge mix of markets where you can learn to haggle like a pro. One of the biggest reasons why you should shop ’til you drop in Hong Kong? No sales tax.
Food
Hong Kong is well-known around the world for its impressive food, and it’s one of the top culinary capitals for a reason. Hong Kong will find a way to sate your gastronomic desires, whether you’re in the mood for French, Italian, Japanese, Cantonese, or Sichuanese. On the list to try should be stinky tofu, the sweetest prawns, a pineapple bun, wonton noodles, and of course, freshly steamed dim sum.
Culture
Hong Kong truly is a melting pot. Underneath its commercial personal, you’ll find a dynamic culture with colonial connections, Chinese roots, and its own, independent, Hong Kong spirit.
Here, you’ll find some of Asia’s top film festivals, thousands of shows, and plenty of concert halls and museums to visit. Check out some of the indie music which is played by the harbour, or watch the dragon boats go past.
Fun
If you’re bringing the kids along (or you’re a kid at heart) Hong Kong will exceed your expectations. Hong Kong Disneyland is colourful, commercial, and kitsch- just as it should be. Check out Toy Story Land, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, and more. Try the Grizzly Gulch railway, or revisit the charming “It’s a Small World” show and try not to get the song stuck in your head. Unlike at home, there’s more than greasy hot dogs and hamburgers on offer for lunch, and you can easily grab a great bowl of noodles when it’s time for lunch.
Have you been to Hong Kong yet? What did you think? Let me know in the comments below!
