7 must-experiences in Hong Kong
1. Victoria Peak
While being the most cliché of all sights, Victoria Peak offers the most amazing view of Hong Kong. The Peak is easy to get to with the world's oldest and steepest tram, which in itself is already an experience. Btw, take a seat on the right side for the best view when going up! The Peak tram can get busy, but to avoid the rush hours, head up in the morning before 10am or in the evening after 9pm. You can also hike up to Victoria Peak if feeling sporty!
2. Victoria Harbour
Victoria Harbour is the world's most beautiful harbour. No doubt about that. I miss the days when I got to get up at 6am to go for my morning run along those breathtaking views. To enjoy the harbour, take a walk along Tsim Sha Tsui and Hung Hom neighbourhood, starting from Avenue of Stars.
3. Star Ferry
Star Ferry has been taking the locals from Kowloon to Hong Kong Island already since 1888. The old ferry is still in use and also happens to be the world's cheapest tourist ride! Jump on the Star Ferry from Tsim Sha Tsui, Central or Wan Chai! Star Ferry is easily paid with Octopus card!
4. Ngong Ping
Ngong Ping is a village located near the airport, on Lantau Island. The best way to get to Ngong Ping is by taking the MTR to Tung Chung and jumping on to the cable car (and yes honey, you do want to pay a few extra dollars for the glass bottom cable car). The most important sight on Ngong Ping is its massive Buddha! But if you have all day, I recommend visiting Tai O village. Tai O is an old fisherman village where you can enjoy Chinese pizza and if lucky, spot PINK DOLPHINS. Yes, pink.
5. Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery
For some bizzare reason, Sha Tin's Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery is not in the top things to do on many Hong Kong guidebooks. To me, this place is one of the most interesting sights to explore in all Asia. As the name has it, the Monastery has 10,000 unique golden buddha statues. The easiest way to get to Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery is by taking the MTR up to Sha Tin station.
6. Lamma Island
Many are surprised about the amount of fabulous nature in Hong Kong. This city is definitely so much more than a concrete jungle. Hong Kong is home to many beautiful beaches, but my personal favourite happens to be on Lamma Island. Lamma Island can get crowded with locals and Chinese tourists on weekends and during public holidays, so definitely avoid those times to ensure a relaxing day out in nature! What I most love about the island is its focus on yoga, meditation and organic vegan food. Make sure to dine in Bookworm Café! To get to Lamma Island, jump on the 'Yung Shye Wan' ferry from Central.
7. Ozone bar
Ozone bar, located in the 118th floor of The Ritz Carlton hotel, happens to be the world's highest bar. No matter what kind of budget you are travelling with, one cocktail up in the Ozone bar is once-in-a-lifetime experience. It's best to get up there just before sunset to enjoy the views both in daylight and dark. The easiest way to get to Ozone is by cab, but you can also take the MTR to Kowloon.
