Travel · Jul 29, 2019

Travel Like A Local: Hong Kong

Photos by Andy Yeung & Tyson Wheatley

With more than 1200 skyscrapers, Hong Kong is famous for its spectacular skyline, and the bustling city draws visitors from around the globe. The main language spoken is Cantonese, but because of its status as a former British colony, many people speak English fluently. Most signs are bilingual, and Hong Kong is home to an incredibly efficient and affordable public transportation systems, making it easy to navigate and enjoy the city. The city is also very walkable. In fact, Hong Kong is one of the least car-dependent cities in the world.

Sometimes called the “New York City of Asia,” Hong Kong is, without a doubt, one of the most diverse and exciting cities in the world. It’s not uncommon for shops to stay open later than we in the South are used to, so the streets are always bustling with people. Between the high end shopping, the amazing variety of restaurants, and the centuries of cultural, art and history, there is no shortage of things to do in the city.

But it’s not just a big city destination. Hong Kong is also home to beaches, national parks, and more than 50 hiking trails to explore. No matter what you like to do when you travel, you can definitely enjoy a trip to Hong Kong!

STAY

• Shanghai-Tang: A Hong Kong luxury fashion house founded in 1994 by businessman David Tang.

• St. Regis: Newly opened in April, 2019 and designed by renowned interior designer Andrew Fu, the new St. Regis blends architectural creativity, cultural diversity, and elegance in one package.

• Upper House: As the name suggests, the style and design of the hotel is to bring you up and up. Located at the heart of the CBD district, the Upper House offers panoramic views of the Victoria Harbor and the city.

• TUVE Hotel: Minimalist, timeless design located in a calm and local neighborhood in contrast to nearby bustling areas. Guests who seek serenity and relaxation will appreciate the mood of the hotel and district.

• Hotel Stage: A breath of fresh air in the heart of Yau Ma Tei, Hotel Stage is an urban lifestyle boutique hotel located close to landmoraks like the Temple Street Night Market and Tin Hau Temple.

EAT + DRINK

• Duddell’s: An interesting Cantonese restaurant that has great art and a connection to the art scene through the founder, Alan Lo.

• Tung Po: A famous dai pai dong style restaurant with a fun atmosphere in the North Point Food Market that has great local seafood. This style of restaurant is street food, but with all local fresh ingredients.

• Tai Cheong Bakery: The legendary crispy egg tart has been a famous delicacy for more than half of a century.

• Tim Ho Wan: The Michelin-starred restaurant is regarded one of the best dim sum spots in Hong Kong. Their famous barbecue pork baked bun (char siu bao) is one of many addictive dishes.

• Mott 32: Named after NYC’s first Chinese Grocery store on Mott Street, Mott 32 is nestled in one of the swankiest basements in Central, presenting classic Chinese cuisine with a flair.

• Luk Yu Tea House: A traditional and elegant three-story restaurant that has retained its colonial-style decor offers one of the most authentic dim sum experiences in Hong Kong.

EXPLORE

• Asia Society: The Asia Society Hong Kong Center is an educational and cultural gem showcasing architecture, sculptures, and more, as well as the restaurant AMMO with a new menu comprised of Asian and Mediterranean dishes.

• SCAD Hong Kong: SCAD offers the area’s largest concentration of art and design degree programs in the heart of the Sham Shui Po district, where a fusion of ancient heritage and Western influence inspires visitors from around the globe. Come take a tour!

• Ride the longest escalator in the world: In Hong Kong, the Central-Mid-Levels Escalator system is the longest outdoor covered escalator in the world. The escalator runs a length of 800 meters (almost a half-mile) and climbs 135 meters (443 feet) in elevation. To ride the length of the escalator takes approximately 20 minutes.

• Traditional Junk Boat: Aqua Luna features a traditional Junk Boat ride through Harbor that also coincides with the city’s famous light show, the Symphony of Light.

• Ferry Ride: Get the best views of the iconic skyline along Victoria Harbor on this 15 min ride by spending less than $0.50 (one of the traditional ways locals get across the harbor).

• The Peak: The highest 360 degree viewing terrace in town, allowing you to see spectacular views of Hong Kong’s skyline.

• Ride the Tram: One of the earliest forms of transportation in Hong Kong. A super affordable way to tour Hong Kong island and catch all of the city sights!