Joanna James
A holiday in vibrant Hong Kong is always laced with loads of adventure; from scouring the shopping precincts to treating the foodie in you, the place has many lures. Riding the Star Ferry, exploring Victoria Peak and of course enjoying the entertainment are all part of the deal; let's explore!
Hotels in Kowloon Hong Kong offer easy access to the Star Ferry service which is the cheapest and longest-running boat tour in Hong Kong. The ferries named, Twinkling Star, Silver Star, etc. have been transporting passengers across iconic Victoria Harbour since 1888. The scenic and rewarding boat ride are 10 minutes from Tsim Sha Tsui in Kowloon to either Central on Hong Kong Island or Wan Chai. Tsim Sha Tsui Ferry service is about 10 minutes away from the Dorsett Mongkok, Hong Kong; hotels in Kowloon are in fact, sought out since the best Star Ferry journey is from Kowloon to Central, especially on a clear day when sights of skyscrapers and lush hills are in sight. The night tours are pretty awesome too, with some spectacular sights and firework displays across Victoria Harbour.
Standing at a height of 552 metres Victoria Peak offers the most stunning views across Hong Kong Island. The lush peak is perfect for enjoying birds-eye views all the way to Kowloon and Central across pretty Victoria Harbour. Taking the 'Peak Tram' is recommended for that iconic experience; the funicular rail-car service has been in operation for over 125 years taking passengers up the peak from a pick-up point near Hong Kong Park in Central. The service ends at the Peak Tower from where you can trek to the Observation Deck. There are many trails winding along Victoria Peak as well as, certain pit-stops like the Gardens of Mt Austin Road, the Governors Summer Lodge, etc. that you can make.
A must visit, Man Mo is a Taoist Temple and one of the oldest in Hong Kong. Built in 1847 by well-to-do Chinese traders, the exotic temple has huge coils of incense hanging from its ceiling; lit by devotees the incense fills the temple with fragrant smoke. The temple is dedicated to the god of literature 'Man' and 'Mo' the god of war.
The Temple Street Night Market is the best in Hong Kong; it spans from Man Ming Lane in the North to the South's Nanking Lane, which is an extent of 3 blocks, offering that ultimate shopping experience. The place is part of Hong Kong's culture and deserves your attention, even if you're not big on shopping; although exploring the market where fake Rolex watches, shoes and knock-offs of branded clothing, handbags, etc. are sold at bargain prices is quite the lure. Oh, and hard to avoid are the fortune tellers, eager to read your palm or have a bird pick cards depicting your future! And do head over to the Dai Pai Dong food stalls for delicious treats.
Not just any tram, but double-decker trams that have been plying Hong Kong Island's northern shores for many decades. The trams are still a favourite mode of transport for many tourists; despite the service not being the fastest mode of travel. It's all part of the lure and experience; perfect for a leisurely exploring the city. You can choose from amongst six route options and opt for the top floor front seat, if available, for the best views!
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.
