Joanna James
Located in the Southern portion of China, Hong Kong is a special administrative region of the People's Republic of China. It really lives up to its "east meets west" status by offering a mix of both worlds to its visitors. Here's the ultimate travel guide to this fascinating city!
Getting where you want in Hong Kong is quite easy, what with its well-connected and efficient transportation methods. If you're hoping to use public transport for the most part, then you can save lots by purchasing an Octopus card. It is easily usable on the Airport Express and also on all types of public transportation including the buses, trams, ferries, and the MTR. Apart from these, you will also have access to more than 18,000 taxis in Hong Kong, so being stranded without a transportation option is something you will never experience in Hong Kong.
From high-end boutique hotels to more back-packer suited guesthouses, one can find accommodation options available at a range of prices. However, for the same standard, you'll have to pay a lot more in Hong Kong than in Bangkok. The city would not be ideal for those who are on a tight budget; cheaper accommodation can be found outside of the city, on the more distant islands, but one would have to travel a lot to reach the main town.
The parks that lie in and around Hong Kong offer absolute feasts for your eyes. Hong Kong Harbour, one of the world's busiest of its kind, is a must-visit place in the area. It gets quite ethereal after sunset with the twinkling lights of the skyscrapers in the background. You should also get a good look at all the breathtaking skyscrapers while you're at it; the lack of space for the immense population has made Hong Kong a vertical city in the world, boasting of some pretty cool skyscrapers. You can also find many other attractions that would blow your mind in this city. To read more on them, you can refer to travel blogs such as The Vacation Gateway.
A trip to Hong Kong wouldn't be complete if you don't splurge a bit on a shopping spree at its myriad of shopping malls – some of them boasting of being the best in Asia. There's a mélange of shopping malls here, both in Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, and your wallet wouldn't be happy with you afterward! Hop on one of the Star Ferries and go on a harbour tour, which would take you around the harbour for half an hour. If you have any time left, you can also consider going island hopping in some of the most scenic islands in the country including Lantau, Lamma, and Cheung Chau. Seek the advice of local travel guides and you will know where to find the best hiking trails, beaches, and the seafood restaurants on these islands.
Many properties that offer accommodation in Hong Kong offer free Wi-fi. However, you will also come across places where the internet is terribly slow, but it would be enough to drop a quick chat for someone. SIM cards can be bought for a price of around 8 USD for a week. If you opt for a local number, then you can get inexpensive rates.
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