I was impressed by my first trip to Hong Kong, maybe even surprised by the great time I enjoyed there. Hopping on the easy nonstop flight on Cathay Pacific to this urban hub in Asia was just the start; my short but sweet stay was made up of a series of fun and even remarkable experiences. Among them were amazing foods, cultural experiences and of course luxury unlike any other. Of everything I enjoyed though, these were the best moments of my trip to Hong Kong; experiences I recommend everyone try at least once.
1. The Peak – I guess I was misinformed before my trip, but I was really surprised by the incredible urbanity of the city. Don’t get me wrong, I expected a big city, but I didn’t expect to see one that is as incredibly modern as Hong Kong is. More than any other city, it reminded me of Singapore for its dedication to the latest technological advances and the ease of getting around the metropolis. One of the best places to get an idea for the size of this city is from The Peak. Standing at 552 meters above sea level, the Peak is the highest mountain on Hong Kong Island and a natural signaling post for incoming cargo ships in the nineteenth century. It quickly became one of the hottest places in town to live thanks to the cooler temps which naturally attracted the British colonizers who called the city home. It’s still a popular place to live, more for the views than the climate though. Taking the Victoria Peak tram to the top of the mountain is an iconic tourist activity, but one that I think is worth the time and effort. The views from the top are amazing and quite honestly the best you’ll find.
2. Exploring PMQ – Once a housing complex for families, the old Police Married Quarters is today an example of creative gentrification. Once the complex was abandoned, it fell into disuse and became a blight. Rather than tear it down, a unique private/public partnership was formed and now it’s a leading example of creative urban planning. Today the PMQ houses artists, designers and other creative types who use the space not just to create their works, but to sell them as well. A maze of boutiques, shops and restaurants, PMQ is the new hipster headquarters for the city and a great place to see a more creative and innovative side to Hong Kong.
3. Eating at Tim Ho Wan – Hong Kong has long been known as a culinary capital, and with good reason. The unique mingling of cultures over the decades has led to innumerable influences on the food scene. Classic dim sum though is still perhaps what Hong Kong is best known for, and locals all swear by the quality found at Tim Ho Wan. Known as the cheapest Michelin star restaurant in the world, the hour long lines are normal for the king of dim sum. It’s worth it too; the choice and quality of the food was exceptional and all served at normal dim sum prices. It’s not often you can say you got Michelin rated food for $10 or less, but Hong Kong is full of culinary surprises like this one.
4. Unexpected beauty at Man Mo Temple – Walking back from visiting the PMQ, I noticed a small temple out of the corner of my eye and decided to take a peek. I’m glad I did too, because what appears plain on the outside houses one of the most beautiful temples I’ve ever seen. Located on Fu Shin Street, Man Mo is a temple for the worship of the civil or literature god Man Tai and the martial god Mo Tai, and features a type of incense burner I’d never seen before. The spiral incense baskets fill the rafters inside Man Mo, creating layers and levels of smoke and smells that is frankly overwhelming. Windows allow in shafts of light that, when they hit the baskets just right, create ethereal moments unlike anything else I’ve experienced before. It was beautiful, solemn and undeniably special; one of those fantastic travel moments that can’t be planned, they just have to happen.
5. InterContinental Presidential Suite – Ok, granted, this isn’t an experience most people can do, but it is pretty special. This 7,000 square-foot, $13,000 a night suite is the ultimate in luxurious Hong Kong living. Perched on top of the amazingly well situated InterContinental Hong Kong, the Presidential Suite has everything you could possibly want including private terrace, pool, jacuzzi, gym, office and a master bath that has both a sauna and a steam room. There’s no better place to stay in Hong Kong if it’s luxury you’re after. Even if the Presidential Suite isn’t in your budget, a stay at the InterContinental should be on your itinerary. Perched on Victoria Harbour in Kowloon, the views from the hotel are amongst the best in the city and when coupled with outstanding quality and service, the InterContinental really is one of the best hotel choices when visiting Hong Kong.
Have you been to Hong Kong? What were some of your own personal special moments?
This campaign was created and sponsored by Cathay Pacific Airways in partnership with iambassador. LandLopers retains all editorial control of what is published and as you know, I never shy away from honest commentary.
