Why go?

At first glance, Hong Kong is overwhelming – fast-paced, foreign and fantastic. Gaze in awe at the magnificent architecture and skyscrapers of the central commercial district, spend a day shopping in Times Square or try some local delicacies at the street markets. Bubbling over with energy, culture, sights, sounds, smells and action, this island city still manages to balance a modern way of life with strong cultural traditions. Feng shui is still taken very seriously, as are myths and legends, and here Eastern cuisine and traditional cooking techniques thrive over modern-day fare.

What to do

The heart of Hong Kong lies in the 80sq km main island, home to many historic and iconic sights. To get better acquainted with the city, start with a bus ride that takes you past most of the important landmarks. Hop off at Stanley Market and wander through the maze of alleys that run down to Stanley Bay – pick up some local artwork in the shops here before exploring some of the temples nearby. Head back to the centre and hit the city’s main entertainment district, Lan Kwai Fong. It’s brimming with restaurants, bars and pubs – a perfect meeting place during the day and a buzzing social spot at night for locals, tourists and ex-pats alike. Head west on Hollywood Road until you reach the busy Man Mo Temple. Built in 1847, it’s dedicated to the literature god Man Tai and the martial god Mo Tai. From here, jump on the Victoria tram towards the dizzying heights of the Sky Terrace – 428m up – where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the world-famous Victoria Harbour skyline. Explore the avant-garde Peak Tower and while there, stop for a coffee or a bite to eat at one of its restaurants. The view here is unforgettable on a clear night. Make your way over to Hong Kong Park, a modern-day green space designed to fit in with the natural landscape. Here you’ll find an aviary, conservatory, clock tower and a tai chi garden, among other sights. End the day by strolling up Mount Austin Road, past wildlife-rich forests, until you reach Victoria Park, where you can watch the sun set over the entire city.

Where to stay

Start your night off with drinks at Azure, Hotel LFK’s (00 852 3518 9688) 29thfloor lounge. This classy boutique hotel is a quiet haven in the midst of this vibrant neighbourhood. Built in the 1920s, the iconic and elegant Peninsula (00 852 2920 2888, peninsula.com) is known as the Grande Dame of the Far East and it’s not hard to see why. Luxurious and spacious rooms await you and service is impeccable but deciding how to get there will be the real issue – do you arrive by helicopter or sweep up in a Rolls Royce?

Where to eat and drink

When it comes to Michelin stars, Hong Kong has its fair share and your difficulty will lie in deciding which restaurant to pick. Hutong (00 852 3428 8342, aqua.com.hk) not only has a fabulous view of Victoria Harbour – the food is pretty spectacular also. Signature dishes include crispy lamb ribs and scallops with fresh pomelo. Noodles and dim sum are served everywhere, and the best places are hidden down narrow streets where the queues are long but it’s worth the wait. Yung Kee (00 852 2522 1624, yungkee.com.hk) opened in 1942 and still has a loyal following for its dim sum. For a quick lunch try the excellent wonton soup at Mak’s (00 852 2854 3810). It’s busy and packed, and you’ll probably share a table with strangers, but when food is this good you’d rather slurp it up right away anyhow.

Time running out?

Take the Star Ferry to Kowloon, the island’s less-glamorous, atmospheric neighbour. It’s a paradise of shops, bars, temples and lively locals – definitely not to be missed.

Travel Information

Travel Information

Currency is the Hong Kong dollar. Hong Kong is four hours behind GMT and an 11 hour 30 minute flight from London.

Getting There

British Airways (0870 850 9850, britishairways.com) flies from London, Edinburgh and Manchester to Hong Kong.
Virgin Atlantic (0870 380 2007, virginatlantic.com) flies from London Heathrow.

Resources

Hong Kong Tourist Board (discoverhongkong.com) provides information on accommodation, attractions, dining and shopping.