With its instantly recognizable skyline, Hong Kong is one of the world’s most vibrant and intoxicating cities. Start your visit with a tram ride on Asia’s oldest funicular to Victoria Peak, the highest point on Hong Kong Island, for some mesmerizing views, or perhaps a trip across Victoria Harbour on an iconic Star Ferry. Take a stroll along the wonderful Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront promenade for best views of the stunning skyline of Hong Kong Island. And be sure to secure an excellent vantage point for the nightly Symphony of Lights in and around Victoria Harbour, a truly dazzling multimedia show that has delighted visitors since 2004.
As you would expect, Hong Kong is home to some spectacularly beautiful temples, the most notable ones being Man Lo and Po Lin Monastery on Lantau Island with its 34-meter bronze Buddha that has attracted pilgrims from all over Asia. Reached via a 25-minute cable car ride, particularly adventurous visitors to Lantau Island may wish to travel on the incredible glass-bottomed Crystal Cabin, which offers spectacular birds-eye views of the sea and lush mountains below. And be sure to witness the stunning sunset before your return journey to Hong Kong.
There are huge shopping malls containing many of the world’s leading retail brands but visit the pleasantly chaotic Temple Street Night Market or lively Stanley Market on the south coast for a completely different retail therapy experience. Hong Kong is a lively melting pot of cultures and nowhere is this more evident than in its cuisine; from Asian fusion to Western dishes, steakhouses to spicy street food.
And no visit to Hong Kong is complete without a sumptuous afternoon tea at one of the many first-class hotels such as The Peninsula, where you can enjoy classic fresh-baked scones with clotted cream and finger sandwiches, a truly unforgettable experience all to the accompaniment of the gently melodic Lobby Strings.
BEST TIME TO VISIT:
October to April, when the temperatures are cooler.
LANGUAGE:
English and Chinese.
CURRENCY:
Hong Kong Dollar.
FLYING TIME FROM UK:
Approx. 11 hours 40 mins
