Exploring Hong Kong
I recently took my very first trip to Asia, kicking things off in Hong Kong. Hong Kong is a lively Republic with a lovely culture and full of amazing experiences. This visit was especially meaningful because Hong Kong is my boyfriend’s hometown. I was incredibly lucky to be shown around this vibrant city by a local (and very cute) tour guide.
Hong Kong Highlights
Hong Kong is brimming with unique architecture, rich culture, friendly people, and breathtaking scenery. I have endless recommendations with the desire to travel back there to explore even more.
Here are a few of my favorite spots:
Sneaker Street – Grab new kicks for a fraction of the price.
Avenue of Stars – Take in stunning skyline views.
Ladies Market – Hunt for souvenirs and bargains.
Nan Lian Garden – Discover a beautiful temple and serene landscape.
Kowloon Walled City Park – Learn about the fascinating history of the former Walled City.
Nan Lian Garden
Food and Drink
Hong Kong is a dream destination for foodies. While it took me a minute to adjust to noodles for breakfast and warm drinking water, the culinary experience quickly won me over. My go-to snack? A warm pineapple bun (which surprisingly contains no pineapple) paired with a sweet lemon iced tea.
Here are my standouts:
Swiss Café – The best pineapple bun in town, tucked away in a bustling street market.
Fairwood – A convenient local chain with great rice dishes and fast service.
Ozone – The tallest bar in Hong Kong with jaw-dropping views.
TopTown – A rooftop terrace bar with a spectacular skyline backdrop.
Seoul Noodle Shop – Cozy spot for comforting noodle dishes.
Food can be relatively affordable. Cocktails at bars like Ozone and TopTown are going to be on the pricier end, however, you gain an experience with it.
Pineapple Bun and Lemon Tea @ Swiss Cafe
Tours and Attractions
Since I had my own local guide, we didn’t take any organized tours—but Hong Kong offers plenty if you’re interested. We did, however, experience some unforgettable attractions together.
Ngong Ping Cable Car to Tian Tan Buddha – An unforgettable ride up to the Big Buddha with panoramic views. Purchase tickets ahead of time to avoid long ques.
Ocean Park – Not just an amusement park—cable cars, aquariums, and adorable pandas.
Monster Building – Massive residential complexes showcasing how densely populated the city is.
Tai Po Hui Market – Enjoy local food, stroll the wet market, and pick up fresh lychees.
Tai Po Hui Market
Transportation Tips
Getting around Hong Kong is easy with Citymapper, which covers the metro, buses, and trams (the iconic Ding Ding).
You’ll need an Octopus Card for all public transport—available for purchase at train stations. Octopus Cards can also be used like debit cards, many businesses accepting it as payment across the city.
It is also important to know the taxi system. Taxis come in three colors: Red for urban areas (Hong Kong Island & Kowloon), Green for the New Territories, and Blue for Lantau Island and Chek Lap Kok. Uber also operates in the city.
Weather
I visited Hong Kong during one of its hottest seasons—temperatures soared to 90°F (35°C) with near 100% humidity. While most buildings have air conditioning, I’d recommend visiting between October and February for cooler, more comfortable weather.
Hong Kong Ratings By Wander Spree
Final Thoughts
Hong Kong blew me away with its culture, cuisine, and energy. Whether you’re after stunning views, incredible food, or unique shopping, this city has something for everyone—and it’s even better if you can see it through the eyes of a local.
