Sincere thanks to the 3000+ YourLifeChoices members who shared their top activities in Hong Kong in our recent survey. So which one topped to list?
We know our members love Hong Kong, but didn’t realise how much! With 59 per cent already having been there, we learned it’s not just for a stopover – 58 per cent holiday between four and 14 days. And a whopping 95 per cent would like to return.
It’s the culture and chance to be an active discoverer that keeps you going back. So here are your top five activities, and how to get the most out of them next time you are lucky enough to visit this exciting destination.
Number 5 – The Hong Kong skyline
No surprises here, and the favoured way to experience this amazing neon light show is harbour side, on Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, viewing the multimedia A Symphony of Lights on Victoria Harbour. An expanded version of this fabulous light show debuted in December last year, accompanied by a new sound track performed by the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra every evening at 8pm. You can sit in a cool bar and enjoy the spectacle, but we prefer the promenade where the ‘oohs’ and ‘aahs’ of the crowd add to the excitement.
Number 4 – The Peak
This is Hong Kong’s highest point and guaranteed to provide extraordinary views of the harbour and southern coastline. The famous Peak Tram is the favoured way to journey there. The adventurous might hike the Morning Trail, or those pressed for time may prefer to grab a taxi. But whichever way you arrive, do save your energy for the peak walk, a 3.5km stroll around the very top of this amazing city state. There’s fine dining and many shops for those seeking modern entertainment, but the nature trail is really the star attraction up here. Hint: Time your walk for dusk. Watching the lights come on across this 360° panorama is an experience you will never forget.
Number 3 – Shop til you drop
Yes, that’s the third most favoured activity for YourLifeChoices members when visiting Hong Kong, and little wonder, it really is the shopping mecca of Asia. Hong Kong Island is wall-to-wall luxury brands, as well as the fabulous Hollywood Road antiques precinct. And the food stalls offer hours of fascination and tasty delights, whether on the Island or in Kowloon. Speaking of Kowloon, this is where there are more luxury shops, but also many discount outlets, with genuine designer gear for a very low price. And whilst there is never a bad time to shop, seasoned travellers consider December – February the ideal time to catch the sales. And then, of course there are the amazing markets – read on to learn more about this great shopping experience.
Number 2 – Star Ferry
This memorable ferry ride has been operating since 1888, plying the waters between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island. In fact, for many decades, it was the only public transportation across the harbour. But today thousands of locals and tourists alike enjoy the experience for just HK$2 – about A35c. It surely must be the highest value tourist experience in the world. The trip takes just under eight minutes and you will pass all manner of sea-faring vessels from quaint Junk boats, to massive ocean cruise ships. If you time your trip for just before 8pm, you can combine the journey with the above-mentioned sound and light show. Clever!
And the winner is…
Number 1 – Hong Kong’s street markets
Yes, it’s the colourful vibrancy of local traders plying their wares in the many Hong Kong street markets that is the top activity as voted by YourLifeChoices members.
Cat Street market is adjacent to antiques precinct Hollywood Road, here you find even more antiques, from books, jewellery to household décor.
A short stroll down to Des Voeux Road West leads to the ‘dried seafood’ market where every conceivable kind of dried fish and health supplements can be found. The fragrance alone makes the visit worthwhile, but so does the aromatic tea. And back across the harbour on Kowloon you can enjoy the Ladies Market, Goldfish Market, Jade Market and Flower Market. Just take your pick. And if you’re feeling hungry, maybe the best market for you is Stanley Market on the south coast of Hong Kong Island, where you can enjoy fresh seafood right on the coast.
What about you?
When was the last time you enjoyed a visit to Hong Kong? Where did you go? And what did you enjoy the most?
Download your free guide to planning your Hong Kong holiday. Or, if you’d like a printed copy packaged and posted to your mailbox, simply fill out this online form and we’ll send it to you!
