The City: Hong Kong is absolutely beautiful, a vibrant blend of modern skyscrapers and traditional markets. There are so many stunning sights to see, but the streets can be a bit confusing. Google Maps and Citymapper were my go-to apps for navigating, but I still found myself lost during the first few days. Thankfully, the MTR, trams, and buses made getting around much easier, saving my legs from exhaustion.
The People: My experience with the locals was mixed. As a solo female traveler, I hoped to make some connections, but I found that people seemed more absorbed in their phones than interested in talking. Despite that, when I needed directions, most people I asked were helpful—7 out of 10 times, I’d say. A few were incredibly polite and went out of their way to assist me. Language was sometimes a barrier, as many locals didn’t speak English, or if they did, the accent made communication tricky.
The Food: Exploring Hong Kong’s culinary scene was a delight, with new flavors around every corner. I had no trouble finding delicious food, although vegetarians might find it challenging to locate purely vegetarian options. Some of my favorite meals were at Din Tai Fung and Lin Heung Kui, where the dim sum was to die for. Ordering at smaller, local restaurants could be a bit of an adventure due to the language barrier, but the effort was always worth it.
Where to Stay: For mid-priced lodging, I found comfort and convenience at The Fleming, a boutique hotel in Wan Chai that combines retro charm with modern amenities. Another good option is Butterfly on Prat in Tsim Sha Tsui, which offers easy access to shopping and dining.
Disneyland and Ocean Park: I might have an unpopular opinion, but I enjoyed Disneyland more than Ocean Park. Yes, Disneyland was crowded, but it had a lot more to explore, making it one of the highlights of my trip. Ocean Park is also a great destination, especially for its animal attractions, but I found the rides rather average. If you’re considering a priority pass, I’d recommend it for Disneyland over Ocean Park, where it wasn’t as necessary.
Ngong Ping, Sky 100, and Victoria Peak: These iconic spots are must-visits for any traveler. Ngong Ping’s giant Buddha and the breathtaking views from Sky 100 and Victoria Peak were unforgettable experiences.
Avenue of Stars: A perfect place for a relaxing evening walk. I visited on a cloudy, windy night, which added to the dramatic atmosphere. The view of Victoria Harbour against the lit-up skyline was stunning.
Lan Kwai Fong (LKF): I found LKF smaller than I expected and a bit on the pricey side, but it’s still worth a visit, especially for a pub crawl to meet new friends. A little hiccup: I was briefly questioned by the police while sitting idle, but they just asked a few questions and moved on. Nothing serious, just part of the adventure!
Walking Recommendations: Hong Kong is best explored on foot. The Central-Mid-Levels Escalator is a unique way to see the city, and walking around the street markets is a sensory delight. Just wear comfortable shoes because you’ll be doing a lot of walking!
Spa Recommendations: After a day of exploring, treat yourself at The Ritz-Carlton Spa or The Peninsula Spa. Both offer luxurious treatments and stunning views, perfect for unwinding.
Shopping Recommendations: For shopping, Hong Kong offers everything from high-end boutiques in Causeway Bay to traditional markets like the Ladies’ Market in Mong Kok. I found unique souvenirs and fashionable items that made great memories of my trip.
A Car Enthusiast’s Paradise: As a car enthusiast, Hong Kong was a dream come true. The city is full of sports and luxury cars. My camera roll is now filled with over 100 photos of beautiful cars spotted on the streets. Name any luxury car, and you’ll likely see it zooming around Hong Kong.
Overall Experience: I’d rate my Hong Kong trip a solid 9/10. The only minor downside was the amount of walking required in some places, but that’s a small price to pay for such an enriching experience. I would love to return if I get the chance.
Comparing to My Bangkok Trip: My experience in Hong Kong was quite different from my time in Bangkok. While both cities are vibrant and full of life, Hong Kong’s efficiency and skyline set it apart. Bangkok, on the other hand, offered a more relaxed vibe with its street food culture and floating markets. For more insights on my Bangkok adventures, check out my article here. Each city has its unique charm, and I’m glad I had the opportunity to explore both!