Joanna James
A city guaranteed to leave visitors breathless. No matter how many times you visit, there's always some awe-inspiring location that will make your day. Here are the best things to do in Hong Kong.
An evening at the races is a favourite past time for locals, and whether you are visiting for for business or pleasure; do make a point to experience the heady excitement of one the weekly races down at the Happy Valley Racecourse. Join the locals who pack the stands every Wednesday, after placing bets to cheer on the prize horses. In addition, there's also a beer garden, which offers a more relaxing alternative than the frenzied stands. Grab a beer, and watch as the horse and jockeys battle it out in Hong Kong's most loved sport.
If you want to catch the best views over the city, Victoria Peak is a must visit attraction. The highest point on the Island, the peak, offers visitors the best panoramic view over the glittering skyscrapers and the city's beautiful blue harbour front. On a clear day, you can even see the green hills of the New Territories in the distant. There are multiple lookout points at the top, including a tower and observation deck - however, these are usually swarming with tourists. If you want to bypass the crowd, walk along the marked pathways, for a quieter experience.
Hong Kong has dozens of outdoor markets, and you'll most likely find yourself in the middle of one without even looking for it. Each market is diverse, catering to shoppers with different merchandise to suit all. The best example of these is the night markets - a firm favourite among many. This marketplace is bursting with vendors, selling everything from electronics, clothing, accessories, and of course, delicious street food. Explore the various markets, and don't be shy of bargaining either. Many vendors expect it here, and depending on your skill, may drop prices to surprising low amounts.
An absolute must when you visit the city, the star ferry is an institution that is loved by locals, and priceless to travellers. The ferries transport people between the Kowloon Peninsula and Hong Kong Island, whilst providing stunning panoramic views of Victoria Harbour and the city's famous skyline for photos. If your hotel or service apartment in Hong Kong is near the harbour, like The Mercer Hong Kong, for example, then you should definitely take the 8pm ferry and enjoy the magnificent sight of the Symphony at Lights Show.
Located on the Kowloon Peninsula, the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade gives you unobstructed views over the Hong Kong island skyline. Visitors can take in the views, while watching vessels entering and leaving the Victoria Harbour. The promenade is easily reached by MTR, and is bordered by various restaurants, shops and bars, as well as several institutions like the Hong Kong Space Museum, museum of art, and the Hong Kong Cultural Centre.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
