Joanna James
Hong Kong may be known as a modern hub to many travellers, but for families visiting the place with kids, there are many allures that promise to keep children well-entertained and happy. Listed below is a range of activities which cover toy shopping and visiting magical them parks to fab ferry rides.
If you've visited Disneyland in other destinations, you will notice the same magical atmosphere prevails at Hong Kong Disneyland with a lovely local twist thrown in for good measure. The lines are definitely shorter, hooray! Plus the food is a reflection of local culture. Songs accompanying rides such as 'It's a small world' are sung in English, with signs and other instructions listed in English, Mandarin and Cantonese. Of course, all the other standard Disney attractions are found here, you've got Hyperspace Mountain, roller coasters and Mystic Manor to name a few. Buy your tickets online and avoid queuing up. If you are staying at a family-friendly hotel, there are many in Hong Kong such as Dorsett Wanchai Hong Kong, just 30 minutes from Disneyland, the subway is a pretty convenient option for getting there.
Located on the southern end of Hong Kong Island, Ocean Park Hong Kong is accessed via taxi, car and MRT. The park is super easy to reach in case you've snapped up a Hong Kong hotel promotion and are staying at a Wanchai resort, which is just 8 minutes away. The park offers a unique experience and a chance for children to interact with animals. Divided into 2 levels, the park stays connected via a sky tram, which provides some of the most breath-taking views across Hong Kong. The lower level known as the waterfront is home to a large aquarium, pandas and kids playground. The Summit or upper level is for older children offering rides, shows and sea-lion performances.
A super experience for the entire family the iconic star ferry service has been in operation for 131 years. The service runs from Central to Kowloon or from Wanchai to Kowloon. A journey will take around 6 to 12 minutes, which depends on the time of day. Did you know that if you are staying at a Wanchai hotel it is quicker to get to the pier and take the star ferry than riding the MTR into Kowloon; the rates are super cheap too! Pay a few cents extra to sit on the upper deck, the views are better and there are no coal fumes. You should also treat the kids to a night-time Star Ferry Cruise of Victoria Harbour; it's a pretty magical experience.
Everyone knows what happens to children at a toy store, and being given a chance to walk along an entire street dedicated to toys will no doubt thrill the youngest members of your family. Check out Tai Yuen Street in Wanchai, where a selection of nostalgic toys await, alternatively Fuk Wing Street in Sham Shui Po to offer variety and cheap toys including school supplies and gadgets.
Make sure to choose a clear day to head over to The Peak; the views across Hong Kong are stunning especially from the Sky Deck which is the upper level of The Peak Tower, you need to buy tickets for this. There is the Lions Peak Pavilion located to the right which is free and facing Victoria Harbour; the only hitch, it's usually very crowded. But then you can look forward to relaxing with a stop at the Peak Lookout Restaurant.
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.
